From Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School/Holy Trinity Catholic School
A new school brand of Bishop Guilfoyle Academy is being formed from the combination of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic School and Holy Trinity Catholic School.
In addition to the name change, the school announced the opening of an additional site for PreK and Kindergarten, and ultimately a full elementary school in Hollidaysburg. This campus adds to the existing two elementary school campuses in Altoona which are reaching capacity due to growth in enrollment. The changes will be effective for the 2024-25 school year, beginning July 1.
“We are pleased that our school has never been stronger, and the name change is part of a strategic rebranding,” stated Joe Adams, President of the new Bishop Guilfoyle Academy. “This is the next logical step to signal that we are serving any family in the area who wants a smaller, individualized, rigorous, and happy environment for their child. We are a resource for the entire community. As a school that respects its Catholic heritage, faith and spirituality remain important. We have a significant and growing portion of students with various backgrounds, and we want to make sure our policies and culture are truly welcoming so that everyone feels the school is their home and their community.”
“One of the key advantages of a unified PreK -12 school system is better enabling our teachers to understand the unique needs of each student as they move through the stages of development, whether the student needs accelerated learning experiences or requires additional support,” said Adams. The name change is based on comprehensive market research from key audiences, including faculty members, families, alumni, business leaders, and community leaders. The name change is a component of an ongoing strategic growth plan.
“We did not take this endeavor lightly,” stated Adams. “We did our homework. The Academy descriptor was preferred by most of those who participated in the market study. We have already been operating according to the definition and expectations of an academy.”
BG’s Pleasant Valley campus will be home to junior and senior high students (Grades 6-12). PreK through Grade 5 students will be educated at the Eldorado (Sixth Avenue) and Fairview (Wopsononock Avenue) campuses. The new site for PreK and Kindergarten will be located on Spruce Street in Hollidaysburg.
“The transition to our new brand will take time. We will be working to develop a new logo, website, and signage. This transition will take 12 – 18 months. We will see the current brands around for a while.”
Adams emphasized the institution’s commitment to offering an excellent private school experience for all area families, whatever their faith. “We are a school for the community,” expressed Adams. “While the school is an excellent value at full tuition, we recognize that most families need aid, so we will continue to offer scholarships and generous financial aid packages to keep our experience accessible for everyone. I encourage families to contact the school. I know they will be impressed.”
