Guerin property demolition moving forward

Representatives of the Archdiocese of Chicago recently informed the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana, that the developer who purchased the Guerin College Prep High School property will begin demolition as early as this week.

The Congregation wanted to share this unfortunate news with those who hold Guerin dear. Although the request was made and solutions were explored, it does not appear the mural within the school can be preserved. The sisters have asked for the cornerstone, if possible.

As sad as the demolition will be, the Congregation asks that all remember the joys and relationships, the education and values that filled the classrooms and hallways. Those can never be crushed by a wrecking ball, for they will always live deep in our hearts.

Our shared Guerin experiences shaped who we became and remain part of our essence. Let us commit to “keeping Guerin alive” through our continued relationships with one another and through living the values of love, mercy and justice that were the foundation of a Guerin education.

The school’s Board of Directors, with approval of the Sisters of Providence, announced the closing of Guerin College Prep High School in June 2020. The decision was made due to a steady decline in enrollment, the ever-increasing need for student financial aid and lower than expected fundraising results.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the school took place in April 1962 and students began attending classes in a wing of Holy Cross High School in the fall of 1963 because the new building was not finished. The laying of the cornerstone took place in August 1963 and students attended classes in the new building beginning in September 1963. The school was blessed and dedicated by Chicago Archbishop Meyer in April 1964.

For more information on the school’s history and official closing, click here.

Soon, the Sisters of Providence will form a Guerin Alumni Association. Those interested in being a part of the association or assisting with its operation should contact Maureen Dickinson, director of Mission Advancement, at 812-535-2801 or mdickinson@spsmw.org.