The Closing of Queen of Martyrs School: A Community in Mourning

Kevin and Shannon Carbonneau from Oak Lawn received the joyful news last year that they were expecting their first child. Kevin envisioned sending the child to Queen of Martyrs, the Catholic grade school he attended in Evergreen Park. He saw it as a family tradition. Kevin stated, “Parents send their kids here, and in some families, three or four generations have attended.”

However, Lucy Carbonneau, born two weeks ago, will not follow in those footsteps. While schools across the nation are gearing up for a new academic year, Queen of Martyrs is closing its doors, leaving the community in mourning.

The Archdiocese of Chicago announced the school’s closure in June, marking the end of its 70-year legacy. A final Mass was held at St. Gianna Parish, drawing hundreds to the gathering for a tour and to share cherished memories.

Kevin expressed his dismay at the news, describing the closure as a “shocker.” He recalled his first-grade years in Room 2 with Eleanor Griegel, a teacher who spent 18 years at the school. During the farewell event, they reminisced and reflected on the changes since her time there.

“We used to have coats in the back of the room,” Griegel said. “And we never had this big-screen TV.”

Alumni, including Matt and Lauren Reidy, along with Sarah Scott and Tim Reidy, returned for a last visit. They enjoyed spotting their plaques and searching for library cards with their names, acknowledging the emotional impact of the school’s closure. “It’s sad to see it go,” said Matt Reidy. “But it will all live on in our hearts. We’ll carry on the legacy.”

The decline in enrollment led to the closure. In the 2016-17 school year, the school had over 325 students. By 2025-26, that number had dwindled to 178, with projections further dropping to 140 students. Faced with these numbers, the Archdiocese anticipated a $400,000 financial loss and decided to close the school.

The Rev. Benedykt Pazdan, pastor of St. Gianna, addressed the congregation during the final Mass. He encouraged trust in divine judgment and viewed the closure as a transition to new opportunities for students.

After the announcement of the closing, the school’s online community became a hub of activity, with posts promoting alternative schools. Former students, including Jim Grohovena, recalled the school’s lasting impact. “It put God in my life and it’s still a blessing to this day,” he said.