August 21, 2006

SS. Columba-Brigid Montessori School receives $40,000 grant from

The John R. Oishei Foundation

SS. Columba-Brigid Montessori School announced today that it has received a $40,000 grant from The John R. Oishei Foundation that will support the school’s Transportation Program.

Since 1999, SS. Columba-Brigid Montessori School has been offering a quality, affordable education for 3 – 6 year olds from Buffalo’s inner city. The schools serves educationally and economically disadvantaged urban children by giving them school readiness skills, a strong focus on literacy and by reducing financial barriers to a quality education. The Transportation Program provides consistent, safe and dependable transportation for students so they can fully realize the benefits of the great start provided by early childhood education.

Sr. Diane Bernbeck, principal, stated, “I am thrilled with the gift and know the parents and children will be also. It will enable us to continue the transportation program that is such an integral part of our overall program. It is so important to their progress that the children be here on a regular basis.”

The John R. Oishei Foundation’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for Buffalo area residents by supporting education, healthcare, scientific research and the cultural, social, civic and other charitable needs of the community. John R. Oishei, founder of Trico Products Corporation, established the Foundation in 1940.

Quick facts about SS. Columba-Brigid Montessori’s student body:

• Over 90% of students have family incomes at or below the poverty level.
• Over 78% are non-Catholic.
• Over 66% of students come from single parent households.
• Racial breakdown: Black 69.6%, Hispanic 11.6%, Multi Racial 8.7%, White 10.1%.
• Since 2002, enrollment has been at our capacity of 70 students.

Research shows that Montessori education, at both the pre-school and elementary levels, benefits low-income, disadvantaged, urban children by giving them higher competence in basic skills, a better attitude toward school, and a greater chance of staying in school than their non-Montessori counterparts.

For more information or to donate in support of SS. Columba-Brigid Montessori School, please contact the Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo at 847-8370 or visit their Web site, www.frcdb.org.

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