The merger between two well-known local private schools is off.
Word came just a few months after both Allendale Columbia and The Harley School announced they would merge their schools, with the plan calling for Harley to assume operational responsibility for the two schools.
But on Tuesday, Allendale Columbia announced that after careful consideration its trustees have decided not to proceed with a merger
Head of School Mick Gee says in the last few months since the merger was announced, Allendale Columbia has heard from other people willing to make a financial commitment to the school.
“We have financial challenges and we’ve been transparent about that more through this process than perhaps before; that’s caused people to come forward who wanted to support the school, who perhaps we haven’t heard from before, who understand now that fundraising is an important part of a vibrant, independent school,” Jee said.
Allendale Columbia says it is moving forward with an aggressive fundraising campaign.
Larry Frye is Head of School at Harley. He says they were surprised by the decision, but he says the change won't impact their operation.
“We feel like we’re in a very strong position, so while we’re surprised, it’s not like we needed a contingency plan to be honest, and so we feel well poised to continue to do great work on behalf of our students and the people of Rochester,” Frye said.
Officials at both Harley and Allendale Columbia say they will continue to work together on sports and other programs that they can collaborate on.
