West Catholic High gets a big donation and a new name

West Catholic High School announced Monday that it has received a $1 million gift, the largest in the school's history.

"It's a transformative gift for our school," said Brother Richard Kestler, president of the school at 45th and Chestnut Streets. "It is the largest gift other than a capital campaign gift."

Kestler said the money, from a donor who wished to remain anonymous, would fund the school's newly adopted five-year plan, which outlines strategic goals in 10 areas including enrollment, financial management, governance, curriculum, technology and student life.

As part of that transformation, Kestler said the school, which had been scheduled to close a year ago, is getting a new name.

"As of today, our school name has been changed to West Catholic Preparatory High School, Located in University City," Kestler said.

He said the name change had been in the works for about a year.

"A year ago when were were given a new life, our board of trustees discussed what would make a major difference in the school," Kestler said. "They said a name change would help."

Kestler said the strategic plan also aims to make the school self-sustaining by 2015. He said that the school had 245 students this year and that about 350 are expected to attend in the fall.

Kestler said the $1 million would pay for new programs and staff.

He said the school would hire a new admissions specialist, a reading specialist, and a data management specialist, among others.

The school will also launch a new reading program, a remediation program in math and reading for incoming freshmen, and an SAT-prep program for students in 11th and 12th grades.

Kestler said he hoped the gift would improve the school's future.

"What makes it interesting is the families involved - and they want to remain anonymous - gave this gift to the school in light of transforming it, turning it in a more positive direction.