ROYERSFORD PA – Officials for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia decided to close 17 Catholic high schools Wednesday (Sept. 14, 2011) across the region in the wake of a strike by about 800 teachers. But the Rev. Alan Okon Jr., president of Pope John Paul II High School in Royersford, says that although instructors will be unavailable there, some students’ activities – including sports events and choir practices – will continue without interruption.

PJPII, as the high school is known, like its counterparts will remain closed until the strike is settled, according to diocesan Superintendent Mary Rochford. One of its negotiators said the sides had met Monday (Sept. 12) in productive and “healthy” sessions that helped whittle down remaining bargaining issues. There was no indication, though, how quickly students might return to school.

The last strike by diocesan teachers, which occurred during 2003, lasted nine days. Overall, 16,502 students are affected by the strike.

• Watch a video (above) of the Rev. Okon discussion how PJPII is affected today by the strike, or see it at The Post’s YouTube user account.

Diocesan Director of Communications Donna Farrell issued this update Tuesday:

“On Monday there was steady progress in negotiations with many proposals being exchanged and a number of issues resolved.  At the urging of the Archdiocese the Association agreed to face-to-face discussions which were very effective.  Discussions have been ongoing today.  This progress confirms that the quickest and most effective way to resolve the issues at hand is for the parties themselves to talk about them.

“The Archdiocesan position on mediation is unchanged because of the unique issues facing Catholic schools.  We are willing to work around the clock to provide our students and school families with the best educational environment possible. Discussions over the past two days have been productive. With the parties who best understand these issues remaining at the table and continuing to make progress, we can accomplish our goal.”

Other coverage:

• Read a story in The Pottstown Patch online news service, titled “Archdiocese: High Schools To Close Until Strike Resolved” and published Tuesday, here.
• Read a story by Linda Stein, titled “17 Philly area Catholic high schools closed today due to teacher strike” and published Wednesday by The (Pottstown PA) Mercury newspaper, here.

Related:

• Strike At PJP Cancels Classes; Some Activities Still A ‘Go’