Great Falls Parents Rally with $100K+ to Save St. Pat's Academy East

GREAT FALLS, Mont. — Parents at St. Patrick’s Academy East, also known as Holy Spirit Catholic School, have ignited a community fundraising drive after the Great Falls-Billings Diocese announced the campus closure earlier this year due to financial shortfalls. Led by figures like parent spokesperson Loncki, the effort has already locked in more than $100,000 in pledges from Great Falls residents, with donations pouring in steadily. Families are pressing the diocese for clearer options on reversing the decision if funding goals are met, blending cash appeals with calls for transparency.

A GoFundMe campaign launched specifically for Holy Spirit Catholic School aims to raise $500,000 to sustain operations at the East Campus, channeling broader community momentum into a tangible target. Complementing online efforts, organizers hosted a 'Legacy of Light' gala on April 10 at Rendezvous At Four Ten, 410 Central Ave., offering ticket tiers from $60 individual admissions to $10,000 Legacy Partner sponsorships that include premium seating and bishop-hosted pre-social access. Sponsorship levels like $2,500 Faith Partners and $5,000 Mission Partners provide tables, bar service and program recognition, underscoring local business involvement.

The push explores business sponsorships and partnerships alongside individual gifts, as parents vow to keep fundraising while seeking diocese reconsideration. St. Patrick’s Academy, a cornerstone of Catholic education in Great Falls, faces this East Campus shutdown amid ongoing enrollment and budget pressures common to Montana's rural diocesan schools. With pledges building and events like the April gala mobilizing support, the community's resolve tests whether financial lifelines can preserve this legacy for local families.