SOUTH END -- Cathedral Grammar School will close at the end of this school year according to a letter sent to parents by Father Kevin O'Leary, the rector of the cathedral.

In the letter, Father O'Leary cited plummeting enrollment as the cause for the need to close the school.

"Despite the tireless efforts of the school's faculty, parents and administrators to establish rigorous academic standards and create a nurturing, faith-filled learning environment, shifting demographics and population trends have resulted in an ongoing decline in student enrollment. Forecasts indicate that these demographic shifts will continue unabated," he said.

Students are encouraged to apply to other Catholic schools in the area. On Feb. 6, the school will host an open house in which parents will have an opportunity to meet representatives of Mission Grammar School, Pope John Paul II Academy and St. Patrick School.

"There are many wonderful memories to remind us of Cathedral Grammar's history. Despite the sense of loss, there is much to celebrate. With God's grace and the strength of our parishioners, principal, teachers and staff we will continue to serve your children," Father O'Leary said.

The school currently enrolls 130 students, down from 207 students in 2003 and 187 students in 2009.