Bishop Kearney marks a milestone, celebrating 50 years of catholic school tradition. As YNN's Sheba Clarke explains, its an accomplishment that is not easy to come by, as some catholic schools across the region face the challenges to stay open and thrive.

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PITTSFORD, N.Y. -- Bishop Kearney's catholic education has held a rich tradition that dates back to 1962. It's a time Ron Guidone remembers. He was the a member of the school's first graduating class.

"I remember my parents getting me a nice 1966 Mustang for graduation, which I still have," said Guidone. "I think we had about 565 in our graduation class."

Guidone recalls it as a time where catholic education was flourishing, and the cost of his education was just $250. Now the school is celebrating 50 years of academic accomplishment, with an anniversary gala.

"100 percent of our kids graduate. 100 percent of our kids are accepted into college, and I think the community knows that. We draw from 17 different school districts, so I think longevity helps us a little bit," said Tom O'Neil, Bishop Kearney President and CEO.

O'Neil says keeping Kearney's tradition going has had its challenges, especially at a time where area catholic schools have faced enrollment declines, tuition hikes, and closings.
Even today the school's current graduating class is under 100.

"It's not easy. I can tell you that. It's just very strict budgeting and staying on top of everything. We are certainly not doing any extravagant spending and we're able to keep going," explained O'Neil.

Going in the same direction has brought senior Courtney Wallace toward her graduation date this school year. She says she only hopes the tradition will continue, so she can celebrate the next 50 years with her peers.

"I just would like to see generations keep bringing their children in. I just don't want to see them move away from the catholic schools," said Wallace.

Visit Bishop Kearney's website for more information on the catholic school.