After 136 years, the decision is final – Mennonite Collegiate Institute (MCI) is closing its doors for good.
MCI, an Anabaptist Christian high school (gr. 9-12) located south of Altona in Gretna, Manitoba, was founded in 1889. For over a century, it attracted students from all over the province, including many from the Southeast region.
The MCI board of directors met in June, and announced it was pausing operations of the institute. Earlier this month, a following meeting was held with MCI’s society church delegates. The motion to permanently close the school and liquidate all assets passed with a majority vote of 26-21 with four abstentions.
Board Chair, Cody Falk, says the organization still faces a considerable cash shortfall for the 2024/2025 school year. The primary focus is now to ensure staff salaries and the past year’s expenses are covered. The funds from the liquidation will help to fulfill the school's debt obligations.
"I want to recognize and thank the generous donors that have already responded to the call that went out several weeks ago. Since that notification went out, $140,000 has been received. So, thank you!"
Falk adds, a farewell can be planned for the students, staff, alumni, and supporters in the future – however settling the outstanding bills remains the current priority.