Expanding Opportunity: Scholarship Support Strengthens Catholic Education in Clarion County
By Allison Mosier04/28/2026
Families across Clarion County are finding new opportunities to consider Catholic education, thanks to recently announced scholarship support made possible through the Bridge Educational Foundation.
The funding, provided through Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program, is helping remove financial barriers for families seeking a school environment rooted in faith, academic excellence and community. For many, this assistance represents more than affordability—it creates access to an educational experience centered on the development of the whole child. 
Within the Diocese of Erie, schools continue to serve as places where students are formed not only academically, but spiritually and socially. This latest scholarship support strengthens that mission, particularly in areas like Clarion County, where local access to Catholic education plays an important role in the life of families and the broader community.
Immaculate Conception School in Clarion serves as a key connection point for families exploring these opportunities. As part of a recent regional scholarship announcement, the school represented Clarion County and was the only participating school from the area.
“This is incredibly significant for our students and families,” said Laura Lauer, principal of Immaculate Conception School. “For many in Clarion County, this kind of support makes Catholic education possible. Being the only school representing our county underscores both the need here and the opportunity we now have to connect more families to a school where their children are truly known, supported and challenged to grow.”
For generations, Immaculate Conception School has provided a foundation that integrates faith with learning. Today, that tradition continues through a commitment to small class sizes, personalized attention and a curriculum designed to support the full development of each student—spiritually, intellectually, socially and physically.
Scholarship programs such as those supported by EITC rely on partnerships among donors, businesses and community leaders who recognize the long-term value of Catholic education.
“Opportunities like this are essential to the future of our schools,” said Jim Gallagher, superintendent of Catholic schools for the Diocese of Erie. “They ensure that families who desire a Catholic education for their children are not limited by financial barriers. This investment strengthens not only individual schools like Immaculate Conception, but our mission across the diocese.”
As the Diocese of Erie continues its work across 13 counties, efforts like these reflect a shared commitment to serving families, strengthening communities and ensuring that Catholic education remains accessible to those who seek it.
Families in Clarion County are encouraged to learn more about available tuition assistance and enrollment opportunities at Immaculate Conception School as planning continues for the upcoming school year.
Learn more about IC Parish School at https://www.icclarionschool.org/.
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