WHEELING, W.Va. -- Since word broke Friday that the doors at Mount de Chantal would be closing for financial reasons, parents, students, and alumni have been scraping resources and talents to try to keep the historic private women's school open.

Wednesday night they unveiled a plan and a goal.

The plan involves utilizing talents and expertise that many parents and alumni have to offer -- like keeping finances in order, growing enrollment, and looking at ways to maintain efficiency.

The also plan to raise $500,000 by April 1. Parents said they'll do it, and then take it from there.

“No one wants to see this school close," said local attorney and parent Paul Harris.

The message was loud and clear as concerned parents, students, and alumni packed into the music room at Mount de Chantal. They just want to save their school.

"It's that amazing of a place that you don't want to see it lost, ever," said junior Olivia Pavlic.

"You don't always love school, but this place you learn to love," said junior Laura Jacovetti.

Harris said since Friday, many parents have gone into high gear. They’ve already raised more than $100,000, and now, they're armed with a plan.

"We have to attack this problem quickly and efficiently and show that we have a viable plan and get the sisters to sign off on it,” said Harris.

Parents with expertise in fields like finance and marketing began stepping forward. Committees were being formed, but Harris warned parents not to sign up unless they were really willing to work.

"I think most of the parents like me, and the parents that have children here will do whatever they need to do to make this school successful," said parent Chris Wakim.

"My daughter, having spent the last four years here, takes a ton of pride, even as an 11-year-old, takes a ton of pride in this school and what it has to offer her," said parent Scott McFarland.

NEWS9 cameras took a peek into the classrooms to find unique places. They were places the students call their own and don't want to give up. Harris said he doesn't think they'll have to.

"The great thing about the Ohio Valley is anytime there's a need they always step up to the plate. They always do," said Harris.

A trust fund has been set up for the school. Any donations or early tuition payments will go into that fund. Information about it will be on the West Virginia secretary of state's Web site. It should be up and running by Thursday.

Jackie Cain, NEWS9

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