St. Francis Xavier School in Moundsville has closed, according to a news release from the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston.

The decision affects 36 students who were enrolled, as well as five faculty and staff.

During a meeting held at St. Francis Xavier Parish on Thursday, the parish finance council recommended to close the preschool and kindergarten programs at the school effective immediately. The parish based its decision on decreasing finances at the parish and the school.

Friday's news release said, according to diocesan policy, a parish does not need the approval of the bishop to close a preschool program. St. Francis Xavier had been accepting students in prekindergarten 3, prekindergarten 4, and kindergarten for the upcoming school year.

Vincent de Paul Schmidt, superintendent of schools for the diocese, said in the news release, "We are deeply saddened when a school closes, particularly after so much hard work, prayer and resources were dedicated to rebuilding St. Francis Xavier School. We have tremendous compassion for everyone being influenced by the closing of the school, particularly the families that are affected."

Sharon Wolen, SFX principal, said in the release, "I am terribly disappointed and feel so sorry for the parents, and especially the students. Although the parish has chosen to close the school, our staff will assist parents and families in making the transition to other preschool and kindergarten programs."

Wolen said she will be in the school office from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. next week to take calls from students' parents.