JERSEY CITY, N.J. -- It was the news that parents, students and teachers were hoping and praying for, Hudson Catholic Regional High School won’t have to close.

“I cry already two weeks ago and I cry again today,” Ana Armenane, a teacher, said of her “happy tears.”

In mid-April, the school was notified that it would have to close due to low enrollment and tuition that tops $7,000 a year – problems that plague may Catholic schools in the area. But the Alumni Association decided to try to save the school by seeking donations.

“You have achieved something we do not often see when a school faces this kind of challenge,” Rev. Kevin M. Hanbury, superintendent of schools for the archdiocese, said.

In 14 days, they raised more than $500,000, enough to convince the archdiocese to keep the school open. Ninety-five percent of the money came from graduates like Jersey City’s deputy police chief.

“We had four good years here and left with a good foundation for my future,” Peter Nalbach said.

While parents and students are jubilant now that their school will remain open, they still have to worry about maintaining enrollment.

The money promised this year has been pledged for the next three years to help keep the school alive. Now the school leaders are committed to attracting more students.

“Short-term and long-term planning starts tomorrow,” Steve Dnistrian of the alumni association said. “It has to address enrollment problems and governance problems.”