LEWISTON — A Lewiston Christian school is closing at the end of the school year and administrators are blaming the poor economy.

Vineyard Christian School opened in 2000 and had 145 students in grades K through 12 at its peak.

Allen Austin, executive pastor of the Pathway Vineyard Church, which runs the school, says enrollment has steadily dropped and is now at 93.

He tells the Sun Journal the economic climate has made it increasingly difficult for families to afford a private education.

Tuition is $3,400 per year and Austin says raising it not feasible because many parents would not be able to afford it.

Parents and students were informed of the June closure on Wednesday.