DORCHESTER -- After 13 years of operation, Elizabeth Seton Academy in Dorchester, the last remaining all-girls Catholic high school in Boston, has closed its doors less than a month from the scheduled start of classes Sept. 1.

In an Aug. 3 letter sent out to families, Chair of the Board of Trustees Frances Birmingham cited the school's "current financial situation, increased debt obligations, declining enrollment, and increased costs of operations" as reasons for the sudden closure.

According to a statement posted on the school's website, a meeting will be held for students and families in the coming days to help them transition to new schools, and the resumes of faculty and staff will be shared with other Catholic schools in the area.

"This spirit of community is a feeling of loyalty to our school that promotes an atmosphere of respect and cooperation that is essential to the learning process," the statement said. "Each student contributes her own unique talents and gifts to this community and enriches the school spirit at ESA. The spirit serves as a common bond --a feeling of belonging- that will remain with each student throughout the years -- and will be sorely missed in the community."

"It is the Board's hope and prayer that students will continue their education at one of the local Catholic schools. This would be the greatest testament to the spirit and legacy of Elizabeth Seton Academy," the statement concluded.