While some speculate[citation needed] that this was due to racist reaction to population changes in the area, the true reason for its decline remains unclear.
Despite falling enrollment and an all-but-dissolved athletic program, Canterbury maintained efforts to restore itself.
In the 1990s, however, questionable financial decisions and actions of the headmistress left the school in dire straits.
A pledge drive was proposed but not executed, and in May 2000 the school held its final graduation ceremony.
The Vestry of Christ Church in September 2000 issued a document describing the final circumstances of Canterbury's closing.