Staunton, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Beverley Street Studio School in Staunton will close after 33 years due to financial challenges and declining enrollment. The decision comes amid ongoing struggles exacerbated by the pandemic. Established as a community hub for art instruction, the school will host a farewell event before closing its doors. Despite the closure, the school’s gallery will remain open for exhibitions until early 2026, ensuring its legacy continues through local art initiatives.
Beverley Street Studio School to Close After 33 Years of Serving the Community
Beverley Street Studio School (BSSS), a long-standing institution in Staunton, announced its closure effective December 12, 2025, after over three decades of operation. The decision follows a series of financial struggles and declining enrollment that have plagued the school in recent years.
The Board President outlined that this difficult decision was made after careful consideration, aiming to honor the school’s rich legacy and spirit. Established in 1992 by five artists with a vision to provide art instruction outside traditional academic settings, BSSS evolved into a vital community hub for serious art study.
Financial Challenges Leading to Closure
Over the past decade, BSSS has encountered mounting challenges, primarily due to rising operational costs, increased competition from other educational institutions, and a significant decrease in funding. Furthermore, the organization experienced a notable decline in volunteer support, which once played a crucial role in its success. While BSSS thrived on robust community involvement, the volunteer base saw a substantial drop beginning in the late 1990s and early 2000s, further straining the school’s resources.
Recent trends temporarily worsened the situation when the COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp 40 percent decline in student enrollment. This dramatic drop has made it increasingly difficult for the school to remain financially viable. Reports suggest that the school has not been profitable for approximately ten years.
Legacy and Impact of Beverley Street Studio School
Since its inception, BSSS has evolved from a grassroots effort into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2002, focusing primarily on non-degree, studio-based art instruction. At its peak, the school offered a diverse range of creative opportunities, including five classes and six workshops per session, drawing local artists and aspiring creators alike.
Over the years, BSSS has transitioned between various locations before finally settling at 217 W. Beverley Street. Throughout its existence, the school has remained dedicated to fostering creativity and skill development in visual arts, establishing itself as a cornerstone for artistic learning in Staunton.
Community Farewell and Future of School Assets
As the community prepares for the school’s closure, BSSS will host a farewell celebration and silent auction on November 11, 2025, featuring artwork created by its students and instructors. This event provides a meaningful opportunity for community members to express their gratitude and bid farewell to a cherished institution.
Despite closing its doors, the BSSS Gallery will remain open through February 2026, allowing residents and visitors to continue enjoying exhibitions of artistic works. In 2026, BSSS, as a nonprofit, will disperse its remaining financial assets to other nonprofit organizations, ensuring that its legacy continues in a new form.
After BSSS’s closure, art enthusiasts in the area will still have access to various options for artistic programming through other local organizations, including the Staunton Augusta Art Center, Shenandoah Valley Art Center, and McGuffey Art Center.
Summary of Key Facts
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Closure Date | December 12, 2025 |
| Years in Operation | 33 years |
| Last Enrollment Drop | 40 percent during COVID-19 pandemic |
| Location | 217 W. Beverley Street |
| Community Farewell Event | November 11, 2025 |
| Future Gallery Hours | Open through February 2026 |
| Other Art Options | Staunton Augusta Art Center, Shenandoah Valley Art Center, McGuffey Art Center |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Beverley Street Studio School?
Beverley Street Studio School is a nonprofit organization that focuses on non-degree, studio-based art instruction, providing a platform for community artistic development.
Why is the school closing?
The closure is primarily due to ongoing financial struggles, including increased operational costs, decreased funding, and a significant drop in enrollment, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
When is the final closure date?
The school is set to close its doors on December 12, 2025.
Will there be any farewell events?
Yes, a farewell celebration and silent auction will be held on November 11, 2025, allowing the community to say goodbye and support the school one last time.
What will happen to the school’s assets after closure?
As a nonprofit, Beverley Street Studio School will disperse its financial assets to other nonprofits after its closure, which will be determined in 2026.
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Additional Resources
- WHSV: Beverley Street Studio School Announces Upcoming Closure
- Wikipedia: Art Education
- News Leader: Staunton’s Beverley Street Studio School Closes
- Google Search: Beverley Street Studio School closure
- Augusta Free Press: Staunton Beverley Street Studio School to End Classes & Workshops in December
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nonprofit organization
- Rocktown Now: Beverley Street Studio School in Staunton Closing in December
- Google News: Staunton art education
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