Hopewell school considers closing its doors - NBC12 - WWBT - Richmond, VA News On Your Side

Hopewell school considers closing its doors

By Nicole Bell - bio | email
Posted by Terry Alexander - email

HOPEWELL, VA (WWBT) – A Hopewell school may have to close because of a growing financial shortfall, but parents are rallying to keep West End Christian School open.

Enrollment has dropped some 30 percent within the past few years at the school.

"That means about 75 thousand dollars in the hole each year," said school chancellor, Rev. Dr. Kevin Collins."

The financial gap was being filled by the school's church.

"The church's resources have been diminished to the point where we can't jeopardize the church and its future," said Collins.

David Roberts' 9th grade son is one of 140 students at the school.

"This is the only Christian education school that's K-12 within a 30 mile radius of this building," said Roberts.

Parents are banning together to raise money and awareness.

"Advertising and word of mouth, but mainly an advertising campaign we're putting together now," said concerned parent, Sid Hudson.

School leaders have made major cuts to make ends meet.

"We've made some reductions in support staff and reduce a few people to part time," said Collins.

They've also considered raising tuition, but fear that could hurt enrollment even more.

"So we need revenue via new enrollment and outside giving," said Collins.

School leaders say they expect to make a final decision on whether the school will close within the next 60 days.

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