The Raleigh County Board of Education is considering closing Mabscott Elementary and Cranberry-Prosperity Elementary, citing funding constraints and low enrollment. The board has not made a final decision.
Under the proposal, Mabscott students would transfer to Crescent and Hollywood elementary schools. Cranberry-Prosperity students would transfer to Bradley, Maxwell Hill and Stanaford elementary schools. Mabscott’s Severe Disabilities Program would relocate to Beckley Elementary.
Some parents have expressed concern that the proposed changes could lead to larger class sizes. State Sen. Rollan Roberts, who attended the board meeting, said he wished there were another option.
“I hate that the two schools in Raleigh County are up for being closed,” Roberts said. “Mabscott Elementary and Cranberry-Prosperity are good schools, wonderful staffs, great buildings.”
Board President Richard Snuffer said members plan to make students feel welcome at their new schools if the proposal is approved.
Public hearings are planned for late October and early November. The board said it will release a full schedule of the required hearings soon and encouraged residents to attend.