September 10, 2025

Staunton to Close Beverley Street Studio School

News Summary

The Beverley Street Studio School in Staunton will permanently close on December 12, 2025, after 33 years of providing art education. The decision follows ongoing financial struggles exacerbated by decreased funding and enrollment, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. A farewell celebration is planned for November 2025, and the school’s gallery will remain open until February 2026. The closure represents a significant loss for the local community, which has relied on the institution for art education and support.

Staunton Announces Closure of Beverley Street Studio School After 33 Years of Operation

The Beverley Street Studio School (BSSS) in Staunton will close its doors permanently on December 12, 2025, following 33 years of providing art education. Founded in 1992, the decision to shut down the school comes amid ongoing financial struggles, including rising operational costs and a significant decrease in both funding and volunteer involvement.

According to Dana Quillen, the president of the school’s board, the closure reflects careful consideration aimed at honoring the legacy and spirit of the school. BSSS has not been financially viable for approximately ten years, with challenges intensifying in recent years. The school experienced a 40 percent reduction in enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic, compounding the existing financial difficulties.

Operational Challenges

BSSS has faced increasing challenges over the years, including heightened competition from other educational programs and a declining number of community volunteers. Once a thriving institution with robust support from local volunteers, the number dropped significantly starting in the late 1990s and early 2000s. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization since 2002, BSSS has focused on providing non-degree, studio-based art instruction, hosting five classes and six workshops per session.

The school has been a vital resource for serious art study outside traditional academic settings, operating initially out of various locations before settling at 217 W. Beverley Street. Despite its noble mission to cultivate artistic talent, financial sustainability has remained elusive.

Farewell Celebration Planned

As the school prepares for its closing, community members will have the opportunity to bid farewell during a celebration scheduled for November 11, 2025. This event will feature a silent auction showcasing artwork created by students and faculty over the years. Following the closure, the BSSS Gallery will remain open through February 2026, allowing visitors to continue appreciating the works produced within the school.

Next Steps for the Nonprofit

In accordance with nonprofit regulations, BSSS will need to disperse its financial assets to other nonprofit organizations after its closure, a process set to be finalized in 2026. This move is part of the formal winding down of operations for the school and is intended to ensure that the resources and contributions of the community continue to benefit the arts in some capacity.

Future Art Education Options

Although the closure of BSSS marks the end of an era for local art education, Staunton residents will still have access to various artistic outlets. Other centers, such as the Staunton Augusta Art Center, Shenandoah Valley Art Center, and McGuffey Art Center, remain available for those interested in pursuing artistic education and activities.

Conclusion

The closure of the Beverley Street Studio School represents a significant loss for the Staunton community, which benefited from its commitment to art education for over three decades. As the community prepares to say goodbye and reflect on the school’s legacy, many will remember its impact on nurturing creativity and providing invaluable resources for local artists.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Cleveland Weather Update: Sunny Skies and Seasonal Temperatures Ahead
Weber School District Considers Closure of Lomond View Elementary
Cleveland’s Sunny Week Ahead with Mild Temperatures
Cleveland Community Mourns the Loss of Veteran Charles Purify
Evergreen Public Schools Strike Leads to Continued Closures
Roxbury Elementary School Closure Due to Asbestos Concerns
Sound Christian Academy Closes Last Minute Before School Year
Cleveland Welcomes New Office from Architectural and Engineering Firm
Mooresville Intersection Closure to Begin Soon
Dubuque Weighs Closing Jefferson Middle School Due to Finances

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER

CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the seasoned team at HERECleveland.com, your premier source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond, delivering "news you can use" with in-depth coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news impacting the region—backed by years of expert reporting and robust community input, including local press releases and business updates, while providing top reporting on high-profile events like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions, Cleveland International Film Festival, and holiday parades, alongside key organizations such as the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Orchestra, and Great Lakes Science Center, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare like Sherwin-Williams and University Hospitals, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREDayton.com, offering comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's vibrant landscape. HERE Cleveland HERE Dayton

STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!

Stay Connected

More Updates

Construction site of the Holtan Hills housing development in Girdwood

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit