Claremont, September 18, 2025
News Summary
The Claremont School Board has decided to close Bluff Elementary School to address a multimillion-dollar budget deficit. This decision, made during a recent board meeting, affects students and staff who will be transferred to Disnard and Maple Avenue schools. Principal Melissa Lewis assured there will be no job cuts with this transition. While the board aims for students to start at their new schools by October 20, many parents voiced concerns over the potential impact on their children’s education and emotional well-being amid ongoing financial struggles.
Claremont – In a decisive action taken during a board meeting on Wednesday night, the Claremont School Board voted 4-1 to close Bluff Elementary School as part of a strategy to combat a multimillion-dollar budget deficit. This significant decision comes just weeks into the new academic year, indicating the urgency of addressing the district’s financial challenges.
The closure will impact Bluff’s students, teachers, and staff, as they will be relocated to Disnard and Maple Avenue schools. Principal Melissa Lewis of Disnard Elementary has confirmed that no job cuts will accompany this transition. The shift for Bluff students is planned to commence immediately, with the start date set for October 20, pending necessary fire department inspections.
During the board meeting, three elementary school principals presented proposals concerning the closure and staffing issues. One proposal recommended closing Bluff Elementary while the other focused on reallocating special education case management services. Parents and community members attending the meeting voiced strong concerns regarding the implications of moving students to new schools, fearing the potential negative impact on their education and community ties. Board members also expressed worries about the future staffing landscape in the wake of closures.
Interim business administrator Matt Angell indicated that the closure of Bluff Elementary remains an option dependant on forthcoming winter capacity matters. The administration has proposed a timeline aiming for student and teacher consolidations to be completed by October 15, 2025. Under the proposed restructuring, Disnard Elementary would cater to grades kindergarten through second, while Maple Avenue would serve grades three through five.
The expedited consolidation plan received pushback from some elementary school principals, who advocated for a more gradual approach to preserve community integrity. Consequently, the board decided to postpone the closure proposal for further exploration at a later meeting.
Moreover, serious allegations have surfaced regarding the district’s failure to uphold state and federal obligations for special education services at Bluff Elementary. School Board Chair Heather Whitney raised significant questions surrounding the accuracy of information provided about the staffing shortages in special education. The ongoing financial crisis has led to considerable operational issues, including layoffs and canceled sports programs, coupled with increasing scrutiny from parents and community members.
Recent events have further exacerbated Claremont residents’ dissatisfaction, particularly following a $39,500 severance package awarded to former Superintendent Chris Pratt amid the district’s ongoing budget turmoil. The financial troubles have been attributed to several factors, including unfilled vacancies, resignations, and inadequate special education services, leaving parents feeling uncertain and distressed about the future of their children’s education.
The community is facing a critical period as discussions regarding the district’s structure and financial strategies continue in the wake of willful challenges. The impact on students, families, and educators will be closely monitored as the board deliberates future steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Claremont School Board decide to close Bluff Elementary School?
The closure was part of a strategy to address a multimillion-dollar budget deficit through school consolidations.
When will Bluff Elementary students transition to their new schools?
The first day for Bluff students at Disnard and Maple Avenue schools is scheduled for October 20, pending inspection by the fire department.
What are the concerns of parents regarding the closure?
Parents are worried about the negative effects moving their children to new schools could have on their education and emotional wellbeing.
What restructuring plans have been proposed for Claremont schools?
The proposed restructuring includes grade-level classifications, designating Disnard for kindergarten through second grade and Maple Avenue for third through fifth grade.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| School Affected | Bluff Elementary |
| Vote Outcome | 4-1 in favor of closure |
| Reason for Closure | Multimillion-dollar budget deficit |
| Student Transition Date | October 20, pending inspection |
| New Grade Assignments | Disnard (K-2), Maple Avenue (3-5) |
| Community Response | Parents worried about educational impact |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Claremont School Board Delays Decision on Bluff Elementary Closure
Omaha Mayor Addresses Safety at New Elkhorn Schools
Safety Concerns Rise Over Elkhorn Elementary Schools
Local Schools Enhance Communication for Parents
Additional Resources
- WMUR: Bluff Elementary School Closure Vote
- Wikipedia: Claremont, New Hampshire
- WMUR: Claremont School Board on Bluff Elementary
- Google Search: Claremont School District
- Valley News: Claremont School Restructuring Plan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Special Education
- Union Leader: Bluff Elementary in Claremont to Stay Open – For Now
- Google News: Claremont School Board
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
