Staunton, Virginia, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Beverley Street Studio School, a vibrant art education hub in Staunton, is set to cease operations by December 2025 due to ongoing financial struggles. Founded in 1992, the school has faced increasing operational costs, reduced funding, and a significant drop in volunteer support. Notably, enrollment has plummeted by 40% during the COVID-19 pandemic. A farewell celebration and silent auction will take place in November 2025, inviting the community to honor the school’s legacy and support local artists one last time.
Staunton, Virginia – Beverley Street Studio School (BSSS), an artistic cornerstone of the community for over three decades, is set to close its doors on December 12, 2025, due to ongoing financial difficulties. Founded in 1992, BSSS has struggled with profitability, experiencing a steady decline over the last decade amid increasing operational costs, competition, and reduced funding.
Board President Dana Quillen confirmed the decision followed extensive deliberation, emphasizing the importance of honoring the school’s legacy and spirit. Acknowledging the challenges faced, Quillen highlighted a significant downturn in the school’s volunteer support system, which began to diminish notably during the late 1990s and early 2000s. The decline in volunteers further complicated the financial sustainability of the school.
Enrollment has also been adversely affected by external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in a staggering 40 percent drop in participant numbers. Over the years, BSSS transitioned from a well-supported venture to a nonprofit organization struggling to maintain its relevance in the local arts landscape.
Having been a beacon for art education outside traditional academic settings, BSSS has offered a diverse range of classes, workshops, and studio-based art instruction that catered to aspiring artists. The school initially thrived, providing five classes and six workshops per session at various locations before settling into its current premises at 217 W. Beverley Street.
As BSSS prepares to close, the community is invited to a farewell celebration and silent auction on November 11, 2025, featuring artwork produced during the school’s tenure. This event will serve as an opportunity for the public to engage with the school’s history and bid on creative pieces made by students and instructors over the years. Following the closure, the BSSS Gallery will remain open until February 2026 to allow for last viewings of artwork.
In compliance with nonprofit regulations, BSSS will be tasked with redistributing its financial assets to other nonprofit organizations following its closure, with those decisions being made in 2026. Residents seeking continued art engagement in the area will still have access to alternatives, including the Staunton Augusta Art Center, the Shenandoah Valley Art Center, and the McGuffey Art Center.
This marks the end of an era for BSSS, a place dedicated to fostering creativity and nurturing the artistic spirit in the community. As it closes its doors after 33 impactful years, the legacy of the school will continue to resonate within the fabric of Staunton’s cultural landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the closure date for Beverley Street Studio School?
The school will close on December 12, 2025.
How long has Beverley Street Studio School been in operation?
BSSS has been operating for 33 years since its founding in 1992.
What were some of the reasons for the closure of BSSS?
The closure is primarily due to financial struggles, including rising operational costs, decreased funding, increased competition, a shrinking pool of volunteers, and a drop in enrollment exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What will happen to the school’s financial assets after the closure?
As a nonprofit organization, BSSS will be required to distribute its financial assets to other nonprofit organizations, with decisions regarding that distribution to be made in 2026.
Will there be any events before the closure?
Yes, there will be a farewell celebration and silent auction on November 11, 2025, featuring artwork from the school.
Key Features of Beverley Street Studio School
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1992 |
| Closure Date | December 12, 2025 |
| Duration of Operation | 33 years |
| Location | 217 W. Beverley Street |
| Drop in Enrollment | 40% during the pandemic |
| Community Events | Farewell celebration and silent auction on November 11, 2025 |
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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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