Shelby Academy will close its doors

Shelby Academy opened in 1970.  Over the years enrollment had been as high as 300 students, but fell to 100 this past school year.

Called a family oriented place, Shelby Academy parents gave me several reasons why the private christian school will not open for it’s 40th school year.  The economy tops the list.

Parent, Carman Mills said, “We’re the little school that could, not anymore.“

Since 1970, Shelby Academy has taught students in grades k-12.  Now it’s closing it’s doors.

Mills said, “The school has been here 30 years, the championships that have been won.  The kids that have gotten full paid scholarships from ivy league schools, that’s all down the drain.“

Parent after parent, their children too are shocked, saddened and upset by the schools sudden closure.

Alumnus & Parent, Kendra Kenders said, “That was one of my sons first concerns, what are the teachers going to do, because he’s very attached.“

Shelby Academy appears to be yet another victim of the economy. That’s just one reason why the school has discontinued operations.  Declining enrollment, the sudden death of the last headmaster, days after graduation, and the school’s benefactor also hit hard by the recession were other signs the school was in trouble.  Now parents are scrambling for solutions, looking at every option.

Kendra said, “Going back to public school is an option.  I think he would prefer to be in a smaller classroom than he would be there.“

Mills said, “Well, start searching the private schools in area and see who has room.  Home schooling is not out of the question.“

The only business left - is for the school membership like the board, parents and alumni to vote on what will happen to the schools assets.  Again, that vote will take place, July 14th, in the schools gymnasium.  As for teacher contracts, which have already been renewed for the upcoming school year, one parent hopes they will be honored, but that could be decided at the membership meeting next month.