# Closure Proposal Hearings - Closure of Cranberry-Prosperity Elementary School

Raleigh County Schools special-session public hearing on the proposed closure of Cranberry-Prosperity Elementary School, October 27, 2026. The superintendent presented a proposal to close the school after the 2026–27 school year and distribute students among Bradley, Maxwell Hill, and Stanford elementary schools. The district cited declining countywide enrollment, projected higher utilization at the receiving schools, and estimated annual savings of $1,109,082.83 from reduced personnel, utilities, and other operating costs. The proposal also projects reductions of 7.1 professional and 2.5 service positions, while adding or reallocating some staff and programs at receiving schools. No contract awards, purchases, or other procurement actions were identified; the only motion approved was adoption of the hearing agenda, and the board did not vote on the closure proposal.

Speakers objected to the proposal and raised concerns about public access to the impact statement, school capacity and food-service facilities, maintenance costs, transportation, and the effects on students and community relationships. The superintendent responded that projected enrollment at the receiving schools would remain below their 2015–16 levels and said the district anticipates sufficient cafeteria and kitchen capacity. Board members said they would consider the comments and invited written submissions. The hearing was adjourned, with a second session scheduled at Bradley Elementary that evening.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Education
**Published:** October 27, 2026

### Sources
- [Closure Proposal Hearings - Closure of Cranberry-Prosperity Elementary School](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Nv72D0jcNM) - Raleigh County Schools