Gold Creek School Closes Its Doors After Over a Century of Education
GOLD CREEK, MT — The Gold Creek School, a staple of this rural community for more than 100 years, is set to close its doors permanently following a decline in student enrollment. Linda Hogan, the district’s last employee, expressed sadness about the school’s closure, reflecting on her 35-year connection, which included roles as a paraeducator, clerk, and trustee.
Originally serving kindergarten through sixth grade, Gold Creek School experienced fluctuating enrollment, peaking at 20 students and dwindling to just seven by 2022. After the last teacher relocated, families chose to enroll their children elsewhere, leading the school board to declare a "non-operational" status. State law mandates closure after three years in this status.
The community will now integrate into the Garrison School District, which will assume control of Gold Creek’s property and resources. Hogan emphasized the school’s significance to community identity, stating, “It takes away part of our identity as a community.” A farewell celebration is planned for June 14, with around 60 attendees expected to honor its legacy before the official transfer on July 1. Efforts may also be made to repurpose the building into a teacher residence, keeping a link to its educational roots.
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