WESTMINSTER, Vt. – After 26 impactful years, The Compass School in Westminster, Vt., is closing due to funding setbacks, increasing expenses, and declining revenues from tuition. Founded in 1999, Compass provided opportunities for students who wanted an alternative to traditional education, earning recognition for developing both “good students and good people,” and helping each child find success.
Throughout the last three months, the Compass School Board, staff, and community came together and worked incredibly hard to save the school, raising extensive funds and expanding board membership, as well as bringing in outside expertise as consultants and advisors. Ultimately, these efforts could not overcome a financial deficit that made it impossible to offer another year of programming.
Over the years, Compass has received multiple awards for including every student in international travel, incorporating the arts throughout the curriculum, and as a national leader in educating the whole child. The school was a pioneer in proficiency-based assessment, and was masterful in using portfolios to celebrate and hold students accountable for their learning journeys.
Reflecting on the closing, Gus Shepard, an executive board member and a member of the first graduating class, stated, “Students often share how their lives were transformed by their Compass experience, and parents frequently express that Compass saved their child.” Many students who faced challenges in more traditional educational settings went on to achieve great success in college, careers, and communities. Unfortunately, demographic shifts in the region led to a significant decline in student enrollment compared to when the school began.
Founding director Dr. Rick Gordon remarked, “Compass was a model for what is possible in education. We were honored to attract extraordinary educators who had undying belief in every child and unparalleled dedication to supporting every student in their academic and personal growth. It was the highlight of my career to be part of this incredible community.”
Co-Head of School Louise Hodson, who is also the longest-serving teacher at Compass, expressed her emotions. “I am heartbroken to close our doors. The many students who have been part of our community and found success will forever be a part of this incredible project. I am saddened for the future students who will miss the opportunity to participate in our community. Thank you to all the teachers, students, and families who have worked to keep our doors open. We take immense pride in the educational experiences we have provided to so many learners.”
Board member, alum, and Bellows Falls resident Molly Bruce Patterson said, “It is hard to express how much Compass has shaped my life since graduating in 2004. Compass provided students with a foundation of trust and belonging in our community and in ourselves. This empowered us to engage in the world with honesty and integrity, and to find our unique paths in life. I am forever grateful to Compass for this gift.”
The Compass School’s bylaws stipulate that its assets must be directed towards meaningful educational endeavors. Proceeds from the sale of the building are expected to establish a foundation to support personalized learning and continue the kinds of educational experiences that have defined The Compass School since its inception in 1999.