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Sierra Oaks Community School will close its doors permanently on May 22, 2014.
John Hernandez | Miner
San Manuel Miner
The Sierra Oaks Community School in Oracle will be closing their doors at the end of this school year. The closure is due to budget challenges that cannot be overcome.
Administrator Lynn Eggleston said, “Small schools are not making it and the state is making it harder for small schools to stay open.” The economy played a big role in the dwindling of enrollment over the years with families moving out of the area. This year’s enrollment was 32 students.
Sierra Oaks is a public charter school that opened its doors in 2002. “It has been 12 years of a great journey,” said Lynn. “Sierra Oaks offered a safe haven for kids in the community where they could be themselves and felt comfortable.” “I feel confident that wherever our students go they will be successful.” Lynn said she would like to thank the community for its support. “When I think of all the families and kids that have graduated and come back to say hi and thank us, it will be hard to let go of the kids, staff and families.”
The historical building that houses the school is up for sale. It was once a doctor’s office. It is located at 650 W. Linda Vista Rd. The school will be holding an auction of school items and equipment sometime in June. The last day for Sierra Oaks Community School will be May 22, 2014. On May 21 there will be a final performance by the students at the Oracle Community Center at 6 p.m.
John Hernandez lives in Oracle. He is retired and enjoys writing and traveling. He is active in the Oracle Historical Society. He covers numerous public events, researches historical features and writes business/artist profiles.
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