In a surprising turn of events, a private school in Newark, California, concluded its academic year abruptly, leaving teachers and families in shock. New Horizons School, serving students from junior kindergarten through eighth grade, announced the unexpected closure in an email sent by Victor Dawson, the principal and owner of the institution.

Financial Struggles Unveiled

The email revealed that the semester would end three weeks earlier than scheduled due to the school filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. This announcement caught many parents off guard, including Sheena Verma, whose two children had been attending the school since junior kindergarten. Verma expressed profound shock and dismay, stating that both children and parents were deeply upset by the news.

Unpaid Obligations Surface

The closure follows a series of financial challenges faced by the school community. Two months prior, concerns arose when it was discovered that some teachers were not receiving their salaries. Subsequently, it was disclosed that essential bills, such as utilities and lease payments, were also outstanding. Verma recounted how Dawson, the school’s owner, had sporadically communicated with parents, expressing efforts to secure a loan to no avail.

Impact on Students and Staff

As the situation unfolded, Vice Principal Angela Eggleston attempted to maintain morale among students. However, the revelation of unpaid obligations led to a decline in student enrollment, exacerbating the emotional toll on the school community. Teachers, like Hadi Rafi, continued to fulfill their responsibilities despite enduring months without compensation. Rafi highlighted the disappointment felt by staff upon realizing that promised payments had not materialized.

Emotional Toll on the Community

Eggleston acknowledged the emotional strain experienced by students, noting instances of anxiety and confusion following the sudden closure. She emphasized the resilience of the student body while acknowledging the profound impact of the unprecedented circumstances. Despite efforts to reach out, Dawson has yet to provide a statement regarding the situation.

Seeking Resolution

In response to the financial uncertainties, a complaint was lodged with the California Department of Labor to address the unpaid wages of teachers and staff. Families remain hopeful for a resolution that ensures employees receive their rightful compensation. Meanwhile, some parents are exploring alternative educational options for their children in the upcoming academic term.

Conclusion: Navigating Uncertainty

The closure of New Horizons School has left a community grappling with uncertainty and disappointment. As families and staff seek recourse for unpaid obligations, the resilience of the student body serves as a testament to their strength amidst adversity. Moving forward, the focus remains on supporting affected individuals and charting a path towards resolution. For updates on local news stories like this, download The Local News App to stay informed.

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