Community rallies to save historic Mount Rogers School

During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on two significant topics: funding for a childcare study and the preservation of the Mount Rogers School property.

The meeting began with a proposal for a $25,000 funding allocation to initiate a study on childcare needs in the community. The urgency of this study was emphasized, although specific details about its objectives were not fully articulated.

The more extensive discussion revolved around the Mount Rogers School, a historic building that has served as a cornerstone of education in the community since the 1930s. Tom Revels, president of the Mount White Top Community Improvement Corp, presented a passionate case for the preservation of the school, highlighting its historical significance and the community's commitment to maintaining it. Revels noted that the school symbolizes the community's educational progress, having transitioned from individual homeschool facilities to a structured school environment.

Revels outlined the Improvement Corp's successful track record in securing over $3.5 million in grants for community projects, including the construction of a community center. He expressed the organization's readiness to take responsibility for the Mount Rogers School, proposing to seek private funding for its restoration and potential new uses, such as a music facility and a site for maple syrup production.

The board members acknowledged the challenges of allocating county funds for the preservation of the school, given the limited resources available. However, they expressed support for the community's initiative and the potential economic benefits of revitalizing the property. Revels assured the board that the Improvement Corp would maintain the building and seek additional funding to ensure its sustainability.

The meeting concluded with a motion to transfer ownership of the Mount Rogers School property to the White Top Community Improvement Club, allowing the organization to move forward with its preservation plans. The board's willingness to consider this transfer reflects a growing recognition of the importance of community-led initiatives in preserving local heritage and fostering economic development.