Select Board agrees to ask West River education board to request a town vote on closing Jamaica Village School

The Select Board held a prolonged discussion about a West River Education District budget that would close Jamaica Village School. Board members and residents raised concerns about pre‑K access if the town school closed, noting the district projected roughly 24 pre‑K slots across the district and that the town’s ability to replace those seats was uncertain.

Members also pointed out there is no assessed town tax value on the school building because it is owned by the school district; residents asked for an assessed value to help evaluate options such as the town buying the building back. After public input and internal discussion, the board voted to indicate to the West River board that Jamaica is open to being asked to call a town vote on closure. The board agreed to host informational meetings and to warn a town vote likely in April or May if the district formalizes its request.

Residents said they need clearer financial figures—both operating cost impacts and realistic assessments of where displaced students would attend. Board members said the decision will not affect this year’s education budget and asked residents to review the West River district budget documents posted online. The chair will notify district contacts that Jamaica will accept a request to call a town vote and the board will prepare information sessions for the public in advance of any warned vote.