With the opening of the new Shelby Elementary School in 2024, New Era Elementary School ceased holding classes and serving students and families.
To avoid having an "empty shell" school structure in a neighborhood setting, the New Era Village Council and the Shelby Public Schools Board of Education worked in partnership to execute the sale of the closed New Era School and property to the Village of New Era.
The village council and school district initiated discussions in November of 2024 and over the course of time arrived at both parties taking steps in November 2025 to approve the sale.
“New Era Elementary has always been a cornerstone of the New Era community," Shelby Board President Ruth Myers said. "So, I couldn't be happier that two groups of elected representatives came together to explore and effectively approve the sale and repurposing of this school building for the general community's benefit in the future."
Shelby Superintendent Mark Olmstead affirmed the board president's view.
"The proceeds of the sale will bring in about $85,000 to the district," Olmstead said. “I think it's great that New Era School didn't just fade away into the sunset. The money generated by its sale will serve to support the physical infrastructure of operating school buildings in 2026 and beyond. It's a win-win."
Village President Roger Fessenden agreed with Superintendent Olmstead's assessment.
"We're pleased to acquire this asset. It's been nearly two years in the making," Fessenden said. "No one wanted the school building to just sit there empty. We want to have a cared-for and visually appealing facility in its neighborhood location and see what services we could conveniently offer our village residents there.
"Because the vision for the future of the New Era School combined a good purpose for public use at a reasonable cost, I'm grateful the school board and village council (were) diligent in making this happen. The New Era School is helping to get our New Year off to a great start!"
The Shelby Public Schools Board of Education: President Ruth A. Myers, Vice President Scott Stovall, Secretary Steve Vinke, Treasurer Karen Rice, and Trustees Brian Hicks, Robert Rudat and Jason Fleming.
The New Era Village Council: President Roger Fessenden, Treasurer Sharon Pepple, Clerk Natalie Kelly, and Trustees Annie Gale, Mark Kelly, Austin Cox, Michael Deblois, Gene Zainea and Gary Grinwis.
