Ira Central School

Some estimate this school began operation in the 1780s, which could mean it is the oldest school in Vermont. The public records are sparse from that time period so it cannot be confirmed. The school closed in 1991.

Location of the school on the Beers Map of 1869.

Photo from Rutland Herald, Sept. 5, 1974

The school is currently unoccupied

From left: Ralph Perry, Charlotte Lincoln, Stewart Lincoln, _, Harriet Kenyon, _, ____

We don't know the occasion, the date, or owner of the picture.

Students and Teacher, Ira School 1959

Picture courtesy of Regina Buffum

Students in 1963-64

Ira Central School (Play Ground) JUNGLE GYM

Note: Do you recognize anyone in this picture? We need more names? We would also like to give credit to the photographer. Current names from Dan Hoffman (updated May 24, 2026).

Note from Di Whitman:

Ira Central School, 200 years old , one room, one teacher, 15 to 30 students
Two generations of Perrys (seven students), each spent eight years here.
Result: 4 nurses, 2 farmers, and one general contractor.
All are happy, successful citizens.

Note from Lew Hoffman:

Dan Hoffman attended Ira Central School for four years (1981-1985). He went on to become a professor of education, inspired in part by his years at the one-room school.