Updated after with joint statement from the Clark Art and Buxton School. 

 

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — The Clark Art Institute is purchasing the 114-acre Buxton School property in an agreement that will allow the private school to continue operating independently. Officials say this will ensure the long-term stability of the century old school.

 

"As a small school focused on art, academics, and community, this is a historic opportunity for Buxton to ensure that the school and its mission are strengthened for years to come," Head of School Peter Beck said in the statement. "Stone Hill is so important for Buxton, for the Clark, and for Williamstown. This partnership helps protect that landscape for all of us."

 

The Berkshire Eagle reported the planned purchase on Monday, citing a joint statement it was sent.

 

According to the statement, which iBerkshires requested, the school and museum say the transaction "provides an opportunity to ensure the long-term protection of the woodlands on Buxton's 114-acre site and strengthen the school's ability to manage its future."

 

Olivier Meslay, the museum's director, said there was an interest retaining the rural nature of both campuses. 

 

"This transaction comes at a time when the Clark is deepening its commitment to sustainability, and it will mean that we have an even greater opportunity to invest in the future of our community," he stated. 

 

An agreement is expected to be made in the coming weeks. 

 

iBerkshires had been alerted by an alum last week that the museum was negotiating with the school to purchase the property for $2.5 million and that the school has been having financial difficulties.

 

iBerkshires had contacted Buxton School on Friday and was told by Senior Director Franny Shuker-Haines that "the school is not for sale."

 

The property encompasses 114 acres of woodland and buildings assessed at $5.8 million that would be added to the Clark's 140 acres. In between the two properties is 56 acres owned by the town of Williamstown.

 

The private boarding school educates students in Grades 9 through 12. It's limited to 90 students with an average class of 10. It was established by Ellen Geer Sangster in 1928 and sold to Buxton School Inc. in 1991.