CONCORD, N.C. — Students at Barber Scotia College in Concord were shocked to find out over winter break that the school was closing.
The school has faced financial troubles for years.
Eyewitness News reporter Tina Terry talked to school leaders and found out what's next for the college and its students.
The historically black college lost its accreditation in 2004, which kept it from receiving financial aid.
The school in 2014 was still struggling to pay debits of about $12 million.
Chairman of the Board Barry Green said tuition payments and donations from board members and alumni have come in this year, but it hasn't been enough to maintain aging facilities and pay monthly bills.
“It's probably more than that now,” said Green.
The board will close its doors in the spring.
Student Amaya Scott said she will have to transfer to another school next fall.
"They basically have to start over because some of the classes won't transfer," she said.
Ruth Brooks, a graduate and chaplain of the school's national alumni association, said she hopes that leaders can regroup and start strong next fall.
"We will survive this, but sometimes you have to stop and start over," Brooks said.
Green said he and the board are working on a private partnership that could bring in more money to the school.
He hopes the board can position the school to reopen in the fall.
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