Bethel will soon be home to a new community center. Beginning this summer, Clear Lake Elementary will serve as the Clear Lake Community Center (CLCC) — a welcoming space designed to serve children, families, and residents of all ages.
 
The Bethel School District announced last year that it would be closing Clear Lake at the end of the 2024–25 school year due to several economic factors, including longtime declining enrollment. While this is a bittersweet change, the community is excited for what’s to come.
 
Bethel and other local leaders and partners have worked over the past several months to reimagine the space as a vibrant hub for connection, support, and opportunity. The CLCC will offer high-quality preschool programs, youth and adult services, family resources, and inclusive spaces for events and community gatherings.
 
The center’s development is led by the Bethel School District, with key support from Lane County, the United Way of Lane County, the Eugene-Springfield NAACP. Additional support comes from Preschool Promise, Boys & Girls Club, Bethel Native Parent Group, the YMCA, City of Eugene, and Active Bethel Community, among others—bringing resources focused on early learning, youth programs, wellness, civic life, and family support.
 
This effort reflects both the resilience and strength of the Bethel community, as well as the commitment of many partners working together to build something lasting. Together, these partners are helping shape a center rooted in inclusion, equity, and community resilience.
 
Next Steps
The Clear Lake building’s transformation will begin this summer after students are released for summer break. More details about programming and opening events will soon be shared by Bethel and partner organizations involved in this effort. 
Please reach out to Communications Director Alisha Dodds with any questions, or to help facilitate interviews.