A tiny school in Buffalo County will have to close its doors at the end of this school year.

A failed referendum, more than a week ago in Gilmanton, will lead to the closing of Dover Elementary School.

The district asked voters for $125-thousand in that referendum, which would have kept the school open.

But, the "no" votes carried the question, by more than a 2-to-1 margin.

Teachers and students say they'll be sad to leave Dover, but will try to make the best out of the situation.

The sounds of children playing during recess will come to an end as the doors close for the final time on tiny Dover Elementary School.

Teacher Kim Becker says, "We're almost like their parents to them and we're family out here."

With just four classrooms in the building, the teachers say they really get to know each and every child.

Teacher Lisa Bloom says, "We just feel like we're one big happy family here and we help serve lunch, and we have recess duty, so we're with the kids from the moment they get here until they go home."

Which Bloom says helps benefit each individual student.

Lisa Bloom says, "We have such small classroom sizes and our children get a lot of attention from each teacher.

The teachers worry the kids may not receive as much support once the school closes.

Lisa Bloom says, "We just won't be able to be as one on one and the classrooms will be very crowded unlike they are now.

Despite their emotions with the school closing, the teachers say they accept the decision and will keep offering their best.

Lisa Bloom says, "The teachers here are very hardworking and dedicated to their jobs and to the students here, so, we'll make it work."

Students at Dover Elementary School will be moved to Gilmanton Elementary, about five miles away.

Sixth graders will then be moved to the high school.

The changes will take place at the start of next school year.