Burlington School District to Auction Off Closed Middle School Contents

More than 500 lots from James Madison Middle School up for grabs before demolition

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

The Burlington Community School District has partnered with Hoenig Auctions to liquidate the contents of the permanently closed James Madison Middle School. Over 500 lots of school furnishings and equipment will be auctioned off online in two phases, with the first auction running from March 5-12. The district plans to demolish the school building in May or June, but is giving the public one last chance to preview items and say goodbye on March 6.

Why it matters

The closure and demolition of James Madison Middle School marks the end of an era for the Burlington school district and community. The auction provides an opportunity for residents to acquire a piece of local history and nostalgia, while also clearing the way for the district's future plans for the property.

The details

The online auctions will feature over 500 lots of surplus school furnishings and equipment from the now-closed James Madison Middle School. The first auction phase runs from March 5-12, with a second auction to be held closer to the building's demolition date in May or June. On March 6, the public will be able to preview auction items and attend a send-off ceremony for the school before it is permanently closed.

  • The first online auction runs from 10 a.m. March 5 through 10 a.m. March 12.
  • A second auction will be held closer to demolition, in May or June 2026.
  • The school building will be open on March 6 from noon to 5 p.m. for item previews and a send-off ceremony.

The players

Burlington Community School District

The public school district in Burlington, Iowa that is liquidating the contents of the closed James Madison Middle School.

Hoenig Auctions

The auction house partnering with the Burlington school district to sell off the surplus school furnishings and equipment.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The closure and auction of James Madison Middle School marks the end of an era for Burlington's public schools, but also provides an opportunity for the community to acquire a piece of local history and nostalgia before the building is demolished.