News Summary
The Roane County Board of Education has voted to consolidate Geary and Walton Elementary Middle Schools in response to a nearly $3 million budget deficit. The decision, initiated by Superintendent Michelle Stellato, aims to streamline the district’s operations and save approximately $1.45 million annually. Public hearings are scheduled for community input, and a final decision will be made in early November. Ongoing budget concerns and declining enrollment are key factors influencing this significant change in the district’s educational landscape.
Spencer, West Virginia – The Roane County Board of Education has taken significant steps toward addressing its financial challenges by deciding to consolidate Geary and Walton Elementary Middle Schools. The vote occurred during a meeting on September 11, 2025, and is a response to the district’s alarming budget deficit, which has reached nearly $3 million.
The proposal, presented by Superintendent Michelle Stellato, aims to initiate the legal process required for consolidation, as outlined by West Virginia Code 18-5-13a. While no schools will close immediately, the plan includes the potential closure of Geary and Walton schools at the end of the current academic year. If finalized, students in grades K-5 will transition to Spencer Elementary School, while students in grades 6-8 will attend Spencer Middle School. Additionally, all pre-K students would move to a space currently occupied by the Office of Student Support Services at Roane County High School.
The anticipated financial benefits of the consolidation are significant, with the district projecting annual savings of approximately $1.45 million. This move comes on the heels of a declaration of a state of emergency by the West Virginia Board of Education regarding the financial state of Roane County Schools, made in July 2025.
As part of the consolidation process, five public hearings will be held to allow community members to express their views and concerns. These hearings are scheduled for October 30, November 1, November 5, and November 6, 2025. Residents wishing to participate must register to speak at least 30 minutes before the hearings begin. Notifications about these public meetings will be posted in schools and other local facilities for at least 30 days before the first hearing. Additionally, written comments can be submitted to the superintendent’s office by noon on October 24, 2025. The board is expected to make a final decision on the proposal on November 6, with the possibility of a weather-related postponement to November 7.
Roane County Schools has faced ongoing issues contributing to the consolidation decision, including a significant decline in enrollment, which has fallen by 31% over the past decade. This trend has resulted in a loss of about 70 students annually. The current operations of Geary and Walton schools further illustrate the need for consolidation, as both institutions are functioning at below 35% capacity.
In light of the ongoing budget crisis, the local board of education previously authorized the superintendent to investigate potential options for financial stabilisation, including the exploration of new revenue sources like a school levy and additional budget cuts. Amidst these discussions, questions have arisen regarding the allocation of funds related to the recent budget increase of $1.6 billion to $2.5 billion for West Virginia public schools, prompting concerns from local residents and officials about the ramifications of school closures on community welfare and student well-being.
To further assess the district’s financial situation, a special committee has been formed. This committee will delve into the school finances and propose alternative options to the consolidation plan, reflecting community feedback and concerns.
As the situation develops, the Roane County Board of Education remains focused on addressing the financial needs of the district while considering the impacts of potential school closures on families and students.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WSAZ: Consolidation Plan Approved by County School Board
- WV News: Roane County Board of Education Votes to Develop Consolidation Plan
- WV Metro News: Roane County BOE Will Look at Other Options Before Closing or Consolidating Two Elementary Schools
- WCHS TV: State Senator Seeks Legislative Solution to Halt School Closures in West Virginia
- News and Sentinel: Financial Issues Place Roane County Schools in State of Emergency
- Wikipedia: Roane County, West Virginia
- Google Search: Roane County Schools budget issues
- Google Scholar: Roane County Schools consolidation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: West Virginia
- Google News: Roane County Schools
