News Summary
Preston County schools have changed their academic calendar by eliminating staggered start days due to state compliance issues. This decision follows guidance from the West Virginia Board of Education, which noted that staggered start days violated state law. Despite this abrupt change, staff and students remain enthusiastic as they prepare for the new school year. A recent Freshman Open House saw strong attendance, indicating community support for students. The focus now shifts to aligning future planning with state requirements while prioritizing student needs.
Preston County Schools Begins 2025-26 Year Without Staggered Start Amid Last-Minute Changes
Preston County, West Virginia, saw a significant shift in its school year structure as students returned to classes on Monday, August 18, 2025, following the unexpected cancellation of staggered start days. This adjustment was mandated by the West Virginia Board of Education, prompted by compliance issues with state education codes.
The West Virginia Department of Education informed school officials that implementing staggered start days contravened the state law requiring 180 independent instructional days for each academic year. This method, which had been in use since 2020, allowed students to gradually return to school in phases by grade level, easing the transition back to classes.
In response to the abrupt scheduling changes, Preston County Superintendent Brad Martin issued a public apology via social media. He explained that although proposals had been prepared to compensate for lost instructional time, they failed to meet state code requirements. As a result, the decision was made to eliminate staggered start days, impacting this school year and potentially future years.
Principal’s Perspective on Changes
Principal Todd Seymour expressed his disappointment over the last-minute decision from the state, wishing there had been more lead time to find alternative solutions. However, preparations for the new academic year continued, and enthusiasm was visibly present among staff and students despite the changes.
Freshman Open House Draws Strong Attendance
In a positive development, Preston High School hosted a Freshman Open House on Sunday, August 17, 2025, with nearly three-fourths of the incoming freshman class attending. The event featured school tours and schedule reviews designed to help students adjust to their new environment without the presence of upperclassmen, allowing for a more comfortable transition.
Principal Seymour noted a remarkable turnout, with families lining up across the school parking lot. This response indicated strong community interest and support for the students’ transition into high school. Teacher Danielle Barker highlighted that the event focused on catering to student needs, reinforcing the district’s commitment to student preparedness.
Looking Ahead
Despite the abrupt cancellation of staggered start days, the atmosphere at Preston County schools remained positive as many students expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming school year. Kindergarten and pre-K students are scheduled to begin classes on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. Notably, no school activities are planned for Friday, August 22, allowing for a day dedicated to professional development for the faculty and staff.
The rapid and unexpected adjustments made by school officials were met with appreciation from both staff and faculty, who exhibited a quick response to the evolving situation. Their commitment to ensuring that students are supported during this transitional period underscores the resilience of the educational community in Preston County. Going forward, administration aims to align their planning with state requirements while continuing to prioritize the educational needs of students.
As the 2025-26 school year unfolds, Preston County Schools remain focused on providing high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment, despite the recent challenges.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
West Virginia Faces Sharp Decline in Public School Enrollment
Additional Resources
- WV News: Preston County Schools Move Forward Following Staggered Start Cancellation
- WBOY: WV Department of Education Gives Reason for Scrapping Preston County Staggered Start
- MSN: Preston County Schools Alters Plan for Staggered Start to Year
- WV News: Preston County Schools to Begin Year Without Staggered Start
- WAJR: Preston County Board of Education Approves Closure of Rowlesburg School, Fellowsville Elementary
- Wikipedia: Education in West Virginia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Google Search: Preston County Schools
- Google News: Preston County
- Google Scholar: Preston County Education
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