Preston County, West Virginia, August 19, 2025
News Summary
Preston County students returned to school with significant changes as staggered start days were canceled due to state regulations. Superintendent Brad Martin addressed the abrupt change, emphasizing compliance with the requirement for 180 instructional days. Despite disappointment from some educators, the Freshman Open House was well-attended. The new academic year began as the community rallies to provide a supportive educational environment for students. Kindergarten and pre-K programs will follow shortly after, with a professional development day scheduled for faculty.
Preston County, West Virginia – On Monday, August 18, 2025, students in Preston County returned to school for the beginning of the academic year, but this year’s start is notably different due to the sudden cancellation of staggered start days, a practice that had been in place since 2020. This change was mandated by the West Virginia Board of Education after state code requirements necessitated a minimum of 180 independent instructional days, which the staggered start arrangement was found to violate.
Superintendent Brad Martin issued a public apology on social media, addressing the abrupt changes and providing context regarding the need for this decision. He explained that although proposals were made to recover instructional time lost due to the staggered start, none were compliant with state regulations. This led to the immediate elimination of staggered starts not just for this year, but for future academic years as well.
Principal Todd Seymour expressed disappointment in the state’s decision, reflecting on the timing and the lack of opportunity for the schools to rework their schedules effectively. Despite this setback, Preston High School successfully held a Freshman Open House on August 17, 2025, ahead of the school year, which was attended by approximately three-fourths of the new freshman class. The event was well-received, featuring tours of the facilities and a chance for incoming students to review their schedules before classes began. The high turnout surprised school officials, as potential attendees lined up across the school parking lot.
As the school day commenced, teacher Danielle Barker highlighted the positive atmosphere created by the Freshman Open House, noting that it tailored to the new students’ needs by allowing them to prepare for the upcoming school year without the presence of upperclassmen. Despite the mixed feelings about the schedule changes, staff maintained a positive outlook, and many students expressed eagerness about starting their new journey.
For younger students, kindergarten and pre-K programs commenced on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. Due to scheduling adjustments, Friday, August 22, 2025, was designated a non-school day for professional development for faculty and staff, allowing them to prepare for the fall semester ahead. The school administration has received praise for their quick response to the unexpected situation, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring a smooth start to the school year amid disruptions.
As Preston County navigates these changes, the school community remains focused on providing an enriching educational environment to support all students through their academic journey.
FAQs
What is the new school year start date for Preston County Schools?
The new school year officially began on Monday, August 18, 2025.
What prompted the cancellation of staggered start days?
The cancellation was directed by the West Virginia Board of Education due to a violation of state code that mandates 180 independent instructional days.
How has the community reacted to the announcement?
Despite disappointment from some leaders and staff, many students have expressed excitement, and attendance at the Freshman Open House was high.
When do kindergarten and pre-K students start?
Kindergarten and pre-K students are set to begin on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
Will there be professional development for teachers?
Yes, there is a professional development day scheduled for Friday, August 22, 2025, in which no students will attend school.
Key Features in Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Start Date | August 18, 2025 |
| Cancellations | No staggered start days this year due to state code violations |
| Freshman Open House | Took place August 17, 2025, with 75% attendance from freshmen |
| Professional Development | Non-school day on August 22, 2025 for faculty |
| Kindergarten/Pre-K Start Date | August 20, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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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