Summersville, West Virginia – In a brief six‑minute session on Tuesday, the Nicholas County Board of Education voted to close Zela Elementary and Birch River Elementary. Both schools serve fewer than 100 students each and have been under discussion since 2024.
Board decision and rationale
Board members said the closures are necessary after a decade‑long enrollment drop of 20.7%, which has stripped the district of roughly $2 million in state aid. Superintendent Scott Cochran noted that Zela and Birch River currently cost the district the most per student, largely because of personnel expenses.
Teacher concerns
Zela teacher Brandi Brown voiced strong opposition, urging the board to take more time before finalizing the decision. “Our main concern is always the children on the far end of the county, who will have to endure a significantly long bus ride,” Brown said. She added, “I love West Virginia public education, and when you’re doing things like this, it feels like you don’t value it.”
Impact on students
If the State Board of Education approves the plan, the two schools will close at the end of the 2026‑27 school year. Students will be reassigned to the new Summersville pre‑K‑8 campus at Glade Creek, consolidating resources and reducing transportation costs.
Community reaction
Parents and community members expressed disappointment, fearing longer commutes and a loss of local school identity. However, board officials emphasized that the financial realities leave little alternative. “The bulk of the savings comes from personnel,” Brown acknowledged, noting that relocating students would not achieve the intended cost reductions.
Next steps
The closure plan now awaits approval from the West Virginia State Board of Education. Should it be ratified, the district will begin transition planning, including transportation routes and staffing adjustments, to ensure a smooth move to the Glade Creek facility.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
