Pickens, WV, October 16, 2025
News Summary
A public hearing set to discuss the potential closure of Pickens K-12 School was unexpectedly canceled shortly before it was due to begin. The Randolph County Superintendent cited new funding information as the reason for postponement, highlighting possibilities for the school to stay open for another year. This decision comes amid ongoing evaluations of financial resources and community proposals that may impact operational aspects. The school district remains under scrutiny as it navigates its budget challenges.
Pickens, WV – A public hearing scheduled to discuss the proposed closure of Pickens K-12 School was abruptly canceled less than two hours before it was set to begin on Tuesday night. Randolph County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Shawn Dilly announced the cancellation via social media shortly before 4 p.m., attributing it to newly received information related to funding.
The cancellation comes at a critical moment as new funding opportunities may enable the school to remain operational for at least one more year. According to Chief Business Official and Treasurer Brad Smith, Dr. Dilly received this new funding information late on Tuesday afternoon, prompting the decision to delay the closure discussion.
Smith noted that there might be additional financial resources available for Pickens School. This uncertainty regarding funding led Dr. Dilly to hold off on proceeding with any closure plans, although it was acknowledged that if the funding does not materialize, the hearing could be necessary in the future.
The district plans to evaluate and validate the new funding information with the West Virginia Department of Education and other stakeholders. They also intend to consider community proposals relating to operational aspects, instructional methods, transportation, staffing, and fiscal impact as they prepare for the 2026 school year.
While the cancellation of the public hearing provides a temporary respite, Dr. Dilly’s statement clarified that this does not guarantee the future of the school. Any revised proposal for Pickens K-12 will still comply with all statutory requirements, which include public notifications and hearings adhering to West Virginia law and policy.
This recent cancellation marks the second occasion this year that a hearing aimed at voting on the closure of Pickens K-12 School has been called off. Earlier in January, after the Board of Education voted not to close Harman School, a proposal to close Pickens K-12 was formally withdrawn. Since then, the Board of Education has taken actions that included the vote to close Harman K-12 School and North Elementary.
Further complicating matters, another public hearing and vote to close Coalton Elementary and Midland Elementary are scheduled for October 28 at Elkins High School. The situation in Randolph County Schools has generated significant concern, especially after being placed under a State of Emergency by the West Virginia Department of Education in June. The district remains on probation for six months, with the possibility of state intervention should they fail to balance their budget or demonstrate progress by December.
The next regular Board of Education meeting is set for Tuesday, October 21, at 5:30 p.m. at the Central Office. The developments surrounding the future of Pickens K-12 School will continue to be closely watched by both community members and educational authorities.
FAQ
What was the reason for the cancellation of the public hearing on Pickens K-12 School?
The hearing was canceled due to newly received information related to funding, which may allow Pickens K-12 School to remain open for at least another year.
Is there a possibility that Pickens K-12 School could still close in the future?
Yes, if the new funding does not materialize, a closure hearing may be necessary at a later date.
What are the next steps for the Randolph County Schools district regarding funding?
The district will review and validate the funding details with the West Virginia Department of Education and evaluate community proposals related to the operational and financial impacts for the future.
When is the next Board of Education meeting?
The next regular Board of Education meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 21, at 5:30 p.m. at the Central Office.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Canceled Hearing | Public hearing on Pickens K-12 closure canceled 90 minutes before scheduled time. |
| New Funding Information | New funding possibilities may allow the school to remain open for another year. |
| Future Considerations | Funding details will be validated with the West Virginia Department of Education. |
| Community Proposals | Evaluation of proposals impacting operational, instructional, and financial aspects. |
| Upcoming Meetings | Next Board of Education meeting on October 21; public hearing for closures on October 28. |
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Additional Resources
- The Intermountain: A New Hope
- WBRC: Pickens County Schools Begin New School Year with No Glitches
- The Intermountain: Community Funds Playground Built at Pickens School
- WBOY: Randolph County BOE Cancels Vote to Close Pickens School
- Wikipedia: Education in West Virginia
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