Coalton Elementary Fight Sparks Statewide Call to Reform West Virginia’s Broken School-Funding Formula
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October 11, 2025Parents allege policy-driven injustice, not financial necessity, as October 28 vote nears
Coalton, West Virginia — October 2025 — In the heart of Randolph County, the people of Coalton are fighting to save what they call the soul of their community — Coalton Elementary School — from a closure they describe as senseless and avoidable.
The Randolph County Board of Education plans to shutter Coalton Elementary on October 28, 2025, citing “budget shortfalls.” Parents say the justification collapses under its own math. According to WV Department of Education records, the district retains roughly 8.5 central-office administrators averaging $80 k each, while closing Coalton would net under $150 k in real savings — less than 1 percent of the budget.
“We’ve shown the numbers. Coalton isn’t closing because it’s failing—it’s closing because the state’s funding formula doesn’t fit communities like ours. The Public School Support Program was designed for big districts, not small towns. Coalton has actually gained students, yet the Board still claims we’re losing dollars. That’s not budgeting—it’s bureaucracy.” said **Jay King**, spokesperson for the Coalton Elementary Community Group.
The community’s “Coalton Bridge Budget” proposes redirecting 5 % of central-office overhead, sharing teachers among small schools, and converting the building for after-school programs and community use. The plan buys 12–24 months for lawmakers to fix the state’s flawed funding formula — with no new taxes.
Families warn of dire consequences: students facing 60- to 75-minute bus rides over mountain roads, loss of local meal programs, and the disappearance of the town’s only public gathering place.
A legal injunction citing violations of WV Code § 18-5-13a and Policy 6204 is being prepared to stop the vote.
“We’re not asking for charity,” said local parent “Jay King”. “We’re asking for fairness and common sense.”
Media Contact:
Jay King
Coalton Elementary Community Group
coaltonparent@gmail.com
Elkins, West Virginia 26241
Disclaimer:
This press release contains statements of opinion and advocacy related to public education policy. All factual information is believed to be accurate as of the date of release. The views expressed are those of the quoted individuals and organizations and do not necessarily represent the positions of any government agency or school district. This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
