August 19, 2025

Preston County Schools Adjusts to New School Year

News Summary

Preston County Schools has officially begun the school year without staggered start days, following a mandate from the West Virginia Board of Education. Superintendent Brad Martin apologized for the abrupt change, which aims to comply with state regulations for instructional days. Despite initial disappointment, faculty and students approach the new academic year with optimism. The recent Freshman Open House saw a strong turnout, helping new students acclimate to the school environment. This marks a significant shift for families and educators as they navigate the absence of staggered starts for the first time since 2020.

Kingwood, West Virginia – The 2025-26 school year for Preston County Schools began on Monday, August 18, 2025, without the anticipated staggered start days, which were previously utilized to gradually transition students back into the school environment. The abrupt cancellation was mandated by the West Virginia Board of Education after an advisory from the West Virginia Department of Education indicated that staggered start days violated state code that requires 180 independent instructional days each school year.

Superintendent Brad Martin issued a public apology via social media for the sudden change in schedule, explaining that alternative proposals intended to recapture instructional time did not meet the necessary state code requirements. This decision signifies that there will be no staggered start days for the current or future academic years.

Principal Todd Seymour expressed disappointment over the state’s decision, indicating a desire for more time to address potential solutions for the transition back to school. Despite the challenges presented by the abrupt change, the administration at Preston High School remained optimistic as the year commenced, with many students demonstrating enthusiasm for returning to their studies.

The lead-up to the first day of school included a well-attended Freshman Open House on Sunday, August 17, 2025, where approximately three-fourths of the incoming freshman class participated. The event included tours of the high school and provided a platform for incoming students to review their schedules. Principal Seymour noted the impressive turnout, with many attendees lining up across the school’s parking lot to take advantage of the opportunity to familiarize themselves with their new surroundings.

In addition to the orientation event, teacher Danielle Barker highlighted the importance of the open house in meeting students’ needs. It allowed freshmen to prepare for the school year without the presence of upperclassmen, fostering a comfortable environment for new students to adjust to high school life.

Even amid the unsettling changes, faculty and staff maintained a positive attitude. They worked diligently to ensure that students had a successful start to the academic year. Students generally expressed excitement about returning to school, showcasing a readiness to embrace the new challenges that the school year will bring.

Meanwhile, kindergarten and pre-K students are scheduled to start school on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. The school calendar also includes a break on Friday, August 22, when no classes will be held to facilitate professional development for staff and faculty members.

The administration and educators have been commended for their rapid response to the unexpected situation caused by the cancellation of staggered start days. The quick adjustments illustrate their commitment to adhering to state regulations while still prioritizing a positive educational experience for all students.

This school year marks a significant change in the approach to student return, as families and faculty adjust to the absence of staggered start days for the first time since the protocol was implemented in 2020. The decision underscores the complexity of state educational requirements and the challenges faced by local school administrations as they strive to provide effective education while complying with regulations.