Kanawha County Schools’ 10-year plan proposes fewer school buildings in the county by 2029. Board members say the area’s shrinking population has caused some schools to be underutilized and consolidation might be an option, particularly elementary schools. If the plan is implemented, Riverside High School’s area would see the biggest change, going from 13 schools to nine. Twelve schools would be closed, including elementary schools in Belle, Marmet and Malden, as well as two middle schools in Saint Albans. Five new buildings are planned, including a Chesapeake-Marmet Elementary School, Belle-Malden Elementary School and a new St. Albans area middle school. Renovations are already underway at Alum Creek Elementary. Nothing is set in stone yet.
You can view the the presentation from Kanawha County Schools on their website.