The Kanawha County Board of Education voted unanimously to close Mary Ingles Elementary School as the county continues closures and consolidations. Students will consolidate with Belle Elementary to form a brand new school named Kanawha County Elementary School, which could also include Malden Elementary and Midland Trail Elementary if the board votes on their closures. According to Kanawha County superintendent Dr. Tom Williams, they will find out about funding for Kanawha Elementary in December. If funding is available from the School Board Authority, the new school may open in 2028-29 school year. If funding is not available, Dr. Williams said constructing the new school will not be possible.