WV native creates online state school closure tracker; 70% of closures impacted elementary schools

By: Amelia Ferrell Knisely

Outlets: West Virginia Watch

Published: June 4, 2026

Words: 601

Last Updated: 1 day, 16 hours ago

Body Text Preview

A team at the University of Michigan has created an online tool to track school closures and consolidations in West Virginia as the state is grappling with population decline and widespread school financial issues.

The project was led by Roane County native Christina Weiland, who is currently professor of education and social policy at the University of Michigan.

Since 2011, 139 public schools have closed in West Virginia, and 62% of counties have …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

About

Email Us