West Virginia Declares State Emergency in Roane County Schools Over $2.5M Deficit

The West Virginia Board of Education declared a state of emergency for Roane County Schools due to a significant and growing budget deficit projected to reach nearly $3 million in fiscal year 2026. The financial crisis stems from declining student enrollment, overspending on the construction of a new middle school, unauthorized purchases including furniture, and staffing levels exceeding state funding formulas. Board members criticized the Roane County school administration for poor financial management, likening the district's situation to bankruptcy and questioning whether it can reorganize or is beyond recovery. New superintendent Michelle Stellato, recently appointed, acknowledged the dire circumstances and pledged to implement difficult but necessary changes with support from an action plan developed in coordination with the state. The state will monitor progress closely, with updates expected at upcoming board meetings, while emphasizing the need for stronger financial oversight and possible revisions to training for local school board members. The intervention marks the seventh time in 2025 the state board has taken control or declared emergencies in county school districts, highlighting systemic challenges in managing education finances under current conditions.