Greenbrier County Schools and school systems across West Virginia face financial challenges due to a continued decline in student enrollment. This trend has significant implications for school funding and staffing. At 4,458 students, enrollment in Greenbrier County Schools decreased by 160 since the beginning of last school year, resulting in a loss of over one million dollars in state funding for the county’s public schools.
State law requires West Virginia school systems to maintain a balanced budget and meet a minimum annual carryover threshold. Given the funding lost due to declining enrollment, the Greenbrier County Board of Education is evaluating financial efficiencies in all areas of operation to remain financially solvent and meet state requirements.
The October 8, 2024, board meeting agenda of the Greenbrier County Board of Education includes an item directing the Superintendent to compile the necessary information to make an informed decision regarding the potential closure of Crichton Elementary School at the close of the current school year.
Under West Virginia Code §18-5-13A, when a school closure is considered, the board must ensure that consideration of all relevant factors, including student enrollment trends, financial implications, and community impact, are thoroughly evaluated before any final decisions regarding closure are made.
