By Hunter Schoolcraft, Spencer Record and Reporter
SPENCER, W.Va. — The final three public hearings on the proposed closure and consolidation of Walton Elementary/Middle School and Geary Elementary/Middle School concluded this week, marking the end of a process that has drawn intense interest and emotion throughout Roane County.
The last hearings were held at Spencer Elementary, Roane County Middle School, and Roane County High School — the schools that would remain open if Superintendent Michelle Stellato’s consolidation plan moves forward.
Unlike the earlier hearings at Walton and Geary, where emotions often ran high and frustrations filled the gymnasiums, the final three sessions took on a more measured tone. While still deeply emotional, these hearings were more direct and focused, with discussions shifting somewhat from community-specific concerns to broader issues about the future of education in rural West Virginia.