CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A Kanawha County judge has ruled that West Virginia’s system for approving new charter schools is unconstitutional unless voters in affected counties first give their approval—significantly reshaping the future of charter school expansion in the state.
In a sweeping 39-page order issued December 3, 2025, Circuit Judge Jennifer Bailey granted a permanent injunctionblocking the state’s Professional Charter School Board (PCSB) from authorizing any new charter schools without

NEW RIVER GORGE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Historians, preservationists, and community advocates have officially established the New River Gorge Historical Society, a new regional organization dedicated to conserving the cultural and historical resources of southern West Virginia.
Unlike traditional historical societies formed along county boundaries, this new organization will focus on the broader New River Gorge region, encompassing communities and historic landscapes across Fayette, Raleigh, and

CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) — West Virginia State Parks officials today announced a special holiday promotion that gives shoppers a free Almost Heaven tote when they purchase $50 or more at shopwvstateparks.com.
This limited-time offer is available Dec. 3-25 and applies to all online merchandise purchases, including park apparel, outdoor gear and gift cards. Gift cards purchased through the online store can be redeemed for lodge room stays, cabin and cottage rentals, camping, gift shop purchases,