Berkeley County Declares State of Emergency Following Report of Unruly Behavior at Martinsburg North Middle School

State of Emergency Declared at Martinsburg North Middle School

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Martinsburg North Middle School is facing a state of emergency after a recent review by the state Department of Education revealed chaotic and unchecked behavior among students.

The state Board of Education voted to place Berkeley County Schools under a state of emergency specifically in response to the situation at Martinsburg North Middle School. The review team described the school as having a chaotic and disruptive environment, with students often off-task and unengaged in learning.

State BOE President Paul Hardesty expressed his frustration, stating, “This is pathetic. We are under attack in public education in this state on numerous fronts, incidents like this are like pouring gasoline on the fire we fight back every day.”

According to State Department of Education Accountability Officer Jeff Kelley, the on-site visit last month revealed pervasive student misbehavior, with staff members often ignoring such behavior. The report highlighted instances of physical fights, Title IX violations, and a lack of student safety.

The school’s student achievement results have also been a concern, with low proficiency rates in English and math. One parent even reported that her daughter, who receives straight A’s, struggles with reading and writing.

In response to the crisis, Berkeley County School Superintendent Ron Stephens has taken action, appointing Holly Kleppner as the lead administrator at the school. Additionally, a full-time school resource officer has been placed at the school.

State School Superintendent Michele Blatt announced that a school improvement specialist will be hired to develop an action plan for the state Board of Education to consider for approval in June. The goal is to address the issues at Martinsburg North Middle School and ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for students.