Hodgesville Elementary saw big gains in reading and math proficiency in its first year under a state improvement designation. Principal Shannon Lewis walked the school board through the plan driving the improvements and the obstacles still in the way.
The latest Buckhannon Banter rounds up events, activities and community updates from around Upshur County and beyond.
West Virginia Prevention Solutions is hoping Upshur County will join several other counties in taking the first steps to implement a program modeled on a successful Icelandic initiative to reduce teenage drinking. It would start with an anonymous survey this fall.
Dogs and their owners can take a dip Aug. 23 to commemorate the end of Lewis County’s pool season. Proceeds from the annual Doggie Dip will benefit the Lewis-Upshur Animal Control Facility.
The latest Buckhannon Banter rounds up events, activities and community updates from around Upshur County and beyond.
The state advanced $400,000 to temporarily relocate flood-damaged Robert L. Bland Middle School to WVU Jackson’s Mill. About 400 Lewis County students are expected to resume in-person learning after Labor Day.
West Virginia Wesleyan’s Class of 2026 nursing graduates achieved a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate and employment rate. All have remained in West Virginia, providing nursing care in local communities.
See the agenda for the Buckhannon City Council meeting on August 20, 2026, including the items set for discussion and action.
Buckhannon’s Aug. 17-21 calendar includes recycling pickup, public meetings and a free songwriters workshop. Residents can also find updates on flood recovery, FEMA assistance, fee waivers and park reopenings.
Janice J. Lantz, 91, of Roanoke, WV, died on August 17, 2026, at Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital in Weston. A former mail carrier and Tupperware consultant, she cherished her large family and never met a stranger.
Mary Edith “Sally” Young Waddell, 83, of Myrtle Beach, SC, and formerly of Buckhannon, WV, passed away peacefully at her home on April 12, 2026. A retired educator, she leaves a legacy of warmth, kindness, and love. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, August 22.
Upshur County’s Aug. 17-23 sports calendar features golf, soccer, volleyball, football and cross country. Highlights include Buckhannon-Upshur’s football scrimmage at Braxton County and Saturday’s home girls soccer match against Parkersburg.
See the agenda for the Buckhannon Sanitary Board meeting on August 20, 2026, including the items set for discussion and action.
Community Bulletin
The breast cancer support group WVU Medicine St. Joseph's Hospital started last October has become a monthly fixture in Salvati Hall, meeting the third Thursday of every month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The gatherings are open to all patients and survivors.
A $1.5 million contract will pave WV 20 from Hinkleville to Buckhannon Road in Upshur County. It was among 28 construction contracts awarded by the state Division of Highways.
Jessica McQuain returns to lead Buckhannon-Upshur volleyball, aiming to build a positive, competitive program rooted in effort, accountability and pride. The former Lady Bucs coach wants players to grow on and off the court.
