K
anawha County is in the spotlight today at the statehouse, and a new charter school is set to open this fall in the upper Kanawha Valley. Here’s the 411 from communities around the region, including Charleston, Marmet and more.
KANAWHA COUNTY DAY: The spotlight is on Kanawha County today at the state capitol. The first-ever Kanawha County Day at the Legislature takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. today (Monday, March 9) in the Lower Rotunda at the West Virginia State Capitol. Leaders with the Charleston Area Alliance and the Chamber of Commerce say the day will allow locals to showcase the “vitality and economic strength” of the Kanawha Valley to state leaders and other Capitol visitors. “This is a great opportunity to connect with lawmakers, celebrate our community’s impact, and proudly represent what makes our county strong,” Charleston Area Alliance representatives wrote in a post announcing the inaugural event. Several dozen local sponsors, including area businesses, organizations, government agencies and more, are expected to participate in Kanawha County Day at the Legislature, which is open to the public.
CHARTER SCHOOL: A new charter school is set to open in the Kanawha Valley, according to Marmet Mayor Frances Armentrout. The Phalen Leadership Academy, a school for children in Kindergarten through 5th grade, is set to open in the fall of 2026. According to information on the Phalen Leadership Academy’s website, the school will be a tuition-free public charter school “ designed to provide strong academics, structure, and support in a nurturing environment where students feel seen, valued, and challenged.” The nonprofit Phalen Leadership Academies currently manages charter schools in Alabama, Indiana, Michigain, Missouri and Ohio. This will be the organization's first school is West Virginia. Marmet’s mayor said the opening of the school will have a positive impact on the municipality. “This development is a significant milestone for our community,” Armentrout said. “I am confident that this school will bring immense benefits to our town.”
CREATIVE VISIONARIES: Do you know a Kanawha Valley creative under age 25? YNST Magazine, a publication dedicated to arts and culture in Appalachia, is currently seeking individuals to profile as part of its "Visionaries" series. According to a social media post, the magazine is interested in under-25 creatives living in the greater Kanawha Valley who produce visual or performing arts. Other wanted nominees include individuals with “outstanding community leadership and/or outspoken advocacy for the state of West Virginia.” Selected Visionaries will be featured in YNST’s print publication and website. Individuals from Kanawha, Putnam, Boone, Clay, Lincoln and Fayette counties will be considered. More information and an application for the series are available online.
