BLAND ST
Bolivar, WV

I wouldn’t want my kids anywhere else

If schools were graded, Harpers Ferry Middle would be at the very bottom with a solid F. The building looks like it’s about to collapse under its own weight—cracked walls, sagging ceilings, and an overall “haunted house” atmosphere that doesn’t exactly inspire learning.The food is just as bad. Most days it looks radioactive, glowing in colors that no meal should ever be. Calling it “lunch” feels like false advertising—it’s more like a science experiment that escaped the lab.This place needs a total overhaul. Right now, it’s less of a school and more of a warning sign for what happens when no one invests in education.— Patrick Flannery

I began attending Jefferson High School in 2022 with hopes of growing academically, building friendships, and preparing for my future. Unfortunately, my experience was cut short in 2024 due to harassment, bullying, and institutional failure after I came forward about being sexually assaulted by a male student.When I bravely reported the assault to the principal, school staff, and the resource officer, I expected safety and support — but instead, I was met with silence and disbelief. No proper action was taken to address the situation or to ensure the safety of others. Instead of holding the perpetrator accountable or requiring him to get help, the school allowed him to remain on campus without consequence.After coming forward, I was harassed both in person and online — through Snapchat, Instagram, and even by strangers who called me a liar without knowing the full story. The emotional toll was devastating. I lost close friends and my support system, and the school made no effort to support my mental health or well-being during that time.In the end, I had no choice but to leave Jefferson High School and pursue my education through a GED program. While my time there ended painfully, my experience has only deepened my commitment to standing up for others who feel silenced. I know my truth, and I will continue to use my voice to advocate for those who deserve to be heard and protected.