As printed in The Journal on May 13, 2026
BERKELEY COUNTY — The Berkeley County school bond is set to pass, according to unofficial results from Tuesday's Primary Election.
The results show 6,377 votes for the bond, while 6,149 votes were against.
The bond proposed $115.4 million, which would make the district eligible for an additional $45 million investment from the West Virginia School Building Authority. This money is limited and can only be used for building new schools and improving already exiting school facilities.
Already, Berkeley County is dealing with overcrowded schools, but the district's projected enrollment for 2035 adds 900 more students. As one of the fastest growing areas in the Mid-Atlantic, the need for more space is great.
“We are incredibly thankful for the trust and support shown by the Berkeley County community through the passage of this 2026 bond,” Superintendent Ryan Saxe said. “This investment is about far more than buildings; it is about expanding opportunities and ensuring our schools are prepared to meet the needs of future generations. Strong schools build strong communities, and today, our community demonstrated its continued commitment to students, families and the future of Berkeley County Schools. On behalf of Berkeley County Schools, I want to sincerely thank everyone who supported this effort and continues to believe in the power of public education.”
The proposed bond projects include a new Hedgesville Middle School, replacing the 100-year-old building and repurposing it for alternative education. The district is also planning a new Career and Technical Education Center, repurposing an existing building to offer more education pathways for students to find success.
The bond will also fund renovations at Musselman High School and Tomahawk Intermediate, adding modernized kitchens and cafeterias, and additions to Martinsburg South Middle, Rosemont Elementary and Hedgesville High School.