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West Virginia: education overview

Average teacher salary $58,099 (2024-25), #47 of 51. Source

Public vs private schools

PublicPrivate
Schools684120
Students242,15513,660
Share of students95%5%

Latest federal counts; public and private figures come from different school years, so the share is approximate.

Schools 2022-23Students 2024-25Teachers 2022-23Districts 2021-22

Private schools & students 2021-22

Students, teachers, districts

Public school districts
55
Public school teachers (full-time equivalent)
18,670
Public school students
242,155

Schools 2022-23Students 2024-25Teachers 2022-23Districts 2021-22

How teacher pay is structured

Regular districts generally serve K–12, so elementary and high school teachers normally use the same district teacher pay framework rather than separate grade-level district schedules. West Virginia requires a statewide minimum salary schedule by credentials and experience, with county supplements; there is no statewide statutory collective-bargaining framework for teachers.

Separate high school districts: noStatewide salary schedule: yesSource

For prospective educators

You'd be a good fit if you want countywide K–12 districts, a statewide salary schedule, and a low cost of living.

A general summary, not advice. Pay and conditions vary by district.