CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – West Virginia Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt has announced the appointment of new superintendents in four counties currently under the control of the West Virginia Board of Education (WVBE).
These leaders will work with the WVBE and the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) to address local challenges while maintaining a strong focus on student achievement.
Dr. George Aulenbacher has been named superintendent of Logan County Schools. He currently serves as assistant superintendent for Kanawha County Schools.
Dr. Aulenbacher holds a bachelor’s degree from West Virginia State University, two master’s degrees from Marshall University, and a doctorate from Morehead State University.
Logan County has been under state intervention since October 2022, led by Mr. Jeff Huffman.
“Mr. Huffman has performed an excellent job addressing the issues in Logan County Schools and creating a system that focuses on student learning and professional growth of staff. He will transition into a leadership role to support the WVDE in its oversight of counties under WVBE control,” said Superintendent Blatt.
Dr. Joetta S. Basile has been appointed to lead Mingo County Schools. She previously served as superintendent in Monroe County for 13 years.
Dr. Basile earned a bachelor’s degree from Concord University, two master’s degrees from Marshall University, and a doctorate from Liberty University.
Mingo County has been under state intervention since March 2025.
Mr. Scott Cochran will take over as superintendent of Nicholas County Schools. He most recently held the same position in Doddridge County and previously served as superintendent of Webster County Schools for nine years.
Cochran holds a bachelor’s degree from Glenville State University, a master’s degree from West Virginia University, and another master’s from Salem University.
The WVBE initiated intervention in Nicholas County earlier this month.
Mr. Shane Highley will remain as superintendent of Tyler County Schools. Highley has led the district for six years.
He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from West Virginia University, along with additional credentials from Ohio Valley University and Salem University.
Tyler County was also placed under state intervention in May.
“These appointments are important as our counties prepare for the upcoming school year,” said Superintendent Blatt.
“The superintendents will begin to immediately address the issues identified in the counties to ensure student learning and well-being remain the central focus of our school systems. We look forward to working closely with county leadership to address the needs of our students, educators and staff.”
