All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

State addressing critical staffing needs within the Bureau for Social Services in Upshur and other counties

The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) continues to address critical staffing needs within the Bureau for Social Services (BSS), hiring 64 candidates statewide to strengthen child welfare services. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to fill vacancies in key areas, including Doddridge, Lewis, Pleasants, Ritchie and Upshur counties. DoHS is also actively interviewing for 16 additional BSS positions.

To accelerate hiring, DoHS has implemented a multi-faceted recruitment strategy, including job fairs, targeted advertising, virtual interviews and partnerships with local colleges and workforce development programs. These efforts ensure that essential services remain accessible to children and families in need.

“The Office of Human Resource Management’s (OHRM) Talent Acquisition and Retention Team is playing a critical role in addressing vacancies by managing the end-to-end recruitment process,” said Angie Jacobs-Ferris, Chief Human Resources Officer for the Office of Human Resources Management. “By streamlining hiring efforts and prioritizing workforce retention, we are committed to strengthening child welfare services and ensuring that communities receive the support they need.”

The department’s Talent Acquisition and Retention Team has also adopted new strategies, such as reaching out directly to qualified candidates and scheduling interviews for specific areas and positions. This proactive approach is to ensure that each position is filled with the best-fit candidates.

“Every child deserves a safe and stable environment, and that begins with a strong workforce,” said Alex Mayer, Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. “These hiring efforts reflect our dedication to ensuring no community is left behind, and we will continue working to strengthen child welfare services across West Virginia.”

Individuals interested in making a meaningful impact in the lives of West Virginia’s children are encouraged to explore career opportunities within DoHS, visit dhhr.wv.gov/Pages/Career-Opportunities.aspx to learn more and apply today.

Share this story:

RECENT Stories

Softball Lady Bucs survive elimination behind Abel’s three-run home run as they down Preston, 6-3

Alyssa Abel’s three-run homer in the first inning powered the Buckhannon-Upshur Lady Bucs to a 6-3 victory over Preston, keeping their softball season alive in the Region I Section 2 tournament.

Buckhannon Banter: Get the local lowdown for May 8, 2025

Buckhannon’s recent news tidbits include a student art exhibit, a dinosaur-themed family event, library programs for kids, and volunteers paddling the Buckhannon River to assess conditions for the upcoming race.

Bucs place 10th at Big 10 Conference track and field championships

The Buckhannon-Upshur Buccaneers placed 10th out of 13 teams at the Big 10 Conference track and field championships, highlighted by a third-place finish in the 4×800-meter relay.

Track and Field Lady Bucs run 12th at Big 10 Conference Championships

The Buckhannon-Upshur Lady Bucs track team finished 12th out of 13 teams at the Big 10 Conference Championships, scoring in four events, with Gwen Rogoksy leading in the 3200 meters.

Eight honored with 2025 Order of Augusta, Ty Landis of Buckhannon recognized as a WVU outstanding senior

Graduating in the top 1% of the class, Ty Landis of Buckhannon has been named a WVU Outstanding Senior for his academic achievements and leadership as part of the West Virginia University Class of 2025.

Highland Landscaping continues to roll in Bob Cupp Memorial Golf League

Highland Landscaping extended its lead in the Bob Cupp Memorial Golf League to 13½ points after a 22-18 win over Hank Ellis Insurance, while Lisa Cain Edward Jones moved into third place in the standings.

Buckhannon Community Theatre brings whimsical magic to life in ‘Alice in Wonderland’

Buckhannon Community Theatre’s vibrant production of “Alice in Wonderland,” featuring a diverse cast and whimsical costumes, opens this weekend at the Colonial Arts Center, offering family-friendly entertainment.
WVWC Track - Wesleyan Sports

Wesleyan catcher Andie Dizon selected to First-Team All-Region Softball Team

Wesleyan catcher Andie Dizon was named to the 2025 NFCA Division II First-Team All-Region after batting .451 with 38 RBIs in 52 games and is now eligible for All-America honors.

Upshur County man arrested after allegedly talking about shooting elementary school students in online chat

An Upshur County man was arrested after allegedly admitting to posting online threats to shoot elementary school students and kill his parents, leading to a felony charge of making terroristic threats.

Annette Fetty-Santilli is a top fundraiser at Pittsburgh PurpleStride

Annette Fetty-Santilli of Clarksburg was one of the top three fundraisers at Pittsburgh PurpleStride, raising over $16,000 for pancreatic cancer research as captain of Team West Virginia.

Buckhannon Banter: Get the local lowdown for May 7, 2025

Today’s Banter spotlights youth events, the library seed program, upcoming community gatherings, and more, offering residents ways to connect, have fun, and support local initiatives.

Register today: Youth mountain biking event ready to roll on Upshur County Trails May 10

A free youth mountain biking “Try It” event for students in grades 6–12, offering bikes and helmets for those without, will be held May 10 at Upshur County Trails to promote cycling, teamwork and community.