Pocahontas County Schools is proud to congratulate Jarrell C. and Bailey G., students at Marlinton Middle School, on being named 2026 Golden Horseshoe winners by the West Virginia Department of Education.
Since 1931, the Golden Horseshoe Award has recognized eighth‑grade students across West Virginia who demonstrate exceptional knowledge of West Virginia history on the state‑administered Golden Horseshoe examination. This prestigious honor designates recipients as Knights of the Golden Horseshoe, placing them among a distinguished group of West Virginians who exemplify academic excellence and a deep respect for the state’s heritage.
This year, 225 students statewide earned Golden Horseshoe recognition, and Pocahontas County is honored to be represented by these two outstanding students from Marlinton Middle School.
Pocahontas County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Leatha Williams, praised the students’ achievements, stating:
“Congratulations to our Pocahontas County/Marlinton Middle School Golden Horseshoe winners! This is a very prestigious honor for our students. It illustrates your hard work and expertise in the history of our state. I am so very proud of you and this amazing accomplishment. Keep working hard and doing great things!”
Marlinton Middle School Principal, Nebraska Scotchie, shared her pride in the students’ success:
“As principal, I couldn’t be prouder of our MMS students for earning the honor of becoming Knights of the Golden Horseshoe. This accomplishment shows not just their strong academic skills, but also their true appreciation for West Virginia’s history. Seeing students reach this level through hard work and dedication is one of the most rewarding parts of being an educator, and these students have truly earned this recognition.”
Their social studies teacher, Sherman Taylor, echoed those sentiments and celebrated the students’ achievements on behalf of the entire school community:
“I, and all the teachers at Marlinton Middle School, would like to congratulate Miss Bailey Goodwin and Mr. Jarrell Clifton for the outstanding achievement of becoming Pocahontas County’s newest ‘Knights of the Golden Horseshoe.’ Your Copperhead family is excited and proud of you. We look forward to seeing what other exciting accomplishments lie ahead. Congratulations!”
Jarrell and Bailey will be formally recognized during the 2026 Golden Horseshoe Ceremony, scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the West Virginia Culture Center in Charleston, West Virginia. The ceremony honors students across the state who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and dedication to learning West Virginia history.
Pocahontas County Schools extends sincere congratulations to Jarrell, Bailey, their families and teachers for supporting and encouraging academic excellence. We are proud to celebrate their success and look forward to recognizing them at a future Pocahontas County Board of Education meeting.
Congratulations to our 2026 Golden Horseshoe winners—your hard work and dedication make our county proud!