The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) conducted a Special Circumstance Review of Philippi Middle School at the specific direction of the State Superintendent beginning on November 9, 2023, to examine compliance with the laws and policies affecting students' safety and well-being, discipline and administrative protocols, and academic achievement. Additionally, school improvement practices and the provision of special education services for students with disabilities were examined during this review. The review was conducted as the result of student safety concerns and a lack of adequate progress in the school improvement process. Based on the WV Standards for Effective Schools, the review team conducted 44 classroom observations and teacher, student, and principal interviews. The WV Standards for Effective Schools describe seven common standards expected of schools to ensure high-quality education in engaging learning environments.