Community members in Wise County voiced their concerns at a recent school board meeting, marking the first public comment opportunity since the disappearance of former Union High School football coach Travis Turner. Turner has faced serious allegations, including five counts of possessing child pornography and five counts of soliciting a minor, with his last sighting reported on November 20, 2025.
Community Outrage and Demands for Accountability
During the meeting, attendees expressed frustration over the school board’s handling of past incidents involving school personnel accused of child sex-related offenses. Over the past five years, four employees from Wise County Schools have been charged with similar crimes. One concerned speaker emphasized, “When there’s this much abuse, it’s not just a few bad apples; it’s a culture.”
Testimonies from Victims
Stephen Murray, a vocal attendee, presented a chilling statement from an alleged victim. The victim shared her experiences, highlighting the emotional turmoil she faced. “The most lasting damage was not just what was done to me, but what I was made to feel afterward,” she stated, reflecting on her sense of shame and isolation.
The victim’s family publicly supported her bravery in coming forward. “I’m extremely proud of my granddaughter. What she did probably saved some other children,” said a family member. This encouragement resonated strongly with the audience.
Calls for Leadership Change
During the meeting, Murray called for the resignation of Superintendent Mike Goforth. He criticized Goforth’s leadership, suggesting that the ongoing issues indicate a failure to protect students. “If you’re leading and all of this is happening, it kind of sounds like you’re not good at stopping it,” Murray said, urging for a change in leadership.
Board’s Response to Public Concerns
The Wise County School Board entered a closed session to discuss employment matters following the public commentary. Board Chair Larry Greear stated the importance of community input. He noted, “If you think you are keeping it from the community by being silent, we find out at the laundry, we find out at the restaurant.”
In response to these developments, Union High School informed parents about a new initiative—a Virginia Department of Education survey aimed at evaluating students’ feelings regarding school culture and safety.
The community’s outcry emphasizes the need for accountability and reform to ensure the wellbeing of the students in Wise County.
