West Virginia Explorer is committed to publishing accurate, fair, and trustworthy journalism. While we strive to verify information before publication, mistakes can occur. When they do, we correct them promptly and transparently.
Our Commitment
Accuracy is fundamental to our mission. If we learn that published information is incorrect, incomplete, or misleading, we will review the matter and make appropriate changes as quickly as possible.
We do not remove or substantially alter published content simply because an individual or organization disagrees with our reporting. Corrections are made to improve factual accuracy, not to change the historical record.
Types of Updates
Corrections
A correction is issued when a story contains a factual error, such as an incorrect name, date, location, quotation, statistic, or other material fact. When appropriate, we will add a correction note to the article explaining what was changed.
Clarifications
Sometimes a story is factually accurate but could be misunderstood or lacks sufficient context. In those cases, we may revise the wording or add information to improve clarity without changing the substance of the reporting.
Minor Edits
Routine updates that do not affect the meaning of an article—such as spelling, grammar, punctuation, formatting, or typographical corrections—may be made without a formal editor’s note.
Reader Feedback
We welcome readers who believe we have made an error or omitted important information.
When contacting us, please include:
- A link to the article
- The specific information you believe is incorrect
- Supporting documentation or reliable sources, if available
Every request is reviewed by our editorial staff.
Requests to Remove Content
West Virginia Explorer generally does not remove published articles that were accurate at the time of publication.
We may consider updates or corrections when new, verifiable information becomes available. Requests to remove content are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, taking into account accuracy, fairness, legal obligations, and the public interest.
Our Standards
Corrections are made in accordance with the principles of accuracy, fairness, accountability, and transparency that guide our newsroom. Our editorial practices are informed by the standards and style guidance of The Associated Press while remaining independent in our editorial judgment.
Here you’ll find more corrections and clarifications policies used in the Associated Press.
Our goal is not to avoid mistakes. It is to correct them openly, learn from them, and maintain the trust of our readers.
Continuous Improvement
Journalism is an ongoing process of gathering, verifying, and refining information. As new facts emerge or additional context becomes available, we may update published stories to reflect the most complete and accurate understanding of an event or subject. Whenever a significant factual change is made after publication, we will strive to be transparent about the nature of the update.
We also review patterns in reader feedback and corrections to improve our reporting practices over time. Every correction represents an opportunity to strengthen our editorial process and better serve our audience. By remaining accountable to our readers and committed to continual improvement, West Virginia Explorer seeks to earn—and maintain—the public’s trust with every story we publish.