Chad A. Norman

The Marion County Board of Education met in a special session to discuss levy rates, with a presentation by Mr. Reider. The meeting was recessed and will resume on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.

The agenda included recognitions for Governor's Summer Schools, Math Field Day State Winners, and Golden Horseshoe Winners. Public relation reports were presented by various representatives. New business included recommendations for the renewal subscription with TeachTown, and several field trips. The board also discussed financial matters, personnel issues including resignations, professional leave, reassignments and employment of extra-curricular contracts. The meeting also covered a legal update, future meetings and the superintendent's report.

The meeting included a proclamation in memoriam of Dr. James B. Phares, recognition of State Social Studies Fair First Place Winners, and updates on EFMS Scoreboard and lights, safety and security, and public relations. Approvals were recommended for minutes, a contract for sign language support services, professional development for teachers on Thinking Maps, and MOUs for emergency use of facilities. Field trip requests were reviewed, along with use of facilities requests. Financial items such as vendor lists, budget supplements, transfers, and the monthly treasurer's report were presented. Personnel matters included resignations, leaves of absence, employment, transfers, and renewals of contracts. The appointment of a treasurer and employment of substitute teachers were also addressed. Suspensions and terminations were discussed, and a student expulsion was recommended. The Superintendent's report covered student achievement, technology, transportation, facilities, and maintenance. Future meeting dates were also announced.

West Virginia's Graduation 20/20 plan aims to increase the graduation rate of students with disabilities. The initiative uses a data-driven intervention framework to identify areas needing improvement and implement evidence-based strategies. The plan involves building school capacity, analyzing data to identify risk factors, selecting appropriate interventions, and developing site-specific improvement plans. The ultimate goal is to improve the graduation rate annually, aiming for 95% of all students by 2030, aligning with the state's goal of ensuring all students graduate prepared for college and careers. Key components include utilizing state and school leadership teams, analyzing data, identifying target areas for intervention, developing school strategic plan goals, and implementing, monitoring, and evaluating progress. Evidence-based practices such as Check and Connect, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, and CEEDAR Transition Practices and Predictors are utilized. The plan also emphasizes student-focused planning, student development, family involvement, program structure, and interagency collaboration.

The 2024-25 Marion County Schools Superintendent Goals outline five key areas of focus. Goal 1 emphasizes improving student achievement through a system-wide plan integrating practical skills, student leadership, career exploration, and hands-on learning experiences, fostering community and business partnerships, and enhancing career technical education programming. Goal 2 prioritizes community engagement by establishing student, faculty, and family advisory councils. Goal 3 focuses on increasing positive engagement opportunities with students, families, and the community through various channels. Goal 4 addresses district operations and planning, including monitoring student enrollment and making recommendations for personnel adjustments. Goal 5 aims to enhance student learning environments, safety, and security through measures such as regular walkthroughs, safety reports, drills, trainings, and funding requests for facility improvements.