Holly Skulich

The meeting included a welcome and introductions, an overview of the Business Advisory Council, and table discussions regarding celebrations and barriers from both educational and business/industry perspectives. Data from each school district was presented, showing trends of student participation in various programs. The meeting concluded with a wrap-up.

The Martins Ferry City School District's Learning Recovery and Extended Learning Plan addresses the academic, social, and emotional impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on students. The plan focuses on offering extended learning opportunities, such as a summer camp, to engage students in all areas of the curriculum. It aims to increase English Language Arts and Math scores on Ohio State Testing by 6% by 2022, improve core curriculum performance, and reduce chronic absenteeism. The plan utilizes ESSER funds and involves continuous monitoring of student achievement by teachers.

The meeting covered various workforce development programs offered in Belmont County, including pre-apprenticeships, career tech, credentialing options through Belmont College, College Credit Plus, and CCMEP. A panel discussion with representatives from Bridgeport, Barnesville, and Shadyside high schools highlighted the value of these programs for students and the community, sharing student success stories and emphasizing the importance of business involvement. Work-based learning opportunities, such as pre-apprenticeships and internships, were also discussed, along with their benefits for both students and businesses. Finally, table discussions focused on successes, challenges, and solutions related to expanding partnerships between education and industry.