Joseph Mamone

The Board meeting included discussions on revenue increases through potential levy options and bond refunding, as well as strategies for future expenditure reductions. Reports were provided on school enrollment numbers and the status of remaining snow days. The Board approved the employment of certified personnel and authorized the use of the stadium for a minor league football team's games. Additionally, the Board established committees for the year, approved various federal programs, and addressed school business matters, including school calendar planning, athletic association membership, and facility usage for sports programs. Executive sessions were held to discuss employment matters, and the schedule for upcoming regular meetings was modified.

The meeting included a review of the new mission statement from the ECOESC Workforce Development and presentations from various organizations including the Appalachian Ohio Manufacturing Council, Sheet Metal Workers Local 33, Youngstown State University, Chick-Fil-A, Plumbers & Steamfitters Local #83, and Ohio Hills Health Center regarding their training, apprenticeship, and educational programs. Additionally, updates were provided on the Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program, youth job leads, and facility developments at the ECO Center.

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.