Lisa Brown

The Board of Education meeting focused on the adoption of levy rates for the 2026-2027 school year, including budget projections for net taxes and allowances for uncollectible accounts. Additionally, the Board approved a partnership agreement between New River Community and Technical College and Braxton County Schools to provide dual credit pathways in various fields, including the establishment of an LPN program for high school students. The meeting also featured numerous student recognitions for their achievements in literature, social studies, and spelling competitions across various elementary schools.

This strategic plan for Braxton County Schools outlines goals to enhance student achievement, improve student behavior, increase attendance, and promote career and technical education. Key initiatives include achieving 5% or more growth in ELA and math, reducing behavioral referrals by 5% or more, decreasing chronic absenteeism by 3% or more, and increasing secondary CTE participation by 5% or more. The plan details strategies such as diagnostic assessments, targeted interventions, curriculum mapping, professional development for staff, school safety measures, parental engagement committees, support systems for homeless students, and virtual learning options.

The meeting included updates from the Superintendent, such as a video presentation of the new sports complex design and audit information for the school year 2024-2025, which had no audit findings. The board approved several items, including a change to the PL/FS Day, an out-of-county attendance request for students, the purchase of the eWalk program for administration, a contract with Star Weld, and MOUs with the Human Resource Development Foundation Youth Behavioral Health Threat Assessment Team and SESC for a support assistant. Additionally, they repealed Policy 2320, reviewed and proposed revisions to several other policies, and adopted revised policies related to school board effectiveness, acceptable use of technology, and internet safety.

The strategic plan for Braxton County Middle School focuses on several key areas to improve student outcomes. It aims to decrease chronic absenteeism, reduce behavioral referrals, enhance student achievement in ELA and math, and promote Career and Technical Education (CTE). The plan includes specific measures such as monitoring attendance, providing student engagement activities, implementing student recognition programs, using data analysis for instructional planning, and integrating STREAM education to foster early interest in CTE-related fields.

The strategic plan for Flatwoods Elementary focuses on continuous improvement, emphasizing a partnership between students, teachers, staff, families, and the community in a safe environment. It aims to nurture student potential, promote annual growth, and align with WV College and Career Readiness Standards. The plan addresses declining enrollment, supports economically disadvantaged and homeless students, and provides tiered interventions through Communities In Schools (CIS). It also includes strategies for improving ELA and math proficiency, enhancing family engagement, and expanding communication strategies.