Penelope Jessup Lowery

The board conducted a statutory meeting which included the oath of office for newly elected members, the election of the board president and vice president, and the assignment of board members to various committees. Additionally, the board approved several curriculum-related items, including math coaching services through Curriculum Associates for Bradley, Cole City, and Stratton Elementary Schools, the renewal of high school and middle school mathematics curricula from McGraw Hill, and the purchase of health and wellness curriculum materials from Goodheart-Willcox for middle and high schools.

The board meeting included the recognition of a student athlete for receiving the West Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year award. Significant time was dedicated to public comments regarding the potential closure of Maples Scott Elementary School, with community members emphasizing the importance of school programs, community support, and the potential negative impacts of relocation and overcrowding. Board members shared reports on school board training and facility improvements, specifically mentioning construction progress at Liberty High School.

The meeting featured recognitions for academic and extracurricular achievements, including Foundation Scholars, band members, choir members, and state champion athletes. Various staff members were honored for their contributions to school nutrition and for being named 'Difference Makers' within the district. Additionally, the Board heard public commentary regarding the proposed closure of Mabscott Elementary, with speakers highlighting the school's vital role in providing essential support services, safety, and academic resources to students.

The Board held a public hearing regarding the FY27 budget. Key discussions included a detailed breakdown of projected revenues and expenditures, the impact of enrollment declines and charter school allocations on state aid, and construction project updates, specifically renovations at Park Middle School, Woodrow Wilson High School, and HVAC system replacements at the ACT center. Concerns were raised regarding rising operational costs, including insurance premiums, utility expenses, and the complexities surrounding central office salary calculations.

The board meeting included recognitions for regional and state-level social studies fair winners across elementary, middle, and high school divisions. A student was recognized as a national semi-finalist for the US Presidential Scholars Program. Additionally, the Difference Maker Award was presented to a bus operator for his commitment to student safety. Public comments addressed concerns regarding the placement of a special education student and requested updates to policies regarding student participation in sports.