Sondra L. McKenery

The strategic plan for the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind focuses on empowering students who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Blind, Low Vision, or Deafblind to reach their full potential. Key areas of focus include increasing ELA and Mathematics performance, expanding career readiness programs, improving relationships between school, family, and residential staff, and enhancing support and communication with families, educators, and professional partners through the WVSDB Outreach.

The meeting included a review and approval of proposed by-laws. Reports were given on school enrollment, residential updates focusing on personal independence and goals for improving residential experience, and outreach services providing training opportunities. Facility updates included LED light installation savings, renovations in Keller Hall and MPR, the upcoming opening of the Blue & Gold Building, and planned improvements to the PE Building and track. Public comments addressed CTE classes and the possibility of converting the pool into an auxiliary gym or partnering with the town for a pool.

The LSIC meeting included updates on facilities, such as the Blue and Gold building, the PE building, the front entrance, and the track. The meeting also covered residential programs, focusing on student independence and family engagement, as well as facility improvements at Keller Hall. Outreach updates included staff additions and various programs. The WVSDB Foundation's funds and potential use for transportation issues were discussed. Score Card data, including attendance and chronic absenteeism, was reviewed, and Spring 2023 assessment data was shared. The meeting also mentioned the WVSDB Girls Goalball team's second-place win at a national tournament.

The meeting included reports on attendance, literacy, and math scores from WVSDB, which showed below-standard scores but individual progress. The Foundation received a donation from the Eastern Panhandle Moose Association, and a PTO has been started to support students. Updates were provided on the Blue and Gold Building and PE Building statuses. There was discussion on residential transition goals, collaborative Fridays, deaf socials, and ASL assessment. Summer operations and activities were discussed, including summer programming. A new Bear Wear for Success Program was outlined, and Outreach will be re-organized. The School Safety Committee will meet regarding emergency alerts for staff.