Raleigh County School District

The meeting featured the recognition of a student, Ronan Thomas, for achieving a perfect 10 on the writing portion of the general assessment. A coach, John H. Lily, was also acknowledged for surpassing a significant career win milestone (190 wins in Raleigh County). Board members provided updates, including a visit to Clear Fork where the State Superintendent was present, and discussions surrounding the new gym at Park, which is nearing completion. A significant concern raised was the proposed 2% reduction in educational funding from the governor's budget, which some members believe effectively translates to a 4% reduction in the current year. Updates were provided on compliance efforts for digital accessibility, with a deadline of April 24th. The maintenance department was commended for fabricating and repairing a crucial goal post mechanism at Fairdale. The board reviewed the fourth-month attendance data, noting an attendance rate of 94.092% and an enrollment of 9,474. The financial officer outlined the budget season timeline, including the legislative session, budget request due dates, and tax levy approval processes. Policy changes related to digital accessibility updates for the Purchasing Card and other policies were presented for 30-day comment. Finally, the board approved personnel recommendations for the 2025-2026 school year, including changes regarding Laura Morgan (rescinded acceptance) and Courtney Martin assuming the Director of School Health role effective February 5th. Approval was also given for incentive bonuses for early retirement notifications for both certified and service personnel.

The meeting conducted the second public hearing regarding recommendations for the 2026-2027 calendar year. Several stakeholders, including students and an FFA adviser, spoke to advocate for a calendar that does not conflict with the West Virginia State Fair dates, citing negative impacts on student participation in agricultural events, instruction time, and employee morale. A presenter reviewed Calendar One, which proposed an August 12th staff start date and an August 19th student start date, detailing planned Parent Teacher Conferences for the first nine weeks and a week-long Thanksgiving break.

The special meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. New business included the consideration and approval of an exception to the request for four-year tenants attendance. The board also considered and approved superintendent recommendations for personnel for the 25-26 school year, which included a noted correction regarding Shady Spring Middle School. Finally, the board approved various individuals for contractual services related to WVBE policy 2419 and IDEA, detailing the need for contract testing, psychological testing, report writing, and compliance checks due to an increasing number of students requiring these services, which currently represents approximately 25% of the student population.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda, including an amendment to remove item number four. Discussions during the public comment session heavily focused on the proposed consolidation of the autism and moderate special education classes at Liberty High School, with speakers arguing that this merger would dilute individualized instruction and violate the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Further public comments addressed morale and perceived lack of leadership and support at Stratton Elementary following the principal's removal, suggesting systemic issues, retaliation concerns, and the need to address top-heavy administration before budget cuts. Board members provided reports on attending school board training sessions covering ethics, fiscal responsibility, and special education trends across the state. One board member also reported on efforts to organize the library at Stratton Elementary and acknowledged positive activities occurring at Stratton, such as a Christmas giveaway.

The meeting began with the approval of the agenda, including recommendations for personnel actions. Communications included general remarks on safety and positive observations regarding school bulletin boards. Board members discussed ongoing concerns regarding winter weather impact, including breaking ice. Updates were provided on the Woodro project, which experienced delays in the bidding process due to state-level approvals, and notification regarding the Major Improvement Projects (MIP) submission deadline. Discussions also covered the operational status of a park project, including contractor cleanup obligations and compliance with environmental violations. A significant portion of the meeting addressed procedures related to student attendance, including tracking of homebound, alternative, and hope scholarship students, and the implications of the Third Grade Success Act regarding student retention based on GSA performance. The board noted that guidance is pending from the state department regarding policy development for student retention under the new act and discussed the logistics and funding questions surrounding mandated summer programs for struggling third-grade students.