Tonight’s BOE meeting began with Dr. Miller sharing gratitude to all that assisted during last week’s flood. Miller spoke on the eclipse, and the excitement many students had wearing their provided solar eclipse glasses. She recognized a WPHS Robotics Iron Patriots team as they recently won a state championship title. The WVSSAC reached out to express pride in the program. Summer Sessions are launching Wednesday and the site and registration forms will be open that morning. Miller also stated SAT day at WPHS was originally scheduled for today, but has been shifted to April 15th.
In Moments for Mission, Mr. Chacalos recognized Mr. Crumm and the hard work of his staff in preparation for the flood. Mr. Croft expressed appreciation not only for the OCS family, but for the entire community, during flooding. He also wished Jessica Broski-Birch luck on her next endeavor. Mr. Schramm congratulated the robotics program and thanked Dr. Miller for keeping schools opened today. Mr. Schramm recognized all that rallied in support of those in need during flooding. Schramm also recognized Miller for her work in communicating with the governor to ensure the previous days were counted as a state of emergency as opposed to calamity days. Mr. Garber echoed thanks for those who worked diligently before, during, and after the flood. He recognized the robotics state champions and expressed sadness at losing Jessica Broski-Birch.
There were no delegations at this BOE meeting.
Mr. Leffe announced his retirement. He has been employed with Ohio County Schools for 18.5 years. Other personnel changes were approved as anticipated.
Mr. Villani, WLE and BES principal, spoke on the Bethlehem Elementary School Playground. He spoke on how much BES has already raised (over 100k) and the community buy-in that is assisting in making this project a reality. He spoke on a variety of fundraisers they’ve completed. For the last two years, all fundraisers have gone to the playground project. The Ohio County Commission agreed to match the remaining funds if BOE would also commit to the cost. Villani asked for a motion to approve this. The Commission and Village of Bethlehem spoke at the meeting explaining how certain funding works and spoke on the benefits of a community playground. The BOE approved the funding match. We are excited to see this project come to fruition!
M3T representatives Jack Kaniecki and Anne Vopal (both math teachers in Ohio County Schools) updated the BOE on the program. M3T is a statewide math cohort. The network is currently comprised of representatives in over 44 counties. It has a positive impact on teacher retention in the field. Vopal commented that more than half of WV’s state teachers aren’t certified, and that keeping certified math teachers is vital. 96% of people participating in M3T value the professional development and feel the program is worthwhile. Kaniecki’s role is leading a local improvement team. They conduct student surveys, brainstorm ways to address gaps in classroom experiences, narrow the change ideas down, and implement the changes while tracking the data. This year specifically, his team focused on word problems and how to provide additional engagement. Vopal also leads a Local Improvement Team. Their focus specifically is identifying strategies on math vocabulary. She touched on using questions from the test authoring system to practice reading strategies. In addition to problem solving, the program completes peer observations, content deep dives, works with WVDE for leadership opportunities, and complete secondary math teacher book studies. Vopal and Kaniecki both expressed how wonderful the teamwork is in M3T and echoed M3T’s tagline that “All of us is greater than any of us.”
Dr. Miller discussed academic updates and thanked Kaniecki and Vopal for their presentation. She explained with state testing approaching, that there is no statewide fixed form. JoJo Shay and other central office employees worked to create OCS fixed form tests to better track data and prepare for the state test. Grades 3-8 have already tested on writing, but will test in the upcoming month on reading and math. Miller will continue focusing on areas of deficit and embrace any and all growth.
Croft reviewed a few paid bills with Mr. Bienek. They discussed funding for WV Virtual and Mountaineer Challenge Academy.
Schramm discussed a few questions regarding transportation regulations with Mr. Crumm.
Consent agenda items were approved.
The next regular meeting will take place April 22nd at 6:00 P.M.