Board of Education Meeting 4/21/26

001I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. I have a motion to approve the agenda as presented. So move second. >> All in favor? >> I motion carries. Uh Mr. Bucks uh is going to uh give a little presentation on the levy rate for 20. >> Yes, this is the reconvene meeting from March. It is to approve the levy order rate sheet for West Virginia Purple County schools for fiscal year 27. In this in the county Burke County, we have $9.9 billion in assessed property values. That equates to the regular levy being $45,389,789. The excess levy, it gives us a a levy rate of 56,792,621. And then on the bond levy, it

002gives $1,6,600 for fiscal year 27. Uh if you recall from the presentation from our last board work session uh 85% of the regular levy goes back to the state. So the net between our regular levy and excess levy is an increase of about $5 million for fiscal year 27. >> Questions for Mr. But >> I have some my questions completed. >> That's right. >> Question for Mr. B. I asked my questions before to see. Um, that being said, the superintendent uh recommends that we approve the levy rates for the fiscal year 27. Have a motion to that effect. >> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I oppose. Motion carries. Thank you, Mr. BS. >> Thank you. We're gonna go ahead and start >> now. President, sorry, President Long, we just need a

003motion to adjourn that meeting before we head into the next one. >> Yes, we do. Can I have a motion to adjourn the conven? >> All in favor? >> I oppose. Motion carries. Thank you, Miss Daniels. I'd like to call the regular board of education meeting to order and uh I will lead you in the pledge. Please stand. >> Do it again. >> You're doing pledging. I pledge alce to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands one nation indivisible liberty and justice for all. >> It's on it's not on the agenda. I'll put it on. I have a motion to approve this regular board meeting agenda. >> So move >> second. >> All in favor? opposed. Motion carries. Next on in our rec um recognitions and person

004on the agenda is um Dr. Smith from View Intermedia. Okay. >> Is he here? >> Not here. Okay. Come back to him. I'll come back to pieces. >> Okay, we will come back later if he arrives later. Um, next on the agenda, the DSA change shape for principal at elementary. You see here maybe because the meeting starts at six and >> that's probably why but we usually go in from reconvene right right to so >> how about less coin to Mr. here or I >> primary. >> Yes. >> Distinguished service. >> Now, >> good evening everyone. It is my great pleasure to stand before you tonight to recognize our volunteer of the month for April 2026, Dana Patrick. >> D. Dana serves as a dedicated readaloud volunteer at Inwood Primary and has made an incredible

005impact on our students. As we all know, reading aloud to children is one of the most impactful ways to nurture early language and reading skills. The simple act of sharing a story does so much more than entertain. It sparks imagination, expands vocabulary, and builds a foundation for lifelong learning and a love of reading. It's been said that the greatest gift you can give a child is your time, and Dana embodies this truth. She consistently gives her time week after week, bringing stories to life and making reading an exciting, cherished experience for our young learners. Dana, your commitment and enthusiasm have touched so many lives, and we are grateful for the positive difference you make at Inwood Primary. On behalf of Berkeley County Schools, it is my pleasure to introduce you as our volunteer of the

006month. Congratulations and thank you for all you do. >> Thank you. >> Dana, I had a pleasure to talk to Mr. a lot beforehand just talking about the real program and what you do for the students and what so thank you for what you do. Uh we really do appreciate um on behalf of myself and the board. Thank you. >> Um if you don't mind I know Mr. Casey is here. Yes. >> I don't we can if you'd like to say well first what's your favorite book? >> Oh you have to read tons. >> All of them. >> Yeah. Mr. Case want to talk a little bit about folks just a couple words uh in support of Dana and the work and she all and her volunteers do. My name is Casey Wilson. I'm on

007the board of Read Lab Berkeley County and until uh this fall I was on the board of the state board of readab book. >> Can it text? No. Can I blog? >> No. Scroll. >> Tweet. Wifi. >> Can I make noises? >> Yeah. I don't read it. Well, but folks, this is a book and that's part of the challenge because what we do and what we think is so important for our kids is basic literacy even even in this digital age. It's the foundation for being competent on a computer. And your mind works differently. Tons of research on this, guys. Your mind works differently when you're focused on a printed page as opposed to a disruptive digital device. And here are the problems we're up against. Do you know that 8 to 12 year olds

008spend four to six hours a day on a screen? Teenagers spend up to nine hours a day on a screen. Third, oh, excuse me. 14% of 13y olds say they pick up a book outside of school. 14% of our kids, down from about 55% less than 20 years ago. So what happens is if they're not reading at grade level by fourth grade, they're 13 times more likely to drop out of high school. If they're not reading by grade level eight, they're like 15 times, excuse me, in fourth grade, they're eight times more likely to drop out. If they're not reading by eighth grade at grade level, they're 14 time 14% more likely to drop out of high school. What happens to a high school dropout these days? Any guesses about employment, safety net skills, >>

009drug abuse, incarceration, single single parents, that sort of thing. So, our goal is real simple. Dana and her colleagues and myself, we read at the same schools, by the way, uh is to motivate kids to pick up a book and read for fun outside of a classroom. Five minutes a day, K through six, they'll be in the top 50% of kids. Five minutes a day. 20 minutes a day, K through six, outside of class, they'll be in the top 10% of our students profiles. So, that's what being loud. all about. That's what Dana is trying to do. We have right this year coming back from CO we have about 108 volunteers and 145 classrooms just in Berkeley County. Statewide we have a thousand and the whole job is to get these guys right here sitting

010up front second row. These guys right here to pick up a book read for fun outside of school. What you can do is you can model good reading at home. The teachers like Mr. and his staff teach reading. Dana and I and our 108 colleagues in Berkeley County try to motivate reading. But families raise readers. The kids need to see you reading that five minutes a day, 10 minutes, 20 minutes. It'll change their lives. They'll still be able to use a computer. Literacy is the foundation. So that's what I have to say about Read Aloud. It's been a blast. We've been in uh Berkeley County since about mid 1990s I think working with the school system and we're in 23 schools are enrolled. All the prek through five. Our goal is to get them to

011the fourth grade and the year after that and they're on their way. So thanks for everything you guys do. Thanks for the school board. Thanks for dro the principles all the teachers and all the volunteers. Thank you. >> Speechless. >> Reading is a is a personal passion of mine. Um kids, you know, advocating for kids, that's equally a passion. Just put them together and it's just incredibly rewarding. >> Mr. Uh Ryan, you are very lucky. So is in my pardon. So >> thank you so much. >> Congratulations again. Here's a flag. >> Hold on. You want a picture? >> Hold on. You got to get there real quick. >> Oh yeah, I can do it. >> You want us back there? >> Well, you're going to do a picture after picture after this. >> Okay.

012>> Really? Don't need us. So >> we do need you. >> I need one of the kids to show me how to use this. Oh. Oh, super. >> Okay, everyone. Mr. Casey. >> Two. Three. One, two, three. >> Thanks, folks. >> Thank you so much. >> Thank you. Wilson is also a featured volunteer of the month. >> I remember that, right? That was a couple years ago. >> No, this was this was today. This is volunteer week. >> Oh, that's right. Volunteer week. >> It is. So, you're on the web page. Have a good >> Thank you. >> Could someone usher in Dr. Smith from Fortune? >> Miss Susan is not here, so that's why we're up. >> Okay. Um, what about Mr. Sher. >> Good evening, Mr. Schaefer. Bennington Elementary present the AOS Distinguished

013Service Award. >> I'll wait for our time to have seated. >> Yes, please. All right. So, we're gonna recognize Marita Malik. Um, Mara has been working with students with autism for at least 10 years plus. And I've been a part of almost every single year with with Miss Small. Um, I always say she's a a part of the best autism team in the county and a lot of her team is here tonight to support her. Um, and they've been together for almost 10 years as well. most of the members of that team, which is rare. Um, but first and foremost, Miss Malik is caring and loving to her students. Um, she has a huge heart and she uses the love, this love for them and it brings out the best in them all. She's able

014to connect to her students in a way that most people cannot and most of us do not. Um, Marita also sets expectations very high and she holds her students accountable. She's persistent and she doesn't give up, but yet at the same time she knows when to let things go because sometimes you need to let things go and there's times you don't. And she has that knack of knowing when and when not to do that. Her students make so much progress because she has that special talent of finding it for each student. Whatever it is that works for a student, Miss Malik finds that peace and she helps the student be successful every day. Miss Malik advocates for her students, which is I think a huge um it's a it's a huge important part of who

015she is. And if she feels their needs are not being met, she will advocate for that. She'll let us know or she'll let me know. and and the same as if they're not being treated fairly. She she's just she'll go above and beyond for her students, not just in her words, but in her actions. Um that's the most important part. She keeps data. She helps keep the classroom organized and she's creative with the management of that classroom with her team. It takes all them together, but they together the way they run that classroom, it really is special. So, I want to end with saying the autism program betting Betty Tank excels because she's a crucial piece to that puzzle and she's our distinguished service award winner for for the month of April. No, no speech.

016>> Miranda, in in true fashion, I know you don't necessarily want to be pointed out. However, however, you are a gem. Thank you. >> To not just us, but for the students. Thank you. And I think that sometimes those hidden gems, we do need to call them out. And I just want to thank all of you guys for showing up and supporting her because we are seeing just a little glimpse of what you do every day. I don't know that we could probably articulate all that you do in a very short amount of time. So, thank you from all of us on the board. Thank you for all that you do for your kids. Thank you for being a big huge voice for them and for not backing down. Um, thank you so much. >>

017What students do you work with? What age and what um group of students? >> I think Kenny said, >> and she's chosen to stay with autism for, like I said, 10 plus years. She's chosen to do that. She's she's got a special special gift for you. >> Bless your heart. >> Thank you. It takes very special. >> Yeah. >> Thank you. >> Um Dr. Smith. Okay. She said he will be last. >> Okay, that's fine. >> Miranda Lynch, Martinsburg High School, a caring educator. President Long, members of the board, Dr. Sax, distinguished guests. Tonight, it's my honor to present the ACE award a car and educator to someone who truly embodies what it means to go above and beyond for students, colleagues, and our entire school community. Miss Georgia Hacker. Miss Hacker is a true

018gem. The very first time I met her, she was living in Jamaica and I met her on a Zoom call and then she moved here and we knew that she was someone special. Since then, I've had the privilege of watching her journey, including her persevering through the naturalization process to become a United States citizen. Through every step, she has shown grace, determination, and strength. She is nothing short of amazing. What makes Miss Hacker so deserving of this award is not only her accomplishments, it is the way she cares for others in every given day. As a math teacher, she teaches far more than numbers and equations. She teaches patience, resilience, and perspective. She is often the voice of reason for our senior students who are still trying to figure out life. She meets them where

019they are. She guides them with wisdom and she helps them grow into the people they are becoming. And it's not just students that benefit from Miss Hacker. Personally, she has been someone that I know I can count on for words of encouragement, whether through advice or just simply this smile that you'll see in just a minute that really and truly lights up any room. Miss Hacker, tonight we celebrate you, your heart, your dedication, and the countless lives that you have impacted. Thank you for all that you do. Congratulations on receiving the ACE award. Uh, Miss Hacker, um, when I asked Miss, uh, Ralph what some things that I could say about you and and the good things that you do, she said, well, you're so humble and genuine. And as a matter of fact, when

020you were nominated for teacher of the year from your school, you declined it because you didn't feel like you shouldn't be recognized or you didn't want to be recognized. So, um the it's the joke's on you tonight. >> We we appreciate so much what you do. You you don't know how much. So, thank you. >> Do you have any words to say to the board? I just want to say thanks to the good lord for his grace, the strength every day that he gives me, the insight, the wisdom. I count on him as the master teacher. I go to him every day and I do the best I can. I tell my students, I'll just share one thing. I remember one day when I just came to the school, there was a boy who told

021me that if if all of them fail, then I can be fired. And I said, "Really?" So I took out my phone and I said, "You know something? I want to be fired today." And I said, "I'm going to we're not calling the principal. We're not calling the assistant principal. We're calling the board office. They hired me. So we're going to be so we're going to be fired. I so want to be fired." And he said, "I don't mean it." I said, "What do you mean?" So I gave him the phone. I said, "It's and it was ringing and he saw HR on hit." And I said, "I don't mean it." The hacker said, "Do you mean?" I said, "Hang it up." I said, "Let me tell you something in life, you must never burn

022your bridges. Wherever you come from, you should be able to go back there." >> Yes. >> I said, "I'm in demand in my country." >> And I can go back tomorrow morning. But I want to tell you something. I didn't learn American math. I learned Jamaican math. And I think it's the same language here. And you input is output. You put in zero, you get zero out. So you don't work for this grade, you ain't getting it. So tell them, "Fire me because I'm willing to be fired." I love working with my young people. I I really like to motivate and encourage them when they tell me that, "Oh, I'm so stupid. I'm dumb." I said, "Well, you got to get out of this class cuz I I was never taught how to teach dumb

023and stupid people. So they will have to put you in another class cuz I don't know how to teach you." So, but I really I really enjoy teaching them. It's a great experience here and I thank you all for thinking about me. I always like to hide behind the scenes and >> well, you know, math is one of my favorite subjects or something that I excel in. So, I would love to be in your math class here. Can I come? >> I like that. >> I like to to teach the ones who don't like math. >> Oh, okay. So I just like to stay with the little number ones and tell them listen we can do it. We can do it. And it was just fascinating when we got the line board. I'm not the

024greatest of technology. So I was doing something and one of my students said oh ma that's not the way to do it. And I said can you show me and he came up and he said this is how we learn from each other. You are good at this I'm good at that. So we're going to collaborate. It's just a blessing. Thank you all. Appreciate this gift. God bless you all. Mrs. McCoy going through the month >> for March that we had snow that evening. I think you know we were under some kind of weather. >> Exactly. I can't. >> Thank you all. My my award this evening is actually a surprise. Um our guest of honor thinks that I'm here to uh educate you on arraia awareness and there's only one person that can educate

025you on that and that is Julie Robertson. Um Webster's dictionary defines a volunteer as someone who spends unpaid time doing something to benefit others. While that definition is certainly accurate, sometimes a single sentence just does not capture the true spirit of what a volunteer does. >> In Berkeley County Schools, a volunteer is someone who shows up when help is needed. Someone who puts who supports not only their own children, but an entire school community. Someone who gives their time, energy, and heart simply because they care. >> This month's honore is the perfect example of that spirit. Our volunteer of the month is Julie Robertson. Julie has been a dedicated volunteer with Berkeley County Schools since both of her children entered Valley View Elementary School. Over the years, she has consistently stepped forward to help with

026wherever she is needed. Julie is also passionate advocate for aroxia awareness, working tirelessly to bring attention to this important cause. Her dedication even reached the state level when she helped secure a proclamation, which I believe they brought with them this evening, a proclamation from Governor Jim Justice officially declaring May 14th as Araxia Awareness Day in West Virginia. But Julie's commitment does not stop there. It is an evident hap if if an event is happening, chances are Julie is there to help along with her husband who is probably sometimes volunte. and he is always there right by her side. From organizing, decorating, and supporting school activities, she is known for taking things like goodie bags and event decorations to the next level. When something needs to get done, Julie is often one of the first to

027volunteer her time. And while she supports Berkeley County Schools in so many ways, Julie's dedication extends far beyond our school system. She can also be found volunteering with many of the programs her children are involved in, including sports, FFA, and 4. The Robertsons are also close friends with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and they volunteer their time gathering the wishes of children and communicating those wishes to the North Pole. Julie's willingness to give her time, her creativity, and her heart truly embodies the meaning of volunteerism. Her dedication makes a positive difference for students, family, and staff throughout our community. Julie, on behalf of Berkeley County Schools, thank you for the countless hours that you have given and for the impact that you continue to make. It is our honor to recognize you as a Berkeley County

028Schools volunteer. Julie and Josie are going to be um uh speaking at the city council meeting on May 14th uh about Araxia and if I knew Julie should probably throw out gifts for everyone this evening. So, um, so we appreciate everything that you do, Julie, and not only to volunteer at our schools, but to support all of our students to um spread awareness for such an important fall is from the president of the United States. >> He had wrote Josie a letter, too. >> And when Donald Trump and Mrs. Trump wrote Josie a letter. Actually, the week that we were supposed to come to the first war meeting, I opened my mailbox on a Saturday morning and it was addressed to Josie Robertson and it had the White House the other night, State of America

029blurred out and that's what was in the envelope >> for me. >> Somehow it I never wrote to the White House. Somehow it got to my house from the White House. I talked to Miss McCoy today and I said, "Now I don't want to steal any of thunder." So I was writing down these things. Now she just stole my money thing there. But two things she said that I think need repeating. There's one, you go above and beyond and that you're a genuinely good person. Thank you. >> And your family as well. But we appreciate what you're doing. We're sorry it's belated, but it's nice now to see the love you guys. >> Yes, sir. >> We would have missed it. >> Thank you for what you do. >> I had the pleasure. I think

030Mr. Mor they both did when we you were honored. Um it was a practice. >> Yeah. When she was in the third grade when you guys came to um Mil Creek. >> What wonderful. So, we actually go May 14th to the city council meeting and Josie is going to present it there too. Um, then we go out the state. We advocate a lot for her speech and different things and all together my family has ra000 for our practicing and kids foundation. >> It gets kids like devices. Um, we do blue bags for her class. So, it gives like coloring pages for her class, different things like that. Um, also like in the bags overb from approxy kids, they were all like donated from our kids. >> That's cool. >> As I said, she takes things

031to the next. >> And you can see the M&M. >> You can see the M&M's. >> Yeah. Thank you guys. >> Thank you so much. Good evening. My name is Lee Smith, principal at Orchard View Intermediate, and it is my distinct honor to recognize a student at Orchard View, Katie Sink. She's a fifth grade, fifth grader with us. And we have a wonderful student body, but I tell you what, Kathy stands out among many of our students. And she does so because of the many accomplishments. So, I would say if there's anything that rivals how much she wins and how active she is, it's her demeanor. Uh, she just has a very calm confidence about her. Uh, she leads by example. Uh, she doesn't have to say a word. People recognize and and take note

032and as a result, we experience great success at Orchard View. Uh, we really appreciate having her. And if there was any wish I had, it would be to continue to have her a little longer prior to her uh going off more than prepared for middle school. Uh but with us this evening, um I have uh we have Miss Denise Pierce, her fifth grade teacher, and Miss Cassie Barry, our library media specialist. And uh no one more is apt at sharing why Kathy staying student of the month than Miss Pierce, her classroom teacher. Let her speak. Thank you. Um, it's been a pleasure to have Kathy in my fifth grade class this year. Um, Dr. Smith mentioned her demeanor. Every morning when she comes into school, she greets everybody personally and with joy. Every morning she

033comes in and she says, "Good morning, Miss Pierce. Good morning, Miss Tucker. Good morning to any of the other teachers or students she sees in the hall." And she is just filled with joy to be there every day. Um she has impressed me with her ability to um participate in so many extracurricular activities but to do them well. Um this year she represented Orchard View at the county level in both social studies fair and the science fair. Um in our ODI community she is the student council repres representative for our class and she's a weekly library helper with Mrs. Barry in our library. Um she is part of the harmony show choir. She participated in the OBI talent show and she takes violin classes at Portrait View. Um I think it's once a week. Um

034in our classroom, um Kathy and another group of students organized our classroom library. Um she often asks for permission to tutor her peers in math. Um she's often finished with her assignments before um before the end of the period. She is working on a special enrichment project on her own, but sometimes she'll come and ask, "Can I help somebody instead today?" And she will do that. Um, she is a good friend. She does lead by example. She is always patient and kind. Um, well done Kathy. We are all Kathy, on um behalf of the board, I just want to say thank you for all the efforts that you do. I did have a question. What are things you like to do for fun? >> Um like outside, play outside. Yeah. >> I just want to

035make sure this not studying. But no, I'm very impressed with with all the things you do, especially your kindness. I'm sure you get that from your parents and you know, make sure that you're you're kind to everyone and the helpfulness and I think that's will take you so far and especially the reading. Continue to read and read for fun. U so many things you can learn uh through a book, but I really want can't wait to see what you do in the future. I'm very excited to see what you do. >> Shake your head. >> Could you introduce your parents once you we're finishing it? can only do one thing at a time. >> I'm sure she cannot. >> She can probably do six things at times from what I just heard. >> Great job,

036Mommy. >> Thank you all. Thank you. Mr. Smith, Dr. Smith, will you close that door, please? Yes. >> Thank you. Next on the agenda, superintendent announcements. Dr. Saxs. >> Thank you, Madam President and board members. So, good evening. Um, I just want to take a few minutes to speak, you know, directly to our staff, uh, our families, and our community about some of the feedback that we've been receiving regarding instruction as well as classroom expectations. Over the past year, we have made a very intentional uh shift toward the consistency and instruction across our classrooms, making sure that what we've adopted as a district is actually being used and used with fidelity. I believe that shift was necessary, but I also recognize that when you move a system in that direction, it can feel like a

037pendulum swing. I also think that in some areas we may have gone too far at times. I want to take just a moment to ground what I'm talking about here um around why we began making some of these shifts in the first place. When we look at our performance as a school district over time in both reading and math, we have seen that trends since we've seen trends that told us that we need to be more intentional and more consistent in how we approach instruction across the system. So for example, you can see from 2016 to 2017, our ranking in the state of West Virginia has uh increased to from 12th in the state to uh close to 32nd in the state. Obviously, we've seen some improvement over the last year or two, but to

038get back to where we were in 201617, that does require some attent intentional focus. That's also what's led us to ground our work in the alignment and the implementation and the focus. But as we've implemented these changes, we've also learned that where there are adjustments um can be made and that's what we want to come and talk to you about tonight. So, I want to make sure that I'm very clear in letting everyone know that we have heard from teachers. Uh, we've heard from principles, we've heard from students, and we've heard from some of our families. Some of that feedback has been very constructive and thoughtful, and some of it has been very direct and pointed. But regardless of how it's delivered, we have a responsibility to listen and to respond appropriately. One example of

039that is the middle school is at the middle school level where we've heard concerns about the shift from traditional CLA reading class to an intervention-based model. That's a very important conversation and we want to make sure we get it right. Our goal with this shift is to be more is to create more targeted support for student based students based upon their individual needs. But as we work through the implementation, we've also heard clearly that we need to continue to refine how this looks in practice. As part of that structure, we've also received feedback on how I Ready is being implemented, particularly around screen time and how it fits into our daily instruction. And this is something I want to be very clear and very direct in. And that is is that I do not nor

040does anybody on our administrative team uh and and dare I say this board believe uh that technology is designed um and I'm sorry that um technology is designed and should never be used to replace teaching. It should be limited structured support with strong instruction. This feedback that we've received matters deeply. Uh, I've heard it from the superintendent student advisory council, from teachers, and from our instructional staff, and we take that feedback very seriously. In response, I've asked Dr. Woods, our deputy superintendent of instruction, to convene a group of stakeholders to continue working through that input and help us refine how we provide academic support for our students at the middle school level, particularly those who are who are struggling in reading and math. The goal is to make sure that our students have meaningful opportunities

041to build skills, show success, and master grade level content. In the short term, we're also adjusting our guidance on I Ready usage across all of our schools. For this school year, our expectation has been that students would engage in approximately 45 minutes per week in reading and 45 minutes per week in math. After receiving feedback, suggestions, and concerns from our teachers as well as our academic specialists, I've worked with our instructional leadership team to modify that guidance moving forward. Moving forward, we will shift to a 30 to 40 minute week per uh 30 to 40 minute per week expectation per ELA and math for grades K through 8. This adjustment provides our teachers with greater flexibility and creates more time within the week for additional instructional and enrichment opportunities for students. On average, this equates

042to roughly 10 to 15 minutes per day, which continues to closely align to how the program is intended to be used as a limited structured support with strong teacher instruction. As we move through the remainder of the year, it is our team's collective goal to be more flexible as we continue to gather feedback and monitor what is working in our classrooms across Berkeley County. We will continue to use that information to inform a more refined and consistent implementation moving into next school year. I firmly believe that good tools only work when they are used the right way, and that's what we're going to be focused on. At the elementary level, we've also heard concerns about the implementation of our new reading program, which was put in place this year to replace Scholastic after we heard

043significant feedback from teachers about the challenges with that resource last year. As with any new program, implementation absolutely matters and we've heard concerns particularly around teacher autonomy and the ability to supplement instruction. We've also heard some frustrations with the timing of the roll out, particularly in implementing a new resource midyear, and we recognize that that intention, that in transition could have been handled more effectively. Specifically, we've also heard from teachers who want the ability to incorporate supplemental resources such as UFly and Hegy to support foundational reading skills and meet the needs of their students. That's important and we want to make sure our teachers have the flexibility to use those tools uh when and how they feel it is most appropriate for their instruction. At the same time, we also have the responsibility to ensure

044that our curriculum maps and pacing guides are clear, that they're aligned, and they're reflective of what realistically happens in our classrooms. In in response, we formed teacher focus groups with representation from every school across the district to provide direct feedback on what's working, where adjustments are needed, and how we can better balance consistency with professional flexibility. In fact, that work is already underway, and we uh hope to help inform clear guidance moving forward. Uh in fact, Mr. Mullenax and Dr. Woods met with a team of teachers just this afternoon. So in thinking about our approach, I think it's important to to say that listening does not mean reacting immediately and making adjustments does not mean we're abandoning a specific direction. It means we are trying to be thoughtful. When you implement something at scale, you

045always learn from it. What matters is that we're listening, we're evaluating, and we're trying to improve. That's how systems get better over time. We are entering an important time of the year with our student assessments and that data matters not just as judgment but as a tool to help us understand what is working and where we need to improve. We're not making decisions in a vacuum and we're not making decisions based on specific noise. We are making decisions based on student outcomes, educator input, and thoughtful analysis over time. I also want to acknowledge that there has been a lot of strong commentary in different spaces about our schools, our staff, and our leadership. I'm not going to engage in that, but I do want to say this. We are all human. We're educators. We're parents.

046We are members of this community. We make decisions with the best information we have at the time. And as we learn more, we adjust. That's part of doing this work well. What matters and what I believe we are all here for is that we want the very best for our students. And when we say and when we stay focused on that, we move forward together. Our students deserve adults who stay focused on solutions and not division. And that's where my focus will remain. At the end of the day, this work is about getting better for our students, supporting those who are struggling, challenging those who are ready for more, and making sure our teachers have the tools and support they need to do their jobs well. That requires balance. It requires listening, and it requires

047us to adjust when needed without losing sight of where we're going. We are listening. We are making thoughtful adjustments. And we are committed to getting this right. I really appreciate everyone listening and and being a part of that this evening. The Office of Family and Community Engagement is hosting a career fair designed specifically for families of Berkeley County students. So again, this is a career fair for Berkeley County student families in partnership with local businesses. This event aims to connect families with employment opportunities and provide valuable job search support by expanding access to local career pathways. As Berkeley County Schools seeks to build a broader network of support that empowers families and enhances student success, our ultimate goal is to foster strong partnerships among our schools, families, and the community. Partnerships that nurture children's growth

048and learning by strengthening the well-being of our families. This appro uh approach reflects our belief that when families thrive, students and communities thrive, too. This is our second event. The first event had over 21 vendors and over 100 attendees. The event is made possible through a workforce grant from the West Virginia Community Foundation. So again, join us on April 22nd for our family and community engagement fair. This is our second of three student and staff recognition events coming up on Thursday, April 23rd 23rd, 2026 at 6 p.m. at Muscleman High School. These recognition events were implemented this year to spotlight achievements beyond those typically honored here at our board of education meetings. Thursday, we will recognize those students, staff members, teams, and clubs with outstanding accomplishments this winter and at the start of spring, as

049well as our new teacher, our counselor, and principal of the year. And we'll conclude with the announcement of our 2026 service person and teacher of the year for Berkeley County Schools. The theme is Olympic gold and it should be a wonderful event of celebration for Berkeley County schools. We have a med ed signing day coming up where we're going to be celebrating our students who are formally taking the next steps in their career. Board members, you've already received a calendar invite for this event, but we will formally uh in um uh introduce into the med six rising juniors from each high school. Med is a partnership with WB Medicine and the Education Alliance and is a free two-year program culminating in a paid internship at WB Medicine for students during the second semester of their

050senior year. Students get paid $17 an hour in this experience. Successful participants will also be considered for full-time employment with WVU Medicine after graduation. So, board members, I hope you can make it. We're going to be h holding our North End virtual bond presentation. Of course, everyone is is uh is invited to join us, but this is our second of two virtual meetings to learn more about the proposed bond projects for the May 12th election. Our first meeting had over 20 participants, and some uh excellent questions were submitted that I was able to answer. We divided the the virtual event into north and south to help accommodate different parts of the county. In the case, attendees submitted questions more specific to projects in those areas. that anyone is welcome to join. Visit Berkeley County Schools

051homepage and click on the 2026 bond call for more information or to submit questions. The link is also posted on our website as well as our social media channels on the day of the event. Just like we are having our Med signing event, we also have our Aviation X signing day on April 30th at 9:00 a.m. Board members, you've also al also already received a calendar invite for this event as well. But we will form formalize the inaugural entry into Aviation Explorers called Aviation X for six rising juniors from each high school. This is a new partnership for Berkeley County Schools with Marshall University, the Education Alliance, as well as Shepard University and Blige Community Technical College to give students hands-on training and real world experiences for career careers in aviation. This is the first

052program of its kind for any school district in the state of West Virginia. The program is free and provides career technical education for pathways in piloting, aerospace engineering, operations, and businesses, which would support workforce needs right here in the Eastern Panhandle. We're so excited to be joining the Martinsburg Regional Airport in this exciting adventure. Our transportation department is holding a bus driver recruitment event on Saturday, May 9th, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the bus garage at 88 Harland Springs Road. You can learn more about qualifications and register to attend the event at our website. You may also wonder why this event is being planned when we also have bus drivers on the transfer list whose routes were consolidated or changed. And the answer is simple. The jobs are still available. Current drivers may

053apply for new runs as well as new drivers. Also, as explained, uh because we have shifting enrollments in different parts of the county, that requires us to shift how our routes are being addressed. And so, um, while we do have bus drivers that are on transfer, uh, into those new some of those new routes, we also have a need to fill vacant bus driver positions. So, we are still hiring and we hope that people will join us at the bus driver recruiting event. And Mr. Keycer, will they have the opportunity to drive a bus? >> Absolutely. >> Excellent. Very good. >> Uh, our next upcoming board meeting is um May 4th at 6 p.m. and it'll be here at the Winchester Avenue office. Madam President, board members, I appreciate um the opportunity to to update

054you all this evening and I'm happy to answer any questions. >> Questions? >> Could you go back uh to the >> what Mr. Murphy >> to the two slides showing the the decline? I think you said improvement. I want >> you said. So, so it was the ranking of, so these two slides represent the ranking of our school system in the state of Western. So, in reading in 201617th, Berkeley County Schools was ranked 12th in the state. Um, and then you can see there's some es and flow. Um and then of course in 2022 uh 2023 um we were at 36th and then last year we we were able to improve to 32nd which is not commensurate with the potential that our schools have with our excellent teaching staff uh and our students and and

055so um that's the reading. If you look at math um you'll see a similar a similar challenge and tra trajectory. you'll see that last year we made quite a an improvement in math. Again, it's not where we we want to be. We want to be able to continue to improve. Um and uh again, I think that that you'll see there there was also a shift in math curriculum during that time. Uh there was also a shift in in how we were focusing some of the intervention around math. Um and so again, we were able to see some positive growth there. Um, but one of the things that we want to be careful that we don't always just talk about growth. We want to talk about where we're actually landing. And so, you know, when when

056we took a look at how are we utilizing our adopted materials, when we looked at consistency across classrooms, we knew that we needed to have a little we needed to have more more continuity and uh more structure to what we were expecting across all of our classrooms. And so, that was where we've implemented the the five high impact practices. And of course, um, part of that is is making sure that we are providing instruction is aligned to the standards. U that we are utilizing the curriculum that has been adopted and invested in by the by the school district with fidelity, but that more than that, we are supporting our educators through professional professional development support, through either academic specialist or coaching, and that we're listening. I think that's the other big point I want to

057make, Mr. Murphy is is that we are listening to the feedback of what is working and what is not. And we don't want to make any knee-jerk reactions. We want to be thoughtful about how we make those modifications, how we make those pivots. And we're absolutely invested in making those pivots and those adjustments. U but we want to do so thoughtfully and that's the reason that we've formed some of these stakeholder groups. Um and the representatives from all of our of all of our uh elementary schools or middle schools depending upon the programmatic level that we're talking about. Um, you know, I also shared with the board, um, and I know that we'll we'll be presenting this at a later at a later meeting, but, um, we were able to see from our PSAT results

058from, um, 8th, 9th grade PSAT as well as 10th grade PSAT that all four high schools had between a 20 to 40 point increase in PSAT results this past year. That is due to the dedication and hard work of our teachers and the instructional leadership of those principles. and I absolutely commend them. Um that tells me that that that some of the focus that we're working on is making an impact, but it's because of the teachers and it's because of our principles that are are working so hard. And um I I think that that deserves a big pat on the back. Um, and so I think we have to be able to celebrate those growth points, but we also have to be able to be very cognizant that um, as a as a district performing

059in the state of West Virginia, we're not yet where we really should be and where we're being as a um, as one of the best school districts in the state of West Virginia. Just I just wanted to make sure that people understood this county was decreasing in performance and the rationale of this say well it was because of CO all 55 counties had CO we have we have to you first have to recognize the problem and acknowledge it before you can address it and and that's what this board did when they brought you on board here and I just want the community to be aware. Uh we knew what we wanted and we wanted to see a uh improvement and not to see the steady decline to be uh at the bottom of the pile

060there. And that's that's indicating that we are heading in a new direction, I hope. And I appreciate u what you just said about the uh the classroom teachers and the school leadership doing that with your encouragement. So thank you. >> And we have some fantastic excellent educators um certified and non-certified that are working so hard uh for the betterment of our students and I couldn't be more proud of them. Um and I don't think that this data is indicative of of that work. I think it was in it's indicative of um consistency of appropriate resources being targeted and and support and that's really what you know my message tonight was is that we we can work so much we we we can accomplish so much together and not divided and that's really what what my

061goal is is let's let's unite around what we need to do and and again that that's something that I know that as superintendent I want to focus on doing better is bringing those voices into the fold, bringing those voices into how we're making decisions and and and to say that we we have not we we absolutely have brought stakeholders in some of these processes. Do I think we could have we could also expand that so that more voices are part of that process? Absolutely. And that's what we're going to strive to do. Well, it I mean it's proof that um in with the increases that we have to work together as a team or we won't get to where we need to be and we need to listen to everybody and I think that's the

062utmost important and you know I applaud the educators everyone out there and then hear from what's being done to get to wherever you are even if it's a small increase their increases. So, we have to start somewhere. >> Yes. >> Thank you. Any other board announcements? >> Um, just real quick, I know tomorrow or uh Thursday we're going to have um the awards ceremony. Uh I will not be able to be in attendance. Uh my husband is having surgery um that day. It'll be late later in the day. So, as much as I would love to be in attendance and celebrate all of our um wonderful, wonderful educators in our county, I'm just not be able to be there. Um my heartfelt congratulations to all of our finalists and to the um teachers of the

063year. I just to be there. So, heart heart is there with you guys though. Thank you. >> Next on the agenda, citizens forum. Um was Penny Porter in the audience? Hi, Penny. >> Hello. >> How are you? >> I'm fine. How are you? >> Good evening. Um, as Miss Lung said, I'm Penny Porter. I'm CEO of United Way of the Eastern Panhandle. And this evening, I bring greetings and gratitude to you um on behalf of our organization with a a short note here. Dear Dr. Sachs and board members of Berkeley County Schools. On behalf of the board of directors of United Way of the Eastern Panhandle, over 50 local nonprofit organizations supported by United Way annually and the thousands of men, women, and children impacted by our collaborative work each year. I bring a message

064of appreciation to each of you and to Berkeley County Schools. We thank you for your partnership with United Way that has been ongoing for decades. and we thank you for the work you do each day in supporting our children and families. With one of United Way's core impact areas being to create youth opportunities for our children to thrive, we recognize and value the importance of a strong educational system and the resources that are necessary to be there in support of it. Our specific focus issues relative to education include prioritizing early childhood development and strengthening parental engagement programs. We believe strongly that supporting brain development from birth is one of the best and most effective strategies to help children succeed to make sure that they are prepared for their K to2 years and beyond. Our community

065partnerships extend well beyond the traditional fundraising campaigns and we rely on them to learn about the needs of our families to help leverage our financial investments in support of child care facilities to get more books into the hands of children to fund mentoring programs and to make sure children are wellfed and in safe and nurturing environments. We also believe strongly in providing resources for teachers and and other staff members to help when families are faced with challenges. It's why we fund West Virginia 211 and the regional resource connection. While we not only support holiday programs to make sure children have gifts at the holidays, but to also make sure that they also have food, shelter, electricity, and running water. The challenges facing so many of our families are complex and require a network of partnerships

066and resources to help. We feel very privileged to be part of that network and look forward to a continued partnership with Berkeley County Schools to be there to support our children and families. And we are also very excited to help get Berkeley County Schools mobile learning lab finished in 2026. Thank you again for partnering with the United Way for so many years to create opportunities that all may thrive and we look forward to working together to create that bright future for our children. We would welcome the opportunity to continue our partnership and um hope to be able to do that in numerous ways here in the the years to come. Thank you so much. >> Thank you. >> You will stay, right? >> Sorry. >> You will stay the meeting. I certainly can stay through

067the meeting and I can leave a copy of that if that's appropriate. That's okay. >> I had one before announcement. I'm sorry. >> Oh, you had a board announcement. Sorry. Back up to that. >> Just today's the last day for for folks to be able to register to vote or change their vote registration in the state of West Virginia. Um you can do it on sos.wv.gov. If you are a student and you are going to turn 18 before um the November election, you'll be able to vote this primary election. Just want to let that be uh known up there. >> Thank you. I'm sorry I missed you. >> Okay. >> Monitoring items. Uh next on the agenda, um Veronica Reali will give us an update on fine arts and wellness instructional materials. >> Got it.

068>> Reer, there you go. You got it now. There's a lot of eyes in there. >> Yeah, you just have to have them in the right order. >> That's right. >> All right. Good evening, Madame President, Superintendent Saxs, and esteemed board members. Thank you for the opportunity to allow me to present the fine arts instructional materials adoption recommendations for the 2026 2027 school year. Join me this evening are representatives from each content area who are here to share insight into the instructional resource review committee process as well as recommendations brought forward for your consideration. For art, we have Miss Katie from Berkeley Heights Elementary School. Uh for wellness education, we have Miss Deborah Brown from Martsburg High School. Uh for music, we have the oh so colorful James Miller from Muslim High School. And for

069theater, we have Josh Reese from Spring Mills High School. This work represents a collaborative effort between the Division of Instructional Leadership and our Instructional Resource Review Committee, which will be listed as IRRC in the presentation. >> What was it? >> Am I down or >> was it RRC? >> Sorry, the what it stands for >> instructional resource review committee for >> Yes. Uh this work is grounded in both West Virginia code and Berkeley County Schools policya which together establish the framework for the review and the adoption of the instructional materials at the state level. 18-2A-10 places the responsibility for reviewing and adopting the instructional resources at the county board level ensuring that selected materials will meet at least 80% of the required state approved content and skills. content areas included in the state required adoption

070cycle encompass the arts, wellness, which is health, um, education for driver's ed, uh, and personal finance. While courses such as weightlifting and conditioning, which you'll see later, and theater, are not part of the state mandated cycle, they are grounded in standards that are previously approved by this board. Um so as such the associated instructional materials are being presented for your consideration and approval through the local adoption process. The code requires that all instructional materials be provided to the students free of charge and that it is equitable uh in access including digital resources at the local level. Berkeley County policy ifa outlines the procedures we must follow remain compliant and that this includes the formation of the IRRC made up of teacher representatives from each school to review the recommended materials based on instructional expertise. The

071policy also requires opportunities for public review and provided prior to board approval. Finally, all instructional materials must be formally approved by the board by majority vote. And together, this state and local guidance ensures that our adoption process is compliant, transparent, and focused on providing high quality instructional resources to all students. So, this was our instructional resource review committee process. Um, it ran from December to April. So, in December, that's when I kind of sent out um information to principles asking them to submit a Microsoft form and elect one member of their staff to represent um their school on the committee. In January, this is when we had a review of the instructional material options. Unfortunately, it was a snow day, so we got to meet virtually. Um, and so we got to kind of look

072at all of the state approved materials virtually um, with all of our IRC members and they were able to share a catalog which I'll share with you in a little bit. I did it on a um, Excel spreadsheet and they could share that with their building um, across the entire building. So for fine arts, for wellness, all the people, they had access to it. In February, this is when the West Virginia Department of Education actually had virtual caravans. Uh those were like zoom meetings, teams meetings and they were all kind of you know elected by each vendor on different days in February. Um people were able to attend that were on the committee but also any fine arts teacher, any wellness teacher they had access as well. We also had an additional um opportunity for

073people to participate in vendor viewings um on the curriculum instructional development day as well. In March, this is when we had our committee get together and we had forms that were submitted that they kind of collaborated with their home schools, had conversations about what the top three vendor choices would be. And then in March the 10th, the consensus of those top three choices were used um were decided upon based upon a Microsoft form that was sent to their building um individuals who could kind of votes and you know give their information as far as what they liked about the resource, what they didn't like about the resource. Um and I'll kind of break that down in a little bit as well. And then March 24th was when we had a consensus on our top instructional

074materials which we're going to present to you today. So these were our representatives from each of our schools. We had a total of 24 participants. Um it was wide across the entire district as far as representation for all of our departments. Um and this diverse group of educators ensured the selected materials reflect the needs of our students and teachers across the Berkeley campus. So these are our points of data. We use qualitative and quantitative data. We had vendor presentations. Um this was the instructional materials adoption catalog where we had all of the catalog um items for vendor choices. There were digital links where people could actually go and review those sources. And then this was the caravan day schedule that had all of the links for individuals from any school in Berkeley County to go

075and review all of questions face toface with those individuals both during February and on that curriculum development day. Uh we also had Microsoft forms that we distributed to all of our schools where they could rank their selected choices and then these are the vendor prioritization sheets where they ranked their um selections one to three. So with reviewing the criteria um all materials were evaluated using clearly defined criteria including alignment of the standards, instructional design and assessment, student engagement and relevance, usability and accessibility and digital integration like in our Canva or Google applications. Um we also had student or subject specific I should say um items as well looking at ensemble adaptability for our music people um flexibility for various media so when we're talking about the arts technical theater support as well and skill-based instruction

076when we're looking at wellness and so now we'll dive right in. So, arts, the committee um elected to vote for an extra per pupil aotment, one-time aotment, and working with our finance department, we landed at $8 per pupil. Uh through this new flexible curriculum model, students will be able to use their allocation to either provide materials in the classroom. So, paints, construction paper, anything that they may use during an art lesson, or they could even provide um some type of art related subscription. There's something that we reviewed called Flex Art of Education that some teachers were interested in, but it wasn't an overall consensus, but they do have that option where they could um purchase that. It would provide more hands-on engaging experiences. Lessons are structured and clearly outlined. And then it aligns with the

077visual arts. Um, with that, it does not replace the current pupil allocation that our teachers get. They do get $2 per pupil in grades K2 and they do already get $3 in grades 3 to 12. So, that's not going away. This is an additional one-time aotment that they would receive. And you can see the cost will be in orange throughout the whole presentation. And we do have Miss Katie. Are there any questions for Art? >> I will say this, what a extensive job that you all did >> so far. >> You said you said it was um a one time aotment. So this is just for physical materials that just go from year to year or >> so they could purchase material but they could also purchase the online platform as well. Do you want

078to >> our teachers also often need pieces of equipment for example a drying rack that holds two classes worth of students for some reason costs $600. And we are encouraged every year to spend all of our regular per pupil aotment so that you understand that we need money for consumable materials as art is essentially a lab. Um when I use 25 pieces of construction paper, they never come back. Um and the same with all the glue sticks and you know we do our best but in primary school we uh while >> I don't know that you want the glue sticks to go back. >> Yeah, I know. All right, moving on to wellness. Um, we do have wellness um differentiated between middle school and in high school. So for wellness education, the committee recommends continuing

079with GW, which is goodwill or good heart Wilcox GW. Um, and the textbook is called Health Skills for Middle School. This would be for grades six through eight. Um, some of the positives that we found was that it's currently used in Berkeley County schools. So the teachers are used to it. It's integrated into schooly already. They have a nice platform where it's already in folders which is you know anything about teaching saving time and organization is great. So they just kind of get to click and drag and pull it into schooly at their you know own free will. And then it does align with the 2024 national health education standards. Uh there is a physical textbook and there's also theation as well. Um for high school it is also called health skills but it's for

080high school and this would be grades 9 to 12 primarily health is taught in freshman year but we do have some sophomores and maybe juniors that are also participating. Uh it's again currently used in Brooka County schools and there's physical and digital integration. Um included in wellness is our um strength and conditioning class who felt they were um in need of a resource and so they uh kind of proposed this resource. The committee decided that they would like to adopt it and it is the National Strength and Conditioning Association uh that has provided the essentials of strength training in conditioning. It's the fifth edition um and this is actually kind of a preparatory class to get your certification. So, it's very high level. Um, and it does align with our Berkeley County Schools core strength

081and conditioning, which is grades 9 to 12. Um, and it prepares students for safe effective weightlifting through anatomy, kinesiology, fundamentals with >> Sorry, I go ahead. >> Just in the wellness category, is this is this cost per u like with the physical books, is it just a class set or is each student get one? >> So, we did do a class set. Yes. Thank you. Um, how often is this taught how often they're in? >> Is it every day? >> Miss Brown, at the high school level, it's every day. At the middle school level, it's part of the rotation. >> Okay. That that's what I remember. In middle school, it was part of rotation, but I wasn't sure in high school. And the period is how long? A regular class period. >> It's not 90

082minutes. It's just a regular class. Yes. Okay. >> Any other questions for wellness for Miss Brown? See, I like physical book. >> This is a phys Yeah, this is a physical book. >> And so, I'm gonna go back to what we just heard earlier in the evening where a nice, wonderful gentleman had a physical book in front of us. And I'm going to actually recollect on my own physical book that I purchased on Friday last week. And I I I I have to say um I you know we carry around our digital tech and I can go and I can read a book on my digital tech all the time but I got a physical book in my hands and I couldn't put it down over the weekend. I just I I feel like we're

083missing out for our kids having physical books. So I'm going to go right back to Dr. Saxs. Here I am knocking on the door again. Um I feel like our kids need that physical book and I know that I know that the cost that you're you've you've brought before us gives the class um books. I'd love to know what the cost is for all of our kids to have an actual physical book. I know, I know, I know. Um I know that we've spent a lot of money in tech, but I just go back to we've we we've especially for our middle schoolers, maybe from from a high school perspective, I can see the idea of having from a class perspective, um I just for for our middle schoolers, I'd love to be able to

084see what that looks like for per student. What does that look like to have an actual physical book in their hands that they are physically turning that page that they are actually taking home that they are reading? That they are they've got in their hot hands. I'm just I know that we're we're going down a road that's maybe a little bit less tech than what we've been at, but we we've got lots of we've got lots of data getting thrown at us now that says technology is not necessarily always our friend anymore. So, I'm just throwing it out there that I'd love to know what those >> money looks like. An an added question um because you said they were physical books. They are >> and but for class. How how big are these books?

085>> Are they paper or back? >> Yes. >> But I mean I was thinking like how how thick I mean. >> Okay. That's what that's what I was thinking. >> Pretty extensive. I mean um Charles Lynch, I don't know if you're familiar from Marchburg High School. He is phenomenal when it comes to chiology and anatomy and teaching this class. And he went through this with a fine tooth comb. And I mean it is very extensive but it will really prepare the students in understanding. Okay, we have this physical movement. We're trying to lift, you know, 230 pounds, but why? What muscles actually do that? Is it push movement? Is it full movement? What other muscles do I need to actually strengthen so I don't get an injury? I mean, it's it's very very well um

086structured and I still want you to get the answer question because it's still related to her question >> and and you might not be able to answer the question right off the top of your head and and that's fine. I get that. I'm just >> Go ahead, Mr. The question is what is the cost of a book? >> Um for the these ones it is 119 I believe. Yes. 1119 >> per per book >> text. Yes. I'd love to find out what it would be in bulk for you know I mean because in bulk they sometimes can reduce pricing. I don't know what that looks like. >> And um strength and conditioning is okay. See we've got we've got shaking of the headony. I'm so sorry. No, we want to >> it it is a

087negotiated price with the state. So that $119 is building the prices. They're not allowed. We're not allowed to negotiate those prices. >> Start figuring that out. >> Policy. >> Well, I Okay, but that's your assignment, Mr. Farm. >> Dang policy. >> We got to work somewhere. We got to start somewhere because I we need we need to start doing this for our kids. >> Well, the reason I asked about the size of the books, I'm just trying to remember back >> like Karen. >> Yes. Not just carrying them, but where same fees go back to physical books. Do we have enough lockers? >> Didn't use their lockers. >> Yes. I'm just remembering when I was in school dust. >> 40 lb bag of books >> everywhere. And then >> every couple years the man the

088author's like, "You know what? Let's change a few words and >> lockers of dust." >> Yes. >> And they lose those books. They don't bring them back. >> But I I get it. I know where they don't bring them because the >> I agree with you. No, I'm not also Mr. Murphy. >> I know. I know. Mr. Murphy, >> the uh how long like you you talk about one time use for the $8 that said I'm talking about how many years are these textbooks used? Because I looked at the law there and I didn't see the cycle. >> So, so the cycle I believe is is six years. And I mean you can use them for as long after that. They're your textbook's textbook to use. The problem is after those six years we would

089no longer get tech support. So if any of those textbooks come with any sort of platform or tech integration, we would we would have to re-up it with the next adoption. So but technically those textbooks are are for for as long, but we wouldn't get any new textbooks after that unless we got a new contract. >> Okay. And the second point I want to make is when the state bids first off Texas and California determine the books we're using basically >> but the textbooks when the state department goes out we have 55 counties in bulk. If Burka County tried to do it solo we'd be paying more than the price was quoted there because we wouldn't have as many uh in the pool. My third question is to our representatives here. Well, that was a

090statement, not a question on the and I I saw this digital eight I think on the spreadsheet or something you had you had eight different categories. >> What are some of the advantages that you as teachers experience when you have digital with your smartboards and everything else? Just to address that directly with the health text, um there's a drop down that we can change the online text to any language. And at Barnesburg High School, we have a very diverse population. Um I can't speak for their schools, but so there and it's not just Spanish. There's multiple different languages you can change this new one to. Um, so that's a huge advantage. >> And this county has I think over 50 different languages. >> Yeah. >> In the school system. So there there you have. What

091about the subject matter you have? I see a hand sneaking up. >> All right. So, well, first of all, our the resource that the music folks have uh provided, we're not replacing our sheet music cuz it does not um when we had co we tried the sheet music on an iPad and that was a disaster cuz you tried to you could try to shoot it. It was a disaster. Also, if you're playing a saxophone and you're I don't even know how you would even I don't even know how you would do that. Thank you. Um, so, so we're not trying to, um, we're not trying to replace what folks um, for band, there's a lot of kids that like to learn, they start out on one instrument and then they transition to another instrument. So,

092the resource that we have, it actually has a step-by-step video because if you're one band director, um, you don't have time for a hundred people to, uh, te to teach each hundred people a different instrument. So they actually have a how-to of how to do it all for them for the for the choir folks. Uh we have like a daily thing where because part of being inquired is you need to actually understand the sheet music in front of you. So there's notes, there's no notice of the patterns. So it takes forever for us to like do it by hand and try to come up with soulfetch examples and they're not very good. So that's so we have that also what this does is it gives the students an at home practice. So usually for we're

093a little different in that like the practice at home is very important. So it actually has a way that they have the sheet music on there. Um at home it has they can follow along. It shows them exactly how it follows along and then they can record themselves and they can actually see what they're doing right and what they're doing wrong. So, um, because a lot of times the kids will go home, they'll practice, they're like, I practiced for 30 minutes my saxophone and it is lovely and they're still playing every note incorrectly. Um, and or they're singing every note incorrectly. So, this gives them immediate feedback that we're not able to give. And so, I don't know how it is for the theater and the other, but the resource that we're doing is is

094giving those sorts of things. Those are the big things. And then it also has a lot of things that they can explore on their own. It gives all sorts of warm-ups. So like for our folks, they can do warm-ups at home if they like it, but they can't play the piano. Um it gives them it gives them warmups so they can warm up before they before they practice. So it's more of an extra resource. And then also they can actually record themselves for me and so it's easier for me to grade uh what they're doing or any of the um music teachers there. >> Thank you facts. >> Would one of the other teachers like >> Yeah. Well, uh, so I can say for theater, um, we're going hopefully with a digital resource entirely, um,

095because we're in a unique world, um, teaching technical theater, telling a kid, hey, let's talk about sound cubes and you have them read it on a page, it's not the same as hearing it. and especially with the live performance aspect. Um being able to show kids live actors, see the interviews that they have uh with designers and the choices that they're making. Um I know that um many people in this county walk into Spring Hills High School, look at how pretty the auditorium is and think it's glorious and it's brand new and it's amazing. And as somebody who's been doing tech theater since the 90s, uh the technical side of that auditorium is from the 90s. Uh there there is no updated brand new uh equipment in there other than what we have purchased little

096bit by little bit to get there. Um and all of our auditoriums are that way. We're far behind where the professional standard is or even the college standard is. So, being able to provide uh examples to our students of what lights and sound and uh costumes and other technical elements are able to do in the professional world is incredibly necessary. Um, and being able to show them video of a of actual actors. I know that the textbook we have now talks about playing sound cues from uh cassette tapes and audio discs that you can purchase at your local music shop. Uh, none of that exists anymore. Uh, and the the most read when we that same company sent us a textbook, it said that there was this new fancy invention called LEDs that might be

097doing something in theater one day. And I'm like, you're about 20 years behind. Uh, and so, yeah, the the idea of the digital side of things that can be updated quickly. we can show brand new examples that might not have even been there last year because on the technical side they're updating their software every single year and not just going hey you have a printed text and it's dead in 5 years because the technology moved ahead of you >> um just addressing the wellness side of things um a couple things that the strength and conditioning that is only a textbook that's not online so that will be textbook for that particular teacher um subject matter. Um the health text though middle school and high school does come with the online online and to address that

098about textbook physical textbook first online um next year you know every year things change and next year we have a traveling health teacher so for them to move textbooks because we don't have a lot of different we're out of nooks and crannies at Martinsburg High so for that teacher to have to move textbooks the online would the way you go. That's what makes sense rather than shuffle those textbooks around. So, >> thank you. >> Yeah. Thank you. >> All right. Moving on to music. We also took a differentiated approach. Um, for grades K to five, the consensus was to continue using Quaker music, which is a digital platform. It's currently being used by Berkeley County schools. Um, and it is userfriendly. It is age appropriate. You can kind of see it's fun and colorful. Um,

099and it does have the digital integration through Clever. On the 6 through 12 side, the consensus was to go with a company called Music First, and it's broken down into middle school versus high school, um, which Mr. Miller can elaborate on just a second. Music First Secondary Creativity Ensemble would be for the middle school. It's for general music teachers, which was a huge focal point for our music people. They kept saying, "What do we have for general music? What do we have for general music?" So, this was kind of the consensus. It supports creativity um and also allows for audio editing. Um for 9 through 12, the uh application is called music first secondary performance ensemble. And this is more for your band, orchestra, and choir teachers. It supports the practice and skill development that

100Mr. Miller was talking about. It also has um including assessments for practice and site reading and it does have a classroom curriculum library as well. It is also integrated through Clever and here's kind of a snapshot as well. And then Mr. Miller, did you want to kind of elaborate on anything? >> Yeah. So, um, so one of the things for cuz it's really tough with music folks to find it's not like to find a resource that makes everyone happy because there's so many different like the strings have this thing and and and the band has this thing and the choir is this thing, the general music has this thing. So when we researched it was really really difficult to fraud something because part of the adoption process is we have to have one resource or

101or one company. So with the music first creativity ensemble. So for general music teachers some of the resources we have on here um they have the history of rock and roll. um then but it's integrated with um curriculum like it it it it talks about um like the history it talks about like it gives you history assignments English assignments and even some math to go with so with it but it also has only the history u the rock and roll hall of fame in Cleveland um it actually partners with this resource and so that way they can actually uh for general music teachers they can get like performances that you can't get on YouTube you can get like you could see like the original Elvis performance at the Grand Old Opry that they have and

102then there's just there's just things there that you wouldn't be able to see just by doing a YouTube search. But also for general for 6 through 8, they can actually create their they have they have like a guided way where they can create their own beats and music as well. So they can almost be like their own digital uh entertainers. And that that's also something because uh students in the middle school, they like to they like to create their pies. Even in high school, they like to create therapies, but there's not as many ensembles for them in the middle school level. So it kind of gets them to to the high school level. So that's why there's two separate things. And when you get to the high school performance ensembles, that's where it's very like

103meat and potatoes. You got to do like you got to start practicing your instrument and get really fluent. But kind of in middle school, you're kind of discovering are which which kind like some people are discovering whether they want to be a vocal person or a or a band person. They're kind of just exploring sounds. And so this gives this gives a whole way for them a whole platform for that. But for the general music teachers, it has over 600 lessons on all kinds of music from from Renaissance Baroque. So the classical music that we that we all know and love. And then it has every music genre you can think of like fiddle playing, but it also has like oral music as well that they can they can learn how to play different music

104from different cultures. So it actually has there's like so many things. So we have so many um standards of of things that they could do that this could fit. there's so many activities that they could do with this and it it will actually integrate with Schooly um by the time next school year rolls out. So, it's also a resource that's able for the music folks and choir folks and your music folks to be able to grade a little bit easier as well. >> Yes, very much. >> All right. For theater, the consensus was what's called e digital theater plus it is an online platform. This would be a digital license for each teacher. Uh it goes through things like script analysis, instructional uh lesson plans, and it does have a library of over 600 classic

105and contemporary productions, which for our theater people is huge because they have to either pay with their monies from the school for the rights or they have to go in their own pocket and pay for the rights to show these productions. So all of that would be included. This is kind of a snapshot to show you the student perspective. It doesn't only have, you know, video and productions, but it also has, you know, lesson plans that are structured for our theater classes and that would also be integrated through school. So I I remember um at Spring Mills Anning was put on and um I forget how much the lady paid. I think she was paying out of room pocket that but u we we paid about 13,000 for that play alto together. I was the

106technical director on it. >> Wow. So are we able to put on a play like that >> this? So, this does not cover those kind of performance rights. This is for us to show the students performances. Um, sadly, you can go to the local Walmart and pick a DVD up of any movie you want, but getting a actual film of a performance is rare. Um, and when it isn't rare, um, it's an exclusive collections like the National Theater, the Globe, things like that. So having a service where we can have access to those to show those to the kids um is paramount because it uh like I said telling a kid we can create a spooky sound uh to make this scene feel spooky but then actually showing them how somebody did it is a

107completely uh another level of instruction. So, um >> I was just hoping that we >> don't go to jail. like >> for you all. >> We just closed uh Brothers Grim Spectacular this last weekend and I had I tell my kids I can't spend more than about $3,000 on a play because I can only get about $3,000 worth of tickets sold. Um, and so we can never really go above what we did with our previous show because the rights alone, uh, and the scripts puts us already at almost $1,000 per show. >> I just thought for $11,880 we're going to get that, but we're not. >> That would be nice. >> Thank you. >> All right. And moving into driver's ed, this is our final item. Um, we don't have a representative today. He actually

108is coaching baseball, so hopefully they win. Um, but it is a resource that is text uh through AAA. It's called How to Drive. It is the 15th edition. Um, and it would be for grades 9 through 12. Um, there's only two teachers in the county that teach this, so that's why, you know, the cost seems pretty low. Um, and it would be for a class set. Um, this would be textbooks and workbooks as well. And it incorporates the current driving laws, emerging transportation topics, including self-driving vehicles. So, oh yeah, >> does the are the workbooks able to be ordered every year throughout the cycle? So, there's the textbook, then there's the the the paperback workbook, and we would be able to order that based upon the number of students taking the course annually. Correct. It

109is considerable. >> That's good. >> All right. So, um for the public review, um this is required for policy. The instructional materials will be available in the lobby of the board office here on Winchester Avenue as soon as you come in through the door. It's on your lefth hand side on the table. Uh reviewers can submit public comments by scanning the QR code in the lobby uh today through May 3rd and then feedback will be shared with our board members prior to the next board meeting for review. >> How will they view the digital material? >> I actually have QR codes for each of them. >> Oh, >> yes. In the lobby. So they can scan those and they can review them. >> That's great. >> Good question. >> Thank you. >> Um so at

110this moment, Mr. or Dr. Would put you on spot. >> Um I just want to say um it's great job to our representatives, all of the other teachers that we had um on the group that that Veronica helped. Um really really laid. I just kind of chimed in. I learned a lot um from this side myself. Um, but one of the things we really wanted to stress and advocate for them is that the fine arts is just as important as the English and math and all of one core subject. So, we really wanted to um empower them to to dive into these resources. Like I said, they did an amazing job. Um, >> they made it really easy for me when I followed back up with them when they presented everything. everything uh met the

111standard that we would like to see and um we wanted to make sure we got everything together to put in front of you all. >> It was great job. Questions from the board. >> Wonderful presentation. Thank you. >> Thank you for the time you all invested in the process as well. >> Yes, lots more. >> Even all the hard questions about textbook. >> Yeah. >> Thanks again. >> Thanks Nate. Mr. >> Good evening everyone. >> Good evening. I have a presentation for you here shortly. >> We're going to start with the Hedgeville Early Learning Academy. And this project uh supposed to finish up in June. Remember I was telling you May for a while and then I warned you got bumped a little bit. It should finish up in June. The biggest dilemma at Hedgesville

112right now is we are um scheduled to have the place energized from PTOIC medicine. That has not happened yet and that is supposed to happen sometime in May. And until that happens, we cannot do any installation of the flooring because the place has to be acclimated to get the moisture out of the concrete that's in the floor. And so that's the biggest dilemma. I um have very close contact with Tmic Edison. Text him every couple days. Hey, what are we looking at on the schedule and uh right now it looks like it should be the first week of May for that. So right now that's the only dilemma that I'm aware of at Pettisville Early Learning Academy. >> It's beautiful. >> And everything else is rolling along. Um as you can see I I pretty

113much have the same uh descriptions every time because a lot of the same things are still happening. But uh but yeah, a lot of the a lot of the sidewalks are finishing up. Um and they are putting in a lot of the base for the roadways and the parking lot and the playground installation is scheduled for the week of uh the 27th, which is next week. So um you know, little by little we are seeing some finishing touches getting in place. Um but that is essentially what I have for you for Head Still. Any questions there? >> Uh Mr. Tyson, the >> playground installation. They're they're also the um provider for the inside equipment. >> That is correct. Yeah. >> So, are they able to still install that when they're on site even though the

114facility is not conditioned? >> Uh yeah, they can still move forward with that. Okay. Yes. Okay. Very good. >> Anything else for all the sites? We're not having any problems with vandalism. Are we? >> Uh no, we are not. I want to invite a picture that finish the Martinsburg auditorium. That project is going to finish up this week >> and it looks amazing. I hope you get a chance to spot them there to check that out. But it has really turned out nice and um >> do we have a ribbon cutting open? >> I think that Carla reached out to me. >> Yeah. So we'll we'll have more information for you soon on that. Um question about Mar. >> Sure. >> Um band director was on the radio this week and she said that they

115were hoping to do a performance there next month. I think that would be possible. >> Yes. Yeah, there are some events scheduled for the month of May. >> And yes, it will be ready and available uh beginning next week actually. >> So we will have it ready in time. Now, of course, remember we expanded out into the foyer with some additional upgrades. That's going to happen this summer. So, that part won't quite be ready, >> but the foyer has been painted, but there's a little bit of work on the doors and some of that uh in that space, but the actual auditorium will be uh open and available. >> It's beautiful. And I must say, I was able to see it, board members, the seating that they put in here. I don't know if you

116can see it from the pictures, but um they're all a little offset. So, when you're sitting there, you're not looking straight ahead of someone in front of you. >> Oh, that's And um I will also say for us bigger folks, bigger fellas, uh the seats are just a little bit wider. And so if you've ever been in some of our auditorium seating, it's like, you know, you're you're you know, you're squeezing in there. Uh, James, you know what I'm talking about. And so, but uh, but I will say that they're this is this is really just a great job done by what we have. So, >> beautiful. >> Yeah, very nice space. Amazing sound system, lighting features. It's very, very nice. I can't wait for you guys to see that in person. >> Uh, Matt

117Bridge Primary School, U geothermal well drilling is wrapping up. They're starting to take care of all the lateral connections for that system. Uh, and when you're on that site, it's a continual ongoing work of block lane and uh, brick lane is in progress. I'm trying to get up picture some of the brick going in ahead. >> And the roofing contractor is closing in that the main wing uh, that basically is kindergarten wing that should be finishing up soon and they'll be moving to the next one. And then uh, this afternoon we had the pre-bid on-site meeting for the the entryway that's off of Jaredtown Road. So, uh, I think there were maybe seven contractors on site for that bid or pre- bid meeting. Uh, bids are due May 5th as you can see. So, uh,

118a lot of lot of things are coming together there. Still working out some details on the the water line. You know, we've been in discussion about that and as soon as I know more, I'll give you an update on the water line. >> So, they're right now scheduled to still they're still holding to the August 7th schedule for the completion date. >> So, they're moving pretty steady. >> They're moving very steady. Yes. >> This is the water tank site. Yes. >> How's that? >> Uh well, it's been ordered. It hasn't arrived yet, but uh I think it's supposed to arrive this summer. Remember, there was an extremely long lead time on that, and I think I presented that maybe back in November. So, go ahead and get it ordered. So, it hasn't shown up yet,

119but that is uh in the works. >> Anything else on Mountain Rich? >> All right. by Inwood Early Learning Academy. Uh you see my very first statement is we're waiting for the DP permit and we're received that this afternoon. Yeah. So, um that will get the ball rolling. Hopefully, they'll be able to start uh I I put on there that I think yeah, they were going to start the first week of May. Uh it's possible they'll be able to begin some work next week. So everything is on track for this Enwood uh site and u some of the pre-construction meetings all those things are complete as far as the storm water uh folks met with them the met with Ponic Edison to get the P we'll probably have power there uh you know we're very

120early in the project actually we'll put it that way and then of course all lot of the site plan uh figuring out how we're going to coordinate finishing up the school year so we because we're going to take over the playground But we still need a place for the uh the students to to play. So a lot of logistics worked out, but uh that's what we have going on in May. >> Mr. Tyson, >> when would we have the schematics to look at? >> I've asked that same question myself because I haven't received them yet, but they were waiting to finalize some uh some certain details and until they have everything complete um I we won't receive them. So I should have them next week and then I'll >> for this brand. >> Yes. >>

121Yeah. I don't have any uh any you mean like the actual blueprints and renderings. >> Yeah, I should have something next week. >> Is it going to look similar to Hedgesville? >> It will look very similar to Hedgesville. Yes. Yeah. It's exact same footprint, but as soon as I get the more detailed renderings and uh the blueprints, I will share that with you guys. >> But we have the we have the layout. >> I have the layout. You have you have the blueprint layout and >> the blueprint >> and we also have the the video fly through. >> Uh yes. So >> I think I think sent us. >> Yeah. If you haven't seen I mean we can send you the >> literally I think the only thing >> Yeah. The only thing that's different

122in this building is the colors. Yeah, >> there's nothing substantially different than than the other uh building is the colors. And then of course um in the uh the sensory well not the sensory but the um motor skills room um there's some different play structures that complement the theme of the school. >> Okay. >> But everything else that Yeah. Essentially the exact same footprint. >> Mr. marketing >> in Enwood the the South End community is I mean they don't have an incorporated town but they they are in their minds are incorporated >> and and I I and that's not a negative statement there that's that's >> a positive statement >> but uh we should have in place a plan to offer to the community a way of uh when the old building is finally to

123demolish. Okay. Allowing a group or working with us and and doing this to to disperse bricks momentos of that school and um or and even if you can incorporate something from the old school into the new school. >> We're having something on the 19th, aren't we, Carla? But that of course won't have anything to do with the bricks. >> Well, well, we're going to announce the bricks. >> Oh, okay. >> Yeah, we Yeah, we have a plan. Okay. So, we have our we have our final bell >> and then we have our final bell ceremony which we're going to invite the community to. Um and then Mr. Tyson and Dr. Skoolie are going to be able to announce um the plan for the bricks. >> Oh, that's exciting. >> Okay. I just I just don't

124want to see it's going to wipe it out. >> Yeah. >> And and here >> we got a plan. Absolutely. >> Thank you. >> Okay. uh at Falling Waters the that uh project we're still waiting on some more details uh from for from some of the uh surveying some of the soil samples those sorts of thing until those details are complete and McKinley architecture has all the appropriate information then uh they can't advertise the site package so I don't have a timeline for you yet uh we tried to establish a timeline but until they get gather more information on the soils and some of the uh the geotech information um cannot advertise that. So hopefully mid to late May we'll be ready to advertise that site package so that that will be well underway whenever

125we advertise the building construction. And um we've had a few meetings with McKenley on, you know, looking at the drawings and making a lot of decisions and sorting some things out. And the next meeting we actually have is next Wednesday. So, we're very much on schedule as far as the construction documents. Uh just the site package is slightly delayed and um I think that's pretty much it for falling waters. I I'd just like to say that, you know, we have done a significant amount of work on making sure that we have the building layout appropriate with the appropriately sized special education classrooms, regular classrooms, uh storage, uh restrooms that are either in the classrooms or uh the restrooms located throughout the facility. And um that work has all been done. Um, right now it's with

126the engineers to be able to place um, uh, you know, where heating and air conditioning systems are going to be, where lines are going to be run and and those sort of things. So, it's it's really all of the the insides, if you will, of of making sure that the building can be, you know, operated and maintained. Uh, we also had a very very good meeting with some of the aesthetic features of of the facility for the inside. Um, and I'm we're really excited to be able to showcase that as soon as it's available. Um and um of course the outside is going to be the next thing they're going to talk with us about is some of the materials that will be used on the outside of the building. Obviously you can see this

127rendering of of of how it's shaping up to be. Um but what I will say is that this is going to be one of this is going to be just an amazing amazing elementary school. Um from the library media center to that's really going to be a focal point for the building. um the the ability to have a lecture stair in the library um and some of the themes that are being carried throughout the facility with the feeling of literally seeing a waterfall. Um it's really going to be unique and it's going to be such a special place for generations of students to come. Um I cannot wait for the community to see what we're what we have in store for them. So >> that's exciting. I think it's important too, we put a lot

128of time and effort in understanding how will the traffic flow on this site because this a big campus with a lot of potential parent drop offs and so we have uh really you know worked with the architects and figure out how do we flow the traffic for all the different drop offs plus the bus loop. So I think uh you're you're going to see a nice project come together on that too. I'll be anxious to see that board. >> That that's been something we've we really spent a lot of time intentional time on looking at traffic flow. And so what this project's going to actually have is two parent pickup lines as well as a bus as well as a bus loop. So again, and and it it's really going to have uh a lot

129of thought has gone into how the the patterns are going to go and that's Eric uh Kisser and his team have helped with that. Of course, we've also included uh you know, Craig Arch from PTOAC. He took a look at it with us and uh to because obviously his campus and the and the logistics that they have. So, um we want to get it right and that's what we're working to do. >> Thank you. >> And the last thing is the uh you know, we did that MIP grant uh for window replacements elementary those windows that project is complete. And so there's a picture of a packin. You can see kind of what those windows look like. There's the window shade treatment and uh I mean that that project went flawlessly and they finished it

130over spring break. Students came back and teachers to uh almost like a brand new school. They were pretty excited about their new windows and the uh the other three projects are in the works. Hedesville High, Hedgeville Middle, and Tuscarora. uh we're able to do some of the work um prior to the school letting out uh which is essentially removal of the exterior caul things like that that make a big difference in time saving. So as soon as school is out they'll be able the contractor will be able to move in and get those windows replaced in each of those three schools. And then also this morning um to go along with MIP grants this was the 2024 MIP grant. There was also a 2025 MIP grant for window replacement. And this morning we have a

131pre-bid meeting for window replacement projects at Berkeley Heights Elementary. Uh partially part partly that school has some windows replaced but the project will be to replace the rest. And also that meeting included a Pike Sabad Learning Center uh replacing windows in that school. So that pre- bid meeting was this morning. Um I don't know that once we have the bid opening if the contractor can get the windows in time to do that this summer. Uh so kind of you know there's a probably a 12week lead time on windows but I'll keep you posted once we know more about that. >> Well those windows make a big difference in the looks of the peeking. >> It makes a big difference and not only in the looks but also I mean it was literally plexiglass in these

132windows and now we have one insulated glass and it's just the it's a I mean you teachers have mentioned the difference in the sound difference in the way the light is not like you don't feel the heat coming in. Well plus they have the the shade systems now. So, it's a very nice allaround project. Uh, not just the look of it, but I think I said should make a difference in the heating and cooling. >> Certainly. Yeah, it certainly >> the sun coming through plexiglass and the >> uh air >> feels better. >> And uh that was it. >> Questions? Any more questions? >> Thank you, Mr. T. >> Okay, thank you. >> Very good. Uh, next on the agenda is naming of the Raywork building gymnasium. Dr. Sax. >> Yes, ma'am. Um, we received

133uh a correspondence that uh from a constituent that had requested that um the board consider um uh renaming this uh sum the Sumar Ramer School Gymnasium after Leonard Harris. Um, and uh, again, this was uh, I'd like to read to you just so you can hear what this individual had to say. Um, and they said that they were writing to respectfully propose that Sar Ramer School Gymnasium be renamed the Leonard Harris Gymnasium in honor of Mr. Leonard Harris, a lifelong Martinsburg resident, historian, activist, veteran, and preservationist whose contributions to our community are both historic and enduring. Born in 1936 in Martinsburg, West Virginia, Mr. Harris is a living witness to and and educator of Berkeley County's African-American heritage. As a survivor of segregation, he experienced firsthand the inequities that shaped the lives of black residents

134in our county, from segregated hospitals and schools to restricted housing and limited public access. Rather than allowing these stories to fade, Mr. Harris has dedicated his life to preserving and sharing them. Mr. Harris attended Sumar Rainer School, the designated school for black students in Berkeley County until integration in 1965. In later years, he worked tirelessly to ensure that the legacy of the Sumar Ramer would not be erased. Along with his wife, Helen Harris and several others, he co-founded the Sumar Ramer School, African-American Museum, and Archive. Because of their vision and leadership, generations of students and community members now have access to preserved artifacts, oral histories, and educational program that tell the story of African-American life and achievement in our region. Mr. Harris was also a leading force to push the uh to push to push

135to desegregate War Memorial Park. He played a role in advocating for the development of affordable housing, including the Leland apartments and Franklin Manor apartments. Additionally, he served on a committee that helped rebuild the Hill District. His service to the nation as a Navy veteran further reflects his lifelong commitment in comm community and commitment to our community and our country. These accomplishments represent only a portion of the impact Mr. Harris has made. For more than three decades, Mr. Harris has conducted tours, spoken of schools and community events and educated countless residents about the re realities of segregation and the resilience of the black community in Berkeley County. His dedication has strengthened historical awareness, fostered understanding, and enriched our county's educational landscape. Across Berkeley County, gymnasiums, football fields, and public facilities have been named in honor of

136individuals who have made significant contributions to our community. It would be both fitting and meaningful to recognize Mr. Harris in the same way. Renaming the Sumar Raymer Gymnasium in his honor would not only celebrate his lifelong service, but also serve as a permanent reminder to students of the importance of preserving history and honoring those who safeguard it. Most importantly, this recognition will allow our community to honor Mr. Harris while he is still with us, ensuring he can personally witness the appreciation and gratitude of the county he has served so faithfully. Thank you for your time and consideration of this proposal. I respectfully ask that you please review this um and if possible make the necessary discussions and procedures to make this recognition a reality. >> Thank you. Uh discussion >> I there are so many

137other things that were not mentioned about Leonard there. Um uh he was instrumental in working with Roosevelt Roman and ministers in the community for um the the establishment of the Martin Luther King scholarship dinner which has given I think a quarter of a million dollars um at scholarships to young people. U he worked with the Boys and Girls Club. He he uh he was the owner of a local club, the 701 club. Uh I didn't get go there. It was segregated quite frankly, but uh but he had some of the top name Mottown artists here in Martinsburg. It's some of those things. I can remember the the posters when I around town. Uh, I know Damon could go on with other other examples, but but he he was always willing to challenge the system, you

138know. He wasn't he wasn't hateful or anything, but he challenged the system and the system needed challenge. I I do question 65. I think we were integrated before 65 cuz I know I was at South uh with Jesse and and Georgie and all those guys and the ladies. So, I think we were we were going to school together before the but uh a lot of good things came about because Leonard led the way in a in a reasonable uh but uh unapologetic manner and I think uh the suggestion is very good. Finally, I do have some bad memories of the Raymer gym. I was in the boys club boxing and uh I uh I had a lot of black eyes in a boxing program. But it was a it was a even even that is

139but the award suggestion I think merits our approval at the appropriate time. >> I'd second that. Leonard Harris has just been a a figure in this community for many years and very well respected and I couldn't think of anything more fitting. >> Um I think another thing well the 701 club actually my dad my grandfather used to own it for my grandfather. Um but um another thing people don't realize is u that hill district that area up there they didn't have any sewer. They were just basically shacks without houses. >> Leonard was the one that got the city to put sewers there. >> Wow. >> By fighting fighting to get sew there because they weren't going to do it because why would we do that for black people or everywhere around there but they weren't

140going to put it there. So he got that done. Um like was said the uh integrated memorial park um which you know gi there my grandmother never went in there even when they were allowed she said no you wouldn't let me I'll never go in she never did >> um but I think Leonard is very deserving but I want to make sure that we get a good community feedback because I don't want to there there are other people that have done great things as well. call me letter was is amazing. Um, but I don't want to do it and somebody come later and say, "Oh, what about this and what about that?" So, I want to make sure that the community has an opportunity to support what we're trying to do or say, "Hey, here's

141some other people or something else you may want to consider." Um, I don't want to disparrage anybody else or forget about anybody else, but Leonard is definitely definitely deserving for all the hard work that he's done. And, um, like Mr. work without the anger and hatred that you would think because I mean I don't know if he well know he lost his brother his brother was hit from the car and the closest hospital they left him in the hallway as they didn't serve black people and that's how he lost his brother so and even through that he still kept on working and fighting u to reach equality you know which we're still trying to reach >> well um what are some suggest suggestions of what we need to do next. >> Well, I was going

142to say I wasn't I wasn't born and raised here. However, you know, listening to the stories that you guys have shared and and um reading the email um that Dr. Satch shared, I I I definitely think it it merits consideration and I just do echo what Mr. the right has said that we need to make sure that we're not overlooking another individual that could also be up for consideration. Um I think that Mr. Wright, you you echo it best. there are many people that I think would be considered that did many great things and I don't want to um discount that and I I love that um there are many people that we could consider that did many great things for our community. Um and I'm sad that it took this long. >> I agree.

143>> I'm sad that it took this long. Only thing I question about add question too. >> What you said is that when we've named things after other individuals, I don't know that we went to that great length of >> um that's my my question. I wasn't saying let's uh wait much much longer. I'm saying my suggestion is let's move ahead and while we're moving ahead listen to the public as well. So if we don't get anything saying, "Oh, no, don't do it." >> Then we can just I'm in agreement. >> That's that's what I've I'm I'm in agreement with that's way that Wade Longhead. >> I don't hear anything else. There you go, Mr. Harris. We want to make sure you're honored while you're still with us. >> What's the suggestion of how to do

144that? Put something on our website. Send something else. Well, I mean, well, I think if there's a an request by the board to put them on the next agenda, that that in of itself is appropriate notice to the public and um we could definitely put it on a or a future agenda. If you want to say this agenda or what have you, we can do that. And I think that's appropriate notice um you know, for for people to provide feedback. >> Next one's fine. That's >> Yeah. >> Next, please. >> Yeah, the next one. >> Yeah. Yeah. I'd love to see us be able to to figure out how to get my desire be able to accomplish this. I I Mr. Murphy, this is something that that and I'm not trying to golly, I'm going

145to sound like an aegis. um you saw you were you saw the integration and so I think it would be wonderful to see you a part of this decision in in you're we're coming you're coming up close to your tenure being done on this board and so I don't want to lose that momentum with this either. for the next meeting. I think I'll still be >> You will. >> I know that. But I don't want to >> We are honoring him as well. I don't want to lose out on being able to do that. >> No. Yeah. Yeah. >> And with you. That That's what I'm saying. I don't I don't want to lose that on either one. >> Yeah. the next the next meeting. Um I I think what D suggested >> is is

146positive and I think we could do it at the next meeting >> and what Damon says there there are >> other people I mentioned Rose. >> Yes. >> Uh as another very deserving person for what she didn't admit. But uh I I'm thinking of Dr. Spencer. I'm thinking of just a number of people. But um Damon's father is a very uh awesome factor in this community and leading uh the community. served uh the ocean and gave me some black eyes. >> Uhhuh. >> But I won't hold that against well deserved or >> it was it was >> I know were they well served. >> It was the question. >> It was the lessons of boxing. But Jimmy Johnson really taught me a lot of boxing there. But uh but but in all honesty, I think

147what Damon suggested at the next meeting when we did >> recon. >> So we will bring this back on next board agenda. >> May 4th. >> Thank you. >> Mr. rights project. >> We wait for to go back or >> Oh, yeah. Um, well, let's see. >> Just don't get into the nitty-gritty that we defect. Yeah, >> thank you President Long board and superintendent Dr. Saxs. Uh our goal when our charge from administration from you was to provide a balanced budget and address the uh declining enrollment through SAT and to find a way to increase our salary schedule. This budget does all So this process started for us back in February. We met with all the principles from all the uh the schools and then it continued with meetings with internal staff, directors and executive

148directors from central office. We're at the point now uh where we're bringing to you tonight a budget that we deem to be complete to this point so we can get it that's a class two leg in the newspaper before we have our public hearing back. So that's the goal tonight. Uh obviously we had recommendations for doing some staff. We process those through this process. Okay. We're going to start with the fund 21. It's a debt service fund. It's the easiest one to start with with that. This is to pay back our debt service for the uh 2023 bonds that were sold. Wait, Mr. Right. >> Sure. >> Yeah. I don't want to get into the rest of it to >> Yeah. >> You remember when we sold sold the bonds? >> Yeah. Thank you, sir.

149Yeah. >> Well, Mr. B, here's a question. >> Okay. You want to do now or you wait? >> No, I just wanted to I just want to show you something real quick. >> Yes. >> This was the amount I was referring to. That's like special construction. >> Yes. >> That is that over and above uh >> no that be the total cost for all special ed and the general fund. >> Okay. I just want to go short. It's understanding. >> So the first key here to get back to it is our debt service fund. Again, this is pay back the 2022 bonds that we sold. There's a principal interest piece to that. So we collect our bond revenue to pay this back. The principal amount for spirit 27 is 6,695,000 and the interest piece of

150that is 4,311,600 and that believe reserves of $2 million and that accounts for the total budget for fun 2020 that service fund is 33 million 6,600 and the next fund is fund 61 special projects fund. These are restricted funds or federal grants. some state grants and mostly in this budget here is our child nutrition program. Uh we do get grants throughout the year that were built upon this. But this is our base starting point. The total budget for our projects and fund 61 is 37 million and that's the handout sheets that have been detailed question. Um but again the large piece of that is our capital I'm sorry on child nutrition and food services 22,115,413 that includes the staff and food costs and and milk and dairy and all those. So that funding is 37,27960.

151Now the feed of our program will be the the general fund plus the lapidar restriction fund is what we control as a district and you've seen this uh before. This is our fun balance care board and again the charge was to divide or project out of balance budget and if you see in the last column we are estimating to carry over the 30 million8201 194 which is our projected ending fund balance at the end of the 26 when we get there. So this budget again will maintain that flatline for the unrestricted fund balance. What was that number you anticipated the >> that's 30 million8204. >> So this chart here represents our general fund revenues. Our total budget for fun our general fund is 323,69,116. As you can see, the biggest piece of that is the

152state uh allocation, which is 53%, but remember, they absorb 85% of our funding for our local revenues for our local taxes as part of the state aid funding. Um the next largest part is our local taxes, and that's about 113 million. If you see that from the peach colored sheets or the south colored sheet, the next is our federal share. Again, that's mostly Medicaid when we're talking about the general fund. and our RTC program and then the reserves here on this chart the green path bar and so reserves that is what we're carrying forward to start the year we're estimating 25 million to start as I spoke with Mr. market earlier that doesn't include the whole carry about 30 million we just talked about. We wait till we finish out the current year that we're

153in and then we'll do what's called carryover entries in July for the rest of that. >> Okay. >> So this this only reflects 25 million of that 30 million for the budget for the state at this point. >> Your your federal funds which are 2 let's see 2.1 >> yeah 2.1 >> million dollars. represents just 1% of our total budget. >> It's actually pulled 6%. This is only medic only. This is only the general. >> Oh, okay. I was I was sitting there. >> This is not the 30 million we were talking about for the special projects fund bought 60. This is just out of the general. I mean, we get all these unfunded mandates, federal IDA, and everything else, and then they're only getting this. >> I don't understand that. >> Yeah, but they

154do give us about 12% of the budget, right? >> I I would have to look at it's 30 some million of things to sheet that we're starting with. We'll get grants throughout the year. That's just our basic title one, title two, title four, our IDA. Those are major parkkins or the major federal ones that we grant for at the beginning of the year. >> Yeah. But my point is we get 10% of the funding were things which cost us which is just a fraction of what it what we have to spend to provide the service. >> Yeah. So this 2.1 million this federal amount is actually six but it rounds up. Um and again most of that's our Medicaid funding with a little bit of ROC. also get a federal fuel tax refund, but that

155those are small numbers compared to the the total 2.1. >> You want me to go back to the >> I see you looking at the special projects worksheet. What's that? >> No problem. >> So with that again, our total revenues is 323,69,116 and this is where it gets a little harder to to see, but these are general fund expenses and how we're spending the funds. What I want to point where obviously the major portion of that is our instruction obviously. But I wanted to point out if you start from the bottom of the chart or ground when you're talking about student supports that's 7% of our total budget and that's your attendance department your guidance department your health uh employees your PTS and OT's so they represent represent about 7% of the budget the next

156one over is instructional support that's our staff development our libraries our media centers that's about 2% and then the very next one over it's hard to see on this slide but the general admin is 0.5% % and that's uh the board uh payments and the superintendent department the deputy superintendent department as well and that's a 5% of the budget. The next one up is schoolman. That's our principles and 5% of the budget. Continuing up the central services 3% that is the finance department, the HR department and the IT department. Uh the next one is facilities. That's highest department. That is just down here with our custodians as well. The next one up is transportation. That's 11%. Then the small one up is community service. That's.1%. That's what's in our levy for uh public libraries. um

157parks and rag the health department of 4 then we have some capital out which is 7% and the next one is transfers at 6% measure of that as transferring funds out of the general fund to cover expenses for the child nutrition fund the staff that's in the child nutrition department have paid through the state aid formula so therefore we transfer that there's monies out also to cover the salary of child nutition and the next one up is debt service it's 7% that is our guaranteed energy savings this contract and I think we have 5 years left to pay on that. If you recall, we started that back in 2016 and we're down to 5 years left to look at. It's a CMTA contract and then again the 8% reserve and again get to the end

158of June 30 to 2026 and finalize the financial statements. We'll do a carryover to bring over the rest of the fund balance at that time. Mr. But um the so the general admin is is that um because everybody's going to ask how much of this is central is in this building basically. >> Well, it's the general that it's just you guys, the board and the superintendent department. And that total is page. You can see it. It's 1.6 million out of 323 million. >> What What makes up the superintendent department though? >> It's it's you. It's Dr. Woods, Dr. Skoolie, um, and other expenses that we have along the way, a conference that you go to. Um, I think that the dues, >> Miss Manwell, is it Jessica Manuel? >> She's actually on 12560. She's actually

159fall under the central services. >> Okay. Okay. >> But if if if somebody were to say, "Okay, how much of this is the board office?" And you would say the u >> the Queen Street and this office and Raymer and all all of those different little spaces. It would it would not just be central administration. It'd also be central services. >> Correct. >> And >> Student support >> attendance guides. But that's also some those are classroom schools as well. when you get to the nurses and OT's and PTS they're counselors and counselors. >> Yeah. >> So, so but it's it's basically it's not just a item here. It's the >> correct >> the follow. >> Yes. >> It's the way we reported on based on state accounts that we use and it's also how we

160summarize the audit year. So this system presentation how we do in other areas we're giving your financial reports >> and to my colleagues. Thanks Justin. If you and and Mr. Mr. Buds has faithfully given me this, if you just ask for the certified list that comes out in November, you can actually see who's who's where and uh they gives you codes, the building that they're in and everything. And that certified list gives you every everything down because I uh I was asking him earlier, you know, how many employees do we have because this number the two numbers from the uh uh special revenue account in the general fund. It pass about 3,000, but there are more than that. We have more people than that. But you look at that certified list and you'll have an

161accurate picture of who is where and how much we're making. And you can then I I'll give somebody my wife wants me to give everything away. Uh and she wants to shred it, but anyway. Uh I'll give you about 20 years worth of certified lists and you can see >> where the and that. >> I'll take it. Yeah, you can you can have one of >> they're all I know probably three years are online. >> Yeah, multiple years are online. They're available department of education office school finance uh those reports are available there. Now the the the caveat to that is that it's a snapshot as of the first week in October we get grants throughout the year. We have attrition throughout the year. We have a new position that's placed on special. So that

162does quite shortly throughout the year. So that is a snapshot that that time right. So with that again our total expenses are 323 million,116 which does give us a balance budget in the general fund. So one of the charges we had from the board was to consider uh the staffing based upon the decrease in enrollment of the activities we had 200 this past fiscal year. Uh with that the state funding was 1.4 million. Again after meeting with all the principles the directors Dr. Sat Dr. Wizard Dr. schooling uh the staffing changes require working in three categories here of professionals in a school-based environment. Again, we're adding a school. So, we do have some administrative cost and staff staff the new school uh district offices. We did decline six decreased six positions and service personnel uh

163with a few modifications since our last work session is declined being reduced to 38. All that then say there's 1.5. So we clearly were able to cut the 1.47 that we're losing state staffing and personnel cuts. >> So the the plus 11.25 makes the uh professional over then uh 88 or 89. >> Correct. So it would be 77.95 plus 115 as of this point. again when we get certified students in October of next year and we also certify the uh the staffing list also that number will be adjusted at that point but again we're adding a new school system where come >> we also added interventionists um >> it was in lie of ECATs so >> that's going to obviously shift how that you know it's shifting positions from you know some service professional so

164that's that's also one of the things So again, I wanted to make sure that you guys saw and understood that we were able to cut the staffing based upon decline in enrollment with the system. Now this page here summarizes all the changes. >> I want to go back. We were we were able to reduce the the number of staff positions we have. We didn't really >> we have very few staff we have to cut. They were on transfer. And so I just want to make sure we're retirements or just make another position to get back their their role. >> Most of those positions will be absorbed position. >> Yes. >> So this page here summarizes all the activity of all the accounts that we looked at. Again, as I mentioned, we did the U excess

165levy and the regular levy at the beginning of this meeting is we met in $5 million from that that we get to keep locally again from our excess levy increases the state aid funding we just talked about that that's the decline of the enrollment that we had and again for the pre previous page it was the staff meetings what we were able to to trim from that uh the legislative pay raise and that was uh 1,560 per professional 800 74 service. We estimated that to be over a million dollars that we have to pick up because of the for the formula and out of formal positions PIA premiums that increase in many of the categories. Um and then the last the next two items is what we talked about as a board at the work

166session uh where we were trying to come in compliance with the housing allowance or PI premiums is 452,000 and then our board consideration to increase the pay table. That's where this board uh gets paid after. So this what this board wanted to make sure that we rolled up the housing allowances the PA offset and then in addition to those two items the board gave consideration for a increase for both service personnel $796 and professional staff $74832 together with the state's pay raise the 1560 and870 that I mentioned brings our pay table up to 50,000 for professionals whereas The current pay table is 46628 and for serve this was added to today's board member. So you probably don't see it on your online but it is up here. >> Oh that's that sheet >> that sheet

167is not in what you see there but it is up here >> and and then for the service personnel we moved from 27,274 a starting service personnel to 30,000. So that was the goal of our preparation to make sure that we could get to 50 and 30 starting pay in the state and and try to move up a few spots in the state rankings. >> Um Jim, when you say the legislative pay raise, um that's the fixed cost for the pay raise. >> So the state gave what they call equivalent of 3% pay raise and not just 1560. Uh we gave on top of that another $800 for 0 to9 264 PIA and then 748 for professionals. So it's $3,372 I believe was the increase in totality for the professional painting a service. Um I

168don't do the math real quick. It's uh it's like 2700. >> Yeah, 27270 something. >> Cool. Wait, going for for staff next year service and professional with the 3% pay raise, what is their um pay raise total for next year? So professional is going to be 3,000 >> on average that number >> 3,372 I believe is the professional >> but every professional see 3,372 in an increase in their pay table in their pay step and the service is around percentage wise that is roughly but we're going from 46 to 50 so they go 3300 46,000. Um >> and to the 7.23% pay increase, but again 3% of that average that's from the state. >> Yeah. >> And we have Oh, I'm sorry. >> No, I was saying thank you. We have well no we you

169all have to remind the employees next November there will not be a housing allowance uh check and you that we are doing that because of the Hancock County uh practice that just identified our housing allowances as not being part of the legal system way of compensating our employees. Um, another point that uh we discussed and we didn't put in the policy but you might keep it in mind is uh earlier in the presentation on revenue estimates uh uh the certain amount of local money grows. We we the employees will come in here and think you already can get a pay raise from the state but the board if they would start just trying to identify a certain percentage of that growth money now not all as much as it'd be nice to give it all

170but you'd have to keep some money for growing needs as well as a system but if you could just identify a percentage of that growth money at the local the 85% money and the increased values of new houses and everything going up. Uh you could you may not be able to give a lot of money each year but over time it'll become a substantial amount and we identified that by looking at the growth uh six seven years ago versus what we just recently did. Would you like to elaborate on that? No, I think it'd be prudent for the board to consider that as long as our finance is still allowed or as long as our enrollment didn't decline to not we had to spend in other areas and just general price increases. >> Well, and

171this board uh does consider that, but since there was three board positions up, we thought that that's not something that we should put in concrete. >> Yeah. >> Right. I think it should be your evaluation. >> Yes. Exactly. But we I definitely and I think this board feels that we definitely need to continue that practice. So >> clarification with the that roughly 7% that include that's not including their annual step increase, >> right? >> No, it does not. >> Okay. >> It does not. Um and again it also will factor into people in the 10 to 20 and over 20 because again that housing allows that we built inund dollar step increase up there as well. >> Yeah. and for the service break just to give you background that total went up about 10% of

172the pay table starting pay was >> but he I know he didn't fail to mention this but in 2008 market value on houses went down and you had a decrease in your local revenue. So you always have that hanging over your head when you're doing it. That's why you don't want to be trying to put all the money in because you had to have a cushion if you ever have to fall back. >> Yeah. >> Correct. >> And also you said combined it's about 7% but only 3% of that is from the state of death. So as a forward we did 4%. >> The total. Yeah. >> Which is still pretty low. >> Yeah. >> It's much better than what state got to do. >> Exactly. And will this I know you gave it to

173us. Will this be made this one be public at all? >> Yeah, we we put this on our web page once the budget will be finalized and and voted on. We have to know that we had to certify the pay tables for the state as well once we certified that. >> We did put all that out to employees when we told them draft. >> That was a draft, but it was still it was sent out to them. >> Yes. The draft pays. >> Yeah. Yes. >> For that. >> That's one of the reason is because I want the public to see because I think people don't realize how little value our legislature is putting into our educators and our servant personnel. I I'm looking at working 30 years. I think that's where you cap 30

17440 years. That's where you're going to cap that. >> Yeah. Slap in the face. >> It is. So I think the public needs to really see that and think about their own jobs and think about they're raising they're helping to educate your children and dealing with all the issues >> and when the public would see what they make and if they do this paychar professionals and definitely service made uh after 25 or 30 years >> PhD zero years of experience PhD $56,649. >> I mean, I I can't with that. >> They can't with that either. So, >> well, I know that. I know. I'm just like I No, they can't. >> I'm just I'm just reiterating that. >> I know. I And that's that's with like 10 million exclamation points behind it. I'm just I'm

175I'm flabbergasted that that our legislators um in other parts of the state >> think that's okay >> um ignorant and not not in I to to to how how little of a salary that is and think that that's just okay for our is that's just okay. It's okay for somebody to live on something like that. It's okay. >> That's not okay. >> It's okay. >> That's it's it's laughable. >> We're not going to solve state problem. No. >> No, we're not. I'm just This is commentary from the elected officials here. So, >> we're saying rest of us. >> Yeah. So, so with that, uh, then again the last item list is utilities, food, transportation, other cost. So, some costs went up, some costs went down. We're able to shift some cost from the general funded,

176special projects bond, whether it's step 7D or some other funding, title one funding. So, in total, you know, this balance is budgeted at 323 million dollars of the general fund for next year. And then lastly, we had some requests from the board of new initiatives. And again, when we met at the work session, some of these we need to put numbers to. We have put numbers to them to help you tonight. Um, this budget includes for CTE teachers to be allowed assisted. We want what work experience they have outside of the system. The request was also made to increase nursing allocation 750. We've done that. science club for teachers. We put in 5,000 for that. Uh trained pair professionals. We kind of do that already. So what I but here's what we actually have in

177the budget. In general for training service personnel, it's 98,334. Uh we have funds that are proposed this special projects step 7A um 7 D and then the general fund. So I think we have accomplished that. Now what it looks like is maybe what we need to discuss at some future point. Then I think the request was for two ISA ISS. We have one in the budget and that will be split between the few schools. And then lastly uh you know as we try to continue to uh hire retain and keep teachers teachers we have an induction program we've always done in the past with new teachers when they come for the first couple days of orientation. We provided them a supplement. we've added to that to expand that program. Uh and I wonder what Dr.

178Sax wants to talk more about. >> Yeah, sure. So, um this this is something that has been talked through, you know, trying to find ways to recruit and and retain uh staff that that um we we worked internally um on the instructional leadership side on trying to figure out how we can not only recognize what we're what we've done in the past for new teacher induction, which is uh I believe it's three days. If they do all three days, then they uh get $1,000. Um, and so we're going to structure that to where um, it's it's basically broken up into if if you're able to make one day, then you get a third of it. If you get two days, it's 2/3. And if it's three days, it's it's a it's it's the full amount.

179But then, you know, in in addition to that is a full year-long program uh, for brand new teachers to the field of teaching. Um well, and actually that's it's really a two-year program for brand new teachers to the field of te teaching where um there's going to be a monthly sessions for those teachers to go through where we compensate them for the professional learning that they do um after hours. Some of it's embedded uh some of it so it's so there's face-toface meetings, there's going to be virtual meetings, and then there's also some self-paced work. And we'll be able to compensate them for that work in their first two years of of working for us. If you're a new teacher from a different district uh or outside of the school school district here at Berkeley

180County, um you would be entitled to go through a one-year program of onboarding through our school system. And again, that's to be able to familiar familiarize yourself with um our curriculum, our our uh our our high impact practices that we um are emphasizing across our schools, those types of things. And so um I believe that um Mr. But that there's a this is a combination of both general fund and working with some step 7D funds. Correct. Correct. So um I I wanted to be able to showcase that this is something that we've worked on again and this is to be able to help um enhance the the uh onboarding salaries of of new folks to our school district. So I wanted to share that as well. >> Um when you say trained pair of professionals

181because we don't call them >> as service personnel. This is the service. >> It's the ECA. It's ECATs and AIDS. >> Okay. I want to make sure it's correct. Um, other questions? I want to make sure the board gets a handheld copy of this >> of the presentation. >> Yeah. >> Okay, absolutely. We can we'll print those out. >> Well, I know you had in the budget impacts um looking at decreasing enrollment potentially. I don't know how in contact we've been with the uh what is it the state treasur's office the panel st um if there's any prelim numbers that we've gone off of like how we uh >> well those are actual because with saving formula works you're funded from the prior October numbers so this is what we declined from last October to

182this October so our funding for 27 based upon this October's numbers >> we still anticipate a possible decline for 27 as world. >> I don't think they give us numbers, do they? Or even if we >> Well, we Well, no, they don't give us numbers until, but it's always a year lagging unless on the October count we increase. If we increase, then they'll get a payment in December. >> They get a payment in December that makes up the difference. >> Um, and yeah, so I mean, we're what we're looking at, and again, this is this was all very much predicted in our uh enrollment analysis was there was a law, maybe a slight decline before it pops back up. And um you know right now we're sort of holding steady maybe a few students less

183than what we had in October, but that doesn't that doesn't account for families moving to the area over the summer and >> possible additional prek >> and the additional prek because of the prek centers opening up. It it actually frees up some other places that we've had in other uh in other areas where we think that we might be able to add I think it's up to 200 additional prek students next year based upon our facilities opening up. So that could also increase enrollment in the district as well. >> It's only one 1% less than what we had last year. >> Correct. >> Yeah. So >> 1% of the 300 >> I know. I'm just saying >> 1%. >> So there's no further questions. What I plan to do is put this packet in the

184uh class two leeway of the journal this week so we can get it in to meet the 10day compliance with the public hearing for May 18th. >> Sounds good. Thanks, Mr. Go a lot of work. >> Yeah, your work is very all the way down school. I mean, it's a lot of work. Well, haven't I guess? >> Okay. Next on the agendas, um the consent agenda. Can I have a motion to approve the consent agenda presented? >> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I posted. Motion carries. All does the policy GAI solicitation as staff. Dr. Saxs. >> Uh yes, ma'am. Uh, Madam, President, board members, um, what you have here is, um, a policy that had originally had some, um, board approval, um, and there was a request to bring it back

185for consideration, uh, with some changes. Um, and I believe that, um, Paul doesn't, right? Um I think part of the request was is that uh what was originally proposed um had um line 16 and 17 um that was discussed which was notwithstanding the above the United Ways authorized by the board of education to solicit funds annually from board employees without additional approval. Miss Manuel, are you with us? >> Yes. What I see here though, that was not what was formally approved. Correct. >> The approved version did not have line 1617, the United Way sentences there. >> Okay. Yes, that was removed. >> Yeah. >> And and so then I think the request from the board uh was to bring it back to consider perhaps adding line 16 and 17 back in. >> Yes. Um, one

186of the things that, um, our communications director also, uh, and we didn't have any comments on this, by the way, I don't think. Is that correct, Mrs. Manuel? >> Yeah. When we put it back out with 16 and 17 back in, there were no public comments. And then we didn't receive any comments the previous time it was placed out either. >> Okay. Um what I wanted to share though is our communications um director wanted to also provide perhaps another thought of of uh for discussion and that is is adding um lines 19 through 22 which is in your attachment which would state that notwithstanding the above nonprofit organizations designated as official partners through an annual agreement may with guidance from the department of communication share information with employees for the purpose of awareness and voluntary

187personal support. Um, Mrs. Trumpman, would you do you care to elaborate on that at all uh based upon your just thinking about how that could work? >> Sure. Um, I I think that it um, you know, makes sense to maybe not name an entity and policy, but to go ahead and establish a protocol by which people could enter into like a community impact type of partnership with us. Um, you know, as has been discussed before, you know, we um do have a lot of students and their families who benefit from nonprofit agencies. Um, United Way is a very large umbrella organization, but I do realize that there are agencies outside of that that that also um support our students, but at the same time, we are also the largest employer in the county. And I

188do think we have some responsibility to be able to give back and and it doesn't have to be um financially but to just spread awareness and education and give our employees um access to ways in which they can support these organizations. So I think it that it sort of outlines that in the um the agreement that I drafted and um would follow an application process that we could be reviewed annually and um you know in an effort to you know to be able to extend this opportunity to other nonprofit organizations in the area. Um but also have some guidelines around what that exactly that looks like. You know, in the past it it was very different and how um there was uh workplace campaigns that existed. There was a lot of fundraising that happened um

189internally at different organizations and we had payroll deduct and and some of those things just aren't um aren't around today and aren't we're not able to do today, but we can share information. Um, so that that is this is just a draft of what that could look like. I love this idea. >> Questions for Upper Saxs or Carla regarding the change or the addition to the policy? >> Just well, I I appreciate and support what was just stated. Um the uh we also found out that people are are uh vulering on our property without without any uh prior approval or even oversight to make sure of of safety or they're just using our facilities for their gain which I think you all pointed out we don't want to see occur. Yeah. And that's that's a

190travesty for our staff. >> Yeah. >> Mr. Martin, you have something to say? >> I I app I like and appreciate the innovation and looking at adding this and as a very good compromise >> for us in the policy making. >> I love it. >> I I like it. I appreciate the four lines of policy. Well, it makes it um it makes it much more it gives us some depth to exactly what we want to do um without naming names. And so, >> but it gives us more awareness of what's going on. And I think that gives you guys insight from a communications department. What's going on? Who has access? Where where are they going? What you know, what's going on? I I just I love that. Thank you. I I from the bottom of

191my heart from someone who used to be in the school and do social learning all the time from folks. Thank you. Appreciate it. >> So with that, um, this has to go out for comment review. There's additional >> Oh, this is an action item. >> It's an action item, I know, but that's new new. >> Oh, well, we can always amend something and not have to put it back in. >> Yeah. Well, that's true cuz it's been out for comment review and this is the new language that's being amended after the policy to put back in. So, with that being said, can I have a motion to accept the >> or >> is theou reviewed by legal? >> I know because it's like an agreement document. >> It's not a the >> I don't I

192don't believe so, Carl. Theou we didn't have Kim review that, did we? Yeah, >> we can still have that done. You're not really approving the MOU, you're just approving the policy. We can always put that out. I mean, that's just a that'll be an internal document. We just wanted to share it so you could you could have that. So, >> I'll make the motion to approve policy. >> I I just wanted >> That's all right. >> Because I mean the policy lines warning does say through an annual agreement. Just want to make sure we're good. Yeah, we're we are we are good because it's an annual agreement, but that annual agreement will and I believe that the annual agreement would that that would be facilitated by the communications office and sort of signed off by

193what? Superintendent, Carla, >> uh or >> so based on the we would probably have to establish a little bit more of a a process once an application is submitted, but I would say once a year those agreements would be or those applications will be reviewed. Um, and then um, >> can they be brought to the board? >> Um, >> I don't think so. >> That's up to you. I don't I don't think that >> is necessary. >> Well, they aren't now. So, >> they aren't now. I would think need to be something that you're aware of. >> I think it would Yeah, the agreement would be between the superintendent and the organization. >> And I would also say that we haveus now that are not, you know, not approved and it's not a formal format.

194>> Yeah. But the but I have the the ability to sign off on them. I will tell you that I always have legal look at them. So even on these, we would end up having legal uh review those before I would ever sign off on them. Well, >> Yeah. I don't have a problem with like use scope of that. But I still want to any organization to have a grievance potentially with the with the agreement contract there >> or they not be able to, >> right? Good point. >> So, Mr. >> Martin never started out. >> So, Mr. Martin sec made a motion. You second? >> I second. >> Okay. With those motions, all in favor? >> I motion carries. Thank you. >> Okay, >> Mr. Murphy, we agreed on something. >> Yeah, >> I

195appreciate it. Thank you. Uh are we doing the nonprofit partnership? We um of understanding. Oh no, that was >> we had this for just gave us the u resolution of enhancing military organizations. >> That was just uh Mr. Han needs that signed by you so he can submit it to the state. We already approved that at a previous meeting. >> Okay. >> Do all do all of them need to sign it or just the board president? He only said Miss Long, but it would be of maybe more weight or just a a symbolic gesture if everyone wanted to sign it. Whichever. He just needs to submit it so we can make sure we're taken care of. >> Okay, we'll do that after the meeting. >> Okay. Next on the agenda is personnel actions. Mr. Cameoski.

196>> Good evening, members of the board. It's Superintendent Sax. Personal actions dated for Monday, April 21st, 2026 are as follows. Uh this evening we have one coaching appointment, six removals of coaches, and two coaching resignations. Uh we also have three retirements from extra duty contracts, and for healthcare, we have five new appointments and two resignations. Um on lines 21 and 22, we have two unpaid leave of absence for your consideration. Uh tonight, for professional personnel, we have two 17th pay appointments. Um, we have the annual appointment of our treasur per West Virginia code 18-9-6. Uh, we have 15 new professional appointments and I do have one change on line 32. That employee is being hired Hedgesville Early Learning Academy, not Edward Early Learning Academy, excuse me. Uh, we also have eight professional changes of assignment

197and one mutual agreement. We have 12 policy 5000 hires for the 2627 school year. Um, we have nine professional resignations and two retirements. Um those are all effective at the end of this year and we have 41 transfers um for professional personnel for the 2027 school year. For service actions we have three midday appointments. Uh we have two change of assignments. We have one employee um who unfortunately has passed away. Uh we have four resignations. We have three transfers and we rescended one transfer. And we also have three pH service personnel upgrades. Uh we have four new appointments of substitute service personnel and we rescended the appointment of one substitute service employee. We also removed one substitute uh from the service um substitute list. For professional substitute teachers we have one appointment of a professional

198day-to-day substitute and two resignations from the substitute list. Um tonight we are also issuing the following contracts for the 26 27th school year. Uh we are issuing 13 administrative probationary contracts, 10 administrative continuing contracts, uh 303 professional probationary contracts, 115 professional continuing contracts, 317 service probationary contracts, uh and 139 service continuing contracts. Um for the transfers and riffs, if it pleases the board, I'm going to go um group by group based on what we have. Uh there will be six groups total. Um for group one beginning online um 150, we have nine names on the professional transfer list for the 2627 school year. Um those are employees that did not request a hearing. Um for group two beginning on line 1061, there are 79 names um on the service personnel transfer list for the 2627

199school year. Again, those are also um employees who did not request a hearing. For group three, uh, beginning on line 11:42, there are an additional two names on the professional transfer list. Those two did request a hearing. Uh, for group four, beginning on line 1146, um, there are an additional seven names on the service personnel transfer list. Um, those folks also request a hearing. For group five, um, beginning on line 1155, there are two names on the professional reduction of course list for the 2627 school year. And for group six, beginning on line 1159, there are 19 names on the service personnel reduction force list. Um those are midday runs as well as um two um parts of a contract of two aids. Um and that brings our total this evening to 1,154 administrative, professional,

200and service personnel actions. Thank your consideration with superintendent access recommendation. Um, I would like to motion that going into executive session to discuss personnel. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I posted. >> Motion carries. It is under uh we'll go to executive session 6-98-4. to I'm sorry. >> Uh we're back in uh from executive session at 9:423 and we will uh move forth with the personnel actions. >> Yes, ma'am. Um, I'd like to, um, ask for approval of, um, line items 11:43 through 11:53 on the um, personnel list. >> And I need to recuse myself because I was not here yesterday. >> Okay. So, we will vote on um lines 11:43 through 114 53. Uh at this time, could I have a motion to approve those individuals to remove those individuals? >> So, move

201just to approve the recommendations. >> Approve the recommendation for FSboro. >> Mr. Right. Second. Second, >> Mr. Murphy. All in favor? I >> opposed. Motion carries. >> Just just a question for the city. >> In these um in these individuals, there's possibilities of other things happening for to benefit them. of the ones that were just approved. >> Yes, sir. >> Uh yes, they are all on transfer and so uh whether they're professional or service, um they will be entitled to positions next year. Um and so they're they're guaranteed employment for next year. >> Okay. Um, all right. Madame President, I recommend approval of the remaining um, uh, personnel list except I'm going to pull from consideration for tonight. Line number four, I think. >> Yeah, it was four. Um, make sure >> Yeah. So, I'm

202uh requesting so uh we're pulling line number four from consideration for this evening, but I do ask for approval of the um rest of the personnel action listed tonight. >> Uh you've heard the superintendent's recommendation. We're approving the rest of the personnel actions with the uh exclusion of line number four. Do I have a motion to that effect? >> So, move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I posted. Motion carries. Um, next on the agenda is legal updates. Do we have any of those? >> I believe we all do. >> Okay. Next on the agenda is adjournment. Can I have a motion to adjurnn?