Pocahontas County schools are in full operation as new superintendent of schools  C. C. Lester leads the staff and students into 2011.   Lester is a strong academic leader, keenly aware of the needs of students from all walks of life who bring with them a variety of personal goals. The board welcomes  Lester and appreciates his willingness to serve the schools and communities of Pocahontas County.

Terrance Beam is also new to the central office.  Previously serving as principal of Hillsboro Elementary School,  Beam also brings a clear vision of academic success and student development. The members of the Pocahontas County Board of Education look forward to working with these new leaders, as well as our continuing relationship with all parents, personnel and students in our system.

New board members Jan McNeel and Emery Grimes bring with them the concerns from parents regarding the school's Respect and Protect program.  Many know this program as the BIF program.  BIF is the acronym for the Behavior Identification Form used in this program.  These forms are intended to help teachers identify specific, repeated, behaviors which disrupt classroom instruction thus, providing clear explanations to parents IFdiscipline actions occur.  The behavior form is only one aspect of this program which we will discuss from time-to-time in this forum.  The board and school leadership are looking closely at the pros and cons of this program and are making the necessary adjustments to ensure its effective implementation.  The Respect and Protect program is intended to be used as a tool in the creation of a positive school climate where children feel safe and valued.

Board members Kenneth Vance and Margaret Worth attended training in Charleston where the primary topics of discussion were Vocational Education, Innovation Zones and Legislative updates.  Again, community and parental concerns continue to give voice to the need for strengthening vocational offerings, particularly the reinstatement of the welding program and strengthening of the Prostart program.  Senator Brooks McCabe and manufacturing leaders in the state were among panelists discussing the many opportunities available to students with interests in vocational and technicnal education.  West Virginia's community college system offers a variety of two-year programs.  These programs are an excellent option for either a four-year program or immediate entrance to the workforce, after high school graduation. Parents may find out more about these programs by contacting the guidance counselor at PCHS.

Each school and each community will face struggles and celebrate successes this year.  Board members hope that Pocahontas County Schools will provide technical support and personal encouragement to all of our teachers and students as they continually strive for excellence in academic achievement.