| By Bob Weaver
The West Virginia State Board of Education held an open forum last night in
"The Commons" at Calhoun Middle/High School. "We are proud to have the
State Board in Calhoun County, their first visit ever," said Superintendent
Ron Blankenship.
Calhoun Superintendent of Schools, Ron Blankenship, introduces State
Board members
State Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Stewart
Public forum held in "Commons."
Calhoun School Board President Rick Fitzwater introduced members of the
local Board of Education.
Several educators addressed the body on issues from not enough planning
time in elementary schools to a need to have more instructional days during
the school year.
Longtime second grade teacher at Pleasant Hill School, spoke about
the need for more instructional time on elementary level
Teacher Gina Gherke presented a letter to the board addressing teacher's
needs for planning in elementary school
Dr. Pam Cain, a former Calhoun resident who has served as the Wirt and
Harrison County Superintendent of Schools, attended the meeting. She is
currently working in the State Board office as Assistant Superintendent,
Division of Instruction and Student Services.
Dr. Pam Cain, former Calhoun resident.
The group was introduced to the newest State Board member, Parkersburg
resident Barbara Fish.
New board member Barb Fish (L) talks with Arnoldsburg principal Sheri
Graham (R)
Education advocate, David Kurtz road his motorcycle to meeting to advocate for more
instructional time
Middle School Principal Jane Lynch talks about improved scores and laptops
as a "tool of education," not just a technical device.
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