Troy
Troy
Breaking News: Dr. Phares’ New Beginning Commitments to Gilmer County
Dr. Phares, West Virginia’s superintendent of schools, was the featured presenter at the June 17, 2013 school board meeting.
Dr. William K. Simmons had invited him to Gilmer County to speak.
Dr. Phares initiated his presentation with high praise of Mr. Ron Blankenship’s performance as the State’s appointed superintendent of the County’s school system.
Following his presentation Dr. Phares opened the meeting to questions and comments from the audience to make it obvious that there were disagreements regarding Mr. Blankenship’s performance.
One criticism was that he had refused to keep the board and the public adequately informed of his achievements in making the school system better than it was before the State seized power.
Also, it became evident that Mr. Blankenship had imposed stiff constraints on the board to stifle its participation in decision-making processes after the State took over. The degree of restriction was exemplified when it was disclosed that the only actions the board could take during official meetings was to give the pledge of allegiance, and to vote on field trips.
The board had not been permitted to even designate agenda items for meetings or to bring up new business including important issues and concerns confronting the school system.
Another issue that surfaced was Mr. Blankenship’s decision to increase annual salaries by $3,000 for principals, assistant principals and program directors in the County’s central office while disallowing increases for classroom teachers and other school system employees.
After listening to citizens, Dr. Phares declared need for a fresh start to eventually enable the County to regain local control of its school system.
Audience members understood that he made the following commitments for the fresh start:
• Board members will be permitted to discuss issues and concerns at public meetings and be allowed to vote on motions although outcomes will be nonbinding to the State. State will review the board’s decisions made when reviewing the minutes of the meetings and then make decision whether to accept or refuse the Gilmer Board’s decisions.
• Mr. Blankenship will give scheduled oral reports of his specific progress in eliminating school system deficiencies to keep board members and the public properly informed.
• Program directors in the County’s central office should attend public school board meetings to present information related to their areas of responsibility.
• An expert on Dr. Phares’ staff will attend a board meeting to present statistical data indicative of the status of academic achievements in the County for use to designate opportunities for improving K-12 academic outcomes.
• Open meetings are encouraged to be scheduled to solicit public input for ideas regarding improved functioning of the school system and to promote public attendance and participation in school board meetings and decision processes.
• Scheduled meetings with teachers are encouraged to enable the board to learn of opportunities to aid teachers in performing their critically important duties.
• The board is encouraged to formalize goals to achieve for improved efficiency and performance of the County’s school system.
• Mr. Blankenship will be responsive to the public’s request for information including data subject to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
Overall, the meeting’s outcome was that Dr. Phares advocated for better ways of doing business with commitments for an improved exchange of information at all levels in the County’s school system.
GFP - 06.19.2013
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~~~ Readers' Comments ~~~
You can’t make this stuff up.
Dr. Unphares travels from Oz to speak to the stupid little people.
He obviously had no clue what is going on in this county. Praise for Blankenstein? What has improved under the fuhrer? Did Blankenstein rudely ignore everyone and pretend to be doing something important on his cell phone as he normally does? Does anyone have any ideas what he is doing on that phone? Simmons must have been about ready to burst with pride. He brought a biggy into the county. If the county could buy Bill for what he is worth and sell him for what he thinks he is worth, our money problems would be solved.
I’m going to print this story out and date it. I just can’t figure out whether to file it under “lies” or “humor”.
Y’all will have to excuse me now. I’m headed for the vomitorium.
By Burnt Weiney on 06.19.2013
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CommunityConcerns™: Fairness of Mr. Ron Blankenship’s Pay Raises For Top Administrators Onl
Mr. Ronald Blankenship awarded $3,000 per year pay raises to school principals, assistant principals and individuals with director positions in the central office.
Classroom teachers and other employees were left out.
Mr. Blankenship made the decision without informing members of the County’s School Board, and he made no pretense that the pay raises were merit based. Instead, he rationalized that his decision to upgrade salaries for a select few was necessary to make the County more competitive in recruiting and retaining professionals.
It is reasonable to have competitive compensation for all employees on the County’s payroll. However, when all monetary rewards go to top administrators that mistake smells of mismanagement and insensitivity to be fair to all employees to maintain high morale.
High morale is critical to reinforce the conviction among all employees that they are appreciated as essential contributors to organizational success.
Skillful administrators know this and it is why salary increases are used to promote commitments of employees to strive together cohesively to achieve organizational success, and to forge an overall “corporate” culture of belief that productive work reaps personal rewards. Although most employees in the County’s school system were short-changed, most of them will continue as usual with high levels of performance regardless of positions they hold to be tributes to the quality of citizens in our school system.
Going beyond the County, surely Mr. Charles Heinlein Mr. Ted Matterin, and Dr. Phares, the superintendent of West Virginia schools, were involved in restricting pay raises to top administrators.
If any of them was involved they too deserve criticism for the inequitable way our school system’s employees were treated.
If the high level administrators were not involved with the decision to award a few, this is definite proof that Mr. Blankenship is authorized by the State to act autonomously, similar to a dictator, in allocating the County’s money without being subject to any form of checks and balances necessary in a democracy.
Perhaps this disgustful pay debacle deserves to escalate to be a formal grievance from the West Virginia Education Association.
GFP - 06.19.2013
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~~~ Readers' Comments ~~~
Dr. Phares permitted himself to be blind sided by assuming that all he had heard from his State operatives told the full story. After delivering his carefully drafted talking points everything went down hill from there and Ted Matterin was there to mouth what he thought Dr. Phares should say next. Dr. Phares was astute enough to realize what had happened to the County and he used his good judgement to do what was right. What we need to do now is to keep a close watch to ensure that there is no backtracking by the State. Let’s not forget that credit for getting Dr. Phares to attend the meeting goes to Bill Simmons.
By R. D. Haskell on 06.19.2013
It has never made a bit of sense to pay “administrators” top salaries when teachers get much, much less and are the ones responsible for the education of the children. In a world run by common sense, schools should be run by the teachers who teach the children, not “administrators”. Parents and teachers together would do a much more effective job of making sure children were receiving the best possible education for each individual child.
This “one size fits all” nonsense has gone far beyond ridiculous. Paying administrators and directors to sit in offices and run the schools is tantamount to putting a tractor trailer on the highway and sitting in a dark room with a joy stick to run it.
By Karen Pennebaker on 06.19.2013
o Mr. Phares was blindsided? You think? Or was it just show?
If that truly was the case, it would indicate clearly that feedback from Blankenship, Mattern, and Heinline has been:
(1) Lacking (2) Incomplete (3) With held (4) Dishonest OR all of these.
If Mr. Phares and Mr. Linger have been taken across by these employees of theirs, then it is past time to clean house of the incompetent and inept employees.
We now >know< that Mr. Phares >knows< there is something emitting a foul odor in this whole Gilmer County saga.
Mr. Phares we appreciate your presence here in Gilmer. Thank you. Now maybe you are getting a better picture of
the inadequacies of your underlings. We are waiting for you to do something now.
By thanks for the visit on 06.19.2013
This issue of raises simply indicates the “dictator mindset” of Ronald Blankenship that has permeated since his first day on the job?
It is also a move to “own employees”?
By Al C. on 06.19.2013
This scandal is an example of what happens when checks and balances are removed after a school board is stripped of authority. When elite people at the top have absolute control they always ensure that their interests are served first and if they can get by with it there is never any trickle down money left. Our school system is comprised of dedicated employees including custodians, maintenance people, school bus drivers, cooks, secretaries, aids, teachers, and others. All of them working together make the school system function. Elitists don’t understand it, but even a few hundred dollars more a year would have meant lots to the left out employees. Worst of all the scandal sends a distinct message that merit has nothing to do with monetary rewards. If the principal at Normantown with its highest achievement rating in the County had been singled out for a pay increase citizens would have been glad for her, but when the GCHS principal gets an equal sum with all the turmoil over there citizens exhibit stark disbelief. We can’t blame all the scandal on Blankenship because his decision had to be approved and maybe ordered from Dr. Phares’ office. What do you say Dr. Phares?
By Champion for Fairness on 06.19.2013
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Gilmer County Board of Education Regular Meeting - Monday - 06.17.13 - Today
AGENDA
Gilmer County Board of Education
Gilmer County High School
Monday, June 17, 2013 - 6:00 PM
I. CALL TO ORDER - Roll Call by President, William Simmons
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Superintendent’s Designee
III. Dr. James B. Phares – State Superintendent of Schools
IV. BOARD REPORTS – Board Members (Information)
A. CGCC: Mrs. Starkey (May 21, 2013)
B. RESA VII: Dr. Simmons (May 16, 2013)
V. TRIP REQUESTS
VI. CONSENT AGENDA (Information)
A. Minutes – May 7, 2013, May 13, 2013
B. Personnel
C. Budget Supplements & Transfers
D. Accounts Payable
E. Policies for Approval
F. Student Transfers
G. School Volunteers
H. 2013-14 Calendar
I. Position Supplements
VII. SUPERINTENDENT REPORTS
VIII. DELEGATIONS* (Information)
IX. ADJOURNMENT
* “Speakers are asked to express themselves in a civil manner, with due respect for the dignity and privacy of others who may be affected by your comments. While it is not our intent to stifle public comment, speakers should be aware that if your statements violate the rights of others under the law of defamation or invasion of privacy, you may be held legally responsible. If you are unsure of the legal ramifications of what you are about to say, we urge you to consult first with your legal advisor.”
Gilmer County Family Court Report – 06.12.13
On Wednesday, June 12, 2013, Family Court Judge Larry Whited held family court in Gilmer County.
He Heard two cases:
• He found no contempt in one case.
• He granted a divorce between David Scott Furr (40) of Glenville, WV divorcing Shannon B. Furr (35) of Troy, WV.
Former Troy High School Holds Annual Party
The former Troy High School alumni and students met Saturday evening, May 25, 2013, at the Gilmer County Senior Citizen’s Center for their annual dinner and party. The Alumni Association furnished meat and hot rolls while attendees brought their favorite covered dish. A delicious meal was served at 6:00 PM.
Larisa Gordon and Jessica Jones were introduced as two of the winners of the THS Alumni Scholarship for 2013-2014 academic year. They expressed their thanks to the group for their scholarship. One hundred sixteen former Troy students and at least 42 guests attended the festivities.
The first class graduated from Troy High School in 1928 but the first class represented this year was 1934 with Marie Barbarow Flaherty. The next year represented was 1945 with Reta Mason Law and Anna Heckert Tyser. Once we got to 1948 we had graduates present from each year. 1948-Edward Talbott, Hobart Prunty and Winoma Spurgeon Prunty; 1949-Billy Matheny; 1950-Jean James Flesher and Josephine Fidler; 1951-Jolene Cole Jones, Raleigh Royster, Bradley Pettit, Louise Radcliff Pettit and Golda Walton Whitehair; 1952-Annabell Lowther Barnard.
The Class of 1953 celebrated their 60th Anniversary with 8 members of their graduating class present: Dwayne Childers, Patty Royster Richards, Norma Willis Rutherford, Norma Talbott Mertz, George Bush, Shirley Heckert Lawrence, Charlene Cole Olsen and Barbara Fidler Wellings, as well as their advisor, Mr. Wendell Hardway. 1954-Patty Matheny Barbarow, Wade Adams, Ray Burkhamer, Patty Bonnett Burkhamer, Dorothy Knisely Radcliff, Eleanor Bell Nicholas, Gordon Short and Glenn Walton; 1955-Guy Kirkpatrick and Ronzel Somerville; 1956-Leon Ellyson, Mabel Somerville, Jeanie Radcliff Matheny, Jack Reed, Adrain Adams, Edwin Ware, Edward “Bud” Adams and Kenneth “Dee” Short; 1957-Arden Allman, Frank Baker, Carolyn Childers Buchanan, Rosalee Gordon Rollins, Carol Springston Lang, Sid Royster Lynch, Geraldine Owens Prunty and Jim Bailey; 1958-Donald Barbarow, Kay Clevenger Polan, Lu Royster Rhoades and Anita Ware Adams; 1959-Judy Yancy Brown, Richard Clevenger, Helen Keister Reed, David Gaines, Larry Radcliff, Don Butcher, Gerald Kirkpatrick and Catherine Allman Bailey; 1960-Linda Heckert Thomas, Louise Wiseman Riddle, Robert Kirkpatrick and Duane Burton; 1961-Rodney Somerville, Phyllis Barbarow Ruppert and Hannah Wiseman McCune; 1962-Betty Jean Kirkpatrick Mathess, Sharon Armentrout Weaver, David Cole and Brenda Bailey Somerville.
The Golden Fifty Year Class of 1963 had 7 of their graduating class present. They were each presented with a coursage and included: Clarence Mathess, Carolyn Barnes Langway, Kenny Joy, Lyn Marks, Shirley Matheny Yost, Vernon Ware and Jim Wiseman. There are 2 deceased classmates: Roland Gochenour and Gary Messenger. 1964-John Messenger and Sharon Short Edman; 1965-Gary Burton, Karen Gordon Cook, Dotty Wilson Lamb, Larry West, Sandra McCartney Parks, Dale Wilson, Jean Ellyson Adams and Harley Wilson; 1966-Dave Cook, Ernest Gum, Larry Mathess, Vicki Limer Mathess, Susan Garrett Messenger and Kay Neal Agriesti; 1967-Pat McCartney, Jim Matheny, Jack Teter and Larry Butcher.
The last class to graduate from Troy High School was 1968 and they celebrated their 45th anniversary in the conference room at the Senior Center with their advisor Mrs. Jean Flesher. Present were: Jackie Adams, Betty Bonnett Luzier, Ruth Ann Butcher, Terry Campbell, Karen Frymier Alloway, Rodney Mathess, Joe Matheny, Kathy Short Bosley and Suzetta Willis Burton.
The Gilmer County High School graduates beginning at Troy included: Sondra Gordon Nasseri, Mary Wiseman Alltop, Eddie Radcliff, Ann Radcliff, Barbara Burkhammer Owens, Barbara Beron Jones, Jessie Jones and Larisa Gordon.
This reunion is always held the Saturday evening before Memorial Day, so please mark your calendars for next year and invite your classmates to come too. We promise it will be a great evening!
Glenville: Sports Physical and Immunization Clinic - 06.03.13 - 06.04.13, Today and Tomorrow
The Gilmer County School Based Health Center will be offering a sports physical and immunization clinic on June 03 and 04, 2013 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at the Gilmer County High School Based Health Center.
Athletes: It is mandatory if you wish to begin practice in June, you must have a completed sports physical and up-to-date immunizations by June 10th. All athletes can take advantage of these clinic days.
Current 6th and 11th Graders: It is now required that in order to enter 7th and 12th grades, students must have additional immunizations.
• 7th Graders must show proof of a booster dose of Tdap vaccine which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) and a dose of MCV4 (meningitis) vaccine.
• 12th Graders also must show proof of a single dose of Tdap, plus a booster dose of the meningitis vaccine. If your child will be turning 16 before school starts, they must get the meningitis vaccine booster in order to move to the 12th grade.
If your child is enrolled in School Based Health, sports physicals and immunizations are free. If your child is not enrolled but has insurance, that insurance will be billed; any remaining balance for sports physicals will be written off. However, if your child receives immunizations and is not enrolled in School Based Health, the cost is the responsibility of the parent or guardian along with any insurance you may have. If your child is not enrolled through the School Based Health Center, contact 304.462.8500 to request an enrollment packet.
If you do not plan to attend the clinic with your child, you must complete and sign a sports physical form or immunization consent for them. No physicals or immunizations will be given without a signed parental consent. In addition to a signed consent, your child must have a copy of any insurance card(s) and a copy of their current shot record.
You can pick up a sports physical form and immunization consent at Minnie Hamilton Health System, Gilmer High School as well as from local businesses.
Appointments must be made in advance to participate in the sports physical and immunization clinic days. Contact 304.462.7322 to schedule an appointment.
G-OB™: Gilmer County Schools – Facilitator - Summer Academy 2013
Title
Facilitator - Summer Academy 2013Grade Level:
High SchoolDescription:
FOR THE POSITION OF: TEACHER
REPORTS TO: School Principal or Principal’s Designee
CLASSROOM TEACHERS’ RESPONSIBILITIES:
I. The teacher shall implement the programs of study. The performance criteria for this area shall include:
A. Bases instruction on adopted curricula for the school.
B. Demonstrates accurate and current knowledge in subject field.
C. Develops appropriate lessons to teach instructional objectives.
D. Employs a variety of instructional strategies to augment achievement.
E. Uses content scope and sequence in planning.
II. The teacher fosters a classroom climate conducive to learning. The performance criteria for this area shall include:
A. Follows established school discipline procedures that include West Virginia Board of Education Policy 4373, Student Code of Conduct.
B. Establishes procedures and rules that enhance learning.
C. Encourages students’ attendance.
D. Sets high positive expectations for student performance.
E. Encourages and acknowledges individual student accomplishments and appropriate behavior.
F. Treats students in a fair and equitable manner.
G. Accommodates individual learning differences.
H. Creates and maintains an environment that supports learning.
I. Communicates with parents.
III. The teacher utilizes instructional management systems models that increase student learning. The performance criteria for this area shall include:
A. Prepares and implements lesson plans.
B. Begins lesson or instructional activity with a review of previous material as appropriate.
C. Has materials, supplies and equipment ready at the start of the lesson or instructional activity.
D. Introduces the instructional activity and specifies instructional objectives.
E. Directs and adequately supervises students to be on task quickly at the beginning of each instructional activity.
F. Presents reading, writing, speaking, and listening strategies using concepts and language that students understand.
G. Provides relevant examples and demonstrations to illustrate concepts and skills.
H. Assigns developmentally appropriate tasks.
I. Provides instructional pacing that ensures student understanding.
J. Maximizes student time-on-task.
K. Makes effective transitions between instructional activities.
L. Summarizes the main point(s) of the instructional activity.
M. Encourages students to express ideas clearly and accurately.
N. Incorporates higher level thinking skills.
O. Assists students to develop productive work habits and study skills, enabling communication with parents as needed.
P. Provides remediation activities for students.
Q. Designs, delivers, and assesses student learning activities addressing the state adopted instructional goals and objectives.
R. Integrates a variety of technology applications and learning tools to augment student achievement.
IV. The teacher monitors student progress towards mastery of instructional goals and objectives. The performance criteria for this area shall include:
A. Gathers, stores, and monitors data related to student learning for use in assessing progress toward achieving the instructional objectives.
B. Follows grading policies and regulations.
C. Maintains accurate and complete student records.
D. Monitors and evaluates student progress.
E. Provides feedback on student work.
F. Monitors student attendance.
V. The teacher communicates effectively within the educational community, and with parents on a regular basis. The performance criteria in this area shall include:
A. Communicates student progress according to established procedures and policies.
B. Communicates regularly and effectively with students, co-workers, parents/guardians, and the community, and exhibits appropriate interactive skills.
C. Follows confidentiality procedures regarding students, parents/guardians, and fellow staff members.
D. Speaks and writes standard English clearly, correctly, and distinctly.
E. Determines and utilizes appropriate community resources.
VI. The teacher meets professional responsibilities. The performance criteria for this area shall include:
A. Adheres to established laws, policies, rules, and regulations.
B. Interacts appropriately with students, other educational personnel, and parents.
C. Participates in activities that foster professional growth.
D. Is punctual with reports, grades, records, and in reporting work.
E. Performs assigned duties.
F. Strives to meet county/school goals.
G. Commands respect by example in appearance, manners, behavior and language.
VII. The teacher demonstrates competency in the knowledge and implementation of technology standards. The performance criteria shall include:
A. Demonstrates a sound understanding of technology operations and concepts.
B. Plans and designs effective learning environments and experiences supported by technology.
C. Implements curriculum plans that include methods and strategies for applying technology to maximize student learning.
D. Applies technology to facilitate a variety of effective assessment and evaluation strategies.
E. Uses technology to enhance productivity and professional practice.
F. Understands the social, ethical, legal and human issues surrounding the use of technology in PreK-12 schools and applies that understanding in practice.
Job Location or School Name:
Glenville Elementary
City:
Glenville, WV
County:
Gilmer
Qualifications:
West Virginia Certification with working knowledge of Compass Odyssey Software
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Implements programs of study; Fosters a classroom climate conducive to learning; Utilizes instructional management systems models that increase student learning; Monitors student progress towards mastery of Content Standards and Objectives; Communicates effectively within the educational community and with parents on a regular basis; Meets professional responsibilities and demonstrates competency in the knowledge and implementation of technology standards as they apply to the classroom.
Salary:
Based on Professional Salary Scale for Degree and Experience
Closing Date:
2013.06.03
Comments:
Postin P13-001-09
SUBMIT: Appl; Current transcripts of undergraduate and graduate work;Previous two evals.
MUST BE RECEIVED BY: 06.03.13 – 3:00 PM
Apply to:
Ronald Blankenship, Superintendent
Gilmer County Schools
201 N. Court Street
Glenville, WV 26351
Fax: 304-462-5103
County Contact Email
“rrblank@access.k12.wv.us”
Cleo Virginia Turner
Cleo Virginia Turner
Age 94, a long time resident of the Good Hope Community, WV, passed away peacefully at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, May 28, 2013 in the United Hospital Center in Bridgeport following an extended illness.
She was born August 12, 1918 outside of Linn, WV, a daughter of the late Alva and Iza Davis Bennett.
On August 13, 1939 she married her beloved husband of 42 years, James Monroe Turner, who passed away on March 09, 1981.
Surviving are four children: Larry Monroe Turner and wife Mary Agnes of Greensboro NC, Sharon Sue Osbourne and husband John of Greenville SC, Roger Joe Turner and wife Mary Ellen of Clarksburg, WV and Mary Ann Gaston and husband Rick of Fairmont, WV; ten grandchildren: Tim Turner, Kathy Marshall, Christy Moser, Michael Turner, Daniel and Nathan Osbourne, Vanessa Schoetz, Jason Turner, Jennifer Owen, and Jarid Gaston; 19 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren, representing five generations.
She is the last surviving member of her immediate family, being preceded in death by two brothers: Gloy and Roy Bennett and seven sisters: Vera Davis, Ina Hardman, Opal Mick, Wanna Lowther Osbourn, Blanche Day, and Orpha Warner.
In her early years, Cleo worked for Glenville State College. She and her husband owned and operated the Troy Gulf Service Station and Grocery in Gilmer County for a few years. Until later years she was an active member of Eastern Star Chapter # 109 of Good Hope, Good Hope CEOS, and New Bethel United Methodist Church. She thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors, especially tending to her flower and vegetable gardens.
Friends may call at the Pat Boyle Funeral Home and Cremation Service at 144 Hackers Creek Rd. in Jane Lew on Friday May 31, 2013 from 12:00-2:00 PM.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, at 2 PM from the Pat Boyle Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Stephen White officiating.
The pallbearers are her grandsons: Daniel and Nathan Osbourne, Michael and Jason Turner, Jarid Gaston and Landon Owen. Interment will follow in the Good Hope Masonic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Serenity Hope at Rt. 1 Box 153-D Lost Creek WV 26385, where Cleo received loving care the last year of her life.
The Pat Boyle Funeral Home and Cremation Service is honored and privileged to serve the Turner family.
Glenville: Sports Physical and Immunization Clinic - 06.03.13 - 06.04.13 - GCHS
The Gilmer County School Based Health Center will be offering a sports physical and immunization clinic on June 03 and 04, 2013 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at the Gilmer County High School Based Health Center.
Athletes: It is mandatory if you wish to begin practice in June, you must have a completed sports physical and up-to-date immunizations by June 10th. All athletes can take advantage of these clinic days.
Current 6th and 11th Graders: It is now required that in order to enter 7th and 12th grades, students must have additional immunizations.
• 7th Graders must show proof of a booster dose of Tdap vaccine which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) and a dose of MCV4 (meningitis) vaccine.
• 12th Graders also must show proof of a single dose of Tdap, plus a booster dose of the meningitis vaccine. If your child will be turning 16 before school starts, they must get the meningitis vaccine booster in order to move to the 12th grade.
If your child is enrolled in School Based Health, sports physicals and immunizations are free. If your child is not enrolled but has insurance, that insurance will be billed; any remaining balance for sports physicals will be written off. However, if your child receives immunizations and is not enrolled in School Based Health, the cost is the responsibility of the parent or guardian along with any insurance you may have. If your child is not enrolled through the School Based Health Center, contact 304.462.8500 to request an enrollment packet.
If you do not plan to attend the clinic with your child, you must complete and sign a sports physical form or immunization consent for them. No physicals or immunizations will be given without a signed parental consent. In addition to a signed consent, your child must have a copy of any insurance card(s) and a copy of their current shot record.
You can pick up a sports physical form and immunization consent at Minnie Hamilton Health System, Gilmer High School as well as from local businesses.
Appointments must be made in advance to participate in the sports physical and immunization clinic days. Contact 304.462.7322 to schedule an appointment.
Public Notice: Vaccination of Dogs and Cats – 2013 - This Friday and Saturday
Gilmer County Assessor, Gary L. Wolfe, would like to announce that William R Moodispaw, DVM, will be at the following named places on the dates listed below, to vaccinate dogs and cats AS REQUIRED BY WV CODE §19-20A-1.
All dogs and cats, which have reached SIX MONTHS OF AGE AND HAVE NOT BEEN VACCINATED WITHIN THE PAST 24 MONTHS, are required to be vaccinated before June 01, 2013.
The fee for rabies vaccination will be $8.00 according to WV Code §19-20A-1.
Due to Dr. Moodispaw’s schedule, he will only be at the following locations on the dates and times listed below:
FRIDAY, MAY 24, 2013
08:30 - 09:00 AM Mouth of Jesse’s Run
09:15 - 10:15 AM Tanner
10:30 - 11:15 AM Heiney’s
12:00 - 01:00 PM Dawson’s Farm
01:15 - 02:15 PM Normantown
02:45 - 03:45 PM Cedarville
SATURDAY, MAY 25, 2013
08:00 - 09:00 AM Court House
09:15 - 10:00 AM Camden Flats
10:15 - 11:15 AM Sand Fork
11:30 - 12:05 PM Mouth of Ellis
01:30 - 02:30 PM Somerville Store
02:45 - 03:30 PM Troy School
Bradley R. Adams
Bradley R. Adams
Age 73, of New Concord, Ohio departed this life Friday, May 17, at the OSU Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio.
He was born January 12, 1940 in Troy, West Virginia and was a son of the late Denzel and Josephine Reed Adams.
He retired as a truck driver for Detroit Diesel, Byesville, OH.
He is survived by his wife, Anita L. Patterson Adams, whom he married July 11, 1959; daughter, Shanda (Perry) Burt of Cambridge, Ohio; son, John Adams (Cindy Boylan) of Canton, Ohio; sister Jackie (Ed) Broome of Glenville, West Virginia; brothers Edward “Bud” (Connie) Adams of Weston, West Virginia; Gary “Sam” (Jeanette) Adams of Cedarville, West Virginia; James “Jim” (Karen) Adams of New Concord, Ohio; sister-in-law, Sharon Adams Hall of Weston, West Virginia; brother-in-law, Bill (Ryta) Patterson of Heath, Ohio; grandson, Raymond Burt of Cambridge, Ohio; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.
A brother, Roger “Skeet” Adams is deceased.
Visitation will be Wednesday, May 22, 2013 at Ellyson Mortuary in Glenville from 11:00 AM until time of services at Noon with Pastor Bryan Groves officiating.
Burial will follow in the Troy I.O.O.F. Cemetery.
Ellyson Mortuary, Inc. is assisting the family of Bradley R. Adams with arrangements.
Public Notice: Vaccination of Dogs and Cats – 2013
Gilmer County Assessor, Gary L. Wolfe, would like to announce that William R Moodispaw, DVM, will be at the following named places on the dates listed below, to vaccinate dogs and cats AS REQUIRED BY WV CODE §19-20A-1.
All dogs and cats, which have reached SIX MONTHS OF AGE AND HAVE NOT BEEN VACCINATED WITHIN THE PAST 24 MONTHS, are required to be vaccinated before June 01, 2013.
The fee for rabies vaccination will be $8.00 according to WV Code §19-20A-1.
Due to Dr. Moodispaw’s schedule, he will only be at the following locations on the dates and times listed below:
FRIDAY, MAY 24, 2013
08:30 - 09:00 AM Mouth of Jesse’s Run
09:15 - 10:15 AM Tanner
10:30 - 11:15 AM Heiney’s
12:00 - 01:00 PM Dawson’s Farm
01:15 - 02:15 PM Normantown
02:45 - 03:45 PM Cedarville
SATURDAY, MAY 25, 2013
08:00 - 09:00 AM Court House
09:15 - 10:00 AM Camden Flats
10:15 - 11:15 AM Sand Fork
11:30 - 12:05 PM Mouth of Ellis
01:30 - 02:30 PM Somerville Store
02:45 - 03:30 PM Troy School
G-Editorial™: IT TAKES A VILLAGE
Annual Linkage meetings have been completed for all schools in the county. At those meetings Principals, LSIC members, Teachers and Students presented the state of the state of Gilmer County Schools before the Board of Education and the public.
The Students are to be congratulated. Each presenter was articulate, knowledgeable and captured the audience attention. Did you know we have aspiring artists, journalists, rocket scientists, meteorologists, broadcasters, documentary film producers, story tellers and homemakers in Gilmer County? That we do and so much more to be very proud of.
The Teachers must receive credit for encouraging those young minds and letting them know that they can dream and achieve. Both tenured and new are striving to make our schools a better place. Are we working to support them? That needs to be a question in the forefront when it comes to educating the children. Teaching professionals need to know that their hard work is appreciated. With the introduction of new curriculum known as Common Core the task ahead will not get any easier. We need and must support good Teachers.
Community attendance and interest was very evident at the Sand Fork, Troy and Normantown Elementary meetings. They were upbeat and positive as Principals spoke about their schools future goals and how fun the past year had been. Unfortunately the numbers were very low at the two Glenville school meetings. Is this indicative of a pocket of apathy or perhaps bad timing? Hope public participation improves next year.
It was disturbing that behavioral problems including high numbers of reported physical assaults were an issue reported at Glenville Elementary. The Principal emphasized a need for an elementary alternative learning center to handle problems. One expulsion was documented. There was also one reported at Troy. However the Principal at Troy said they use a room across from the office as their alternative area to separate a problem child, get them refocused and prepared for return to the group setting. That is a proactive response geared to keeping a child in trouble within a peer setting that should be applauded. Gilmer County schools are not overstaffed. It takes caring and quick thinking using the resources at hand to get it done.
Most are aware of incidents at the High School over the past year. The presentation was well done and very informative. Incidents of discipline numbers decreased from the prior year but included documentation of 3 expulsions. A local mother who will have a child entering High School next school year expressed serious concern and wanted to know what was being done about the bullying, bomb threats and drug busts. She reported that State Police said there had been an arrest. This was confirmed by the Principal who stated there were others under investigation but it was an ongoing Police matter and could not be discussed.
The Vice Principal and the State Superintendent voiced the opinion that these things happen at every school and went on to say that many times the first thing they hear of a problem is when the parent calls wanting something done about it. Administrators were in agreement that Parents not taking enough responsibility for their child’s behavior was a contributing factor to the problems here. The Mother reminded them she could not be concerned about other schools, just the one her child attended and demanded to know what was being done. Then members of the Board Of Education spoke up, saying they had no knowledge of any expulsions in Gilmer County. Expulsion indicates total removal of a child from the school system and of those brought before the board this year none had been expelled. It was asked why they were not using the alternative learning experience at the Career Center rather than expel. The senior member stated “We do not throw our children away.” Shortly thereafter the meeting was adjourned.
Since there was no administrative explanation, no denial, the question remains who approved the expulsion of Gilmer County Children? Who is in charge? By WV Code and advisement of the State BOE that is a function of the local board even under intervention.. No child is to be suspended beyond 10 days without being brought before the local board for hearing either in executive session or open public meeting as decided by their parent or legal guardian and may have an attorney present. They are entitled to due process under the law, not to be pushed around at the state’s discretion.‘’
To that end Parents must join together and stay involved guaranteeing not a single Gilmer County child will be tossed to the side. No one can do that but you. Expulsion is a very serious matter that can set the tone for the rest of life. It should be used only as a last resort. Nothing can be done to avoid it, no assistance provided when events are cloaked in secrecy. Apparently you must insist upon being informed. Information will not be offered. Attendance at all school meetings must become a priority.
State BOE, do not take arbitrary action behind closed doors. When it comes to how you treat the children here there can be no secret acts. Protect the student name if the family wishes but follow your own rules and state laws. Follow educated and well thought out procedures. Do this for the only reason you exist, Do this for the good of the children. Expulsion must not become a routine punishment. It solves no problems. It shoves students in trouble out of the door, away from possible help and into a world they are obviously not prepared for. Gilmer County doesn’t give up on its children.
~~ The Gilmer Free Press ~~
Community Concerns™: Delegates Walker and Boggs, Why Tolerate Withholding of Information ....
Community Concerns™: Delegates Walker and Boggs, Why Tolerate Withholding of Information for Gilmer County’s Schools
The second year anniversary for the State’s seizure of Gilmer County’s school is near. Seizing control of the schools by the State humiliated the County and to add insult, citizens have not been informed of improvements the State has made during its rule plus the remaining tasks to be completed before the school system can be restored to local control.
The failure of the State to disclose information promotes a belief that it is treating Gilmer’s citizens similar to conquered people under martial law. In addition to be denied information they have no say in how their tax money is used for schools or anything else associated with administration of the County’s public schools.
Despite assurances that the State’s knows what it best for public schools there is no credible proof that in other counties with seized school systems education outcomes have markedly better. Take McDowell County for an example. After a decade of State control too many of its children remain non-proficient in reading and math.
Honorable Delegates, you have authority to require the WV Department of Education to provide citizens with the following information and an urgent appeal is made for your intervention. The information is known to be accessible through your authority as legislators.
# By referring to the audit report preceding the seizure of the County’s schools what are the specific tasks that have been completed to eliminate documented deficiencies?
# What specific tasks remain to be completed before all the school system’s deficiencies are corrected?
# What is the State’s schedule for completing remaining tasks to enable citizens to know when the school system can be returned to local control, and why did the State fail to submit its official exit plan promised in 2012?
With the State’s present way of doing business it appears that it authorized itself open ended options to do as it pleases with Gilmer County’s schools while avoiding any accountability, an anathema to good government.
Public Notice: Vaccination of Dogs and Cats – 2013
Gilmer County Assessor, Gary L. Wolfe, would like to announce that William R Moodispaw, DVM, will be at the following named places on the dates listed below, to vaccinate dogs and cats AS REQUIRED BY WV CODE §19-20A-1.
All dogs and cats, which have reached SIX MONTHS OF AGE AND HAVE NOT BEEN VACCINATED WITHIN THE PAST 24 MONTHS, are required to be vaccinated before June 01, 2013.
The fee for rabies vaccination will be $8.00 according to WV Code §19-20A-1.
Due to Dr. Moodispaw’s schedule, he will only be at the following locations on the dates and times listed below:
FRIDAY, MAY 24, 2013
08:30 - 09:00 AM Mouth of Jesse’s Run
09:15 - 10:15 AM Tanner
10:30 - 11:15 AM Heiney’s
12:00 - 01:00 PM Dawson’s Farm
01:15 - 02:15 PM Normantown
02:45 - 03:45 PM Cedarville
SATURDAY, MAY 25, 2013
08:00 - 09:00 AM Court House
09:15 - 10:00 AM Camden Flats
10:15 - 11:15 AM Sand Fork
11:30 - 12:05 PM Mouth of Ellis
01:30 - 02:30 PM Somerville Store
02:45 - 03:30 PM Troy School
Kyle L. Emerson
Kyle L. Emerson
Age 81 of Cox’s Mill, WV, departed this life at 6:30 AM, Monday, May 06, 2013, in Ruby Memorial Hospital, Morgantown, following an extended illness.
He was born November 30, 1931 in Gilmer County, WV, a son of the late Racy and Rita Langford Emerson.
Kyle was a graduate of Troy High School Class of 1948; a graduate of Glenville State College in 1978 and did master’s degree work through Marshall University.
A 27 year military veteran, his career began in 1948 when he began serving in the Army Air Force. He was security services during the Korean Conflict and also served in Vietnam as a radio code expert. At the time of his retirement he was writing the security history of the US Air Force.
After his retirement he was co-owner of the Gilmer Guardian and was a former editor of the Glenville Democrat/Pathfinder. He was librarian for several years for the Gilmer County Public Library.
He loved to fish, hunt, bird watch, do genealogy and was a writer and poet.
Kyle was first married to Jean Cox Emerson who preceded him in death December 09, 1991 and currently married to Anna Emerson of Tulsa , OH.
There are six children: Kathleen Kimble of Glenville, WV; Richard Emerson and wife Celeste of Laurel, MD; Constance Gray and husband Willard of Cox’s Mill, WV; Charles Emerson of Cox’s Mill, WV; Patricia Bailey and husband Everett of Cox’s Mill, WV and Renita Benson and husband Neal of Glenville, WV; Three step-children survive: Brenda Gray and husband Bruce of St. Peters, Missouri; Richard Lister and wife Joan of St. Peters, Missouri and Judi Smith and husband Roy of Tulsa, OK; 13 grandchildren, 8 step-grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and 7 step-great grandchildren survive.
Funeral services will be conducted at the Ellyson Mortuary, Inc., 2 Vanhorn Dr. Glenville, at 2:00 PM, Friday, May 10, 2013 with Rev. Dwight Goff officiating.
Burial will follow in the Horn Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, Cox’s Mill.
Friends may call at the Mortuary from 4:00 - 8:00 PM Thursday.
Ellyson Mortuary, Inc. is assisting the family of Kyle L. Emerson with arrangements.
G-LtE™: Gilmer County It is Time to Act
Well Gilmer County, here we are. Our school system is still under State intervention and we still have unanswered facilities issues. For the second consecutive year the Superintendent’s request for SBA consolidation funding was denied.
The plan, one elementary school to be located on Little Crooked Run is an attempt to bring all students in to one central location. Once more a plan that fails to meet the transportation timeline requirements established in W.V. Code and greatly increases the cost. This is a plan to build a school that will have no gymnasium, no library and no auditorium. Is that what you really want? Do we really want to have to drive the children from a secondary to a main road in order to catch a bus? Don’t even think about the “hollers”.
I write this letter to discover if it is fact that the Parents, Grandparents, Caregivers and Tax Payers really want just one elementary school in Gilmer County. Will that meet the needs? We know it cannot meet the laws. President Simmons reports on the desire of every citizen he has spoken to and has reported to our Board of Education that they speak in favor of this one school. Is this reality or, given the fact there is no project started, would you like to see Gilmer County have the opportunity to vote on a bond issue to be used to construct a second school? Would you like to see a vote on that? One funded by Gilmer County Taxpayer bonds to run concurrent with funding for a second to be requested from the W.V. School Building Authority. If we are ever going to do this the time is now. Another funding cycle and it will be too late. Permission has to come from the State Board of Education to even try. We are quickly reaching the point of now or never.
Fayette County school district has been under state authority for quite some time but was recently granted approval to vote for bonds and avoid unwanted consolidation through WV State Board of Education. Fayette County was given the legal right and opportunity for their citizen’s voice to be heard no matter what the outcome.
Why shouldn’t Mr. Blankenship and State Board of Education Superintendent James B. Phares restore that same right to the people of Gilmer County? It is a question some feel should be asked and can be pursued if that is the will of the people. SBA Director Manchin has indicated to both the Democrat reporter and Coalition Facilitator they would look favorably on such an effort. It was the original deal.
If our right to vote is returned we can debate whether one should be located close to town but toward Sand Fork (already SBA approved) and possibly one at the also approved Letter Gap site, maybe one for 240 students and one for 155 to accommodate our remaining 395? Or discuss any other possibilities you want. Gilmer County can come to an intelligent consensus if given options and the opportunity to hear proposals and be part of the decision making process. Surely this is food for thought for all concerned Gilmer County citizens? If we funded a bond and consolidated to two schools would there be reason for the large excess levy that supported four?
Most know we don’t need 79 acre sites for an elementary school. A future high school was projected by Superintendent Blankenship, Principal Butcher and President Simmons in public meeting not to be needed for at least 15 years. A high school must meet the centralized need of the students for Glenville State College and Calhoun/Gilmer Career Center access and, given a greater amount of time by law to transport the older students, can be done. That must be for future discussion at a more relevant time. Today, the needs of our youngest are on the table.
Hope to see community comments to this letter, It will also be taken to the Glenville Democrat/Pathfinder as well. Mr. Ramezan, Mr. Corcoran, will you please run a public opinion poll asking whether Gilmer County feels the need of one elementary school or two and if they would vote for a bond issue to fund a second school? The time is now. This is the last chance to even try. After one school is funded it will be too late. The subject must be broached to the State before time runs out to try and make it possible. Neighbors, your consideration and feelings on this important issue would be appreciated.
~~ Author on File ~~
Daily G-Eye™ : 05.06.13
From the Glenville State Art Club bench project with students from
Glenville Elementary School, Normantown Elementary School, Sand Fork Elementary School
Troy Elementary School, Gilmer County High School, and Glenville State College.
Gilmer Public Library - Glenville, WV
Submit photos for this daily feature. You may select to have your name listed as well.
Send your photo(s) to “tellus@gilmerfreepress.net”
Gilmer County High School Graduate Interns at West Virginia Legislature
Jennifer Papouschek, a recent graduate of the University of Charleston, was selected earlier this year as one of a handful of Judith A. Herndon Internship Fellows for the 2013 Legislative Session. Jennifer is the daughter of Kent and Susan Papouschek of Burnt House, Ritchie County. Jennifer interned with Delegate David Perry (D-Fayette) this session
Jennifer attended Troy Elementary School and is a 2009 graduate of Gilmer County High School.
Delegate Brent Boggs (D-Boggs), Jennifer Papouschek and Delegate David Perry (D-Fayette)
She majored in Public Policy with a minor in Psychology at the University of Charleston, graduating Cum Laude in December 2012. Jennifer began working at the Department of Revenue, Office of the Cabinet Secretary, at the end of her freshman year as part of the Governor’s Internship Program. She continued to work with the Department of Revenue until she began the Herndon Internship Program with the Legislature earlier this year. Jennifer is no stranger to the House of Delegates, as she also served as a Frasure-Singleton Intern in 2010 with Delegate Ron Walters (R-Kanawha).
Delegate Perry spoke highly of Jennifer, stating, “it has been most refreshing and gratifying to have someone of her academic, professional and personal integrity to have shared the legislative process with for the session.“ As she wrapped up her work as the Legislature concluded the session, Jennifer reporting having a positive experience through the fellowship program. “It has been an outstanding and rewarding experience to have taken part in the 2013 Herndon Internship. I am honored to have had the privilege to work alongside our state’s distinguished legislative members of the House of Delegates. This experience has allowed me to put my academic work into motion which I am confident will only further my ability to positively impact our state in the future.“
Delegate Boggs was pleased to welcome Jennifer to the Capitol this year. “Jennifer was an important contributor in the legislative process with her intellect, strong work ethic, and communication skills. I am proud of her accomplishments and willingness to serve as one of our distinguished Herndon Fellowship interns.”
G-LtE™: The Emperor Has No Clothes
The Emperor has No Clothes
or you would say?
GC is WITHOUT a School Board President
Once upon a time, in the Land of Gil, there was a legal, active, school board. The Land of Gil still has a school board, but they have been reduced, made largely inactive by people in Kanawha County who are out of the reach of taxpayers. The Wise One in the Big House has seen that this is good and wants all to continue. This keeps people under control and also keeps them from pointing fingers at the Wise One.
Anyhow, in the Gil Land of Fairies and Tales, the Wise one has seen to it there is NO President of the elected school board. This is how the people are managed, shackled and kept on their knees. Oh yes, there is ‘one’ who is referred to as the ‘big man’ or school board president. But that is all an illusion. It is not to be.
You see, the Wise One and his underlings have seen to it that the school board in the Land of Gil, has little power or authority. No, that has been removed, taken from them. The Wise One controls all. The school board in the Land of Gil can only vote on school trips and expulsion issues. Yes, they are held on a very short rope.
So you see, to have a school board President, that the school board will choose that person form our legally elected members. The group of five. Oh yes, they did decide to call one of their own a ‘president’. But alas! That cannot be! They have no authority to so. That authority was stripped from them when Mz. Marple and company removed Bennett, fired the never on the payroll Simmons, and told the rest, ‘just come to the meetings now’.
So you see, there is NO school board President in the Land of Gil. It does appear that one is claiming to be President, but if there was a vote to elect Mr Simmons as board President, it was simply a superficial act. Illegal even? Going thru the motions in the Land of Gil.
~~ author on file ~~
Gilmer County Board of Education Special Meeting - 04.30.2013
SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA
Gilmer County Board of Education
Tuesday, April 30, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Normantown Elementary School
Normantown, WV
I. Call to Order
II. Pledge of Allegiance
III. Introductions
IV. LSIC Chair or designee:
The following areas must be addressed during the presentation, but in no particular order.
A. Describe how instruction is provided for students who have been excluded from class, suspended from school or expelled?
B. Describe the alternative settings available for students?
C. Describe how the in-school suspension program is used. If one is not present, are there future plans to implement one?
D. Describe any preventive discipline or student involvement programs, i.e., Peer Mediation, Natural Helpers, Responsible Students Program, that are in place.
E. Describe what the school has done to promote anti-bullying and prevent harassment.
F. In the event of a crisis, what procedures are in place to communicate and coordinate with local emergency service agencies?
G. Does the school have a discipline plan/code in place? In what manner has the plan/code been discussed with students, staff and parents?
H. Describe how the LSIC has analyzed school discipline data. What action steps have been taken to identify meaningful consequences and improve student behaviors and school culture?
I. When did the LSIC conduct its annual meeting to engage parents, students, school employees and other interested parties in a positive and interactive dialogue regarding effective discipline policies? Provide the agenda and describe the comments received.
J. How does the LSIC know the discipline code is enforced fairly and consistently? If the LSIC determines that student discipline is not enforced fairly and consistently, it shall transmit that determination in writing, along with supporting information, to the county superintendent of schools.
K. Describe school/student performance.
L. Describe school curriculum.
M. Describe the status of the school in meeting the school strategic plan.
N. Describe the status of the school in meeting the county strategic plan.
O. Describe the status of your PTO and how it functions with the school.
P. What other information, comments or suggestions do you have for improving your school?
V. Adjournment.
Linn: The Construction of the Inter-county School Should Begin Soon
In a few weeks, the beginning phases of construction of the first Inter-County school in West Virginia should start.
The school site is located on the border of Gilmer and Lewis Counties in Linn, WV.
Located on U.S. Highway 33/119 in Linn, WV
The school is to serve the students from Troy Elementary School in Troy, WV (Gilmer County) and Alum Bridge Elementary School in Alum Bridge, WV (Lewis County).
The Lewis County Board of Education approved Capitol Valley Contractors of Elkview, WV as the company to complete the site work at its meeting Monday, April 22, 2013.
School Property is both in Gilmer and Lewis Counties
The low bid was just over $1 million, according to Lewis County Board of Education President Paul Derico.
The Funding for the construction of this school is provided fully by the West Virginia School Building Authority (WVSBA), therefore the approval of the bids is necessary by WVSBA
The Lewis - Gilmer inter county elementary school will house students PK through grade 6
The enrollment will be around 230 students
The school is expected to open in August of 2014
School property is right about Welcome Signs for both counties
G-LtE™: MR. BLANKENSHIP, FIX THIS MESS
MR. BLANKENSHIP, YOU HAD THE CONTROL AND THE TIME TO PREPARE FOR THIS PROJECT, THE CONSOLIDATED GILMER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.
IN SPITE OF THAT THERE WAS NO CORE DRILLING, NO WETLAND ASSESSMENT AND NO OBLIGATION FOR THE LAND UNTIL AFTER THE DATE APPLICATION WAS DUE TO THE SBA.
AT THE CEFP MEETING TO SELECT THE SITE FOR THE CONSOLIDATED GILMER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, THE ARCHITECT ADMITTED THEY HAD NOT BEEN WHERE THE BUILDING WOULD BE SET.
DIDN’T WILLIAMSON & SHRIVER SEE CEDAR CREEK?
IT WAS ON THE MAP THEY DREW. DIDN’T THEY ADVISE YOU THAT A WETLANDS STUDY WOULD BE REQUIRED?
IT APPEARS YOU ARE DELIBERATELY HOLDING GILMER COUNTY HOSTAGE TO MAKE SURE YOUR CONTRACT IS RENEWED AND/OR THIS TAKEOVER NIGHTMARE CONTINUES. EITHER THAT OR YOU ARE TOTALLY INCOMPETANT. WHICH IS IT?
IT IS ABSOLUTELY FASCINATING THAT LEWIS COUNTY TOOK HOME THE MONEY ONE MORE TIME WHILE THE SOIL QUALITY FOR THE INTERCOUNTY SCHOOL IS SO POOR FOR HEAVY CONSTRUCTION THAT YOUR ARCHITECTS HAD TO RECONFIGURE BUILDING DESIGN. THAT IS WHY YOUR ENGINEERS WERE HIRED, TO PREVENT ANY “FORESEEABLE PROBLEMS” SUCH AS THE DESIGN CHANGE FROM GAS TO ELECTRIC BECAUSE THEY HAD NO GAS?
CALL THEM YOURS BECAUSE THE STATE HIRED THEM, NOT GILMER COUNTY. WE DID NOT HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO GO TO BID.
THE STATE WAS BOSS. WE’RE JUST A CHECKBOOK.
BUT IT SEEMS LEWIS COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT MACE WAS TOLD HOW TO DOT EVERY EYE AND CROSS EVERY TEE TO MAKE SURE THE INTERCOUNTY SCHOOL HAPPENED.
WHY IS THAT?
YOU SAID THE REASON WE DIDN’T GET MIP MONEY FOR DESPERATELY NEEDED HEATING AND A/C AT GILMER COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL WAS DUE TO “NASTY POLITICS” AT THE SBA MEETING.
GCHS HAS MOLD BUT NO MONEY CAME OUR WAY WHILE WE PAID FOR LEWIS COUNTY LAND. HOW MUCH MORE WILL THE POLITICS OF THIS SITUATION COST US?
AT THE LAST GILMER BOARD OOF EDUCATION MEETING YOU SAID THERE WAS NOTHING IN THE NEEDS APPLICATION RELATIVE TO WETLANDS OR ANYTHING ELSE THAT WOULD STOP FUNDING OF A GILMER COUNTY SCHOOL. OBVIOUSLY THAT WAS NOT TRUE.
YOU INSIST ON FOLLOWING STATE LAW DOES NOT APPLY RULES, GET IT DONE BEHIND CLOSED DOORS PROCEDURES AND NO MEANINGFUL COMMUNICATION POLICIES.
HOW’S THAT WORKING OUT FOR YOU?
PLEASE DON’T ASK US, ALL WE SEE IS LESS IN THE CHECK BOOK AND DECREASING STUDENT PERFORMANCE.
~~ A CONCERNED CITIZEN ~~
Troy Elementary Gettysburg Field Trip
Troy Elementary School Students Visiting Gettysburg
The fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students at Troy Elementary traveled to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
on April 08-10, 2013 to honor the battle’s upcoming 150th anniversary.
Almost 40 students raised more than $9,000 to take the three-day trip.
Some of the students raised the money by fundraising, while others had a more creative solution.
One student sold eggs, another sold jewelry they made, another cleaned for relatives,
another earned it by babysitting, and some had bake sales.
These students followed the soldiers’ paths at famous areas of Gettysburg such as Big Top,
Little Round Top, Devil’s Den, and Culp’s Hill.
Students followed in the footsteps of the men in General George Pickett’s famous Confederate charge.
The failure of the charge ended the Battle of Gettysburg and led to a Confederate retreat.
The students took the roles of specific soldiers from the 28th and 57th Virginia Regiment.
Boil Water Advisory for Troy Area Has Been Lifted
The boil water advisory for customers in Troy area, past Troy Elementary School has been lifted.
Gilmer County Board of Education Special Meeting – 04.24.13
SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA
Gilmer County Board of Education
Wednesday, April 24, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Troy Elementary School
Troy, WV
I. Call to Order
II. Pledge of Allegiance
III. Introductions
IV. LSIC Chair or designee:
The following areas must be addressed during the presentation, but in no particular order.
A. Describe how instruction is provided for students who have been excluded from class, suspended from school or expelled?
B. Describe the alternative settings available for students?
C. Describe how the in-school suspension program is used. If one is not present, are there future plans to implement one?
D. Describe any preventive discipline or student involvement programs, i.e., Peer Mediation, Natural Helpers, Responsible Students Program, that are in place.
E. Describe what the school has done to promote anti-bullying and prevent harassment.
F. In the event of a crisis, what procedures are in place to communicate and coordinate with local emergency service agencies?
G. Does the school have a discipline plan/code in place? In what manner has the plan/code been discussed with students, staff and parents?
H. Describe how the LSIC has analyzed school discipline data. What action steps have been taken to identify meaningful consequences and improve student behaviors and school culture?
I. When did the LSIC conduct its annual meeting to engage parents, students, school employees and other interested parties in a positive and interactive dialogue regarding effective discipline policies? Provide the agenda and describe the comments received.
J. How does the LSIC know the discipline code is enforced fairly and consistently? If the LSIC determines that student discipline is not enforced fairly and consistently, it shall transmit that determination in writing, along with supporting information, to the county superintendent of schools.
K. Describe school/student performance.
L. Describe school curriculum.
M. Describe the status of the school in meeting the school strategic plan.
N. Describe the status of the school in meeting the county strategic plan.
O. Describe the status of your PTO and how it functions with the school.
P. What other information, comments or suggestions do you have for improving your school?
V. Adjournment.
Boil Water Advisory for Troy Area
There is a boil water advisory for customers in Troy area, past Troy Elementary School until further notice.
The boil advisory DOES NOT include Troy Elementary School.
Troy Elementary School’s First Graders Experience Eggs Hatching
On March 06, 2013, Mrs. Barbara Miller brought 42 eggs and an incubator to the Troy Elementary School’s First Grade.
Students chose 3 eggs to place in the incubator; data was collected during the next 21 days while students waited for the eggs to hatch.
Following are the comments from the first grade students at the conclusion of the project:
• The eggs have recently hatched.
• The eggs are white. The eggs are really small.
• We wrote our initials on three eggs and it took twenty-one days for the eggs to hatch.
• The chicks grew some parts while they were in the egg.
• When they hatched they were wet. The chicks were moved into the brood box.
• Chicks like to sleep. They like to eat and drink.
• The chicks are getting bigger.
• They like to peep and climb.
• Chicks can be yellow, gold, brown or black.
• The chicks are well. We like chicks.
The students really enjoyed this project and we would like to thank the Miller family for allowing us to experience “spring life” in our classroom.
The fifteen chicks that hatched were given some of the following names:
• Squeaker
• Climber
• Tiny
• Peep
• Goldy
• Speedy
• Princess.
The chicks are continuing to grow as they reside at the Anderson Farm.
G-LtE™: Comments and Questions on Editorial Letter: “Are We Going from Bad to Worse”
This letter, its contents, its implications do not bode well for the children of Gilmer County.
Also disturbing are the two posts, one from R.Ross and the other from Gilmer School Facilitator.
These two comments are at the least contradictory. I do not know who “R.Ross” is, but we all know who the identity of our Gilmer Coalition Facilitator. As always, a signed response is likely to be more accurate.
The comments from R. Ross raise more questions than are answered. That is fine. Questions are always good.
Ross summarily states that the Gilmer Boards duties are limited to voting on trips and leading the pledge.
This being the case, why is board member Simmons leading the meeting? Apparently he does not have the authority to do so, but Blankenship allows this to happen?
Ross also states that Simmons contacted three groups who stated that it is “improper” for board members to serve a dual roll at meetings? That word “improper” is a long ways from being unlawful or illegal. The fact that Simmons was trolling for advice seems to give credence that he was aware of his position, his own plans, and he was simply laying groundwork to provide cover for a future confrontation?
Ross. Please provide the name of who “requested” Simmons attendance at Boggs meeting as well as those other than Armour. Please explain why Armour was chosen.
There are board members with considerably more experience than either Simmons or Armour.
Now to a very questionable part of this letter. Ross clearly states and I quote “Prior to the meeting there was language in the bill to exclude Gilmer County from having an equal say”.
The School Coalition Facilitator clearly has stated previously that the bill was all ready in the Senate Committee waiting for passage, prior to the politically motivated schmooze trip to Delegate Boggs office, if I have read postings correctly?
After talking with other sources, it certainly appears the intercounty governing bill was in Superintendent Blankenship’s office, prior to this Boggs meeting.
Ross, you may well want to continue your conversations with Simmons to see if you can get to the bottom of these opposing stories.
Is Simmons attempting to schmooze with the political crowd in Charleston to get Blankenships job? Is Simmons attempting to some other ploy? It has become very clear that since day one of this Gilmer School tragedy, the whole issue is politics and nothing to do with the welfare of our children.
All this is adult ego feed. Reminds one of the movies showing phiranna feeding on their victims.
Shame on of you involved in the politic game. How do you sleep at night?
~~ author on file ~~
Geneva Queen Farnsworth Adams
Geneva Queen Farnsworth Adams
Age 92, of Cox’s Mills, West Virginia, departed this life on April 13, 2013 at the Camden-Clark Medical Center, Parkersburg, West Virginia, following an extended illness.
Born August 08, 1920 in Gilmer County, West Virginia, daughter of the late Ivan and Bonnie Queen Farnsworth.
Mrs. Adams was a graduate of Troy High School, class of 1939 and a graduate of Glenville State College, class of 1942. She retired from the Ritchie County Board of Education, where she was a teacher and Principal for 34 years. During her time in the education field she taught school in Gilmer County at Cox’s Mills, Pine Grove, Gilmer Station, Oak Grove, and Rosedale. While in Ritchie County, she taught at Lawford, Auburn and Smithville.
She was a member of the Glenville chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. Geneva had a special interest in spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was a member of the Troy Baptist Church and recently attended services at the Horn Creek Baptist Church.
In November 1945, she was united in marriage to Glennard S. Adams, who preceded her in death on April 07, 2008.
Surviving is 1 daughter, Barbara Beall and husband Doyl Jr. of Cox’s Mills, WV, 1 son, David Adams and wife Sandy of Mineral Wells, West Virginia, 3 grandchildren, Jennifer Berg and fiancé Brett Hartwig of Petersburg, West Virginia, Jodi Law and husband Jamie of Harrisville, West Virginia, and Heidi Smith and husband Donald of Parkersburg, WV, 8 great-grandchildren, Ruger and Brogan Law, Bryce and Payton Berg, Carter and Carson McMinn, Mikayla and Brayden Smith, 1 sister, Isabell Reeves of Charleston, West Virginia, and 1 brother, Keith Farnsworth of Vienna, West Virginia.
Along with her husband and parents, Geneva was preceded in death by 1 infant son, Kyle Duane Adams, and 1 sister, Lorena Simmons.
Funeral Services will be conducted at the Ellyson Mortuary Inc., 2 Vanhorn Drive, Glenville, WV. 26351 at 1:00 PM Thursday, April 18, 2013 with Pastor David Sommerville and Pastor Dwight Goff officiating.
Burial will follow in the Troy IOOF Cemetery, Troy, WV.
Friends ma y call from 5:00-8:00 PM, Wednesday evening at the Mortuary.
Ellyson Mortuary Inc. is assisting the family of Geneva Adams with arrangements.
G-LtE™: Are We Going from Bad to Worst?
For just a few minutes imagine the following. You attend a public meeting of a publicly funded entity under state control in rural America. There are five elected representatives from your communities at a table. Every dollar of the budget this entity lays claim to comes straight out of the pocket of you and your neighbors in the form of taxes whether assessed by local government levies or federal and state taxation. Imagine that.
Imagine that one of those duly elected officials addresses the audience saying no matter what you want, what you need, he will see that you get it. He qualifies that with he is only one voice but he can guarantee you get what you want. Could you even conceive such a thing in general but especially if you knew those officials had no say whatsoever over that budget under state control. How long would any public entity with limited funding exist if they gave everyone what they wanted? Your thoughts might run toward “nice dream”.
Imagine that same elected official tell you that he takes another of the group sitting next to him, a personal friend, to “closed door meetings for his own protection” and constantly drops names of people in positions far higher up on the electoral or business ladder. How would you feel about that? Would you put a lot of faith in what you heard? Or would you wonder “What closed door meetings?” Who sent HIM to that? Who is paying for that? Might cross your mind just another good old boy politician in the pocket of the elite doing business as usual?
Then imagine that same duly elected official, still under state control, tells you that he has decided who can and can not speak at THIS meeting. Listen as he tells a co-member, duly elected, charged with the same duties of office, that they are not to speak as a citizen. Knowing full well the person was denied the right to speak as a member in a previous “closed door” meeting he took part in. That they can not do the job they were elected for and told CANNOT participate. What if, after all the self important political connection speeches and closed door meeting rhetoric, the same elected official with no more power that the other four beside him, does not want to hear any citizen in public delegation “comment” on what he feels is “political” without specifying what subject matter that covers. HE does not relate why his own insinuation of political influence is OK but be careful what you say everyone else not on any ballot in the state. Would you be real happy to find out freedom of expression was no more in your town?
After such a meeting , could you be confident that the other officials are able to operate free from undue influence, favoritism or threat? Would it encourage you to attend let alone speak at a public meeting ran in such a fashion? Would you personally feel free from undue influence, favoritism and threat if it came your time to speak as a concerned citizen?
What you just read is not imaginary. It is an accurate description taken from the meeting of the Gilmer Board of Education held at Glenville Elementary School April 11, 2013 at 6 PM in front of a captive audience of Teachers that had worked all day but had to wait for the BOE meeting to finish before their required Linkage presentation was allowed. The speaker was Mr. Simmons, Board President, his regular companion at closed door meetings Mr. Armour and the member denied any right to participate in meeting or delegation was Mrs. Starkey. Regular citizens cautioned as delegation Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Hurley. IMMEDIATELY After the meeting, Superintendent Ronald Blankenship denied ANY PRIOR KNOWLEDGE of Mr. Simmons intended actions.
IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT MR. BLANKENSHIP DID NOTHING TO STOP NOR RECTIFY THIS TRAVESTY.
PART TWO WILL BE FORTHCOMING—
~~ AUTHOR ON FILE ~~
Gilmer County Board of Education Special Meeting – 04.16.13 - Today
Special Meeting
Gilmer County Board of Education
Glenville, WV
Central Office
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
4:15 PM
I. Call to Order
II. Pledge of Allegiance
III. Lay Levy (Information)
IV. Adjourment
Troy Elementary School Stars: 3rd Nine Week Grading Period - 2012-13
Caleb Emerson
Chayton Godfrey
Tristan Huffman
Hunter McCune
Braylon Mencer
Kaelynn Moyers
Emily Williams
Tristan Nuzum
Kara Anderson
Britton Farnsworth
Stevie Starsick
Destiny Frymier
Kamdin Fox
Aiden Helmick
Tristian Anderson
Aaron Frederick
Shawn Gillespie
Harlee McHenry
Tessa Simmons
Amanda
Taryn Wilson
Ryan Beron
Hunter Helmick
Max Hulse
Joe Lilly
Sam Rose
Chris Smith
Nikki
Selena Wilson
Destiny Williams
Matt Matheny
Dakota Anderson
Zack Collins
Ally Frymier
Tierra Law
Garrett Matheny
Ty Wellings
Rhea Finley
Tristan Peggs
Autumn Frymier
Olivia Finley
Shayla Sipling
Levi Helmick
Logan Pritt
Morgan Yoak
Kaylie Smith
Taylore Whitehair
Jared Frederick
Hannah Hinter
Matthew Hulse
Macee Starsick
Kaitlyn Puffenbarger
CommunityConcerns™: Gilmer County High School’s 2013 Third Tier OEPA Rating
West Virginia’s Office of Education Performance Audits (OEPA) published its 2013 Report of School Ratings (www.oepa.wv.us) including those for Gilmer County’s five public schools.
The ratings in a decreasing order of desirability are:
• EA=Exemplary Accreditation
• DA=Distinction Accreditation
• FA=Full Accreditation
Among our schools the Normantown Grade School received the highest rating with a DA.
The other four schools including the high school received a third tier FA rating.
The high school’s diminished rating is alarming.
In any other WV County there would have been bold print newspaper headlines to address the suboptimum performance to cause citizens to demand corrective actions, but the news was not printed. Why?
Citizens deserve to know specific causes for the high school’s third tier rating.
Why was monitoring not done by the State to prevent the third tier rating, and most importantly what are the specific actions planned to elevate the rating to the EA category?
Governor Tomblin, Dr. Linger, Dr. Phares, Dr. Gus Penix, and Delegates Boggs and Walker, all of you were informed of our high school’s problems so what will it require to receive your corrective involvement?
Our School Board is powerless to act with its authority stripped by the State to emphasize the utmost necessity for your help.
This community concern deserves top priority attention in Gilmer County.
Gilmer County Economic Development (GCEDA), Glenville State College (GSC), those who caused the takeover (CUBIES), Gilmer Schools Coalition (G.S.C.), parents, teachers, and all other interested citizens, we have an urgent and immediate need to unite to achieve performance improvements at our high school.
Please attend future Board meetings to show community support for changes.
High praise is extended to Normantown Grade School’s students, principal Chambers, and its admirable teachers and staff for earning a DA rating.
With consolidated grade schools pending, proactive initiatives must occur to ensure that they are EA performers.
Because the Gilmer High School will not be replaced by consolidation, the community must demand whatever may be required, including a change of administration if necessary, to elevate its rating to an EA level. Anything lower than top performance will be unacceptable to prevent our high school students from continuing to be victimized.
Kudos to the GFP and Mr. Dave Ramezan for providing this important information to Gilmer County’s citizens.
~~ Author on File ~~
Area Residents Featured in GSC ‘West Virginia Veteran’s Legacy Project’ Book and Documentary
In September of 2011, Glenville State College established the ‘West Virginia Veteran’s Legacy Project’. This project builds on Glenville State College’s World War II Heroes Project, which records and preserves the experiences of West Virginia veterans from that specific conflict.
The ‘West Virginia Veteran’s Legacy Project’ focuses on collecting, preserving, and broadcasting stories of West Virginia war veterans who served in the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf War as well as the current conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Historically, West Virginia has had and continues to have the highest per capita military service rate in the United States.
Over two-hundred interviews with veterans and family and friends of deceased veterans have been conducted for the project. The stories they tell and the memories they reveal are creating a living picture of the brutality, confusion, and sacrifices of war.
The project has resulted in the publishing of a book and the production of a film documentary that highlights many of the veterans who have participated in this extensive endeavor.
The book ‘Heroes Among Us-A Tradition of Service’ is a collection of photographs, both new and old, with succinct vet quotes and short stories that have been collected by the project.
Braxton County residents who are featured in the book are:
• George Lee Fisher of Little Birch
• John Morrison of Little Birch
• Gary King of Gassaway
Calhoun County residents who are featured in the book is:
• Richard McCartney of Grantsville
Gilmer County residents who are featured in the book are:
• Willie Barton of Glenville
• Ann Jones of Cox’s Mills
• Joseph Kemper of Cox’s Mills
• Benjamin Mick of Cedarville
• Warren Matheny of Sand Fork
• Damon West of Troy
• Dr. Peter Barr of Glenville
• Dr. Ed Wood of Glenville
Copies of ‘Heroes Among Us-A Tradition of Service’ may be purchased for just $10 each.
The documentary ‘Tradition of Service’ is approximately 50 minutes long and gives a brief overview of West Virginians’ history of service in the military, while including actual interview material and photographs from the ‘West Virginia Veteran’s Legacy Project’. The documentary was shown on West Virginia PBS during November 2012. Kenneth Freshour of Sutton and George Lee Fisher are Braxton County residents who are featured in the film. DVDs of the documentary can be purchased for $10 each.
A package deal is available that includes a DVD and book for just $15. This would make a meaningful gift for veterans and their family and friends.
Purchases may be made at the GSC Foundation Office in the Heflin Administration Building. Orders may also be mailed to you by contacting Michelle Clowser at “www.Michelle.Clowser@ glenville.edu” or by calling 304.462.6380. A $2.50 base shipping charge does apply to all mail orders.
The GSC ‘West Virginia Veteran’s Legacy Project’ has also created a traveling photo exhibit which is now on display at the Beckley Veterans Affairs Medical Center. The photo exhibit and a traveling historical display are both available free of charge for display at other healthcare facilities, businesses, libraries, events, and organizations’ meeting areas.
To reserve the exhibits, contact the GSC Public Relations and Marketing Department at 304.462.4115.
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