Berkeley County Schools public meetings in 2022

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION - Cancelled

This special meeting of the Berkeley County Schools Board of Education, scheduled for December 20, 2022, was cancelled. The agenda included procedural items and a closed executive session for a student hearing, but no business was conducted.

• Meeting cancelled; no actions taken
• Executive session scheduled for Student Hearing 22-23-S001 (not held)

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education held a special meeting and approved a bond resolution authorizing the issuance of up to $124,940,000 in public school bonds (Series 2023). The resolution also adopted post-issuance tax compliance and continuing disclosure procedures. The meeting included approval of the agenda and adjournment at 6:09 p.m.

• Adoption of bond resolution authorizing up to $124,940,000 in public school bonds (Series 2023) with post-issuance compliance procedures

The Board of Education approved a resolution to issue Series 2023 public school bonds. The action establishes the principal amounts, maturities, and tax compliance procedures for the bonds following a November 8, 2022, vote.

• Approved issuance of Public School Bonds, Series 2023, not to exceed $124,940,000 (5-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION (Revised 12/16/21)

The board will recognize December's Volunteer of the Month Belinda Linton and members of the Panhandle Drug Demand Reduction Program. It will also honor fall athletics and arts accomplishments. The board will then vote on a consent agenda including minutes, trip requests, student transfers, use of school property, PASS volunteers, and budget supplements/transfers.

• Recognition of Belinda Linton as Volunteer of the Month presented by Back Creek Valley Principal Chad Pence
• Recognition of Panhandle Drug Demand Reduction Program members Matthew Fiorvanti, Nicholas Ketterman, Colin Ramsey, and Travis Sites
• Fall athletics and arts recognitions presented by Lead Coordinator of Health and Safety Dan Comer
• Consent agenda approval including budget supplements/transfers (no dollar amount specified)
• Approval of student transfer requests

The Board approved the meeting agenda and a consent agenda including financial reports, bill payments, and student transfer requests. The session primarily consisted of monitoring reports regarding special education, school nursing, and student retention procedures.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including bills, financial reports, and student transfers (5-0)

RECONVENED SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

This is a reconvened special meeting of the Berkeley County Schools Board of Education. The board will hear a presentation and discussion on education legislation collaboration. The agenda otherwise contains only procedural items: call to order, pledge, approval of the agenda (already carried), and adjournment.

• Presentation and discussion on Education Legislation Collaboration

The Board of Education held a reconvened special meeting to share information and requests with state legislators. No formal policy changes or budget appropriations were decided during the session.

• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (5-0)

SPECIAL MEETING (WORK SESSION) OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

This is a special work session of the Berkeley County Schools Board of Education. The board discussed student discipline and support, as well as topics for Education Legislative Collaboration. No votes were taken on policy; the meeting recessed to reconvene on December 15, 2022.

• Discussion related to student discipline and support
• Discussion of topics for Education Legislative Collaboration
• Recess to reconvene on December 15, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

The Board held a work session to plan a student discipline survey and determine priority topics for an upcoming Education Legislative Collaboration. No formal policy changes or budget approvals were decided during the session.

• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Established a committee led by Melissa Power and Jacqueline Long to create a student discipline and support survey for principals
• Agreed to include locality pay, retiree substitute caps, and percentage raises in legislative collaboration topics
• Agreed to include increasing SBA funds and technology security language in legislative collaboration topics
• Agreed to include increased funding for Smith-Underwood in legislative collaboration topics
• Approved Superintendent Stephens' request to compile a folder of concerns and topics for a meeting on Thursday
• Approved motion to recess and reconvene on Dec. 15 at 5 p.m. (5-0)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION (Revised 12/1/22)

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education is meeting to hear a report on guidelines for the superintendent search and a status update on bond projects. The board will also approve a consent agenda including budget supplements and transfers, vendor payments, and student transfer requests. Recognitions will be held for outstanding teacher Elizabeth Sanchez, FFA national award recipient Reagan Barrett, and A Caring Educator honoree Salena Loizos.

• Recognition of Elizabeth Sanchez as WV Foreign Language Teachers Association Outstanding Teacher
• Recognition of Spring Mills FFA member Reagan Barrett for Silver Placing at National Conference
• Recognition of Salena Loizos as A Caring Educator honoree
• Consent agenda includes budget supplements/transfers and payment of bills/invoices
• Monitoring items: superintendent search guidelines report and bond project status update

The Board of Education approved personnel actions and a consent agenda including budget supplements and bill payments. Members also authorized the Superintendent to negotiate a fee structure for architectural and engineering services related to school bonds.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including budget supplements, bill payments, and student transfers (5-0)
• Approved professional, service, substitute, and coaching personnel actions (5-0)
• Authorized Superintendent to negotiate fee structure for architectural and engineering services (5-0)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education will consider approving a new Africana Studies class as part of its consent agenda, along with routine items including budget transfers, bill payments, and financial reports. The board also recognized a teacher as a finalist for the Eddie C. Kennedy Award and named the Volunteer of the Month.

• Approval of a new Africana Studies class (item 6.11)
• Budget supplements and transfers (item 6.7)
• Payment of bills and approve invoices (item 6.8)
• Financial reports and treasurer's report (items 6.9, 6.10)
• Recognition of Valley View teacher April Rearick as Eddie C. Kennedy Award finalist

The Board of Education approved the creation of an Africana Studies class and accepted a bid for a warehouse freezer. The board also approved personnel actions and a consent agenda covering financial reports and student transfers.

• Approved Africana Studies Class (5-0)
• Accepted Warehouse Freezer Bid (5-0)
• Approved professional, service, substitute personnel and coaching actions (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 6.1-6.10 including financial reports and student transfers (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Moved student discipline and support discussion to Dec. 19 meeting

SPECIAL MEETING (WORK SESSION) OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education held a special work session to discuss state code, county policy, and case law related to student discipline and support. No votes were taken on policy changes; the meeting was purely deliberative ahead of a future regular meeting.

• Discussion of student discipline policies, including WV Code §§ 18A-5-1, 18-20-11, 49-4-712 and Board of Education Policy 4373
• Reference to a West Virginia Supreme Court decision and a JGG behavior document

The Board held a work session to discuss state code, policy, and case law regarding student discipline. Members discussed behavioral expectations, school safety statistics, and the Safe Schools Act. No formal actions were taken, and the topic was tabled for the November 21 meeting.

• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Tabled discussion on student discipline and support until Nov. 21

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education convened for a regular meeting on Nov. 7, 2022, handling mostly procedural items. The board approved a consent agenda including minutes, budget supplements/transfers, payment of bills, and various requests. They also recognized two National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists, a teacher for the A Caring Educator Award, and the JROTC for a Silver Star Community Service award.

• Approval of consent agenda including budget supplements/transfers and payment of bills (amounts not disclosed in agenda)
• Recognition of National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists Andrew Davis (Spring Mills HS) and Colby Shoffler (Hedgesville HS)
• Presentation of A Caring Educator Award to teacher April Cecil at Mill Creek Intermediate
• Recognition of Berkeley County Schools Junior Air Force ROTC for Silver Star Community Service With Excellence Award

The Board of Education approved a new drug-free workplace policy and special education contracts. Members also approved personnel and coaching actions and a consent agenda covering budget supplements and bill payments.

• Approved BC FILE: GBBAB 'DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE' policy (4-0)
• Approved Special Education contracts (4-0)
• Approved professional, service, substitute personnel and coaching actions (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including budget supplements, bill payments, and student transfers (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (3-0)

REVISED REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education will hold a regular meeting including recognitions for Inwood Primary as an Apple Distinguished School, a Distinguished Service Award, and Volunteer of the Month. The board will also consider a consent agenda with routine items such as minutes, trip requests, budget supplements, and bill payments. One consent item (curricular and extra-curricular trip requests) was removed due to a conflict of employment.

• Recognition of Inwood Primary as an Apple Distinguished School
• Distinguished Service Award to Amy Newcome, presented by Mountain Ridge Intermediate Principal Autumne Frye
• Volunteer of the Month to Craig Smith, presented by Mill Creek Intermediate Principal Beth McCoy
• Approval of consent agenda including minutes, chaperone requests, student transfers, use of school property, budget supplements/transfers, payment of bills, financial reports, and treasurers report
• Item 6.3 (trip requests) removed from consent agenda due to conflict of employment

The Board of Education approved the BC File Critical Needs Policy GAB and superintendent-recommended personnel actions for professional, service, substitute, and coaching staff. The board also approved the consent agenda, including student transfers and budget supplements.

• Approved BC File Critical Needs Policy GAB (5-0)
• Approved professional, service, substitute, and coaching personnel actions (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including budget supplements, bills, and student transfers (5-0)
• Approved Curricular & Extra Curricular Trip Requests (4-0, 1 abstain)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education approved the meeting agenda and several recognitions. It approved a consent agenda covering prior meeting minutes, chaperone and student transfer requests, curricular trips, PASS volunteers, use of school property, budget supplements/transfers, and vendor payments. The board also recommended the GBBAB "Drug-Free Workplace" policy for public review and comment.

• Motion to approve the agenda as presented was carried.
• Recognition of Kelli Frankhouser (A Caring Educator) and Casey Willson (Volunteer of the Month).
• Consent agenda items approved: September 19 and 27 meeting minutes, chaperone requests, student transfer requests, curricular trips, PASS volunteers, use of school property, budget supplements/transfers, and vendor payments.
• Superintendent recommendation to place the GBBAB "Drug-Free Workplace" policy out for review and comment (Oct 4‑Oct 17).

The Board of Education approved a three-year support services renewal for Dell VxRail data center hardware. Members also accepted a proposal from McKinley for pre-bond work and future bond project agreements. Personnel actions and a consent agenda were approved.

• Approved three-year Dell VxRail data center hardware support renewal for $134,695.25 (5-0)
• Accepted McKinley proposal for pre-bond work and future bond project agreements (5-0)
• Approved recommended professional, service, substitute personnel, and coaching actions (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including previous minutes, budget supplements, and bill payments (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

SPECIAL MEETING (WORK SESSION) OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

This special work session of the Berkeley County Schools Board of Education is largely procedural, with the sole substantive item being an Executive Session to discuss Advanced Construction Planning. The meeting includes call to order, pledge, agenda approval, and adjournment.

• Board will meet in Executive Session to discuss Advanced Construction Planning

The Board of Education met for a special work session. The meeting consisted primarily of an executive session to discuss Advanced Construction Planning.

• Entered executive session to discuss Advanced Construction Planning (5-0)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education held a regular meeting with mostly procedural items, including recognitions and a consent agenda. The board approved a consent agenda covering minutes, chaperone and trip requests, volunteers, budget supplements, bill payments, and financial reports. A staff recognition was given to Kaare Mejias of North Middle School as Service Person of the Year.

• Approved consent agenda including budget supplements/transfers and payment of bills.
• Approved curricular/extra-curricular trip requests including high-mileage trips.
• Approved student transfer requests and use of school property requests.
• Recognized Kaare Mejias (North Middle) as Berkeley County Service Person of the Year.
• Approved chaperone requests and PASS volunteers list.

The Board of Education approved the Fiscal Year 2022 year-end financials and various personnel and coaching actions. Members also voted to create a survey for local VA and VFWs to raise awareness of the Veterans High School Diploma Program.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including bills, financial reports, and student transfers (5-0)
• Entered Executive Session to discuss architectural firms for future bond projects (5-0)
• Accepted FY22 Year End Financials (5-0)
• Approved creation of a survey for local VA and VFWs regarding Veterans High School Diploma Program (5-0)
• Approved professional, service, substitute, and coaching personnel actions (5-0)

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION (WORK SESSION)

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education held a special work session on September 12, 2022. The board discussed support for a Letter to the Editor submission and then voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss the Superintendent's Annual Work Plan & Objectives. No other substantive decisions were made during the public portion of the meeting.

• Discussion of support for a Letter to the Editor submission
• Executive session to discuss Superintendent's Annual Work Plan & Objectives
• Motion to enter executive session carried unanimously (5-0)

The Board held a work session to discuss substitute teacher recruitment and a bond election. Following an executive session, the Board voted to approve an abstraction regarding the Superintendent's Annual Goals and Objectives.

• Approved abstraction regarding Superintendent's Annual Goals and Objectives (5-0)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education will hold a regular meeting including an executive session to discuss the superintendent's annual work plan, a recognition ceremony, a citizens' forum, and approval of consent agenda items such as meeting minutes, budget supplements/transfers, and payment of bills.

• Executive session to discuss superintendent's annual goals and objectives
• A Caring Educator Award recognition
• Consent agenda includes budget supplements/transfers and payment of bills
• Student transfer requests
• Chaperone requests and curricular/extra-curricular trip requests

The Board of Education approved Berkeley County Policy IBA and accepted contracted bids for the Special Education Department. Members also approved a series of personnel, coaching, and substitute actions.

• Approved Berkeley County Policy IBA (5-0)
• Accepted contracted special education bids (5-0)
• Approved personnel, service, substitute, and coaching actions except Lines #299 and #746 (5-0)
• Approved personnel action Line #299 (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved personnel action Line #746 (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved consent agenda including budget supplements and bill payments (5-0)

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION (WORK SESSION)

This is a special work session; no substantive votes are taken. The board discusses the superintendent's annual goals and objectives, procedures for administrative leave, and a possible relocation of board meetings to 401 S. Queen Street in Martinsburg. The agenda was approved unanimously.

• Discussion of Superintendent's Annual Goals and Objectives
• Discussion of procedures for administrative leave
• Discussion of possible relocation of board meetings to 401 S. Queen Street

The Board discussed the evaluation process for the Superintendent's Annual Goals and Objectives and procedures for administrative leave. Members planned to move Board meetings to 401 S. Queen Street starting September 19, while keeping work sessions at the Central Office.

• Approved the agenda (4-0)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education is deciding whether to order a November 8, 2022 election on a $124,940,000 bond issue for school construction and closure of existing schools. They will also approve routine consent items including budget supplements, vendor payments, and trip requests.

• Bond election order for $124,940,000 for school construction and school closures, subject to voter approval on Nov 8, 2022
• Consent agenda includes budget supplements/transfers and payment of bills
• Approval of financial reports and treasurers' report
• Chaperone and trip requests for curricular and extracurricular activities
• Student transfer requests and use of school property approvals

The Board approved an order to hold a November 8, 2022, election regarding the issuance of public school bonds not to exceed $124,940,000. The Board also approved the High School Supplemental Reading List and various personnel actions.

• Approved election for public school bonds not to exceed $124,940,000 (5-0)
• Approved High School Supplemental Reading List (4-1)
• Denied motion to reevaluate books with asterisks on reading list (1-4)
• Denied motion to remove obscene, sexually graphic books (1-4)
• Approved adding an asterisk to The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian (5-0)
• Approved professional, service, substitute personnel and coaching actions (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Consent Agenda including budget supplements and bill payments (5-0)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education voted to place a $124,938,350 school bond before voters in November 2022. The board also considered a failed motion for a daily minute of silence, tabled a high school supplemental reading list, and awarded a $210,875.53 waste disposal contract to Republic Services.

• Approved a $124,938,350 bond measure for the November 2022 ballot
• Failed motion to require a daily minute of silence in schools (4-1 vote)
• Tabled discussion on a high school supplemental reading list until next meeting
• Awarded waste disposal contract to Republic Services for $210,875.53 for 2022-2023
• Approved personnel actions including professional, service, substitute, and coaching positions

The Board of Education approved a motion to bring a school bond call of $124,938,350.00 to voters in November 2022. The Board also awarded a waste disposal contract and approved personnel actions, while rejecting a proposal for a daily minute of silence.

• Approved $124,938,350.00 November 2022 School Bond call (5-0)
• Awarded waste disposal service bid to Republic Services for $210,875.53 (5-0)
• Approved superintendent recommended professional, service, substitute, and coaching personnel actions (5-0)
• Denied policy for daily one minute of silence in public schools (1-4)
• Tabled high school supplemental reading list until August 15, 2022 (3-2)
• Approved consent agenda including previous meeting minutes and bill payments (5-0)

RECONVENED SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education will review and hold a discussion on the Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan (CEFP) and the upcoming bond election. The meeting is a reconvened special session. All other items are procedural, including approval of the agenda and adjournment.

• Review and discussion of the Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan (CEFP) and upcoming bond election

The Board of Education reviewed CEFP and bond updates, including potential bond amounts and specific projects for a November 2022 Bond Call. No formal votes were taken on the bond items; the Board expects a related item on the August 1, 2022, agenda.

• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

This is a special work session of the Berkeley County Schools Board of Education. The board will review and discuss the Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan (CEFP) and the upcoming bond election. The meeting includes procedural items such as call to order, approval of the agenda, and a recess to reconvene at a later date.

• Review and discussion of the CEFP and upcoming bond election (Item 4.1)

The Board of Education held a work session to review the 2020-2030 Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan (CEFP) and planning for a November 2022 bond election. Members requested enrollment and facility capacity data to study the suggested Bond Phase I project.

• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Schools Board will hold a regular meeting to approve a consent agenda including minutes, budget supplements, and financial reports. The Board will also discuss CEFP and upcoming bond election updates, a Talent Management Coordinator job description, and possible action on reorganizational issues. A key item is a discussion of possible purchase and/or sale of real property, which may enter executive session.

• Discussion of possible purchase/sale of real property (item 7.1), with potential executive session
• Discussion and possible action on 13 reorganizational issues (item 8.1)
• Review of CEFP and upcoming bond election (item 6.1)
• Approval of consent agenda including budget supplements/transfers and payment of bills (items 5.9, 5.10)
• Talent Management Coordinator job description discussion (item 6.2)

The Board of Education approved several facility maintenance contracts, including roof, flooring, and fire alarm upgrades. The board also voted to amend meeting policies and approved nursing service bids and personnel actions.

• Approved $665,976 contract with Skyline Roofing for five school roof projects (5-0)
• Approved Sherwin Williams for floor covering replacements (5-0)
• Approved $93,196 contract with Seasonal Services LLC for playground mulch (5-0)
• Approved fire alarm bids for Burke St ES ($28,423), Potomack INT ($117,252), and Hedgesville Middle ($17,573) (5-0)
• Approved contract with College Board for PSAT, NMSQ, and SAT (4-1)
• Approved nursing services bids to fill open positions (5-0)
• Amended Board Policy to eliminate the need for a second to a motion for small/informal boards (4-1)
• Approved changes to regular meeting dates and times for 2022-2023 school year (5-0)

July 5, 2022 - AMENDED REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Board of Education reviewed several action items including facility maintenance and technology bids. Key decisions included approving a large purchase for passenger vans and an internet filter.

• Purchase of 8-10 passenger vans from Parsons Ford for $419,800
• Approval of the Internet Filter bid
• Approval of the Principal Salary Scale
• Roof replacement bid review
• Consent agenda items including chaperone requests and student transfers

July 5, 2022 - AMENDED STATUTORY MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

This is an organizational meeting to elect officers and set committee appointments for the upcoming term. The board elected a president and vice president, confirmed appointments to committees such as EPIC, WV School Board Association, and the Audit Committee, and approved regular meeting dates for 2022-2024. The meeting also adopted Robert's Rules of Order as the procedural standard.

• Election of Board President for a 2-year term
• Election of Board Vice President for a 2-year term
• Confirmed appointments to 9 committees including EPIC, WV School Board Association, and Berkeley County Health Department
• Approved 2022-2024 regular meeting schedule: 1st and 3rd Monday at 7 PM, summer meetings at Administrative Offices
• Adopted Robert's Rules of Order for meeting procedure

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education will hold a special meeting to discuss and possibly take action on the purchase of real property. The agenda also includes routine procedural items such as call to order, pledge of allegiance, and agenda approval.

• Discussion and possible action on the possible purchase of real property

June 21, 2022 - REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education will act on a consent agenda covering minutes, chaperone requests, trip approvals, volunteer lists, student transfers, building use, budget supplements/transfers, invoice payments, financial reports, and the treasurer's report. The board also added a discussion of roof replacement bids. Recognitions include the Champion for Education Award and Berkeley County Diversity Council Equity Awards.

• Roof replacement bids (item 8.5) added to agenda
• Budget supplements/transfers (consent item 6.8)
• Payment of bills and approval of invoices (consent item 6.9)
• Recognitions: Champion for Education Award to board members Beckwith and Gilpin; Diversity Council Equity Awards

The Board of Education approved several service bids for the 2022-2023 school year, including therapy services and transportation. The board also authorized a $209,163 contract for the IXL assessment platform and approved superintendent-recommended personnel actions.

• Approved EastRidge Health Systems for school-based therapy services (5-0)
• Approved transportation bids for 2022-2023 school year (5-0)
• Approved milk and dairy contracts with Galliker’s/Potomac Farms Dairy and Panhandle Eight County Cooperative Purchasing Group membership (5-0)
• Approved IXL formative assessment platform purchase and contract for $209,163 (5-0)
• Approved superintendent recommended personnel, service, substitute, and coaching actions (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including June 6 minutes, trip requests, and financial reports (5-0)

June 6, 2022 - REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of budget supplements/transfers, payment of bills and invoices, and a review of the principal salary scale. The board also plans to honor 2021-2022 retirees and recognize student athletes for state championships and all-state performances.

• Budget supplements and transfers approved under consent agenda
• Payment of bills and invoices authorized under consent agenda
• Review and comment on Berkeley County File GBAB - Principal Salary Scale
• Recognition of student athletes: state champion boys lacrosse teams from Hedgesville and Spring Mills
• Retirement celebration for 2021-2022 retirees

The Board of Education established a bond election date and awarded several service contracts. Members also approved changes to administrator restrictions and the elementary marking system, and completed the Superintendent's annual evaluation.

• Established 2022 Bond Election date for November 8 (5-0)
• Awarded workers' compensation bid to Erie Insurance Company for $407,537 (5-0)
• Approved Stride virtual school contract for up to 150 students at cost of up to $222,750 (5-0)
• Approved changes to BC File: GBAC Administrator Assignment Restrictions (5-0)
• Approved amended BC File: IHA Marking System (5-0)
• Approved an amendment to the marking system policy regarding teacher recommendations for grade promotion (3-2)
• Denied an amendment to the marking system policy regarding basic skills focus in K-4 (1-4)
• Approved superintendent recommended personnel and coaching actions (5-0)

May 16, 2022 - REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education held a public hearing on the proposed FY23 budget and then approved it. The meeting also included recognitions for students, staff, and volunteers, and approval of a consent agenda covering minutes, chaperone requests, trip requests, transfers, payments, and financial reports.

• Public hearing and approval of the FY23 Budget for Berkeley County Schools
• Recognitions: student achievers (Goodtimes, Golden Horseshoe, Social Studies Fair winners, stock market game), Counselor of the Year Michele Ransom, Distinguished Service Award to Betty Dunham, Volunteer of the Month Kenny Nimphius, and Champions for Education mentors
• Consent agenda items including minutes, chaperone requests, curricular/extra-curricular trip requests, PASS volunteers, student transfer requests, use of school property, budget supplements/transfers, payment of bills, and financial reports

The Board of Education approved the FY23 Budget and appointed Ronald E. Stephens IV as Interim Superintendent for a one-year term starting July 1, 2022. The Board also approved a consent agenda and superintendent-recommended personnel actions.

• Approved FY23 Budget (5-0)
• Appointed Ronald E. Stephens IV as Interim Superintendent from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, at a salary of $160,000 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including May 2, 2022 minutes, trip requests, and financial reports (5-0)
• Approved superintendent recommended personnel, service, and substitute personnel actions (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

May 2, 2022 - REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education will approve the agenda and several consent items, including the renewal of the Blackboard contract for $109,218.75 and a review period for the IHA Marking System. It will also vote on a $110,375 purchase of two‑way digital radios from TWR Communications. Additional items include a benefits open enrollment update and recognition of Teacher of the Year finalists.

• Approval of agenda (motion carried)
• Renewal of Blackboard annual contract for $109,218.75
• Purchase of two‑way digital radios and equipment for $110,375 awarded to TWR Communications
• Review and comment period for IHA Marking System (May 3‑16)
• Annual PEIA open enrollment benefits update

The Board of Education approved a contract for new two-way digital radios and a service contract for Applied Behavior Analysis. Members also voted to allow board members-elect to participate in executive sessions and allocated $5,700 for faculty senate participation. Michele Adams was named the 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year.

• Approved $110,375 contract for two-way digital radios to TWR Communications (5-0)
• Approved Adaptive Teaching & Learning Autism Services at $75.00 per service hour (5-0)
• Approved superintendent recommended personnel actions (5-0)
• Approved board members-elect to attend and comment in executive sessions (3-2)
• Approved $5,700 from reserve account for faculty senate participation (3-2)
• Approved consent agenda including Blackboard annual contract renewal (5-0)
• Approved payment of bills/invoices (4-0)

April 25, 2022 - WORK SESSION & REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education held a work session on the FY23 budget (Session #3) to discuss budget priorities. The board also approved a consent agenda including minutes, chaperone and trip requests, volunteer approvals, and budget supplements/transfers. Recognitions were given to students, a Distinguished Service Award recipient, and a Volunteer of the Month.

• FY23 Budget Work Session #3 – discussion of budget priorities
• Approval of consent agenda including budget supplements/transfers and vendor payments
• Student recognitions from the Bridge competition
• Distinguished Service Award presented to Kaare Mejias, secretary at North Middle
• Volunteer of the Month awarded to Amber Glennon

April 19, 2022 - RECONVENED STATUTORY MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education reconvened a statutory meeting to consider objections to and approve the levy rates for fiscal year 2023. The board unanimously approved the proposed levy rates. It also discussed the search for a superintendent or interim superintendent, including a possible term starting July 1, 2022, and voted to enter executive session on the personnel matter.

• Approval of the levy rate for FY23 (motion carried unanimously)
• Executive session to discuss superintendent vacancy and candidate selection
• Meeting reconvened from March 21, 2022, to complete statutory levy rate approval
• Public audio stream available at berkeleycountyschools.org/boardmeeting
• Board also approved the meeting agenda and adjourned

The Board of Education reconvened to approve the levy rates for fiscal year 2023. The board also entered an executive session to discuss the search for a superintendent or interim superintendent.

• Approved FY23 levy rates (5-0)
• Approved motion to enter executive session regarding superintendent personnel (5-0)

April 13, 2022 - SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education will consider authorizing the purchase of 150 acres of land with a $25,000 deposit. They will also receive updates on the search for a superintendent or interim superintendent to start July 1, 2022. Procedural items include approval of the agenda and adjournment.

• Discussion and action on purchasing 150 acres of land with a $25,000 deposit
• Updates and possible selection of candidates for superintendent or interim superintendent
• Scheduling meeting dates for personnel related to superintendent vacancy
• Approval of the agenda as presented

The Board of Education approved the purchase of 150 acres of real property. The Board also held an executive session to discuss the search for a new or interim superintendent.

• Authorized Superintendent to sign contract for 150 acres of land and issue $25,000 deposit (5-0)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education will consider and vote on the 2022-2023 school calendar, hear an update on science textbook adoption, and approve a consent agenda including budget supplements/transfers and payment of bills. Recognitions will honor students and an educator of the month.

• Vote on 2022-2023 school calendar (Item 8.1)
• Update on science textbook adoption (Item 7.1)
• Consent agenda includes budget supplements/transfers and vendor payments (Item 6.7, 6.8)
• Recognitions: Science Fair, ACE Competition, Robotics students, and A Caring Educator Award (Items 4.1, 4.2)
• Citizens' Forum for public comments and speaking registration

The Board approved the 2022-2023 school calendar and superintendent-recommended personnel actions. The Board also approved the consent agenda, including the payment of bills and various student and facility requests.

• Approved 2022-2023 School Calendar (5-0)
• Approved superintendent recommended personnel actions with two amendments (5-0)
• Denied motion to stop advertising for vacated Coordinator of Communication position (2-3)
• Approved payment of bills/invoices (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda items 6.1 through 6.7 (5-0)

WORK SESSION & REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education held a work session and regular meeting to discuss the FY22 year‑to‑date budget projections and FY23 budget priorities. After approving the agenda, the board considered and approved a consent agenda covering budget supplements, vendor payments, and financial reports. Action items included adopting enhanced Purple Star support for military families and approving superintendent‑recommended personnel actions.

• Review FY22 Year‑to‑Date Budget Projections (Budget Work Session)
• Review FY23 Budget Priorities (Budget Work Session)
• Approval of consent agenda items such as budget supplements, vendor payments, and financial statements
• Adoption of enhanced Purple Star program support for military‑connected students and families
• Approval of superintendent‑recommended personnel actions

STATUTORY MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education will hold a statutory meeting primarily to consider and approve proposed levy rates for fiscal year 2023. The meeting will then recess to reconvene on April 19, 2022, to hear any objections before final approval.

• Proposed levy rates for FY 2023 presented for board approval
• Meeting to recess and reconvene on April 19, 2022, for public objections

PUBLIC HEARING & REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education will hold a public hearing on the proposed 2022-2023 school calendar at 6:30 PM, followed by its regular meeting at 7 PM. The board will recognize students and staff, hear public comments, and vote on a consent agenda including routine administrative items such as minutes, chaperone requests, student transfers, trips, volunteers, property use, budget supplements, and vendor payments.

• Public hearing and board consideration of the 2022-2023 proposed school calendar
• Recognition of Danica Propst and Chase Snyder for U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
• Honoring Huston Johnson with the A Caring Educator Award
• Volunteer of the Month: Chief Master Sergeant Billy Gillenwater II
• Consent agenda includes budget supplements/transfers and payment of bills; discussion on gasoline price impact

The Board of Education approved a significant technology investment for pilot schools and contracted for sign language interpreting services. They also selected a new employee benefit solution provider and approved various personnel actions.

• Approved purchase of 3,000 iPads for $1,388,052.00 (5-0)
• Approved DeafNet for sign language interpreting services at $75.00 per service hour (5-0)
• Approved American Fidelity as the Employee Benefit Solution provider (5-0)
• Approved superintendent recommended personnel, service, substitute, and coaching actions as amended (5-0)
• Approved payment of bills and invoices (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda items including chaperone, student transfer, and trip requests (5-0)
• Approved budget supplements and transfers (5-0)
• Approved use of school property (5-0)

February 21- WORK SESSION (LSIC) and REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The board held a work session on Martinsburg region schools (LSIC report), then voted to make face coverings optional in all Berkeley County Schools buildings and facilities effective February 22, 2022, with masks still required on school buses due to the federal mandate. The board also recognized teachers with National Board Certification and presented Distinguished Service Awards. The consent agenda was approved, including budget supplements/transfers and vendor payments.

• Voted to make masks optional in schools effective Feb 22, 2022 (except on buses due to federal mandate)
• Recognized 21 teachers for achieving or renewing National Board Certification
• Presented Distinguished Service Awards to Debbie Rimmer (Jan 2022) and Charles Aikens (Feb 2022)
• Approved budget supplements and transfers
• Approved use of school property requests

The Board of Education voted to end the universal masking policy for schools and board-owned facilities effective February 22, 2022, though masks remain required on school buses. The Board also approved amendments to the 2020-2030 Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan and a policy for naming schools and facilities.

• Approved making masks optional in schools and board facilities effective Feb 22, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved 2020-2030 Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan Amendments (4-1)
• Approved BC File: KCB Naming Schools and School Facilities (5-0)
• Approved superintendent recommended personnel and coaching actions (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including bills, financial reports, and trip requests (5-0)

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Board of Education held a special meeting to discuss the possible sale and purchase of real property. The board voted to enter executive session for these discussions. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Discussion and possible action on the sale of real property
• Discussion and possible action on the purchase of real property
• Board entered executive session under W. Va. Code 6-9A-4(a)(9)

The Board of Education met for a special session and entered executive session to discuss the possible purchase or sale of real property. No public actions or decisions regarding the property were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss real property purchase/sale (5-0)

WORK SESSION (LSIC), CALENDAR PUBLIC HEARING and REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Board held a public hearing on the proposed 2022-2023 school calendar, followed by a regular meeting. They recognized Musselman High School students as Golden Horseshoe finalists and presented a Caring Educator Award. Personnel actions and a consent agenda including budget supplements and vendor payments were approved.

• Public hearing on the 2022-2023 proposed school calendar
• LSIC presentation from the Musselman region of schools
• Recognition of Jillian Eicher and Avery Nine as Golden Horseshoe finalists
• Approval of personnel actions including suspension/termination ratification for Jamar Ridley
• Consent agenda included budget supplements/transfers and payment of bills

The Board approved the superintendent's recommended personnel and coaching actions and authorized the payment of bills. A public hearing was held for the proposed 2022-2023 school calendar, though no one requested to speak. The meeting also included LSIC presentations from the Musselman/South Berkeley region schools.

• Approved agenda with separate vote for payment of bills (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 8.1 through 8.7 (5-0)
• Approved payment of bills and invoices (4-0)
• Denied motion to table personnel action Line #31 (1-4)
• Approved superintendent recommended personnel, service, substitute, and coaching actions (5-0)

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

This is a routine regular meeting with no major policy decisions or new business. The board approved a consent agenda covering minutes, chaperone requests, trip requests, budget supplements, and financial reports, after removing the payment of bills item for a separate vote. Recognitions include a student card designer, a distinguished service award, and a volunteer of the month.

• Recognition of Zoe Ellis, Hedgesville Middle 8th grader, for designing the 2021 BCS holiday greeting card
• Distinguished Service Award to Opequon Elementary aide Debbie Rimmer
• Volunteer of the Month to Valerie Hall, introduced by Valley Elementary counselor Aaron Sorg
• Consent agenda approved with item 6.9 (Payment of Bills/Invoices) removed for separate vote

Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan (CEFP) Committee Meeting

The Berkeley County Schools CEFP Committee will meet virtually to discuss a recommended amendment to the 2020-2030 Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan. The agenda is largely procedural, with the sole substantive item being this discussion.

• Discussion of amendments to the Berkeley County 2020-2030 Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan

POSTPONED - TO BE RESCHEDULED WORK SESSION & REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The January 18, 2022 work session and regular meeting of the Berkeley County Board of Education was postponed and will be rescheduled. The planned agenda included a work session with LSIC presentations, recognitions, a consent agenda, and action items such as a warehouse bid and purchase of portable classrooms. No decisions were made at this canceled meeting.

• Musselman region LSIC presentation was scheduled for the work session
• Student recognition for Zoe Ellis, 8th grader, designer of 2021 BCS holiday card
• Distinguished Service Award for Debbie Rimmer, aide at Opequon Elementary
• Bid approval for work at new warehouse property on Coast Guard Way
• Purchase of portable classrooms (no dollar amount listed)

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

This special meeting of the Berkeley County Schools Board of Education features a presentation and discussion on education legislation collaboration, including 2022 legislative priorities and related documents. The board also approved the agenda and will hear from state delegates and senators.

• Discussion of 2022 legislative priorities for education
• Review of legislative language suggestions
• Presentation on statewide equity calculation
• State and county salary breakdown analysis
• Cost of living data for Berkeley County

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education meets to vote on personnel actions recommended by the superintendent and to approve a consent agenda that includes budget supplements/transfers, payment of bills, and a personal leave incentive policy for public review. The board also receives reports on the high school program of studies and an enrollment/pre-K study, and recognizes Christopher Showe as WV High School Counselor of the Year and Kristine Gilbert with the ACE award.

• Personnel actions: approval of professional, service, substitute, and coaching personnel
• Budget supplements/transfers approved via consent agenda
• Payment of bills and invoices approved
• Public review of BC File GBRGA (county personal leave incentive) from Jan 4–18, 2022
• Recognitions: Christopher Showe (Musselman HS) as WV Counselor of the Year; Kristine Gilbert (Winchester Ave. Elementary) with ACE award