Roane County Schools

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1. This meeting can be joined remotely. The public could join by calling 1-304-553-7794 and entering the provided conference ID or on Microsoft Teams using the provided link.
2. Presentations
   1. Superintendents SpotlightThe Superintendent highlighted the district's implementation of Capturing Kids' Hearts, a relationship-focused initiative designed to strengthen connections with students and support a positive school culture. Board members shared positive observations from the start of the school year, including successful open houses, welcoming staff, and the excellent work of bus drivers and transportation staff.
      1. LETRS Certified EducatorsThe board recognized Brittney Vaughan, Elizabeth Tawney and Jackie Higginbotham for completing the rigorous LETRS training program. Lori Hamric, Lorra Tanner and Amy Cole were also recognized for completing the LETRS for Administrators course and for their commitment to improving literacy instruction throughout the district.
   2. Public ParticipationMs. Ota set out the public participation sign-in sheet at 5:45 pm, and it was removed at 5:55 pm, in accordance with Roane County Schools Policy 020 - Meetings. No individuals signed up for public participation.
   3. Policy 2322 - 2026 Accountability Assessment ResultsThe board reviewed the district's 2026 accountability assessment results and discussed areas of concern and improvement. District leaders reported that reading proficiency remained relatively steady, mathematics declined slightly, and science continued to be the lowest-performing subject. A major concern was the drop in math proficiency from 37% in 8th grade to 15% in 11th grade, highlighting the need for additional support at the secondary level. Geary Elementary/Middle School showed growth, with reading proficiency increasing by 1% and math by 2%. Spencer Elementary experienced declines after previously improving from 32% to 40% in reading and 31% to 49% in math, while adjusting to the addition of 5th grade. Walton Elementary/Middle School saw reading proficiency decrease by about 9 percentage points, math decline from 31% to 26%, and science from 34% to 30%, with 0% proficiency in 6th-grade math identified as a critical issue. Spencer Middle School held steady in reading and math but declined significantly in science. At Roane County High School, ELA proficiency increased from 49% to 54%, math improved from 12% to 15%, science declined by 1%, and the special education subgroup improved by 9%. Administrators outlined plans for increased instructional support, remediation, and a renewed focus on science and mathematics achievement.
   4. SOAR Program - Fred Hammack and Melinda ParkinsFred Hammack and Melinda Parkins presented highlights from the Summer SOAR Program, which served 88 students over 12 days and averaged 65 daily participants. Students received math and ELA instruction while also participating in STEM, social-emotional learning, field trips, and activities with community partners including Westbrook Health Services, Roane General Hospital, WVU Extension and PATCH. Presenters reported strong attendance, high student engagement, and positive feedback from participants.
   5. 2026-27 Beginning of the Year Enrollment and Staffing UpdateSuperintendent Michelle Stellato reported that enrollment for the 2026-27 school year stands at 1,355 students, requiring the addition of 10 staff positions, including 5 special education positions. Student retention remained strong, with 117 Geary and 99 Walton students remaining in Roane County Schools. Updates were also provided on iPad deployment, transportation improvements, and implementation of the Capturing Kids' Hearts program. Overall, the school year has started smoothly, with only minor operational adjustments needed.
3. New Business for Consideration and Potential Action
   1. WVU Extension Service Budget RequestBrandy Brabham, WVU Extension Service, presented the annual budget request and provided an overview of Extension Service programs, including 4-H, community partnerships, and educational opportunities available to Roane County residents. Brabham also highlighted the organization's services and local leadership structure.Motion by James Minney and seconded by John Gray to approve budget for $13,000. Terry Miller recused himself from the discussion and the vote. Motion carried. (7:46 pm)
   2. 26-27 Technology Plan UpdateThe Board received a technology update noting that 580 iPads had been received for students in grades 7-12, with distribution beginning immediately. An additional 100 iPads will be purchased to meet enrollment needs, funded in part by approximately $30,000 in savings from discontinuing an unused software program.
4. Continuing Business
   1. Establish Superintendent Goals for 2026-27 School YearMotion by John Gray and seconded by Terry Miller to to streamline the superintendent's evaluation to a shorter version, similar to what is used throughout the state. Motion carried. James Minney opposed.(7:56 pm)
   2. Establish Board Goals for 2026-27 School YearThe Board reviewed the proposed 2026-27 Board goals, focusing on student achievement, safe and supportive school environments, and organizational effectiveness. Members discussed continued engagement with school leadership teams and future Student Council participation. No changes were recommended, and final approval was deferred until the next meeting.
   3. Property matters involving Walton Elementary Middle and Geary Elementary Middle SchoolsThe Board received an update on property matters involving Spencer Elementary Middle School and Geary Elementary Middle School, including plans to transfer the Geary sewer treatment plant to the Roane County Commission to ensure continued service for community partners.Motion by James Minney and seconded by Eileen Richardson to authorize the superintendent or her designee to work with the Roane County Commission to transfer ownership of the sewer treatment plant located at Geary Elementary Middle School to the Roane County Commission. Motion carried. (8:20 pm)
5. Consent Agenda - (Action)Motion by Eileen Richardson and seconded by John Gray to approve the following consent agenda as recommended by Michelle Stellato, Superintendent. Motion carried. (8:34 pm)
   1. Approval of minutes of regular board meeting on August 6, 2026 and special board meeting on August 13, 2026
   2. Finance
      1. Transfers/supplements to the budget
      2. Payments of bills as submitted; pre-approval to release checks not to exceed $20,000 prior to the next board meeting
      3. Financial ReportsTreasurer Ann Hardman reported that the July financial report showed $706,837 in revenues and $232,104 in expenditures for the general fund. Members discussed a $4,305.60 purchase of trash bags and a $1,070 window repair at Spencer Middle School. The district's total cash position was reported at $1,274,612.19. No budget transfers, supplements, or additional surplus items required action.
      4. Declaration of Surplus ItemsItem 2.d. was withdrawn.
   3. Policies
      1. Third Reading and Adoption
         1. Policy 512 - Areas of Critical Need and Shortage (revision)
         2. ii. Policy 223 - Program of Study for High School (Grades 9 through 12) (revision)
   4. Contract(s) / Bid(s) / Agreement(s)
   5. Field Trips
      1. RCHS FFA to Morgantown, WV for FFA State Competitions (9/16/26 - 9/19/26)
      2. RCHS FFA to Indianapolis, IN for FFA National Convention (10/20/26 - 10/24/26)
   6. Volunteers
   7. Student Transfers
      1. 1 Student transfer from Calhoun County Schools
6. Personnel Consent Agenda - (Action) Motion carried. (8:36 pm)
   1. Create New Position(s)
      1. Teacher / Special Education (Multi-School) (SMS (49%), SES (51%)), 200 days, effective August 21, 2026
   2. New Employment(s)
      1. Tanner, Garett - Substitute custodian (RCS - Substitutes), effective August 21, 2026
      2. Goodson, Benjamin - Substitute teacher (RCS - Substitutes), effective August 21, 2026
      3. Ellis, Heather - Aide V / Special Education Assistant Teacher (Spencer Elementary School), effective August 21, 2026
      4. Casto, Isaac - Teacher / 4th Grade (Spencer Elementary School), effective August 21, 2026, Pending release from Braxton County Schools and CIB Clearance
      5. Camp, Haley - Substitute teacher (RCS - Substitutes), effective August 21, 2026
      6. Randolph, Megan - Teacher / Special Education (RCHS) (Spencer Middle School), effective August 24, 2026, Pending CIB Clearance
   3. Transfer(s)
      1. Brown, David - Substitute aide (RCS - Substitutes) to Aide V (Spencer Middle School), effective August 21, 2026
      2. Ball, Lindsey - Teacher / 5th Grade (Spencer Elementary School) to Teacher / 1st Grade (SES) (Spencer Elementary School), effective August 21, 2026
   4. Extracurricular(s)
      1. Woods, Courtney - Transportation Aide (evening, Bus #28) (RCS - Operations), effective August 21, 2026
      2. Staats, Hope - Technology Support Coordinator (Roane County High School), effective August 21, 2026
      3. May, Lori - SOAR After School Lead Teacher (Spencer Elementary School), effective August 21, 2026
      4. McGlothlin, Lisa - SOAR After School Bus Driver (Spencer Elementary School), effective August 21, 2026, From SES to Left Hand Area
      5. Rhodes, Jason - SOAR After School Bus Driver (Spencer Elementary School), effective August 21, 2026
      6. Ward, Cari - SOAR After-School Teacher (Spencer Elementary School), effective August 21, 2026
      7. O'Brien, Baylee - SOAR After-School Teacher (Spencer Elementary School), effective August 21, 2026
      8. Vaughan, Brittney - SOAR After School Teacher (Spencer Elementary School), effective August 21, 2026
      9. Rector, Suzanne - FBLA Sponsor (Roane County High School), effective August 21, 2026
   5. Terminate contract(s)
      1. __________________________, Ratify unpaid suspension from August 5, 2026 to August 20, 2026 and terminate contract for ___________ Service Employee effective August 20, 2026Motion by John Gray and seconded by Eileen Richardson to go into an executive session to discuss item 5.a., as per WV Code 6-9A-4(b)(2)(A). Motion carried. (8:37 pm)Motion by Eileen Richardson and seconded by John Gray to return to open session. Motion carried. No action was taken in closed session. (8:41 pm)Motion by James Minney and seconded by John Gray to ratify the unpaid suspension from August 5, 2026, through August 20, 2026, and terminate the contract of Patricia May, service employee, effective August 20, 2026. Motion carried. (8:42 pm)
7. Reports of Committees
   1. Roane Jackson Technical Center Administrative Council (8/20/26)
   2. Faculty Senate Minutes (8/14/26)
      1. Spencer Elementary School
      2. Spencer Middle School
      3. Roane County High School
8. Superintendent's RemarksSuperintendent Stellato provided updates on the I Heart West Virginia Public Schools campaign, thanked the Rotary Club of Spencer for providing lunch to staff during training week, and reported that the district would not pursue a November 2026 excess levy. Planning will begin for a 2028 levy call. The Board also recognized 10 Roane County Sports Hall of Fame inductees who will be honored at the first football game and discussed future Student Council representation at Board meetings.
9. AdjournmentMotion by John Gray and seconded by James Minney to approve. Motion carried. (8:49 pm)
   1. Adjourn until the next regular meeting on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 6:00 pm at Roane County High School.