Week In Review 12/06/2024

Decisions, Decision, Decisions. How school days are called.

Superintendent Christy Miller and Director of Transportation Rick Reynolds take the responsibility of deciding school closures during winter weather very seriously. The process begins with multiple meetings with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), attended by both the Superintendent and the Director of Transportation. These meetings are held at 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM as weather approaches.

Mr. Reynolds maintains constant contact with the West Virginia Department of Highways (WVDOH) to assess their ability to clear roads within the school’s timeline. Additionally, volunteers from the transportation department, including both the Transportation Director and the Superintendent, drive the routes as the weather begins to worsen. They continue to monitor the roads until about 10:00 PM.

At 3:00 AM, the Superintendent and Director of Transportation conduct an initial drive to evaluate road conditions. Decisions are then made based on these observations. Superintendent Miller prioritizes safety while also considering the importance of keeping students learning and teachers teaching.

A still photo of the Upshur County Board of Education sign with snow.

Reducing Exclusionary Discipline Practices in Early Childhood Education

Reducing exclusionary discipline in early childhood education helps keep kids in school where they can learn and grow. It teaches them to follow rules and respect others, which is important for their future. By using positive methods, teachers can guide kids to make better choices and create a safe, respectful classroom.

Know the Language - PAX

The PAX Good Behavior Game helps teachers keep classrooms calm and focused. It teaches kids to behave well and work together, which helps them learn better. The PAX UP! App gives teachers tools to track progress and make sure everyone is doing their best.

SAT Training for BUHS

The SAT is a crucial tool for college admissions, helping students showcase their academic abilities. High school administrators need SAT testing training to ensure the test is administered smoothly and fairly, following all guidelines. This training helps them support students effectively, providing a stress-free testing environment.

SAT Testing Date: April 15th at BUHS

MTSS Meetings Continue

Continuing to build a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in a K-12 school district involves regularly assessing and refining the framework to meet evolving student needs. This includes ongoing professional development for staff to ensure effective implementation of academic, behavioral, and social-emotional interventions. Engaging families and the community is crucial for creating a supportive environment that reinforces the MTSS strategies.

Upshur Schools met on December 4th to continue this ongoing and necessary work.

Cartoon depiction of a teaching with a thought bubble of a item representing safety

Why drill?

To prepare
To reduce panic
To ensure safety
to build confidence

Stop and Think Drills

Upshur County Schools utilizes Stop and Think Drills to increase our drill practices. This type of drill increases our school community's situational awareness.

Stop and Think Drills are vital for both teachers and students in the K-12 environment. These drills help students learn to pause and consider their actions, promoting better decision-making and self-control. For teachers, it provides a consistent method to reinforce positive behavior and maintain a calm classroom. By regularly practicing these drills, both staff and students stay vigilant, creating a safer and more supportive learning environment for everyone.

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Cartoon teachers sitting around a table with paper and computers

Kindergarten Student Learning Pathway

Working hard early can make a lasting impact. On 12/03/2024 our Kindergarten teachers met after work to continue the focus on student learning. They explored reading, writing, and math with one another to build the perfect pathway. Building this strong foundation helps them succeed as they move up to higher grades.