Goodbye!!!

 

 

It's Not Rocket Science!

 

 Pre-Covid

Status Quo

Operating Costs: Normal

Revenue vs. Expenses (Roughly even)

RIF due to attrition and/or retirement

Adequate school programs

Great college prep programs

Advanced classes

Graduates off to wonderful schools 

Covid:

Operating Costs Increase

Covid $$$$ to help with expenses.

First-Time Positions added.

New Courses added!

Post-Covid

Normalcy officially declared

New classes still there

New positions still there

Enrollment 945

Revenue same as pre-Covid. (1400 student cap).

2024-25 Budget 

Administration Proposes cuts.

Some Pre-Covid Classes to be cut.

Some Covid classes and positions remain

 Proposal:  

No more Covid

Back to Normal

Cut Covid positions and classes.

Return to Pre-Covid operating expenses 

Graduates off to wonderful schools!

 

 

 

 

 

The SaltShaker Press (Covid FOIA) Request

 

 

Freedom of Information Act Request for Pocahontas County Schools - COVID Funding

Date: March 30, 2024

To: Custodian of Records, Pocahontas County Schools Board of Education [Pocahontas County Schools 404 Old Buckeye Road Buckeye, WV 24924

From: [Norman Alderman 135 Fossil Lane, Marlinton, normanalderman@yahoo.com

Subject: Freedom of Information Act Request - COVID-19 Funding for Pocahontas County Schools

Dear Custodian of Records,

In accordance with the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act, §29-B-1-1 et seq., I am formally requesting access to public records concerning the disbursement of COVID-19 relief funding to Pocahontas County Schools.

Specifically, I am requesting copies of the following documents:

• Records detailing the total amount of COVID-19 relief funding received by Pocahontas County Schools.
• A breakdown of how these funds have been allocated and spent. This could include information on specific programs or initiatives funded by the relief money.
• Any contracts or agreements related to the use of these funds.

If there are any associated fees for searching or copying these records, please inform me of the total cost before proceeding. However, I would also like to request a waiver of all fees in that the disclosure of the requested information is in the public interest and will contribute significantly to the public's understanding of how COVID-19 relief funds are being used to support schools in Pocahontas County.

The West Virginia Freedom of Information Act requires a response to this request within five business days. Please contact me at 304-799-7374 or normanalderman@yahoo.com if you require any further clarification or have any questions regarding this request.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Norman Alderman

The meaning of "a tempest in a teapot" is that something is a big fuss over a small or unimportant matter

. It describes a situation where people are making a much bigger deal about something than it actually deserves.

The phrase "A tempest in a teapot" actually predates teapots! While the imagery feels perfectly suited to a modern tea-drinking culture, the origin goes much further back. Here's the literary background:

• The Earliest Known Use: The first documented instance comes from around 52 BC. Roman statesman and philosopher Marcus Tullius Cicero used a similar phrase in his work "De Legibus" (On the Laws). He wrote "excitabat enim fluctus in simpulo ut dicitur Gratidius" which translates to "Gratidius, as the saying goes, was stirring up waves in a ladle."

• Variations Across Languages: Interestingly, this concept of a minor issue being blown out of proportion appears in many languages throughout history. Some variations include referring to storms in cups (Arabic, Bengali) or glasses of water (French, Dutch).

• Shifting Imagery: Over time, the original "ladle" evolved to reflect the dominant drinking vessel. In 1678, the Duke of Ormond used "storm in a cream bowl" and by the 1800s, "storm in a washbasin" appeared. It wasn't until the widespread adoption of tea drinking that the teapot became the most common reference.

So, while the "tempest in a teapot" feels like a natural fit for modern English, it's a much older concept with a rich history of using different containers to depict the same idea!

Joseph of Arimathea John 19:38-42

 

John 19:38-42

The Burial of Jesus

38 Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away.

39 He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.^[a]

40 Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs.

41 At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid.

42 Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there. 

---------------------------

 

Biblical Analysis of John 19:38-42

This passage describes the burial of Jesus by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. Here's a breakdown of its significance:

Hidden Disciples Step Forward (v. 38):

• Joseph of Arimathea: A member of the Sanhedrin (Jewish ruling council) and a secret follower of Jesus.
• Secret Disciple: Feared the Jewish leaders, highlighting the danger of following Jesus at this time.
• Taking the Body: This act publicly associates Joseph with Jesus, defying his previous secrecy.

Nicodemus Joins In (v. 39):

• Night Visitor: Another secret follower of Jesus mentioned earlier in John's gospel (John 3:1-21).
• Myrrh and Aloes: These expensive spices were used for anointing the dead, signifying respect for Jesus.
• Large Quantity: The amount suggests both their devotion and the intent to properly prepare the body.

Following Jewish Burial Customs (v. 40):

• Linen Wraps and Spices: Reflect traditional Jewish burial practices.

A New Tomb (v. 41):

• Significance of Newness: The tomb being unused foreshadows the resurrection, as Jesus wouldn't be sharing a space with the deceased.
• Convenience and Haste: The nearby location suggests the urgency of burial before the Sabbath began at sunset.

Laying Jesus to Rest (v. 42):

• Day of Preparation: Refers to Friday before the Sabbath. Jewish law prohibited burials on the Sabbath.
• Fulfillment of Necessity: The nearby tomb and the approaching Sabbath dictated the location.

Themes:

• Courage and Faith: Joseph and Nicodemus overcome their fear to honor Jesus.
• Respect and Devotion: The careful burial preparations show reverence for Jesus.
• Foreshadowing: The new tomb hints at the coming resurrection.

Additional Notes:

• This passage complements the accounts of Jesus' death in the other gospels.
• Some interpretations see Joseph and Nicodemus as acting out of newfound faith due to witnessing Jesus' crucifixion.
• Others view it as a final act of respect for a teacher they admired.

This passage holds significance for Christians as it depicts the care taken with Jesus' body despite the circumstances. It also sets the stage for the empty tomb discovered on the third day, a central tenet of Christian belief.

The Gospels paint a consistent picture of Joseph of Arimathea. Here's a quick recap of what we know about him from the Gospels:

• Secret Disciple: Across all four Gospels, Joseph is described as a follower of Jesus, but one who kept his faith hidden (Matthew 27:57, Mark 15:43, Luke 23:51, John 19:38).
• Member of the Sanhedrin: The Gospels of Mark and Luke mention Joseph's position as a member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council (Mark 15:43, Luke 23:50). This highlights his social and religious status.
• Wealthy Man: Matthew describes Joseph as a rich man (Matthew 27:57).
• Role in Jesus' Burial: All four Gospels mention that Joseph took the initiative to ask Pilate for Jesus' body and then laid it in his own tomb (Matthew 27:57-60, Mark 15:42-47, Luke 23:50-56, John 19:38-42). This act required courage as it publicly aligned him with Jesus after the crucifixion.

Joseph of Arimathea's story has become significant in Christian tradition for a few reasons:

• Compassionate Action: His willingness to bury Jesus demonstrates respect for Jesus' body and fulfills Jewish burial customs.
• Symbolic Tomb: The fact that Joseph offered his own new tomb is seen by some as symbolic of Jesus' resurrection and new life.
• Hidden Faith Made Public: Joseph's public action of claiming Jesus' body can be seen as a courageous act of faith, despite his previous secrecy.

The Gospels depict them as secret followers, hesitant to publicly declare their faith due to fear of social or religious repercussions.

• Nicodemus: We learn about Nicodemus from John's Gospel (John 3:1-21). He approaches Jesus at night, hinting at his cautiousness. Despite his reservations, he acknowledges Jesus as a teacher "come from God" (John 3:2).

• Joseph of Arimathea: The Gospels of Matthew (Matthew 27:57-60), Mark (Mark 15:42-47), Luke (Luke 23:50-56), and John (John 19:38-42) all mention Joseph. Described as a member of the Sanhedrin (Jewish ruling council), Joseph is portrayed as a wealthy and respected figure who secretly followed Jesus.

Their decision to request Jesus' body from Pilate and ensure a proper burial according to Jewish tradition signifies a significant act of courage and respect for Jesus, even in the face of potential consequences.

 The Bible doesn't mention a specific tomb for Nicodemus. There's only reference to his involvement in burying Jesus in a new tomb belonging to Joseph of Arimathea.

Here's a breakdown of the burial in the Gospel of John:

• Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea both secretly respected Jesus' teachings (John 19:38-39).
• After the crucifixion, they requested Jesus' body from Pilate for proper burial according to Jewish customs.
• Joseph offered his own new, unused tomb located in a garden near the crucifixion site (John 19:41-42).
• Nicodemus provided a large amount of expensive spices for Jesus' anointing (John 19:39).
• Together, they laid Jesus' body in the tomb.

The emphasis in the story seems to be on the respectful burial Jesus received and the newness of the tomb, potentially symbolizing Jesus' new life after death.

-----------------------------------

Christ's burial in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea carries several interesting implications, both within the narrative of the Gospels and for Christian theology:

Fulfilling Prophecy:

• Some Christians see it as fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:9, which states the Messiah would be buried "with the rich though he had done no violence." Joseph's tomb signifies an honorable burial, contrasting with the typical fate of criminals crucified by the Romans.

Empty Tomb Significance:

• The fact that Jesus was laid in a new, unused tomb becomes crucial later. When the women arrive to anoint the body on the third day, they find the tomb empty (Mark 16:1-8). This "empty tomb" is a cornerstone of the belief in Jesus' resurrection. Had Jesus been buried in a common grave or a reused tomb, the resurrection story wouldn't hold the same weight.

Nature of the Tomb:

• The newness of the tomb suggests a place untouched by death, foreshadowing Jesus' conquest of death through resurrection.
• It also removes any doubt that the body wasn't stolen, as the tomb was presumably sealed and guarded (Matthew 27:66).

Joseph of Arimathea's Role:

• Joseph's action demonstrates courage and faith. He publicly identifies himself with Jesus despite the potential consequences.
• Some interpret it as a culmination of his hidden faith, while others see it as a final act of respect for a teacher.

Universal Themes:

• The passage touches on themes of respect for the dead, even in difficult circumstances.
• It also highlights the importance of overcoming fear to do what one believes is right.

Theological Implications:

• The burial and the empty tomb are central to the Christian belief in Jesus' sacrifice and subsequent victory over death.
• It emphasizes the hope of eternal life through faith in Christ.

It's important to note:

• These interpretations are based on Christian belief.
• There are other perspectives on the significance of the burial.

Overall, the burial of Jesus in Joseph of Arimathea's tomb is a significant event in the Gospel narratives. It carries weight for Christian theology and serves as a stepping stone to the pivotal event of the resurrection.

-------------------------------------

Joseph of Arimathea is a fascinating figure who appears briefly but significantly in the Gospels. Here's what we know about him and some of the intrigue surrounding him:

Biblical Account:

• Described as a wealthy and respected member of the Jewish council (Sanhedrin) (Mark 15:43).
• A secret follower of Jesus who feared the Jewish leaders (John 19:38).
• Boldly requested Jesus' body from Pilate for proper burial (John 19:38).
• Provided his own new tomb for Jesus' burial (John 19:41).

Significance:

• Fulfilling Prophecy: Some see his role as fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:9 regarding the Messiah's burial.
• Empty Tomb Importance: The new tomb becomes crucial for the empty tomb narrative, a cornerstone of Christian belief in the resurrection.
• Act of Courage and Faith: Joseph's actions demonstrate defying fear to honor Jesus.

Uncertainties and Legends:

• The Gospels offer limited details about his life and motivations.
• Later Christian writings and legends elaborate on his story, but their historical accuracy is debatable.
• Some stories connect him to the Holy Grail legend or early Christianity in Britain, but these lack biblical basis.

Focus on the Gospels:

• While these legends are interesting, the core significance lies in the Gospels' portrayal.
• He emerges as a sympathetic figure who takes a risk to ensure Jesus receives a respectful burial.

Further Exploration:

• You might be interested in exploring the concept of the "empty tomb" and its importance in Christian theology.
• Additionally, you could delve into the development of the Holy Grail legend and its connection to Joseph of Arimathea, keeping in mind the distinction between biblical accounts and later interpretations.

-----------------------------

That's right! The Gospels emphasize that Jesus was laid in a new tomb. There are a few reasons this detail might be significant:

• Purity: According to Jewish burial customs, placing a body in a new tomb ensured it wouldn't be ritually unclean.
• Respect: Joseph of Arimathea offering his own new tomb could be seen as an act of respect for Jesus.
• Fulfillment of Prophecy: Some interpretations see this as fulfilling a prophecy about the Messiah being buried with the "rich" (Isaiah 53:9).
• Emphasizing the Resurrection: The fact that the tomb was unused foreshadows the resurrection. An already occupied tomb wouldn't have the same impact when found empty.

 --------------------------

That's an interesting point! There is indeed a connection some Christians see between Isaiah 53:9 and the burial of Jesus.

Here's a breakdown of the verse and the interpretation:

• Isaiah 53:9: "And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth."

The interpretation suggests that:

• "With the wicked" refers to Jesus' crucifixion between two thieves.
• "With a rich man in his death" refers to his burial in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy man.

It's important to note that this interpretation isn't universally accepted. Some scholars argue that "with the wicked" doesn't necessarily refer to physical location but to the manner of Jesus' death, associated with criminals.

Here are some things to consider:

• The prophecy is open to interpretation.
• The Gospels themselves don't explicitly mention Isaiah 53:9 in relation to the burial.

However, for many Christians, the fact that Jesus was crucified with criminals and buried in a rich man's tomb adds another layer of meaning to the events and strengthens the idea that Jesus fulfilled Messianic prophecies from the Old Testament.

Would you like to explore the concept of Messianic prophecies or the concept of the resurrection in more detail?

 

Request to be on the agenda! (AI)

 

Request to be Added to the Agenda

Your Name

Your Address
Your Phone Number
Your Email Address

Date

Name of School Board
Address

Dear [Name of School Board President] (or To Whom It May Concern):

I am writing to request that the following topic be added to the agenda for the upcoming [Meeting Date] school board meeting:

• [Brief and clear description of the topic you want to discuss]

I believe this is an important issue because [ Briefly explain why the topic is important and how it affects the school board or community].

I am prepared to provide a [brief presentation/statement/information] on this topic during the public comment period. However, I would be grateful for the opportunity to present this information in a more comprehensive manner by being added to the formal agenda.

[If you have any relevant materials or qualifications, you can add a sentence here:]

I have attached [brief description of materials] for your reference.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature (if sending a physical letter)]

Request to be Added to the Agenda (AI)

 

Request to be Added to the Agenda

Your Name

Your Address
Your Phone Number
Your Email Address

Date

Name of School Board
Address

Dear [Name of School Board President] (or To Whom It May Concern):

I am writing to request that the following topic be added to the agenda for the upcoming [Meeting Date] school board meeting:

• [Brief and clear description of the topic you want to discuss]

I believe this is an important issue because [ Briefly explain why the topic is important and how it affects the school board or community].

I am prepared to provide a [brief presentation/statement/information] on this topic during the public comment period. However, I would be grateful for the opportunity to present this information in a more comprehensive manner by being added to the formal agenda.

[If you have any relevant materials or qualifications, you can add a sentence here:]

I have attached [brief description of materials] for your reference.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature (if sending a physical letter)]

15 Minutes or 10 Days????

 

 

A governing body may not require

 members of the public to register

 to speak more than 15 minutes

 before the meeting begins.--WV Law

Hoax?

 

Who Do I Contact?

• Pocahontas County Board of Education:

• President Sue Hollandsworth: drsue06@gmail.com

• Member Becky Campbell: pocahontasfoec@hotmail.com

• Member Sam Gibson: samhoward030@gmail.com

• Member Jarrett McLaughlin: jmclaughlin@firsttracts.com

• Member Morgan McComb: mmccomb@k12.wv.us

A Shortfall?

 

Sam’s questions led to a general discussion:

• Sam asked where the budget shortfall is from. Sherry replied:

• SRF money (forest fund(?)) is ending (few hundred thousand dollars)

• ESRA (aka Covid relief) money ending ($1.2 Million)

• Sam stated it made no sense to cut the teaching positions;  asked that they include RIFS for all COVID hires, to buy time.

• Lynne and Sue said that was not possible, as this was not on the board agenda.

• [NOTE:  I asked to be on the agenda, specifically to deal with this problem, on March 16 at 10am and was refused.]

• Sherry (Radcliff) then stated that she had been saying for two years that these cuts were coming (around 11:50 on the audio)

• Becky then tried to ask if the number of RIFs was equal to the budget shortfall.  Things got a little unpleasant, but the answer appears to be yes.

• Becky then tried to state that in that case, the board's hands are going to be tied.  

• Sam about eliminating the LPN hires from covid there is now an LPN in every school but Hillsboro);  he was told that was not an option (I didn’t understand why)-- Notes of Karen O'Neil

The concept of payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) arose from the challenge of lost property tax revenue for local governments. Here's a breakdown of its history:

• The Issue: Land owned by governments or non-profit organizations is generally exempt from property taxes. This reduces the tax base for local governments, limiting their ability to fund essential services.

• The Solution: The United States implemented a formal PILOT program in 1976 with the passage of Public Law 94-565. This law recognized the financial burden on local governments due to non-taxable federal lands within their borders.

• The Provider: The federal government, through the Department of the Interior, makes PILT payments annually to local governments, typically counties.

• The Purpose: PILT aims to compensate local governments for the property tax revenue they would have collected on federally owned land. This helps fund crucial services like fire protection, law enforcement, road maintenance, and schools.

• The Coverage: PILT applies to federal lands managed by various agencies like the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the U.S. Forest Service.

PILT has been an ongoing program, with discussions about funding levels and ensuring fair compensation for local governments.

Calculating PILOT Payments

The calculation of PILOT payments involves several factors:

• Land acreage: The amount of federal land within a county's jurisdiction significantly impacts the payment. More federal land generally translates to a higher PILOT payment.
• Population: PILOT payments consider a county's population density. Counties with higher populations tend to receive larger payments to support essential services.
• Payment factors: The Department of the Interior sets a base payment rate and adjusts it with various factors, including economic conditions and local tax rates.

Program Evolution

Since 1976, the PILOT program has undergone some changes:

• Funding fluctuations: The program's funding levels haven't always kept pace with inflation or the increasing demands on local governments. This has led to concerns about the program's effectiveness in compensating local governments.
• Calls for reform: There have been ongoing discussions about reforming the PILOT program to ensure fairer and more stable funding for local governments. Proposals include considering factors like the value of the land and the specific social and environmental costs borne by local communities.
• Expansion of PILOT programs: Some states have implemented their own PILOT programs to address funding shortfalls due to non-taxable state lands. These programs vary in their eligibility criteria and calculation methods.

As of today, March 29, 2024, the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program is funded but with some temporary extensions:

• Funding Level: The program is currently funded at the same rate as 2023. This means the total amount distributed to counties remains the same.
• Temporary Extensions: Funding for PILT was recently extended through March 8, 2024, under the Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024 (P.L. 118-35). This indicates a need for further legislation to determine long-term funding.
• Payments: The latest round of PILT payments totaling $578.8 million was made in June 2023 to over 1,900 local governments.

Here are some resources for staying updated on the PILT program's status:

• Department of the Interior - PILT: https://pilt.doi.gov/
• National Council of Nonprofits - Taxes, Fees, and PILOTs: https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/trends-and-policy-issues/taxes-fees-and-pilots-payments-lieu-taxes

 

NICHOLAS COUNTY	$117,681			37,051
OHIO COUNTY	$268			85
PENDLETON COUNTY	$310,762			132,984
PLEASANTS COUNTY	$142			45
POCAHONTAS COUNTY	$980,052			311,339
PRESTON COUNTY	$12,365			3,928
PUTNAM COUNTY	$1,284			408
RALEIGH COUNTY	$42,260			13,425
RANDOLPH COUNTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

DIY: Freedom of Information Act Request for Pocahontas County Schools - COVID Funding

 

Freedom of Information Act Request for Pocahontas County Schools - COVID Funding

Date: March 29, 2024

To: Custodian of Records, Pocahontas County Schools Board of Education [Address of Pocahontas County Schools Board of Education]

From: [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number (Optional)]

Subject: Freedom of Information Act Request - COVID-19 Funding for Pocahontas County Schools

Dear Custodian of Records,

In accordance with the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act, §29-B-1-1 et seq., I am formally requesting access to public records concerning the disbursement of COVID-19 relief funding to Pocahontas County Schools.

Specifically, I am requesting copies of the following documents:

• Records detailing the total amount of COVID-19 relief funding received by Pocahontas County Schools.
• A breakdown of how these funds have been allocated and spent. This could include information on specific programs or initiatives funded by the relief money.
• Any contracts or agreements related to the use of these funds.

If there are any associated fees for searching or copying these records, please inform me of the total cost before proceeding. However, I would also like to request a waiver of all fees in that the disclosure of the requested information is in the public interest and will contribute significantly to the public's understanding of how COVID-19 relief funds are being used to support schools in Pocahontas County.

The West Virginia Freedom of Information Act requires a response to this request within five business days. Please contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] if you require any further clarification or have any questions regarding this request.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

You need only three board members (majority) to save your school from cutbacks

Pocahontas County Board of Education

• Lynn Bostic (Superintendent)

•  304-799-4505,2227

• lbostic@k12.wv.us

• Sue Hollandsworth (President)

• 304-653-4432

• drsue06@gmail.com

• Sam Gibson

•  304-651-5695

• samhoward030@gmail.com

• Morgan McComb

•  304-799-6599

• mmccomb@k12.wv.us

• Jarret McLaughlin (contact info not given on board pages)

• Becky Campbell (contact info not given on board pages)

Open Letter

 

To the Pocahontas County Board of Education,

I am writing to express my concern regarding the location of LSIC  meetings. While Marlinton Middle School may offer suitable accommodations, I strongly believe that Pocahontas County High School (PCHS) is a more appropriate venue for PCHS LSIC for meetings.

Here's why holding PCHS LSIC meetings at PCHS would be beneficial:

• Accessibility: PCHS is centrally located within the county, making it more accessible for a wider range of community members, including students, parents, and faculty directly impacted by Board decisions.
• Symbolism: Holding meetings at the high school itself sends a powerful message that the Board prioritizes the education of our future generation. The familiar environment can also encourage greater student participation and engagement in the decision-making process.
• Facilities: PCHS likely possesses suitable meeting spaces equipped with the necessary audio-visual technology to facilitate productive and transparent meetings.

Considering these points, I urge the Board to reconsider its current policy and designate PCHS as the primary location for PCHS LSIC BOE meetings. This change would demonstrate a commitment to open communication and community involvement in the educational decision-making process.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Jack and Ima Hemmorid]

Maybe a Removal Petition Would be in order!

 

Sample Petition for Removal of School Board Member or Superintendent

Please note:

This is a sample petition and may not be suitable for all situations. Be sure to consult your state's school board and superintendent removal procedures for specific requirements. You can find these procedures through your state Department of Education website or by contacting your local school board office.

Title: Petition for Removal of [Name of Board Member] / [Name of Superintendent]

Introduction:

We, the undersigned residents of the [School District Name] School District, petition for the removal of [Name of Board Member] / [Name of Superintendent] from office.

Reasons for Removal:

(List specific reasons for removal. Be clear, concise, and factual. Examples may include):

• Misconduct: (e.g., misuse of funds, violation of school board policies)
• Neglect of Duty: (e.g., consistent absenteeism from meetings, failure to oversee school operations)
• Incompetence: (e.g., demonstrably poor decision-making, lack of qualifications)
• Other: (Specify any other relevant reasons)

Details:

For each reason listed, provide specific details and evidence to support your claims. This may include dates, times, quotes, references to policies, or witness testimonies.

Desired Outcome:

We request that the [School Board] / [Appropriate Authority] initiate proceedings to remove [Name of Board Member] / [Name of Superintendent] from office.

Signatures:

Print Name Signature Address

Additional Information:

• You may want to include a space for contact information (phone number, email) for each signer.
• Consider attaching any relevant documents as evidence to support your claims.

Disclaimer:

This petition is intended to be an example only. It is not a substitute for legal advice. You should consult with an attorney to ensure your petition complies with all applicable laws and regulations.

Illegal Board Meeting?

 

West Virginia law mandates that all Local School Improvement Council (LSIC) meetings are open to the public. This is according to the Open Governmental Proceedings Act (W.Va. Code § 6-9A-2(6)). ([WV Department of Education - Local School Improvement Council (LSIC)][wvde.us])

 

Emergency Meeting

• A governing body must post an emergency meeting notice as soon as practicable prior to the meeting, and an emergency meeting agenda and minutes must include the facts and circumstances of the emergency.  State agencies must electronically file a notice of the emergency meeting with the Secretary of State.

• The governing body may only call an emergency meeting if it meets the emergency meeting test, not because it is merely more convenient to hold an emergency meeting in lieu of a special or regular meeting.