Board forms excess-levy outreach committee; members urge better advance notice for road work after bus disruptions

The superintendent updated the board Sept. 9 on plans to organize an excess-levy committee and outreach work ahead of the May election. She said staff have compiled a broad list of potential committee members, are contacting people about chair and co-chair roles and will convene meetings to set a schedule from now until the election. "She'll be inviting them to our meetings, as we get those scheduled," the superintendent said, noting Teresa is working to establish contact points for outreach. Board members praised community events supporting schools, including cafeteria renovations at Morgantown High and a ribbon-cutting for a new ice rink. Members said the county has strong community participation at fall extracurricular activities. Several board members raised transportation concerns after an unplanned road closure on Dorsey Avenue forced cancellation of bus runs. A board member said the closure led to cancelled bus runs and that some students did not get to school. Board members asked utilities and contractors to notify the district transportation director in advance for scheduled maintenance so bus routes can be rerouted; they identified Mountain Line and local contractors as partners to coordinate with. The board also noted upcoming community events — the county fair, art walk and a car show — and encouraged public attendance. No formal votes were associated with the update; board members said they will continue outreach and coordinate logistics for transportation and community engagement.