Cabell County highlights Woody Williams Center moves, adult programs and a transportation-efficiency study

Cabell County Schools operations staff told the Board of Education on Nov. 4 that the district is preparing to move equipment and programs into the nearly completed Woody Williams Center for Advanced Learning and Careers and pursuing funding and scheduling changes to expand student access.

Mr. Boggs said the district plans to relocate a three‑year‑old scissor lift to the automotive alignment machine, a cost‑effective reuse instead of buying new equipment. He also described ongoing work to acquire a paint booth that meets industry standards for collision-repair instruction and the purchase of welders and other trade equipment. He said moving the career center’s equipment is a complex task and that the district will meet with the contracted movers and affected teachers to coordinate the transfer.

Superintendent Hardesty told the board the district has applied to the West Virginia School Building Authority for a new roof at the Woody Williams Center and expects to learn funding decisions in December. Hardesty also listed adult education offerings that will enroll at the center in January and July, including automotive technology, electrical technician, HVAC, medical assisting, welding, and a practical nursing cohort beginning in July.

Hardesty announced a transportation‑efficiency study with Mountain State EFC intended to identify route consolidations and other options that could free up drivers and buses to provide shuttle service to the Woody Williams Center during the day. He emphasized the study is “not to eliminate bus drivers” but to reallocate existing transportation resources so students could take single classes at the career center without committing to a half‑day schedule. The study will also include a special education transportation audit to confirm efficient use of those routes.

The board did not take a formal vote on funding for equipment or the study during the meeting; the presentation focused on planning and next steps. Hardesty also shared a letter from Marshall University Police thanking Officer Martin Nees and Bomb Dog Chico for supporting security at a recent university event, noting the district’s K‑9 resource is available to assist local partners.

Board members did not amend the operations update but were informed of agenda changes removing two personnel items tied to Christine Ziegler.