Resident urges Hancock County to back rapid-response support for laid-off teachers and school service staff

Tamara Pettit, identified by the commission as a citizen advocating for rapid response, told commissioners that local teachers and school service personnel facing layoffs need immediate assistance and that the county commission could play a key role in facilitating help.

Pettit described how Workforce West Virginia’s rapid-response teams — which she said previously provided on-site outplacement, training, tuition assistance and insurance guidance — could be applied to the school layoffs. She said she had contacted state offices and local school officials and that the Hancock County Teachers Employees Union told her they “need it sorely.” Pettit asked the commission to consider writing a letter of support or adopting a resolution and offered to provide contact information to county staff.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions. One asked whether the situation amounted to a state of emergency; Pettit said she did not know. The Commission President, also serving on the health department board, asked what county health department services could assist people who lose insurance; Pettit suggested inoculations and other basic health services might be helpful and said she would follow up with details.

Pettit said she had heard — but not confirmed — that March 1 could be when layoff notices start going out, and urged timeliness from the commission. Commissioners did not adopt a formal resolution or take a vote during the Feb. 12 meeting, but the exchange ends with the commission thanking Pettit for the information and requesting follow-up contacts.

Next steps: Pettit offered to provide contact numbers and addresses to county staff; commissioners indicated they would consider a letter of support or resolution and seek further information from state contacts.