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Superintendent reports rising absenteeism, SAT boot camp and improving hiring in Upshur County Schools
Summary
Superintendent reported chronic absenteeism rose from 18.95% to about 20.97% (attributed to a recent flu outbreak), described an SAT boot camp for juniors and said hiring interest is improving; custodial staff received praise for their response to recent operational challenges.
At the regular meeting the superintendent reported that chronic absenteeism from August through February was 18.95%, and that the rate has risen to about 20.97% ‘‘as of yesterday,’’ which she attributed largely to a recent influenza outbreak affecting students and staff.
"Our chronic absenteeism from August through the February was 18.95 percent. As of yesterday, it's creeped back up to 20.97 or 21 percent, but that is due to the flu," Speaker 3 said, and she congratulated student services leader Casey Bayston and school staff for efforts to improve attendance.
The superintendent also described a recent SAT boot camp for juniors at Buchanan Upshur High School that staff said was well received and engaged students with test‑taking strategies. The district will monitor long‑term effects and plans to expand test‑preparation offerings if results warrant.
On personnel, Speaker 9 reported signs of improvement in hiring and said the district is seeing more applicants. Speaker 9 also praised custodial staff for their steady response during a difficult operational day and said some resignations and retirements were personal in nature; the district is working to fill openings and expects to report more detailed personnel plans at upcoming hearings.
Next steps: staff will continue monitoring attendance trends, follow up on SAT/prep programs and present detailed personnel recommendations at the scheduled hearings.
