Board tables cosmetology MOU with Tyler County until after election amid funding concerns

The Wetzel County Schools board reviewed a memorandum of understanding with Tyler County Schools to establish a cosmetology program at the Wetzel Technical Center but decided to delay formal approval until after upcoming county elections.

Administrators presented program details including an initial cohort of 12 students in year one (rising to 24 the next year), equipment and workstation costs, and the staffing model (two teachers). Board members and staff questioned timing and financial risk while both counties have levies pending. Concerns included the district’s ability to cover operating costs if a partner county’s levy failed and whether Tyler County would forfeit ownership of equipment if it withdrew from the agreement. Members discussed holding a special meeting after the election but ultimately moved to table the MOU until election outcomes are known.

Why it matters: The proposed partnership would share startup costs and expand career-technical offerings for students at Wetzel Technical Center. Tabling the MOU preserves flexibility pending levy results and ensures clearer contractual language on equipment ownership and cost-sharing.

What’s next: The board directed staff to seek clarification from Tyler County officials, add explicit equipment-ownership and modification language to the MOU as needed, and return the agreement to the board after the election.