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Superintendent warns withheld federal Title funds are hurting programs; announces community events
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Nicely told the board that federally authorized Title II, III and IV funds have not been released, affecting staff training, English learner supports, AP test assistance and after-school programs; she also announced several upcoming events and her recent appointment to the Virginia Early Childhood Care and Education Commission.
Superintendent Dr. Nicely told the Reno County School Board on July 17 that the district has not received federally authorized Title funds and that the withholding is harming programs "such as staff training, support for English language learner programs, and financial assistance for economically disadvantaged students taking AP tests." She said the district has reached out to its congressional delegation for help.
Dr. Nicely said she was recently appointed by "Secretary of Education Gadera" to the Virginia Early Childhood Care and Education Commission, a 30-member body established by the General Assembly. She described the role as an opportunity to "elevate the work that our schools do in the preschool arena" and to spotlight the need for increased early-childhood access in rural areas.
She also promoted community events and dates: a free screening of the documentary Can't Look Away with a moderated discussion on July 29 (tickets via the Grand Theater website); the "Load the Bus" school supply drive Aug. 1–3 at area Walmart stores; faculty convocation on Aug. 7; and the first student day on Aug. 14. She encouraged parents to attend the screening and asked staff to post QR/signup information on the district website.
Dr. Nicely's statement about federal funds did not include a dollar amount in the transcript; she attributed impacts to specific program areas and said the district has contacted federal representatives for assistance. Board members acknowledged the concern and said they would support outreach to restore funding.
