Augusta County School Board elects Shiflett chair, Swartzell vice chair and approves personnel-authority resolution

The Augusta County School Board reorganized its leadership and approved a personnel-authority resolution at its January meeting.

Superintendent Dr. Troxell opened nominations for board chair; Mr. David Shiflett was nominated and elected by voice vote. "All those in favor of appointing mister Shiflett as chairman of the school board for 2026, please signify by saying aye," Dr. Troxell said as the board voted, and the motion carried 7–0.

The board then nominated Tim Swartzell for vice chair and approved his appointment by the same voice vote. The panel also approved the appointment of Gina Grow as clerk and Shannon Brake as deputy clerk for 2026.

In a related action the board considered a resolution authorizing the superintendent to assign and reassign staff and to accept resignations and retirements so personnel functions are not delayed. The superintendent said the resolution "provides the superintendent with the authority to assign and reassign staff and to accept resignations in retirement so that the personnel function of the school division is not delayed." Board members moved and seconded the measure and it passed 7–0.

The reorganization concluded with the board reviewing a draft calendar of meetings for the year and discussing committee assignments. No substantive committee changes were made in the packet; members were invited to bring requests to the February meeting.

The board moved into other business after the reorganization and approved the consent agenda as presented.