Superintendent Ron Blankenship (center) recognized retiring board members Don Harris (left) and Rick Fitzwater (right) for their service
to the children of Calhoun County as members of the board
By Bob Weaver
The Calhoun Board of Education deferred the hiring of a new principal for Calhoun Middle-High School at Monday's meeting, after going into an executive session to discuss the applicants.
The names of the applicants have not been made public.
The newly formed board with three new members will make the hiring decision.
The board unanimously approved a policy regarding extra-curricular activities reimbursing the school system for bus transportation.
Now, Level One transports, which covers most school and athletic activities, will pay 10% of fuel costs in addition to the driver's expenses.
The issue has been a topic of discussion during board meetings for several months, with some groups appealing to the board to rescind the policy which has been charging 100% of costs to cover gasoline expenses.
The system receives a 90% reimbursement for gasoline expenses, but the payment is delayed for a year or more.
Other activities and outside groups will pay more for bus transport to special events, from 30 to 40 cents a mile, in addition to the bus driver's wages.
Board member Cynthia Dale asked Superintendent Ron Blankenship to reimburse funds to groups like the booster clubs, who have already paid the additional fees in 2005-06.
Blankenship advised Dale the adjustments will be made.
A bid was awarded for the removal of carpet throughout Calhoun Middle-High School and replacing it with tile. The project has been funded by the School Building Authority.
 Board president Carlene Frederick (left) a 12-year-member of the board, was recognized for her service to the county, also serving on the RESA Board for 10 years, and had currently been elected to serve as vice-president of the WV School Board's Association
A number of personnel changes and jobs postings were processed during the meeting. (More to follow)
President Frederick concluded the meeting by wishing the three new board members "good luck" during their service. She said "I'm going to miss it." | 
