October 5 was International Teacher Day. It was a day that did not create fanfare, but I would like to take a moment an express my appreciation for the outstanding teachers I had during my school years and to our current teachers who are in the classrooms making a difference every day. As communities, families, and education systems we must seek ways that we can support our teachers so that they may do the work of teaching. Students must come to school ready, prepared to learn, and seeking ways that they can contribute positively to the school culture.
I was happy to go to the High School last week with Braxton Middle School’s eight grade math teacher, Cathy Singleton, to celebrate with students who attained mastery or above in Math on the General Summative Assessment test. Those students worked hard throughout last year, and it paid off. I enjoyed hearing about their first year of high school and seeing their smiling faces.
I attended a meeting with Superintendent Dr. Donna Burge-Tetrick, Board of Education President Evelyn Post, Braxton High School Principal Lori Stover, Director of Instruction Linda Sears, And representatives from Pierpont Community and Technical College. We toured the Pierpont section of the school and had a lengthy discussion about the partnership and possibilities going forward. We advocate for our students. I walked away from the meeting feeling encouraged and excited.
During interims, the Space X Team presented and demonstrated its Starlink Service on the roof of the capitol building. Last week, they announced that high-speed broadband internet access system would be available in most of West Virginia. As the need for internet access grows, Starlink is another option for our citizens. As with other providers, there is a cost. To learn more about Starlink, visit www.starlink.com.
Will and I spent an enjoyable day at Sutton’s Fall Festival. Although we did not find deep fried Twinkies, we did find delicious treats. Thank you to all the organizers and vendors that made the day possible.
As I drive around the district, I see beautiful fall decorations, and I am thankful for the creativity, time, and effort that people share to make their corner festive and welcoming. The love of community shines.
Thank you to organizers of the Braxton County Emergency Services Safety Fair. I understand it was an enjoyable day for everyone who attended.
Ed Given was correct when he stated that October is a busy month. Please check out the Community Calendars section in the paper for more information about events this month.
Glenville State will be celebrating Homecoming during the week of October 9-14, 2023. With the theme of all things “West Virginia” it will be a delightful week with activities for friends, families, and alumni to enjoy. Please visit www.glenville.edu/student-life/sga/homecoming for a complete schedule.
This past weekend, cooler temperatures set in. As households turn on furnaces and light fire place fires, please take the time to check your smoke and fire detectors.
Leaves are really starting to change quickly; I love the beautiful colors of fall. As you travel, be cautious of slippery roads caused by leaves that have fallen off trees.
“Pale amber sunlight falls
(https://allpoetry.com/poem/8509727-Autumnal-by-Ernest-Christopher-Dowson) Across the Reddening October trees
That hardly sway before a breeze
As soft as summer: summer’s loss
Seems little, dear! On day like these”
(Ernest Dowson)
I look forward to hearing form people in the district and hope to see you out and about enjoying all the great things our area has to offer. I can be contacted at lori.dittman@ wvhouse.gov or 304-701-8600.
Devoted to Braxton County, West Virginia