Director Ron Nichols with RESA attended the Tyler County Board of Education meeting on Monday to give an update on the services they provide to the school.

RESA is the Regional Educational Service Agency and their goal is to help local school systems meet their educational needs through sharing services across school systems lines.

The services offered through RESA are consultant assistance in the areas of reading/language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, computer technology, and other school improvement initiatives; and staff development for teachers, administrators, paraprofessionals, and substitute teachers. They also offer sponsorship of activities to encourage academic excellence among students as in Regional Technology Fair, Quiz Bowl, Very Special Arts Festival, and Vocational Opportunities; as well as repair and maintenance of business machines, audio/visual equipment, computers, and networking, school supplies and equipment purchasing.

“We improve learning, it benefits the community and saves taxpayers money,” said Nichols.

Board member Jimmy Wyatt brought up the question of using bio-diesel in the future.

Nichols informed Wyatt that Ritchie, Pleasants and Wood counties are currently using bio-diesel.

Treasurer Jeff Davis said that they have looked into it in the past and when the new bus garage is done, they are going to switch to bio-diesel.

The board members wanted to recognize May 3 through 8 as National Teacher Appreciation Week.

“In recognition of National Staff Appreciation Week and on behalf of the entire Board of Education, I would like to thank all Tyler County school employees for their hard work and dedication each year for making our school system one of the best in West Virginia. It takes all of you to make it work so well for our children.” said Superintendent Jeff Hoover.

The 2010-2011 preliminary budget given by Davis was accepted by the board.

It was reported that there have been no changes in the monthly attendance and Tyler County schools are holding over 90 percent for this school year.

Under personnel, two resignations were reported. The board members recognized Darrell Sole for 25 years of services as a bus operator; and Dee Cool, who resigned as the librarian at A.I. Boreman. The board members wish them the best of luck.

Friday, June 4 is a regular instructional day which was converted due to a snow day. All grades must report.

The last day for grades 6, 7, 9, 10, and 11 is Monday, June 7. This will be Move Up Day for grades PK – 5, and 8 only. Dismissal time will be 11 a.m for AIB and SES. Dismissal for TCHS/MS will be 11:30 a.m.

The next regular board of eduction meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 17 at Tyler County Board of Education Office.