Kim Halterman, Superintendent, Alleghany Highlands Public Schools, provided an update on the school system to the Council for the city of Covington, at their regular meeting, Tuesday evening.
“We just wanted to come and bring you an update on the school division, particularly at this time in our history,” began Halterman. She thanked Council for their generous support of the schools and the grace the community has shown before beginning her slide show presentation.
Halterman provided an overview of the 22-23 school year, to include the development of Alleghany Highlands Public School’s strategic plan, additional opportunities for students, an accelerated process of staffing for the 23-24 school year, and a heightened focus on communication. She credited Darrell Gleason, Communication Specialist, for developing their social media presence. “It’s extremely helpful in getting the word out,” added Halterman.
She also presented some additional opportunities and provisions for students, to include added Career-Technical Education (CTE) options, expanded swimming and wrestling teams, expanded gifted student program, and a new drumline/winter guard group.
After her presentation, Mayor Tom Sibold, asked how he should answer “when people ask me how can we be saving money if we are spending money?” Halterman explained, in part, that money is being saved by bringing folks together.
Rebecca Irvine, Director of Finance, AHPS, joined Halterman at the podium to explain in greater detail what was being spent and what was being saved. “We are saving money,” she said in conclusion.
Council expressed their satisfaction with the presentation and the answers provided. They all agreed that updates would be provided to Council at regular intervals to ensure they would be able to provide answers to citizens.
During his city report to Council, Allen Dressler advised that the utility vehicle for the fire department would be delivered on the 20th and a dedication would be planned, shortly thereafter. He reported that pre-bid meetings were being held regarding Casey Field renovations and construction of a new facility for the home team. “We are ready for football season and for the first day of school,” said Dressler. He also reported on moving forward to try to improve housing in the community.
In other action, Council reappointed Stephanie Clark to the Ninth District Financing Board of Directors for another term and approved a resolution of American Rescue Plan Act grant funds for Law Enforcement Equipment in the amount of $366k.
Council tabled the approval of the Renewal and Amendment of the Cable Television Franchise (Shentel) after some discussion on looking at other franchises and a Virginia Juvenile Community Crime Control Act to allow time for Council to review more information. All Council actions were approved by a vote of 4/0. Councilman Richard Hunter was absent and did not cast a vote.