Mason County Board Approves Key Personnel Actions, Policies
UPDATE: The Mason County Board of Education has just completed a pivotal meeting, approving a series of significant personnel actions and policy reviews that will shape the upcoming school year. During the special regular business meeting held on December 12, 2025, in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, board members took urgent steps to address staffing and policy needs amid ongoing challenges.
Board President Jared Billings, along with Vice President Megan Bonecutter and other members, met with Superintendent Melissa Farmer to discuss several important matters. Notably, Farmer highlighted plans for a data meeting in January to evaluate the i-Ready program, underscoring the board’s commitment to improving educational outcomes.
In a heartfelt moment, Farmer also reflected on the recent passing of central office staffer Becky Turner, requesting the community’s support and prayers for two other staff members facing health issues.
The board approved numerous personnel changes, including the appointment of Heidi Wood as a driver for the upcoming school year, following a thorough review of her driving record. Volunteer positions for Point Pleasant Intermediate School, Point Pleasant Primary School, and Point Pleasant Junior/Senior High School were also sanctioned, demonstrating a push for community involvement.
In a proactive policy move, the board adopted measures addressing substitutes in critical areas and initiated a five-day public comment period on various policies, including those related to dual credit, student assessment, and food service personnel.
Under staffing updates, the board granted Family and Medical Leave Act leave to Rebecca Brumfield, Richard Johnson, and Christine Smith for up to 12 weeks each. They also accepted the resignation of Makinley Bumgarner Liptrap from New Haven Elementary School, effective December 19, 2025.
The meeting also saw the transfer of Taylor Willford from kindergarten to second-grade teacher at Point Pleasant Primary School for the 2026-27 school year. New roles were filled, including Sandra Southern as an itinerant teacher and several new substitutes approved for the upcoming school year.
Service personnel actions included the employment of Joseph Arrington as a bus operator effective January 5, 2026, and the transfer of Vaneesa Harper to Point Pleasant Junior/Senior High School. The board also accepted the resignation of Gracie Cottrill as head volleyball coach, effective December 11, 2025, signaling changes in extracurricular staff as well.
The financial aspect of the meeting was crucial, with the board ratifying orders and transfers totaling $1,728,094.97, ensuring that the budget remains robust as the new year approaches.
Looking ahead, the Mason County Board of Education has scheduled its next meetings for January 13 and January 27, 2026, both starting at 6 p.m. at the Mason County Board of Education Office. These meetings will continue to address vital issues impacting the community and its educational framework.
Stay tuned for more updates on these developing stories as they unfold. The Mason County Board of Education is committed to transparency and ensuring the best outcomes for students and staff alike.
