County school board approves FY26 budget; gets updates on attendance and construction
(CLINTWOOD) - The Dickenson County School Board approved its FY26 budget with an allocation of $5,255,637, including a $250,000 increase for staff salary raises.
Salary scale adjustments for FY26 were approved, including a 3% plus step increase for full-time employees and an average 3% increase for part-time and hourly rates. An education specialist and doctorate stipend were added to the therapist scale.
Key discussions and updates included:
Updates were provided on the VSBA 2025 conference on education and the ongoing construction of canopies at Ridgeview, expected to be ready by the end of July. The transition of the gas line at the four-way intersection has also begun and is anticipated to be completed by early August.
The board recognized several retirees, including Sherry Stanley (35 years of service), Dwayne Stanley (35 years of service), Keith Woods (30 years of service), and Deneisha Edwards (39 years of service).
A new attendance award program was introduced, featuring championship belts for monthly attendance, and male and female student-athletes of the month. The district's overall attendance goal of 90% for the year was met, with a final percentage of 90.85%.
Amended insurance premiums for employees were approved, with vision rates reverting to FY25 levels, meaning no increase for employees.
Approval was given for federal grant applications for Titles I, II, III, IV, and V, totaling approximately $1,098,275, which will cover salaries, benefits, materials, and programs.
A motion was passed to direct the superintendent to prepare written procedures for the appointment of student representatives to the board.
A revision to policy GCCB regarding the employment of family members was approved, allowing family members to coach on the same sports team under the direct supervision of the school principal or their designate.
The 2025-2026 Parent and Student Handbook and the DCPS Handbook for Students were approved with minor updates.
Plans for the first "Beginning of School Bash" were discussed, which will include local and regional agencies, activities for children, and the introduction of the Wolfpack football team and cheerleaders. The Health Wagon will also be on campus three days a week for health clinic services.
A resolution supporting the Job Corps was approved due to potential funding losses, recognizing their positive impact on student skill development and employment.
The meeting concluded with board comments, expressing appreciation for retirees, staff, and community partnerships, and then moved into a closed session.
Recommendations for Employment
Elizabeth Wallace named Ridgeview Elementary School Assistant Principal
Mark Mullins named District-Wide Attendance Coordinator
Recommendations for Transfer
Ginny Stanley from 4th Grade Teacher at RES to 5th Grade Teacher at RMS - transfer.
Keaton Owens from custodian at Ridgeview to custodian with maintenance duties at Ridgeview Sewer Plant - transfer.
