The excitement of a new school year is in the air, and our teachers, principals, and support staff have already been hard at work preparing for student success. Last week was filled with meaningful professional learning opportunities focused on ensuring every student has the tools and support needed to thrive.
A dedicated group of our K-5 educators, principals, and support staff participated in Science of Reading training, strengthening instructional practices that help all students reach grade-level reading expectations by third grade. Literacy remains a top priority, and we are committed to providing our students with the strongest possible foundation for future success.
In addition, I had the opportunity to travel to Charleston with Ms. Stephanie Burns to review the newly released West Virginia Writing Rubrics for grades 3-8. These important instructional resources will help teachers support student growth in writing and ensure our students are well-prepared for future academic and career opportunities.
As we move through the school year, our goal is to host family engagement opportunities at each school to share information about literacy, writing, student achievement, and college and career readiness. We believe that strong partnerships between schools, families, and the community are essential to student success, and we look forward to keeping everyone informed and engaged.
While the first day of school is one of my favorite days of the year, I don't always get the opportunity to see all the wonderful photos of students arriving at our schools. I'd love to celebrate this exciting time with you! Please share your first day, or first week, of school photos in the comments below so we can celebrate the beginning of another great year together.
Here's to an outstanding 2026-2027 school year for all of our students, staff, families, and community! ❤️💛
Leatha G. Williams, Ed. S., Ed. D.
Superintendent, Pocahontas County Schools
#PocahontasProud #StudentSuccess #BuildingTheFuture #EveryStudentEveryDay #togethereveryoneachievesmore










Pocahontas County Schools is looking for passionate individuals who are committed to helping students learn, grow, and succeed!
We currently have openings in:
✅ Teaching Positions
✅ 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)
✅ Coaching Positions
✅ Support Staff Positions
Whether you're an educator, coach, program leader, or support professional, there is a place for you on our team.
Apply online today: https://www.applitrack.com/wvde/onlineapp/default.aspx?choosedistrict=true&applitrackclient=47354&all=1
#PocahontasCountySchools #NowHiring #BuildOurFuture #EducationCareers #BeAWarrior #WVSchools #JoinOurTeam #MakeADifference

From the Desk of Superintendent Dr. Leatha Williams:
Today is a moment of pride for all of us across Pocahontas County. We are excited to share that Pocahontas County Schools has moved up several positions in the rankings and is now ranked #9 in West Virginia, placing us among the Top 10 school districts in the state! 🎉🏆
This accomplishment reflects the collective efforts of our entire community. Just one year ago, our district was working through state intervention status. Today, we are celebrating a Top 10 ranking. That kind of progress does not happen by chance. It happens when students, educators, staff, families, community partners, and residents come together with a shared commitment to helping our children succeed.
Every student who worked hard, every teacher who inspired learning, every staff member who supported our schools, every parent who encouraged their child, and every community member who invested in our future helped make this achievement possible. This recognition belongs to all of us.
As we celebrate, it is important to note that this ranking data is different from our Accountability Data. Accountability measures exclude students who were not enrolled for the full academic year, while this ranking includes students who were assessed in our school system. As a result, the two measures should not be viewed as interchangeable.
Even with that distinction, this achievement is worth celebrating. It demonstrates the dedication, perseverance, and teamwork that can be found throughout Pocahontas County. It is a reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together on behalf of our students.
While we are proud of how far we have come, we are equally excited about where we are headed. The progress we have made over the past year shows that there is no limit to what our schools and communities can achieve together.
🏆 Proud of Our Progress. Grateful for Our Community.
⭐ Working Together for Student Success.
🚀 The Best Is Yet to Come!
#PocahontasCountySchools #Top10WV #CommunityStrong #StudentSuccess #StrongerTogether

Pocahontas County Schools is excited to welcome students back for the first day of the 2026-2027 school year tomorrow!
We can't wait to see our hallways filled with learning, laughter, and new opportunities. Parents and guardians, please take a few moments to review transportation plans, school schedules, and any back-to-school information from your child's school.
Here's to a fantastic year of growth, achievement, and success for all students!
🍎 First Day of School: August 19, 2026 🏫 Pocahontas County Schools
#PocahontasCountySchools #FirstDayOfSchool #BackToSchool #PCSReady #LearningStartsHere #StudentsWhoAttendTodayAchieveTomorrow

The first day of student instruction is Wednesday, August 19, 2026, and our teachers, staff, and administrators have been working hard to get everything ready for a great year of learning.
As families make final preparations, be sure to check out our 2026-2027 School Calendar for important dates throughout the year, including holidays, breaks, conference days, and grading periods. Families are also encouraged to review our Open House schedule and join us at their school's event to meet staff, visit classrooms, and start the year off strong.
💙💚 We can't wait to welcome back our returning students and meet those joining us for the first time. Here's to a year filled with learning, growth, and success!
🍎 See you on August 19!











The PCS Teacher Academy officially launched yesterday, bringing educators together for a day of growth, collaboration, and innovation. Teachers explored Specially Designed Instruction and other topics aimed at strengthening instruction and supporting all learners. Our educational staff will continue with a variety of learning sessions up until our students arrive.
We are proud of our dedicated educators who continue to invest in their professional growth to make a positive impact in every classroom.
#PCSProud #TeacherAcademy #LifelongLearning #ExcellenceInEducation #TogetherEveryoneAchievesMore







We are excited to welcome students and families back for another great school year!
🏫 Open House Schedule:
📅 August 17 • Hillsboro Elementary School | 4:00-6:00 p.m.
• Green Bank Elementary Middle School | 4:30-6:30 p.m.
📅 August 18 • Marlinton Elementary School | 4:00-6:00 p.m.
📅 August 21 • Pocahontas County High School | 4:00-6:00 p.m.
📅 August 25 • Marlinton Middle School | 4:00-6:00 p.m.
🎒 Students Return to School on August 19, 2026
Open House is a wonderful opportunity to meet teachers and staff, visit classrooms, learn about the upcoming school year, and get prepared for success.
We look forward to seeing our students and families as we kick off the 2026-2027 school year! 🍎✏️
#PocahontasCountySchools #BackToSchool #OpenHouse2026 #FirstDayOfSchool #PCSProud #TogetherEveryoneAchievesMore

Pocahontas County Schools would like to remind families that students entering 7th and 12th grades are required to provide proof of the following immunizations before attending school:
✅ Tdap Vaccine
✅ Meningococcal (Meningitis) Vaccine
These vaccines help protect students from serious vaccine-preventable diseases, including bacterial meningitis and pertussis (whooping cough).
Please ensure your student has received these immunizations and that documentation has been submitted prior to the start of the school year. Students who have not met these requirements may not be permitted to attend school until documentation is provided.
Families may obtain these vaccines through their primary care provider or the Pocahontas County Health Department.
For more information, visit: 🔗 https://boe.pocahontas.k12.wv.us/page/nursing-health-services
#PocahontasCountySchools #BackToSchool #StudentHealth #VaccinationReminder #ReadyForSchool

Review and share your feedback here:
https://tinyurl.com/PCS-Policies
#PocahontasCountySchools #CommunityVoice #PublicComment

Hosted by the West Virginia Department of Education, SAIL brings together educators from across the state to engage in professional learning, networking, and leadership development.
The conference began with a Central Office Jumpstart, providing district leaders with an opportunity to focus on planning, collaboration, and preparing for a successful 2026-2027 school year.
In addition to those pictured, several Pocahontas County Schools faculty members are attending learning sessions throughout the conference, gaining valuable insights, resources, and strategies to bring back to our classrooms and schools.
We are grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside educators from across West Virginia and look forward to continuing our professional growth as the conference continues.
❤️💛 Investing in our educators means investing in our students.
#PocahontasCountySchools #WVEd #SAILConference #ContinuousLearning


We are currently hiring for several positions across the county, including:
✅ Special Education Teacher – Marlinton Middle School
✅ Science Teacher – Pocahontas County High School
✅ Special Education Teachers (2) – Green Bank Elementary Middle School
✅ Custodian III – Marlinton Middle School
✅ Multiple Athletic Positions
✅ And more!
If you're passionate about making a difference in the lives of students, we encourage you to apply today.
🔗 View current openings and apply online:
https://boe.pocahontas.k12.wv.us/page/employment
Please help us spread the word by sharing this post! #PocahontasCountySchools #WeAreHiring #EducationCareers #JoinOurTeam 🍎📚🏫

Looking for a rewarding career in education? Join our team and help make a difference for students across Pocahontas County!
Current Openings Include:
✅ Assistant Principal/Supervisor of CTE – Pocahontas County High School
✅ Teacher of Special Education – Green Bank Elementary Middle School
✅ Secretary III/Accountant III – Hillsboro Elementary/Pocahontas County Schools
✅ Multiple Summer Positions
✅ And more!
Whether you're an experienced educator, administrator, or support professional, we encourage you to explore the opportunities available with Pocahontas County Schools.
📍 Learn more and apply online:
🔗 https://boe.pocahontas.k12.wv.us/page/employment
Please help us spread the word by liking and sharing with someone who may be interested!
#PocahontasCountySchools #NowHiring #EducationCareers #WVJobs #TeachingJobs #SchoolJobs #JoinOurTeam #PocahontasCountyWV

There's still time to sign up! Open to students 5th grade and up!
Pocahontas County Schools' Learning Beyond the Bell program is offering FREE week-long summer workshops for youth entering 5th grade and above!
Choose one workshop or sign up for all three:
✈️ Passport Around the World: A Global Adventure
📅 July 13–17 | ⏰ 12 PM–4 PM
⏳ Registration Deadline: July 10
📖 Historical Inspirations: Writing Workshop
📅 July 20–24 | ⏰ 12 PM–4 PM
⏳ Registration Deadline: July 17
🎨 Poetry & Printmaking Arts Workshop
📅 July 27–31 | ⏰ 12 PM–4 PM
⏳ Registration Deadline: July 24
📍 All workshops will be held at Marlinton Elementary School
Students will create, explore, learn new skills, and have a blast through engaging hands-on experiences.
✅ Free to attend
✅ Open to youth entering 5th grade and above
✅ Register for one, two, or all three workshops
✅ Limited spots available
Register today:
🔗 https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/R7cpWNb94g
#LearningBeyondTheBell #SummerLearning #PocahontasCountySchools #FreeSummerPrograms #ArtsEducation #StudentOpportunities



Pocahontas County Schools was honored to welcome new Board of Education members at the July 6 meeting as the board began a new term of service. During the organizational meeting, the board selected its officers, as required by West Virginia law. Congratulations to Connie Rose, who was elected Board President, and Regina Hall, who was elected Vice President. We also extend a special welcome to Edwina Garber, who was officially sworn in as a new member of the Board of Education.
We are excited to welcome our new board members and look forward to the leadership, perspectives, and dedication they will bring to serving the students, staff, and families of Pocahontas County Schools.
We would like to express our sincere appreciation to Emery Grimes for his diligent and steadfast service as Board President during a particularly challenging period for our district. While he will continue serving as a valued member of the Board of Education, we are grateful for his leadership, commitment, and willingness to guide the board through important transitions and decisions.
We also thank outgoing board members Andrew “Frosty” McNabb and Morgan McComb for their dedicated service to our schools and community. Their contributions have helped support the success of Pocahontas County Schools and the students we serve. Additionally, we recognize Karen McCoy, who graciously stepped forward to serve as an interim board member beginning in May. We appreciate her willingness to answer the call to serve our district.
As we move forward, we are excited about the opportunities ahead and the strong partnership between our Board of Education, school leaders, staff, families, and community. Together, we remain committed to providing exceptional educational opportunities for every student in Pocahontas County.
Please join us in welcoming our new board members and thanking those who have served our schools with dedication and pride. 🍎💙💛




Due to the planned MonPower outage affecting the Buckeye and Marlinton area on Tuesday, July 7, Brainwaves and Sunrays programming at Marlinton Elementary School (MES) will be canceled for the day.
The outage is expected to impact electrical and communication services in the area, making it necessary to suspend programming to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding as MonPower completes the scheduled work. We look forward to welcoming students back when programming resumes on 7/8.
If you have questions, please email the appropriate staff member. Staff email addresses can be found on our website at:
🔗 https://boe.pocahontas.k12.wv.us/staff
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
#PocahontasCountySchools #LearningBeyondTheBell #Brainwaves #Sunrays
As a result of the outage, telephone service for all Pocahontas County Schools locations throughout the county will be unavailable during the planned interruption.
Individuals with urgent or emergent concerns may contact the district by calling the Marlinton Middle School fax line at 304-799-7278. Community members may also email the appropriate staff member, and school personnel will respond as soon as possible.
Staff email addresses can be found on the Pocahontas County Schools website or directly at: https://boe.pocahontas.k12.wv.us/staff
Pocahontas County Schools appreciates the public's patience and understanding as MonPower completes this scheduled work. Normal operations and phone service are expected to resume once electrical service is restored.
For additional information, please visit the Pocahontas County Schools website.
Choose one workshop or sign up for all three:
✈️ Passport Around the World: A Global Adventure
📅 July 13–17 | ⏰ 12 PM–4 PM
⏳ Registration Deadline: July 10
📖 Historical Inspirations: Writing Workshop
📅 July 20–24 | ⏰ 12 PM–4 PM
⏳ Registration Deadline: July 17
🎨 Poetry & Printmaking Arts Workshop
📅 July 27–31 | ⏰ 12 PM–4 PM
⏳ Registration Deadline: July 24
📍 All workshops will be held at Marlinton Elementary School
Students will create, explore, learn new skills, and have a blast through engaging hands-on experiences.
✅ Free to attend
✅ Open to youth entering 5th grade and above
✅ Register for one, two, or all three workshops
✅ Limited spots available
Register today:
🔗 https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/R7cpWNb94g
#LearningBeyondTheBell #SummerLearning #PocahontasCountySchools #FreeSummerPrograms #ArtsEducation #StudentOpportunities



As we head into the Independence Day holiday weekend, we wanted to share a couple of important reminders from Pocahontas County Schools:
Central Office Holiday Closure
The PCS Central Office will be closed the afternoon of July 2 and all day on July 3 in observance of Independence Day.
📋 Board of Education Meeting Reminder
The next Pocahontas County Board of Education meeting will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Central Office conference room. During this meeting, the newly elected Board members will be sworn in.
🎥 A livestream of the meeting will be available on our website or at: https://bit.ly/PCS_BOE_Live
We wish everyone a safe, happy, and enjoyable Fourth of July weekend!🎆
#PocahontasCountySchools #IndependenceDay


