🌟 Spotlighting the leaders who help our schools shine! 🌟
👩💼 Meet Sarah Hamilton!
Recently appointed as the Treasurer/Director of Finance for Pocahontas County Schools, Sarah Hamilton brings over a decade of experience in various administrative roles within the district. In her current position, Sarah oversees budget planning, financial reporting, and ensures compliance with state and federal regulations—all critical to keeping our schools running smoothly and responsibly.
Outside the office, Sarah is a Tee-ball coach for her grandson’s Little League team, and she is a proud “granny” to 9 grandchildren. A fun fact about Sarah: she once embarked on a unique adventure fox hunting in Ireland with her mother! She lives in Beaver Creek with her husband and grandson, Jace.
Sarah can be reached by calling the Board of Education Office (304) 799-4505 ext. 2222. If she doesn’t know the answer to your question, she will help you find it!
Spotlight Quote: I’m looking forward to great school year!
#PocahontasProfiles #PocahontasProud #LeadershipSpotlight #WVSchools #BehindTheScenes
👩💼 Meet Sarah Hamilton!
Recently appointed as the Treasurer/Director of Finance for Pocahontas County Schools, Sarah Hamilton brings over a decade of experience in various administrative roles within the district. In her current position, Sarah oversees budget planning, financial reporting, and ensures compliance with state and federal regulations—all critical to keeping our schools running smoothly and responsibly.
Outside the office, Sarah is a Tee-ball coach for her grandson’s Little League team, and she is a proud “granny” to 9 grandchildren. A fun fact about Sarah: she once embarked on a unique adventure fox hunting in Ireland with her mother! She lives in Beaver Creek with her husband and grandson, Jace.
Sarah can be reached by calling the Board of Education Office (304) 799-4505 ext. 2222. If she doesn’t know the answer to your question, she will help you find it!
Spotlight Quote: I’m looking forward to great school year!
#PocahontasProfiles #PocahontasProud #LeadershipSpotlight #WVSchools #BehindTheScenes
🎒✨ Start the School Year Strong! ✨🎒
Pocahontas County Schools is proud to partner with ParentGuidance.org to offer free Parent Coaching to support families throughout the school year. 💬👨👩👧👦
Whether you're navigating academic stress, emotional challenges, or just want to strengthen your parenting skills, this resource is here for YOU.
📲 Scan the QR code or visit cookcenter.info/coaching to get started today!
Let’s make this school year a success—together. 💛📚
#ParentCoaching #PocahontasCountySchools #BackToSchool #StrongerTogether #SchoolYearSuccess
Pocahontas County Schools is proud to partner with ParentGuidance.org to offer free Parent Coaching to support families throughout the school year. 💬👨👩👧👦
Whether you're navigating academic stress, emotional challenges, or just want to strengthen your parenting skills, this resource is here for YOU.
📲 Scan the QR code or visit cookcenter.info/coaching to get started today!
Let’s make this school year a success—together. 💛📚
#ParentCoaching #PocahontasCountySchools #BackToSchool #StrongerTogether #SchoolYearSuccess
The "Central Office Spotlight" series is an initiative to help familiarize our stakeholders with the employees of the Pocahontas County Schools central office and their respective roles. To open the series, our new superintendent, Dr. Leatha Williams, has written a letter to introduce herself to the community. Stay tuned for more spotlights in the future!
Dear School Staff, Community Members and Families,
I’m incredibly honored to join you as I step into the role of Superintendent for Pocahontas County Schools. Over the past 25 years, I’ve worked in education across three different states and in nearly every role within a school system. Each experience has shaped who I am as an educator and a leader and has given me a deep appreciation for the challenges our students, teachers, and families face every day. I’m truly excited to bring that perspective to this community and to work together with you to support every child’s success and triumphs.
I was raised in Neola, a small community in Greenbrier County, West Virginia not far from here. That upbringing has fostered a strong connection to the ideals and spirit of Pocahontas County, both in its schools and its community. I understand how vital our school system is—not just for education, but as a cornerstone of community life and a foundation for our students’ futures.
I firmly believe that every student plays a valuable role in shaping the future of our small community. It is our responsibility to ensure they are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive as successful and involved citizens.
Academically, I believe every student should learn cursive writing, develop strong financial literacy, and master fundamental math facts and properties. It is also essential that students graduate with practical life skills, including the ability to communicate clearly and effectively—both verbally and in writing. I also understand that some students have aspirations to attend college and pursue careers that demand advanced degrees while others will seek to further their education in a trade school. It's important that we nurture their ambitions by encouraging academic excellence and providing the resources and opportunities they need to succeed—just as I will remain committed to offering focused support and remediation for those who require additional help.
In closing, my husband and I are so happy to be members of your community. If you happen to see us — whether at school, an event, or anywhere in town—please feel free to say hello. I’m excited to listen, learn, and collaborate with all of you to support our students, our schools and the community of Pocahontas County.
Thank you for your warm support and for the opportunity to work and live in this beautiful community. Together, we are stronger!
Sincerely,
Dr. Leatha G. Williams, Superintendent of Schools
Dear School Staff, Community Members and Families,
I’m incredibly honored to join you as I step into the role of Superintendent for Pocahontas County Schools. Over the past 25 years, I’ve worked in education across three different states and in nearly every role within a school system. Each experience has shaped who I am as an educator and a leader and has given me a deep appreciation for the challenges our students, teachers, and families face every day. I’m truly excited to bring that perspective to this community and to work together with you to support every child’s success and triumphs.
I was raised in Neola, a small community in Greenbrier County, West Virginia not far from here. That upbringing has fostered a strong connection to the ideals and spirit of Pocahontas County, both in its schools and its community. I understand how vital our school system is—not just for education, but as a cornerstone of community life and a foundation for our students’ futures.
I firmly believe that every student plays a valuable role in shaping the future of our small community. It is our responsibility to ensure they are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive as successful and involved citizens.
Academically, I believe every student should learn cursive writing, develop strong financial literacy, and master fundamental math facts and properties. It is also essential that students graduate with practical life skills, including the ability to communicate clearly and effectively—both verbally and in writing. I also understand that some students have aspirations to attend college and pursue careers that demand advanced degrees while others will seek to further their education in a trade school. It's important that we nurture their ambitions by encouraging academic excellence and providing the resources and opportunities they need to succeed—just as I will remain committed to offering focused support and remediation for those who require additional help.
In closing, my husband and I are so happy to be members of your community. If you happen to see us — whether at school, an event, or anywhere in town—please feel free to say hello. I’m excited to listen, learn, and collaborate with all of you to support our students, our schools and the community of Pocahontas County.
Thank you for your warm support and for the opportunity to work and live in this beautiful community. Together, we are stronger!
Sincerely,
Dr. Leatha G. Williams, Superintendent of Schools
📣 Stakeholder Survey: JROTC Program Interest
Pocahontas County Schools is exploring the possibility of launching a JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps) program at our high school. We value your input and want to hear from our students, families, staff, and community members!
📝 Please take a moment to complete our Stakeholder Interest Survey to help us gauge support, interest and concerns.
🔗 https://forms.office.com/r/ZaZukec6Rs
Survey Closes: 9/5/25
Your feedback is essential as we consider new ways to support student leadership, citizenship, and career pathways. Thank you for being an engaged part of our school community!
#PocahontasCountySchools #JROTC #StakeholderVoice #StudentOpportunities #GreatThingsAtPCS
📣SHOUTOUT TIME! 🎉
We would like to thank Snowshoe Mountain Resort for providing prizes to 2 lucky winners at yesterday's Back-To-School meeting!
🎁Abby Pritt was the recipient of a tubing pass and Makayla Malcom won a round of golf at the Raven!
#ThankYou #GreatThingsAtPCS
📚✨ Back to School Kickoff – Pocahontas County Schools ✨📚
We launched the 2025–2026 school year with an inspiring back-to-school staff meeting that brought together our incredible team of teachers, administrators, and support staff!
🎤 Keynote Speakers
Larry Bell energized us with “12 Powerful Words that Increase Student Achievement and Close the Achievement Gap.”
Dr. Jordan Simpkins shared insights on “Relational Classroom Management – The Science, Parents, and Recent Generations.”
🎙️ We also heard from Board President Emery Grimes and Superintendent Leatha Williams, who set a positive tone for the year ahead.
🎉 A huge thank you to our generous business partners Snowshoe Mountain Resort and Pendleton Bank for providing giveaways and delicious snacks!
📸 And yes—we had a photo booth to capture the fun and excitement! Swipe through to see the smiles and school spirit!
Here’s to a fantastic year of learning, growth, and connection! 💛❤️ #PocahontasPride #BackToSchool #TeamPCS #StrongerTogether
🎉We are so excited to welcome our staff back today!! (Photos to come soon!) Next week on September 3rd, we'll be welcoming back K-12 students with our littlest ones (Pre-K) starting the week of September 22nd. 📆
🩺💬 Back-to-School Prep with Life-Saving Skills!
Yesterday, several of our staff members participated in CPR training led by our amazing RN/School Nurse, Jenny Friel. This hands-on session is part of our commitment to keeping students safe and prepared for anything that comes our way this school year.
And guess who joined in? 🐾 GBEMS's beloved therapy dog, Kasha, couldn’t resist getting in on the action and brought smiles to everyone’s faces! 💛
#PocahontasCountySchools #BackToSchool #CPRTraining #SchoolSafety #TherapyDogLove
Yesterday, several of our staff members participated in CPR training led by our amazing RN/School Nurse, Jenny Friel. This hands-on session is part of our commitment to keeping students safe and prepared for anything that comes our way this school year.
And guess who joined in? 🐾 GBEMS's beloved therapy dog, Kasha, couldn’t resist getting in on the action and brought smiles to everyone’s faces! 💛
#PocahontasCountySchools #BackToSchool #CPRTraining #SchoolSafety #TherapyDogLove
📅 Reminder: 2025–2026 School Calendar
School is just around the corner! As we gear up for a great year, don’t forget to check the official calendar for key dates including the first day of school, holidays, breaks, and more.
Make sure you're ready—save it, share it, and stay informed! 💙
📌 https://boe.pocahontas.k12.wv.us/page/2022-2023calendar
#PocahontasProud #BackToSchool #SchoolCalendar #20252026SchoolYear
School is just around the corner! As we gear up for a great year, don’t forget to check the official calendar for key dates including the first day of school, holidays, breaks, and more.
Make sure you're ready—save it, share it, and stay informed! 💙
📌 https://boe.pocahontas.k12.wv.us/page/2022-2023calendar
#PocahontasProud #BackToSchool #SchoolCalendar #20252026SchoolYear
📚✨ Don't forget to mark your calendar for your child’s upcoming Open House event. Each school hosts its own special experience—an opportunity to tour the campus, meet the passionate educators, and get a glimpse into the exciting year ahead. Don’t miss it! 🏫📅
🧩 Day 3 – Final Day of the Teacher Academy: Focus on Special Education 💙
We wrapped up the 2025 Teacher Academy with a full day dedicated to enhancing special education services across Pocahontas County Schools.
Our educators learned from two outstanding presenters:
👨🏫 Ian Kennedy – West Virginia Department of Education
👩🏫 Lydia Young – Pocahontas County Special Education Consultant
They shared essential guidance on:
✅ Compliance
✅ Support systems
✅ Practical tactics to better serve students with diverse learning needs
This final day highlighted our commitment to inclusive education and ensuring every student receives the support they deserve. Thank you to all who participated in this powerful 3-day journey of growth and collaboration! 🌟
#PocahontasProud #TeacherAcademy2025 #SpecialEducationMatters #WVDE #InclusiveEducation #ProfessionalDevelopment #GreatThingsAtPCS
We wrapped up the 2025 Teacher Academy with a full day dedicated to enhancing special education services across Pocahontas County Schools.
Our educators learned from two outstanding presenters:
👨🏫 Ian Kennedy – West Virginia Department of Education
👩🏫 Lydia Young – Pocahontas County Special Education Consultant
They shared essential guidance on:
✅ Compliance
✅ Support systems
✅ Practical tactics to better serve students with diverse learning needs
This final day highlighted our commitment to inclusive education and ensuring every student receives the support they deserve. Thank you to all who participated in this powerful 3-day journey of growth and collaboration! 🌟
#PocahontasProud #TeacherAcademy2025 #SpecialEducationMatters #WVDE #InclusiveEducation #ProfessionalDevelopment #GreatThingsAtPCS
🎭✨ At the August 19th Pocahontas County Board of Education meeting, we celebrated some outstanding contributions!
👏 The Pocahontas County High School Drama Club was recognized for stepping up to paint and clean the auditorium stage—a tough job that was badly needed. Huge thanks to Co-Sponsors Mrs. Hughes and Mr. Hummel for rallying current members and alumni to make it happen! Pictured: Mrs. Hughes and Drama Club member Nathaniel.
📚💼 Additionally, the entire school board and several central office staff were honored by the WV School Board Association for completing training focused on school board guidance and compliance. We’re proud of their commitment to excellence!
#PocahontasPride #DramaClub #WVEd #CommunityStrong #BoardRecognition #GreatThingsAtPCS #PCS_StrongerTogether
👏 The Pocahontas County High School Drama Club was recognized for stepping up to paint and clean the auditorium stage—a tough job that was badly needed. Huge thanks to Co-Sponsors Mrs. Hughes and Mr. Hummel for rallying current members and alumni to make it happen! Pictured: Mrs. Hughes and Drama Club member Nathaniel.
📚💼 Additionally, the entire school board and several central office staff were honored by the WV School Board Association for completing training focused on school board guidance and compliance. We’re proud of their commitment to excellence!
#PocahontasPride #DramaClub #WVEd #CommunityStrong #BoardRecognition #GreatThingsAtPCS #PCS_StrongerTogether
📚 Day 2 of the Teacher Academy: Collaboration, Learning & Leadership! 🌟
Today, Pocahontas County educators participated in grade-level/content curriculum sessions led by expert presenters, exploring strategies to enhance instruction and student success. 💡
Some staff also attended specialized sessions focused on:
🧠 Mental Health
🎯 Student Engagement
📈 Attendance Strategies
A highlight of the day was a powerful presentation by our superintendent, Dr. Leatha Williams, on the WVDE Standards for Effective Schools, reinforcing our shared vision for excellence across the county. 🏫✨
We’re proud of the dedication and enthusiasm our staff continues to bring to this academy. One more day to go!
💙
#StrongerTogether
#PocahontasProud #TeacherAcademy2025 #WVDE
#ProfessionalDevelopment #WholeChildWholeCommunity
🎉 Stronger Together: Day 1 of Teacher Academy 🎉
Today, educators from all five Pocahontas County schools came together at Pocahontas County High School for the first day of our three-day Teacher Academy, continuing the inspiring theme from our Leadership Academy — Stronger Together.
Teachers engaged in powerful professional learning focused on:
✅ Understanding Dyslexia
✅ Strategies for Supporting Dyslexic & Special Education Students
✅ Increasing Student Engagement
✅ Creating a Culture of High Expectations
✅ Establishing Classroom Norms & Routines
It was a day filled with collaboration, growth, and a shared commitment to excellence in education.
🙏 Special thanks to Pendleton Community Bank for sponsoring today’s event and supporting our educators and students!
#StrongerTogether #PocahontasCountySchools #TeacherAcademy #ProfessionalLearning #PendletonCommunityBank #PCED
Today, educators from all five Pocahontas County schools came together at Pocahontas County High School for the first day of our three-day Teacher Academy, continuing the inspiring theme from our Leadership Academy — Stronger Together.
Teachers engaged in powerful professional learning focused on:
✅ Understanding Dyslexia
✅ Strategies for Supporting Dyslexic & Special Education Students
✅ Increasing Student Engagement
✅ Creating a Culture of High Expectations
✅ Establishing Classroom Norms & Routines
It was a day filled with collaboration, growth, and a shared commitment to excellence in education.
🙏 Special thanks to Pendleton Community Bank for sponsoring today’s event and supporting our educators and students!
#StrongerTogether #PocahontasCountySchools #TeacherAcademy #ProfessionalLearning #PendletonCommunityBank #PCED
📢Day 3 of the Academy: Spotlight on Special Education 🌟
We wrapped up our Academy on Wednesday with a powerful and insightful day dedicated to Special Education. 💙
Our team had the privilege of learning from expert presenters from the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) and our very own Special Education Consultant. Together, they led engaging sessions that deepened our understanding of special education practices, compliance, and strategies to support all learners.
From legal updates to inclusive instructional approaches, the day was packed with valuable information and meaningful conversations. It was a great way to end the Academy—focused on equity, support, and student success.
Thank you to everyone who made this day impactful!
#SpecialEducation #WVDE #PocahontasCountySchools #ProfessionalDevelopment #StudentSupport #InclusiveEducation #StrongerTogether
📣 Day Two: Principal Leadership Academy 🚀
We continued our journey of leadership growth with a focus on practical strategies that directly impact school success.
🚌 Our principals explored:
📊 Attendance Strategies – Promoting consistent student presence through proactive and supportive approaches
🏫 Local School Improvement Councils (LSICs) – Empowering school communities to lead change and drive improvement
🚦 Transportation & Safety – Ensuring every student’s journey to and from school is secure and efficient
Together, we’re equipping leaders with the tools to foster safe, engaged, and thriving school environments.
#StrongerTogether #LeadershipAcademy #FuturePrincipals #EducationMatters #AttendanceMatters #LSICLeadership #SafeSchools #GreatThingsAtPCS
We continued our journey of leadership growth with a focus on practical strategies that directly impact school success.
🚌 Our principals explored:
📊 Attendance Strategies – Promoting consistent student presence through proactive and supportive approaches
🏫 Local School Improvement Councils (LSICs) – Empowering school communities to lead change and drive improvement
🚦 Transportation & Safety – Ensuring every student’s journey to and from school is secure and efficient
Together, we’re equipping leaders with the tools to foster safe, engaged, and thriving school environments.
#StrongerTogether #LeadershipAcademy #FuturePrincipals #EducationMatters #AttendanceMatters #LSICLeadership #SafeSchools #GreatThingsAtPCS
📣 Day One: Principal Leadership Academy 🚀 We kicked off our academy with the powerful theme: Stronger Together—because transformational leadership thrives on collaboration, connection, and shared purpose.
👥 Our principals explored:
🤝 Co-Teaching Strategies – Harnessing the power of partnership in the classroom
🏡 Family Engagement – Building bridges between schools and families
🔐 Cybersecurity Essentials – Safeguarding our learning communities in a digital world
Together, we’re cultivating leaders who will elevate every voice and strengthen every school.
#StrongerTogether #LeadershipAcademy #FuturePrincipals #EducationMatters #CoTeaching #FamilyEngagement #CyberSafeSchools #GreatThingsAtPCS
👥 Our principals explored:
🤝 Co-Teaching Strategies – Harnessing the power of partnership in the classroom
🏡 Family Engagement – Building bridges between schools and families
🔐 Cybersecurity Essentials – Safeguarding our learning communities in a digital world
Together, we’re cultivating leaders who will elevate every voice and strengthen every school.
#StrongerTogether #LeadershipAcademy #FuturePrincipals #EducationMatters #CoTeaching #FamilyEngagement #CyberSafeSchools #GreatThingsAtPCS
📚✨ A fresh school year is just around the corner! Be sure to mark your calendar for your child’s upcoming Open House event. Each school hosts its own special experience—an opportunity to tour the campus, meet the passionate educators, and get a glimpse into the exciting year ahead. Don’t miss it! 🏫📅
If you had issues sharing your comments, please try again now. The link is fixed!! Apologies for the inconvenience!
https://forms.office.com/r/x70reyRaUq
📢🗣️TWO important policies are currently out for public comment.
Personal Electronic Device Policy and Staff Acceptable Use Policy
🗓️ Comment Period of 30 days ends 9/5/2025
Visit this link to review the policies and give your feedback: https://tinyurl.com/PCS-Policies
🎉 Celebrating Excellence in Pocahontas County Schools! 🎉
At the August 5th Board of Education meeting, we proudly recognized two outstanding individuals:
🏅 Devon George, PCHS CTE student, placed 6th in the nation at the SkillsUSA competition in Commercial Roofing—a remarkable achievement showcasing skill and dedication!
🌟 Haley Cummins was honored as a finalist for the WVDE Service Personnel of the Year Award for 2026, a testament to her exceptional service and commitment to our schools.
👏 Join us in congratulating Devon and Haley for representing Pocahontas County with pride and excellence!
#PocahontasPride #SkillsUSA #WVDE #CTEExcellence #ServiceLeadership #PocahontasCountySchools #GreatThingsAtPCS
At the August 5th Board of Education meeting, we proudly recognized two outstanding individuals:
🏅 Devon George, PCHS CTE student, placed 6th in the nation at the SkillsUSA competition in Commercial Roofing—a remarkable achievement showcasing skill and dedication!
🌟 Haley Cummins was honored as a finalist for the WVDE Service Personnel of the Year Award for 2026, a testament to her exceptional service and commitment to our schools.
👏 Join us in congratulating Devon and Haley for representing Pocahontas County with pride and excellence!
#PocahontasPride #SkillsUSA #WVDE #CTEExcellence #ServiceLeadership #PocahontasCountySchools #GreatThingsAtPCS
