HCS Regular Meeting - October 6, 2026

The Harrison County Schools Board of Education held its regular meeting on October 6, 2026. The superintendent reported that the Robert C. Byrd cafeteria expansion remained on schedule for substantial completion February 7, with final completion expected March 31. The Bridgeport Middle School secure-entrance project was behind schedule after the contractor requested a 46-day extension due to material lead times; the request involved no additional cost, and the area was already in operation. No new construction contract awards were presented. The superintendent also outlined significant budget pressures: enrollment is preliminarily down by more than 200 students this school year, and the district employs 153 professional and 71 service positions beyond those covered by state aid. The presentation estimated personnel and benefit costs at about $30.5 million against roughly $17.8 million available from the excess levy, leaving an approximately $12.7 million gap to cover through other local funds or reserves. Possible staffing reductions and building-utilization changes will be evaluated, with a plan to be brought to the board before May 1.

A resident raised concerns about repeated school-bus service disruptions and delayed notification for families at Mountaineer Elementary. The superintendent reported that 14 prospective or in-process bus drivers were being prepared, while noting that certification and training can take 8–10 weeks; the district will also raise identified training and policy roadblocks with state agencies. The board approved consent items, out-of-state travel study requests, the 2026–27 Title I Part D neglected and delinquent item, and a 2026–27 agreement with Marshall University for a psychology placement; the Marshall placement was described as having no cost to the district. No vendor selection or new paid contract award was identified.