PRESS RELEASE
June 23, 2022
June 2022 School Board Meeting
Request for Quotes for Architectural Services
In the Work Session portion of the meeting, Superintendent Kathy Amos informed the Board that the closing of the Request for Quotes for architectural services on June 9 produced one submission. The architectural firm of McMillan Pazdan Smith in Asheville, who recently conducted a facilities assessment for the district, was approved by the Board for the renovation projects at South Toe Elementary and East Yancey Middle Schools.
GOOD NEWS
Jill Kahn - YCS Volunteer of the Year 2022
Schools for VOY2022. Blue Ridge Principal Erik Buchana stated, “Jill brings an incredible energy to the campus and simply gets things done.” Cane River Principal Rebecca Fox added, “We are so blessed to have her in our schools.”
Erin McKinney - YCS Teacher of the Year 2023
Erin McKinney was recognized as the 2023 Teacher of the Year for Yancey County Schools.
“Anytime you pass by, you always want to stop and see what is going on in Ms. McKinney’s classroom. There is no doubt that she cares about her students and isn’t afraid to try new things in class. She goes above and beyond to make sure they are comfortable and ready to learn,” stated Principal Erik Buchanan.
McKinney, a 2nd grade teacher at Blue Ridge Elementary School, will represent YCS in regional TOY competition next school year.
Vickie Brown - YCS Support Person of the Year 2022
Grant Funds for Cafeteria Steamer
Congratulations to Melanie Bennett & Daron Williams
Public Input
School Safety Discussion
Amos discussed several items regarding school safety including the July 1 retirement of long-time School Resource Officer Anthony Renfro. “We are so thankful for the support of Sheriff Shane Hilliard and our local law enforcement,” stated Amos. “With Officer Renfro’s retirement from YCS, he now becomes a full-time officer and SRO for the Sheriff’s Office, as all our other SROs in the district. We will dissolve the special police force and continue our services and training with the YC Sheriff's Department.”
Amos discussed school safety plans as well as other items to be updated and/or put in place to aid law enforcement and fire departments in accessing and navigating the schools.
Program / Department Updates
Student Health & Wellness
Director Margie Stebbeds presented the required triennial assessment of Student Wellness Policy # 6140 and the triennial report of the Student Health Advisory Committee (SHAC). SHAC provides the opportunity for members of various groups to come together and discuss student wellness across all areas of healthcare. Discussions range from the summer fun opportunities through PATH to education initiatives for vaping prevention.