CLINTWOOD, Va. — The Dickenson County Public Schools School Board met on Wednesday, advancing key initiatives for the upcoming academic year, including proposed salary scales, digital device policies, and operational updates.
Director of Business and Finance Lacie Edwards presented the proposed salary scales for the 2026–27 school year. The scales reflect an average 4 percent raise for full-time and part-time staff members, aligning with state-level funding adjustments.
To refocus student attention on core academics, the administration introduced a division-wide goal for the 2026–27 school year to establish clear, research-based expectations regarding the use of Chromebooks and digital devices. Officials noted that while remote learning necessitated widespread device usage during the COVID-19 pandemic, the new policy aims to place greater emphasis on student engagement, handwriting, communication and critical thinking, while minimizing digital distractions during direct instruction.
The board also reviewed summer meal distribution figures, noting that 459 families received eight days of breakfasts, lunches, and milk through curbside pickup at Ridgeview, thanks to the efforts of cafeteria staff and coordinator Deborah Compton. Additionally, Kaytlin Osborne was announced as the winner of the 2026–2027 T-Staff t-shirt design contest.
The meeting concluded with a closed session to address specific personnel matters and legal consultations regarding public funds and school construction.
