Local News
Preliminary data shows most Warren County schools accredited with conditions
Six of nine Warren County Public Schools (WCPS) are accredited with conditions for school year 2021-2022, and the other three schools are accredited based on preliminary data provided by Central Office staff during the Warren County School Board’s Wednesday, July 6 regular meeting.
Accredited schools in Warren County for the last school year are A.S. Rhodes Elementary School (ASR); Hilda J. Barbour Elementary School (HJB); and Ressie Jeffries Elementary School (RJ).
Schools accredited with conditions are E. Wilson Morrison Elementary School (EWM); Leslie Fox Keyser Elementary School (LFK); Skyline Middle School (SMS); Warren County Middle School (WCMS); Skyline High School (SHS); and Warren County High School (WCHS).
Accreditation ratings, which shine a light on school progress and needs, are how Virginia and other states measure performance on multiple school quality indicators and encourage continuous improvement for all schools.
Walton described the indicators of accreditation, which for elementary and middle schools are: Academic Achievement in Mathematics, English, and Science; Achievement Gap in Mathematics and English; and Chronic Absenteeism. High School indicators include those items, as well as: the Graduation Completion Index; the Dropout Rate; and the College, Career, and Civic Readiness Index.
Walton explained that each indicator is assigned a performance level (there are three levels) and then the performance levels determine accreditation ratings. Combined they are:
• Level One (green) earns an accredited rating meaning that a school demonstrates acceptable performance, performance above the state’s benchmark, or adequate improvement from Level Two.
• Level Two (yellow) earns an accredited with conditions rating, which is near the state standard or sufficient improvement from Level Three.
• Level Three (red) means accreditation denied because a school demonstrates performance below the benchmarks for Level One and Level Two OR a school has stayed at Level Two or Level Three through four consecutive years.
Walton also highlighted some of the indicators, saying, for example, that the Chronic Absenteeism indicator — which is the percentage of students who miss more than 10 percent of the school year — has been waived by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) for accreditation year 2022-2023 based on data from the 2021-2022 school year. However, it will still show up on school profiles, Walton said.
Additionally, data for the Achievement Gap indicator, which is reported by student subgroups — Asian students, Black students, Hispanic students, White students, Economically Disadvantaged students, English Learners, and Students with Disabilities (excluding 504 students) — now includes a new subgroup known as Multiple Races. Together, the subgroups count as one indicator each for math and English said Walton.
To determine a school’s performance level, data from the best of the current level of performance or the cumulative three-year rate is used, Walton explained, but due to the pandemic, the three-year rate calculation for all indicators will use data from the 2017-18, 2018-19, and 2021-2022 school years. No data from school years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 will be used in the three-year rate calculations, she said.
In the data presented on Wednesday, Walton said that WCPS is actually comparing school year 2021-2022 data to that from school year 2018-2019. “It’s like the two years from the pandemic did not exist so we’ll be going back to show improvement from 2018-19,” she said.
Once all of the performance levels have been determined, then the accreditation rating can be determined, said Walton, noting that accredited schools are those having all school-quality indicators at either Level One or Level Two; schools that are accredited with conditions are those with one or more school-quality indicators at Level Two; and an accreditation denied rating means a school failed to adopt or fully implement required corrective actions to address Level Three school-quality indicators.
SOL results
Walton also released preliminary SOL Results for 2021-2022. For math, all schools in Warren County had combined rates exceeding the 70-percent benchmark. The top three highest rates were WCHS (94.53 percent); ASR (92.62 percent); and HJB (90.13 percent).
For English, which includes reading and writing, eight schools in WCPS rated Level One, with the highest combined rates being ASR (92.74 percent); RJ (88.19 percent); and HJB (87.78 percent). SMS was in Level Two with a combined rate of 69.95 percent, which fell just below the 75-percent English benchmark. WCMS’s combined rate of 72.96 percent also fell below the benchmark, but its three-year cumulative rate is a Level One, putting WCMS in Level One for school year 2021-2022, Walton said.
Science was a tough subject across the school district last year with three Warren County schools rated Level Three in science, which has a 70-percent benchmark: SMS (44.90 percent); EWM (45.45 percent); and LFK (60.24 percent). HJB had a pass rate of 70 percent. The other schools are also in Level One based on cumulative three-year rate, though their pass rates for school year 2021-2022 all fell below the 70-percent benchmark.
Based on all of this information, Walton said that in WCPS, three elementary schools are accredited, while the remaining schools are accredited with conditions.
But she pointed out that more data is forthcoming, and the ratings could change — except for EWM, LFK, and SMS, which will remain accredited with conditions because of science.
For instance, Walton said that English Learner growth has not been calculated, except for English only, nor has substitute test information been included from WorkKeys tests.
Additionally, scores have not yet been released from the state alternative assessments for students with severe cognitive disabilities
Walton said that WCMS, SHS, and WCMS may move to accredited once all the data is completed. VDOE will release ratings on September 22, she added.
Currently, no other information is available on the other indicators besides SOLs, Walton said.
Plan to boost science ratings
“We have a plan in place to address science,” Walton told the School Board members on Wednesday.
The WCPS Science Plan of Action for School Year 2022-2023 includes developing Science Learning Collaboratives for both elementary and middle school teachers that are supported by professional development from VDOE; led by a WCPS teacher leader with support from the Central Office; focused on cross-curricular instruction in the 4th and 5th grades, and uses a specific science model in middle school, said Walton.
Additionally, work has started on creating a comprehensive planning guide for 5th-grade science with plans also underway for 4th-grade science, she said. Middle schoolers will use STEMscopes, which provides the digital science curriculum and hands-on exploratory learning kits, and teachers will be trained in early August on best practices for implementing the resources in their science classrooms, added Walton.
Meetings are also underway with WCPS high school biology teachers and instructional resource teachers to discuss curriculum alignment and sharing instructional strategies and resources.
WCPS Superintendent Christopher Ballenger told School Board Chair Kristen Pence, Vice-Chair Ralph Rinaldi, and members Antoinette Funk, Andrea Lo, and Melanie Salins that no decisions have been made yet on boosting science instruction in 4th grade, which currently focuses on the history SOL.
Click here to watch the July 6, 2022, WCSB Meeting.
Chamber News
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Celebrates New Mental Health Facility in Front Royal
The Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the opening of Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare, LLC, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event welcomed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Rebecca Myers-Settle and her new practice to the community.
Mayor Lori Cockrell praised the initiative as a valuable addition to local healthcare services. “I’m very excited to be here today with Becky. She’s a long-time member of our community and brings a needed service to our community. Mental health is the issue, and there are not enough providers. I cannot stress that enough,” she said.
Rebecca Myers-Settle, a long-time resident of Warren County, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the community’s support. “This is an exciting day. It’s been a long time coming. It’s a huge dream of mine. I am so blessed to be able to be here today and make this come to fruition,” she shared.
Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare, located at 624 Virginia Avenue in a charming Victorian house, aims to provide patients with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The practice offers mental health services to individuals of all ages, addressing various needs from youth to the elderly.
Rebecca’s background is impressive, with a bachelor’s in nursing from Shenandoah University, a master’s in healthcare management and nursing education, and a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Her extensive training equips her to address the community’s mental health needs effectively.
During a brief interview after the ceremony, Rebecca explained her motivation for opening the practice. “I wanted to open a mental health practice here because it is a certified need in Warren County and surrounding areas. Being able to offer this service opens access to care for individuals. I want it to be inviting, warm, and cozy,” she said.
The practice’s approach includes both direct and referral-based access to services. “We receive referrals from physicians, hospitals, and even through our website. It’s an open referral process because sometimes people need someone to listen to them, and that’s what I’m here for,” Rebecca noted.
Rebecca also highlighted her commitment to supporting local healthcare workers, law enforcement, and first responders. “I wanted to have a place for our healthcare workers, law enforcement, and first responders to come and have a person to listen to and understand,” she said.
The ribbon-cutting event began a new chapter for mental health services in Front Royal. As the community continues to face various challenges, the addition of Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare provides a crucial resource for those needing mental health support.
For more information about Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare, LLC, visit their website or welcoming office at 624 Virginia Avenue, Front Royal. Rebecca and her team are ready to help all community members on their mental health journeys.
Local News
Youth Contest Winners Showcase Revolutionary War Knowledge
On May 18, 2024, the Colonel James Wood II Chapter of the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) held a special ceremony to honor the winners of their annual youth contests. These contests, designed to foster an appreciation for American history, saw enthusiastic student participation across the region.
The SAR sponsors a poster contest for fourth graders (or those in grades where the American Revolution is taught). This year, students created two-dimensional posters based on events from the Revolutionary War. Participants came from public and private schools, scouting programs, and other youth groups. The top three winners received monetary awards, and the first-place winner advanced to the Virginia State Contest.
Poster Contest Winners
First place in the poster contest was awarded to Audrey Turman Bayliss for her exceptional depiction of a Revolutionary War event. Audrey’s poster also earned her a fourth-place finish at the Virginia State Contest, showcasing her talent and dedication. Second place went to Phoebe Buck, third to Nick Bosacco, and fourth to Eve Tipton.
Brochure Contest Winners
For middle school students, the SAR conducts a brochure contest open to students in grades 6 through 9, including those in private, church-based, and home-school settings. The contest is also open to members of scouting and the Children of the American Revolution when their schools do not participate. Students create a tri-fold brochure based on one of the five foundational documents of the United States. These brochures are judged on content, creativity, and correctness.
Katie Tipton took first place in the brochure contest, impressing judges with her insightful and well-crafted brochure. Her work will now compete at the Virginia State Contest. Second place was awarded to Carley Bosacco and third place to Bethany Tipton. Like the poster contest, the top three winners received monetary awards.
Honoring Excellence and Encouraging Historical Appreciation
The ceremony underscored the importance of engaging young students in studying American history and recognizing their efforts and achievements. The Colonel James Wood II Chapter of the SAR is proud to support educational initiatives that promote an understanding of the nation’s foundational events and documents.
Brian Bayliss, Chair of the Chapter’s Youth Committee, highlighted the significance of these contests in his remarks. “These young historians have shown remarkable talent and dedication in their work. We are proud to support their educational journeys and encourage a deep appreciation for our nation’s history.”
Additional information about the contests and how to participate, please visit the National Society Sons of the American Revolution website or contact the Colonel James Wood II Chapter Youth Committee Chair, Brian Bayliss, at ruralvirginia@gmail.com.
Community Events
Confederate Memorial Day Service Held in Front Royal
Local News
Skyline Middle School Celebrates 8th Grade Achievements
Skyline Middle School held a special ceremony to celebrate the accomplishments of its eighth-grade students, recognizing their academic achievements and exemplary character. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the student’s hard work, resilience, and dedication.
Assistant Principal and Eighth Grade Administrator Sherry Doane opened the ceremony with a warm welcome. “We are here to honor academic victories and examples of admirable character as described in the SOAR expectations of showing respect, owning your actions, acting out of kindness, and remembering that responsibility is the key to our success,” she said. Doane encouraged students to carry these values into their high school years, emphasizing the importance of engaging in school activities to create lasting memories.
The Most Improved Awards recognized students who showed significant progress throughout the year. Cody Davis and Amirah Porter received this honor for their hard work and determination.
The Pathways and Connections Special Education Teacher Pam Waters presented the Hawk Pride Award to Giovanni Solis-Sasa. This award recognized a student who showed remarkable personal growth at Skyline Middle School.
The ceremony concluded with recognizing students who achieved a 4.0 GPA and those with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.99. These students were celebrated for their academic excellence and dedication throughout middle school.
Principal Dr. Robert Johnson closed the ceremony by thanking parents for their support and encouraging students to continue their hard work and pursue their passions as they transition to high school.
Skyline Middle School’s eighth-grade celebration was a touching event, highlighting the achievements and potential of its students. The ceremony served as a reminder of the importance of education, community, and character as the students prepare for the next chapter in their academic journey.
Local News
Remembering the Gettysburg Address on Memorial Day
Local News
Virginia State Police Urge Safety and Sobriety on Roads as Summer Begins
As the summer season kicks off with the 2024 Memorial Day weekend and graduation festivities, the Virginia State Police emphasize the importance of safe, sober, and focused driving. With AAA Mid-Atlantic predicting a four percent increase in Memorial Day travel, Virginia’s highways are expected to be especially crowded. This heightened activity comes with increased risks, as evidenced by the nine fatal crashes reported on Memorial Day weekend in 2023.
“By May 23, 2024, Virginia has already lost 294 lives to traffic crashes this year,” said Colonel Gary T. Settle, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police. “During this busy time, it’s crucial for drivers to slow down, buckle up, avoid distractions, and drive sober. We must also talk to our teenagers and young adult drivers about safe driving behaviors. While many are celebrating the end of the school year and the start of summer, too many Virginians are mourning the loss of loved ones. Let’s prioritize traffic safety to prevent further tragedies.”
Starting Friday, May 24, 2024, the Virginia State Police will join the national Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E) to reduce crashes, fatalities, and injuries related to impaired driving, speeding, and seatbelt violations. The Memorial Day statistical counting period will begin at 12:01 a.m. on May 24 and continue through midnight on May 27, 2024. Throughout the holiday weekend, all available state police troopers and supervisors will be on patrol to ensure safe and responsible traffic flow.
During the last Memorial Day weekend, Virginia State Troopers issued 771 seatbelt violation citations and 136 child restraint violations. They also cited 4,990 speeders and 1,924 reckless drivers and arrested 89 impaired drivers. Additionally, troopers made 169 felony arrests, assisted 1,447 disabled motorists, investigated 1,846 traffic crashes, and inspected 634 commercial vehicles.
The funds from summonses issued by the Virginia State Police go to court fees and the state’s Literary Fund, which supports public school construction, technology funding, and teacher retirement.
Drivers are also reminded of recent changes to Virginia’s “Move Over” law, which now requires motorists to either move over a lane or slow down for any vehicle on the roadside using emergency markers, flashing lights, or flares.
Colonel Settle’s message is clear: “This is a time for celebration and making memories, not mourning. By following traffic laws and practicing safe driving habits, we can all contribute to a safer holiday weekend and summer.”