PRINCE EDWARD -County Middle School Principal Lucy Carson reported on the bullying program initiative-Taking Strides Against Bullying -at the school board's October meeting.

A pledge walk was held at the high school track at the September event with a large turnout. She noted that they had over 200 people come, citing that there was a “really good turnout from the community,” as well as teachers, parents and students.

“We are working hard at preventing or trying to help our students understand that bullying will not be tolerated,” Carson said. “And we are trying to do what we need to do to make our students understand it.”

She added that they appreciate everyone that came out and the Editor of The Herald giving them “a little boost.” (The editor published a supportive editorial prior to the event.)

In Other News…

*School board members recognized visiting German exchange students. The school system has participated in the exchange program for nine years with a school (St. Angela's School) near Frankfurt Germany.

*Division Superintendent Dr. David Smith presented Virginia School Boards Association Academy Awards to the respective school board members. Board members Darin Thomas and Dr. Lawrence Varner received a certificate of recognition; Chairman Russell Dove, Dr. Osa S. Dowdy and Susan Lawman each received an award of excellence; Linda Leatherwood the award of honor and Dr. Ellery Sedgwick with an award of distinction. Dr. Smith was also presented with an award of distinction.

*School board members formally approved (with Dr. Varner opposing) a vision statement that will be a part of their comprehensive plan.

The vision statement, specifically, reads: “Prince Edward County Public Schools will be high performing schools of choice that educate a diverse population to be informed, responsible and productive citizens.”

Dr. Varner preferred a different proposal.

*The board was presented with a draft budget proposed development calendar. The board is expected to approve the calendar at their November meeting.

*It was noted that the school would participate in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. The event, open for fourth through eighth grades, will be held December 7; the highest three scorers from each grade level will participate in a division wide bee on January 15.

*It was reported that students would participate in the National Geographic Bee (a written history exam administered by history teachers) for grades fourth through eighth on November 19. School winners (the top three from each grade) will participate in a division level event on December 14.