Good morning, Jackson County. The digital revolution is transforming Wood County schools this fall, with a new state-of-the-art scoreboard heading to Parkersburg High's Stadium Field before August 15. While students will gain hands-on tech experience, they'll also navigate new electronic device restrictions during school hours—though high schoolers can still scroll through TikTok during lunch breaks. Meanwhile, the district's Teaching and Learning Academy has been buzzing with activity as educators participated in over 100 professional development sessions covering everything from autism inclusion to AI integration.
For those seeking a moment of tranquility amid back-to-school preparations, Belpre's Civitan Park offers the perfect respite. A serene fountain now serves as the centerpiece of the park's pond, creating a picturesque scene recently captured by local photographer Art Smith. The stunning image showcases the natural beauty that makes our Mid-Ohio Valley region special—and residents are encouraged to submit their own photos celebrating our scenic landscapes.
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78%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🏫 Wood County schools upgrade tech while navigating policy changes. The Board of Education heard about a new digital scoreboard coming to Parkersburg High School's Stadium Field before August 15, designed to benefit students through hands-on learning opportunities. Officials also discussed a state-mandated electronic device policy that will restrict phone use during school hours, with high schoolers allowed access during lunch periods. The High School After School program received praise for helping students facing various challenges, including those who need to work during regular school hours. A bus operator raised concerns about inequitable sick day policies that prevent newer employees from trading unused sick days toward retirement.
🏞️ Serene fountain captivates walkers at Belpre's Civitan Park. The picturesque water feature serves as the centerpiece of the park's pond, showcasing the natural beauty of the Mid-Ohio Valley region. Local photographer Art Smith captured the tranquil scene recently, inviting area residents to submit their own photos highlighting regional landscapes. The News and Sentinel welcomes image submissions that celebrate the area's scenic charm, with selected photos potentially appearing in future publications. Additional images from around the valley can be viewed on the newspaper's Instagram page.
🍎 Wood County educators sharpen their skills at annual academy event. The district's Teaching and Learning Academy at Williamstown Middle/High School featured over 100 professional development sessions with more than 3,000 registrations this week. Topics ranged from behavioral science and autism inclusion to classroom de-escalation techniques and artificial intelligence integration. Kindergarten teachers praised the diverse options available and the opportunity to connect with colleagues. "Our educators and our staff are the best asset for Wood County Schools, and if we can take care of them, then they take care of the students," said Director of Curriculum & Instruction Ashlee Beatty.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Affordable ranch at peaceful cul-de-sac: For $199,000, this charming 3BR, 2 bath cottage ranch offers living room plus family/dining area off updated kitchen, newer furnace and spacious garage, all peacefully situated at the end of a cul-de-sac.
Blank Canvas Awaits Transformation: This modest property hits the market at $129,900. The blank canvas awaits your personal touch to transform it into the perfect home suited to your unique needs and vision.
New build quality affordable space: This brand-new 3-bedroom home priced at $217,000 offers 1500 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space with premium features including hardwood floors, a spacious kitchen, and energy-efficient amenities.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday
Review your monthly subscriptions and memberships to identify any services you no longer use or need; cancelling these can free up extra cash that you can redirect towards savings or paying down debt.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
-2 Timothy 1:7
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