At its June 10 regular meeting, the Salem City School Board approved various financial measures and contracts for the upcoming school year, while also recognizing major student accomplishments and key staff contributions.
Board Approves Federal Grant Applications, Tech Funding, and Contracts
In a unanimous vote, the board approved its consent agenda, which included several critical items for the 2025–2026 school year. Among them were applications for federal Title I through IV funds, which support disadvantaged students, teacher training, English learners, and student enrichment programs.
Board members also authorized the division to seek reimbursement for $206,000 in state technology funds through a Virginia Public School Authority bond, supplemented by a required 20% local match.
Other approvals included:
- A floor refinishing contract awarded to Royalwood Associates, Inc.
- Architectural and engineering services contract renewed with RRMM Architects of Roanoke.
- A trio of vendors selected to assist with special education staffing on an as-needed basis: The Stepping Stones Group, ProCare Therapy, and Pediatric Development Services.
Cell Phones, Family Outreach, and Language Support
Salem schools will continue limiting student cell phone use and are working to improve communication with families, based on feedback from recent surveys of parents and staff.
To better support families who speak languages other than English, the school division is expanding its use of translation tools. Programs like EduClacker and School Messenger help staff send messages in families’ home languages, making it easier to stay in touch and share important updates.
High School Debate Team Wins Back-to-Back State Titles
One of the night’s highlights was the board’s formal recognition of the Salem High School Debate Team for winning the VHSL Class 4 State Championship for the second year in a row.
Led by Head Coach Mark Ingerson and Assistant Coach Rachel Wurster, the team earned a 32-8 victory over Dominion High School in the state finals held April 26 at James Madison University. Senior Claire Rawlins made school history as Salem’s first-ever Lincoln-Douglas State Champion, going undefeated in state competition.
Other top finishers included U.V. Singh and Grayson Smith, who took the Public Forum state title, and sophomore Dylan Hancock, who won the school’s first Congressional Debate championship.
Finance Office Earns National Honors
The board also honored CFO Mandy Hall and finance specialist David Atkins for earning the Association of School Business Officials’ Meritorious Budget Award and Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting. This marks the ninth and eighth consecutive years, respectively, that the division has earned those recognitions.
Policy Revisions and Goals for 2025–26 Reviewed
In a first reading, Superintendent Dr. Curtis Hicks and staff presented policy updates aligned with state law changes, including regulations for crisis planning, opioid response, and student cell phone use.
Also introduced were the division’s proposed 2025–2026 goals, focusing on teaching and learning, school climate, and professional development. The board will vote on these at a future meeting.
Literacy Plan and Facilities Projects Briefed
Assistant Superintendent Sarah Dean presented the division’s new K–8 Literacy Plan, aligned with Virginia’s statewide literacy initiative. The board also received an update on summer facility upgrades planned across Salem schools.
Closed Session Personnel Action
After a closed session, the board approved routine personnel changes and a two-year contract extension for Superintendent Hicks.
The next school board meeting is scheduled for July.
