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West Virginia University West Virginia Public Education Collaborative

Inaugural Legislators’ Forum

Inaugural Legislators’ Forum
January 26-27
Morgantown, WV

The inaugural Legislators’ Forum convened West Virginia legislators, particularly those in the education and finance committees in both the House and the Senate, to discuss the challenges and opportunities in West Virginia’s public education system. With a focus on education and the economy, state and national experts shared nonpartisan information regarding best practices and possible policy considerations, including issues related to school funding, teacher training and recruitment. Legislators also heard perspectives from teachers and principals on the front lines of teaching West Virginia students.

Kanawha County Schools Superintendent Ron Duerring speaks to legislators about innovation happening in West Virginia’s public schools.

Kanawha County Schools Superintendent Ron Duerring speaks to legislators about innovation happening in West Virginia’s public schools.

BY THE NUMBERS:


51

attendees took part in the inaugural Legislators' Forum.

27

legislators participated from the House and Senate education and finance committees.

Key Takeaways

  • In order to adapt to changing student populations, schools and educators will need to explore strategies to better meet the social, physical and educational needs of today’s students.

  • Education should be focused on creative problem solving and preparation for the workforce - skills that students learn should be applicable in real world job positions that they might one day hold.

  • It is important for the Governor, the state board, legislators, district leaders, educators, and parents to work together to facilitate real change in West Virginia schools.

  • School funding models should be tailored to the specific geographic regions and populations that they serve; therefore, it is difficult to determine a single “best” funding model.

  • Recruiting and retaining great educators has a powerful impact on student success.

  • Innovative teacher preparation includes significant time for real world learning in the classroom, techniques for personalizing learning for students, and rich opportunities for teacher leadership.

Links to agenda and documents

Policies in Practice         Forum Playlist

Sponsors

The Hunt Institute 

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