District news
Third Grade Success Act retention policy adopted
What happened
On September 15, 2026 the board gave final approval to Policy 11-060, which carries out West Virginia's Third Grade Success Act rules on promotion, retention and exemptions. In October staff said about 86 third graders were currently below standard in reading, math or both.
Why it matters to families
Third graders who don't meet reading standards may be held back unless they qualify for an exemption; parents can request one by May 15.
The evidence
The September 15, 2026 recording includes "final approval of policy 11060." In the October 6 recording, staff say "we had about 86 kids right now in third grade that ... are either below standard in reading, math, or both."
The source
September 15, 2026 board meeting recordingSee the full record for McDowell County Schools.
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