BY MIRANDA STOKES

Staff Writer

The Wetzel County Board of Education recognized two of the county high schools’ TSA teams during their regular meeting at the county office on Aug. 15.

A Magnolia High School team placed fourth in the nation and a VHS team placed 10th at the National TSA Conference held in Dallas, Texas, this past June.

Ryan Ritchea and Luke Diffenbauch presented their winning manufactured prototype constructed out of wood with the help of woodshop teacher, David Kimble. “I helped very little,” Kimble said modestly. “They worked very hard on this project and we had a great time in Dallas.”

From VHS’s team, Brady Nolan, Bryan Sell, Hunter Liggett, and Daniel Brewer appeared before the board to share their architectural model that earned them 10th place in the nation. Teammate Spencer Mason was unable to attend Monday’s meeting.

Using common materials such as X-Acto knives versus lasers, and hand-drawn drafts instead of computer aided design programs, it was noted that the judges were very impressed with the team’s skill level and quality of work produced.

Valley’s TSA advisor Josh Weekley stated that having students like these is why he loves teaching. “I’m really proud of you all,” he said to the team.

Also during this meeting, the board approved the Aug. 1 meeting minutes as well as all personnel and routine matters. They also approved the treasurer’s report and requests to pay July bills and make necessary transfers and increases in the budget. More on these items are published separately.

Before adjourning, President Mike Blair commented that he hoped students who drive by the Field of Flags on state Route 2 in New Martinsville understand why it’s there and take the opportunity to reflect on the movement’s meaning.

Lastly, the board released the dates and settings for the next several meetings. Each meeting is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. at the following date and place:

Sept. 6, special meeting at the county office; Sept. 19, regular meeting at Long Drain School; Oct. 3, regular meeting at Paden City Elementary School; Oct. 17, regular meeting at Short Line School; Nov. 7, regular meeting at New Martinsville School; and Nov. 21, regular meeting at the county office.