Bath County High School is advancing in the Samsung “Solve for Tomorrow” competition

Bath County High School is one of four schools in Virginia to advance in the Samsung “Solve for Tomorrow” competition.  At the Bath School Board’s December meeting, the board heard a report from technology teacher Ed Ozols.  He explained that the intent of the project he entered is to be able to provide accurate weather forecasting for all areas of Bath County.  He said that since the weather forecasting station is at the airport, and it only reports conditions there, and with the variations of elevation across the county, it makes it difficult to accurately predict what the weather is in different areas.  Ozols said students will collect data at certain points and extrapolate what the weather conditions are over the rest of the county.  He explained that students are designing tools to be used to measure weather conditions and are printing them on a 3D printer.  He said his programming class is writing the code that will be used to take the weather conditions and extrapolate data and make predications.  During the week of December 8, the Virginia state finalist in the nationwide contest will be announced.

Also at the December meeting, the board worked on prioritizing items for the schools’ Capital Improvement Plan.  After discussion, the board agreed to a preliminary list of four items for the 2015-16 budget year.  First on the list is two new school buses.  Second is restroom improvements at all three schools.   And third on the list is replacement of the carpet and stage curtains in the high school auditorium.   And fourth is a vehicle replacement, with plans to purchase a truck.

Some other projects being considered for the CIP are football field crowning, softball and baseball field lighting and gym air conditioning at Valley Elementary and at the high school.  There was discussion at last month’s meeting about looking into constructing team shelters at the football field and making upgrades to the concession stand.  Another project being considered was installation of railings on the high school home bleachers, to assist those who have trouble walking up and down the bleachers.  But School Superintendent Sue Hirsh reported that she has learned there are problems with retrofitting the old bleachers with new handrails.  She said one solution would be to simply block off the first two rows for seating for people who have difficulty climbing.  School Board member Eddie Ryder suggested contacting the Athletic Booster Club to see if they could help fund any CIP items related to athletics.  Updated costs are being obtained on all the projects being considered for the CIP.

And the board accepted the resignation of April Miller as co-yearbook sponsor and appointed Sarah Burns to fill that position.