Foreign Language funding still at the forefront

Marlinton, WV – Dr. Denise McNeel was one of fourteen people retiring from the Pocahontas County School System who were recognized at Monday’s Board of Education meeting.

She was there to receive her recognition and shake hands with the Superintendent. But the retiring French teacher also spoke up in support of continuing the French program she has nurtured at Pocahontas County High School.

McNeel recommended that Heather Holstine, who teaches English and French at Green Bank Middle School, be appointed to take the helm.

Holstine spoke at great length Monday about her desire to continue to the French program.

She thanked the board for going from a half-time Spanish position at the high school to a full-time position. But she says it’s not enough. She says one and a half foreign language positions at the high school is the bare minimum that foreign language teachers want.

A French class is being offered at the high school next year as a virtual class, over the Internet. Holstine says she hopes that is not the solution they come up with.

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