The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

Today's Front Page

November 29, 2012

WVBOE in executive session to discuss Marple

Several speakers give board flak over state superintendent's dismissal

By LAWRENCE MESSINA Associated Press

CHARLESTON — West Virginia’s Board of Education is catching flak from teachers, union members and even former board members over the firing of Jorea Marple as state schools superintendent.

The board heard Thursday from 19 speakers who praised Marple while denouncing her Nov. 15 dismissal.

They included Raleigh County visual arts teacher Sandra Shaw. She and other speakers called for Marple’s reinstatement.

The board then began meeting behind closed doors to discuss Marple’s firing.

Concerns about whether the board had followed the state open meetings law prompted Thursday’s meeting.  A pending legal challenge asks the Supreme Court to void Marple’s firing under the open meetings law.

Thursday’s meeting agenda also includes the hiring of a new superintendent. Board President Wade Linger has endorsed Randolph County schools chief James Phares for the job.

 

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