WVDE Hears Update on NMS

It's been five months since the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) recommended a formal Corrective Action Plan under the WV Standards for Effective Schools for Martinsburg North Middle School. This plan outlined three targeted areas for improvement: fostering a positive and safe environment; setting high expectations and equitable learning opportunities for students; and strengthening instructional leadership.

At the November 13th WVDE meeting, Berkeley County Schools Executive Director of Secondary Leadership, Holly Kleppner, and North Middle Principal, Kevin Pittsnogle, shared progress updates:

• An assistant principal was assigned to each of the school's three grade-level wings to ensure quicker and more consistent responses to behavior issues.
• An extensive hiring initiative significantly reduced the number of long-term substitutes in the building from over 20 to fewer than 10, with many of these teachers now enrolled in alternative certification programs.
• A School Improvement Specialist was hired to collaborate with school leadership and County and School Improvement Teams, supporting leadership transitions and ongoing improvements.
• The school’s master schedule was adjusted to provide daily intervention time for all students.
• Mr. Pittsnogle and his leadership team redefined and communicated clear expectations for students and staff.
• The Star Academy program was implemented as a "school-within-a-school" to support disengaged students who have fallen behind.
• School culture and climate have improved through the Jostens Renaissance framework, fostering an environment where teachers enjoy their work, and students can thrive.
• Academic mentors for new staff facilitated peer-to-peer observations.
• Classroom management was a key focus, emphasizing that engaging classrooms lead to better student outcomes.

Periodic school check-ins indicate these changes have fostered a learning-centered environment with fewer behavior disruptions.

"We've seen a lot of positives this school year. There is still work to be done, but every day we're making progress, having meaningful conversations with students and staff, and maintaining visibility in classrooms and hallways. We're working to change the perception of North by showcasing the positive aspects of our school so people can see our kids for who they truly are," said Pittsnogle.

Berkeley County Board of Education President, Jackee Long, commented on today's report saying "Witnessing and hearing the improvements and successes of North Middle School, not only for students but also teachers and staff, are so heartwarming and encouraging. Listening to the WV State Board member's comments and praise was a huge indication that North Middle is headed in the right direction. Thank you to Mr. Pittsnogle and Mrs. Kleppner for their leadership. This is just the beginning!"

"I am pleased with the positive direction the school is taking under the leadership of Mr. Pittsnogle. With the support of our state and local boards of education, along with the district office, we are united in our efforts toward the success of North Middle," said Dr. Ryan Saxe, Superintendent of Berkeley County Schools.

We look forward to continuing the good work happening at North Middle.