🎉West Virginia School Service Personnel Day! 🎉
Today we’re celebrating the amazing service personnel who help make our schools a great place to learn and grow!🏆
🏫Whether they’re driving buses, preparing meals, keeping our buildings clean and safe, helping students throughout the day, or working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly, they make a difference every single day.
Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and the care you show our students and schools. We appreciate all that you do and are so grateful to have you as part of the Putnam County Schools team!
#PutnamProud #PutnamCountySchools #ILoveWVPublicSchools
💙Looking for a way to show your support for West Virginia Public Schools?!
Now's your chance to wear your pride and help celebrate the amazing students, educators, and staff who make public education strong across our state. Order a shirt and let everyone know you're proud to support West Virginia's public schools!
📅 Orders close October 11th, so don't wait!
Together, we can show our appreciation for the important role public schools play in our communities and in the lives of our students every day.
https://wvpublicschools2026.itemorder.com/shop/home/
#ILoveWVPublicSchools #SupportPublicEducation #WVPublicSchools #PutnamProud
Putnam County Schools is currently accepting applications for Substitute Bus Operators, and we'd love to have you join our team!
Whether you're looking for a flexible part-time job, a chance to earn extra income, or an opportunity to support local students, becoming a substitute bus operator is a rewarding way to help. Every day, our drivers play an important role in getting students to and from school safely.
Our next training class begins September 28, 2026.
Apply online at www.putnamschools.com
Come be part of a team that helps our students start and end each school day safely.
We look forward to welcoming new faces to the Putnam County Schools family!
https://www.putnamschools.com/o/pcs/page/bus-driver-apply
Congratulations to Winfield High School's National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists!
We are proud to recognize three outstanding students who have been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists. This honor is awarded to students who earn some of the highest scores in their state on the PSAT/NMSQT, and it recognizes exceptional academic achievement.
Being named a semifinalist is a significant accomplishment and reflects hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence. We are excited to celebrate these students and the bright futures that lie ahead of them.
• Larson Barkey
Future College Plans: University of Texas
College Major: Chemical Engineering
• Nikolaus Von Wulffen
Future College Plans: University of Alabama
College Major: Chemical Engineering
• Dylan Winarta
Future College Plans: Georgia Tech
College Major: Chemical Engineering
Congratulations to Larson, Nikolaus, and Dylan on this incredible achievement!
#PutnamProud #PutnamCountySchools #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Please join us in welcoming Ashley Ellison as the new Assistant Principal at Poca High School!
Mrs. Ellison brings 19 years of experience in public education, beginning her career as an educational interpreter in 2007 before becoming a teacher in 2016. A proud Buffalo High School graduate, she is passionate about supporting students and staff while helping Poca High School remain one of the best schools around.
Outside of school, Ashley enjoys spending time with her husband, three children, family, friends, and her pets. She loves sports, fitness, reading, and spending time outdoors.
This year, she is especially excited to be part of PHS traditions like homecoming and sporting events, building relationships with students and celebrating all that makes Poca High School special.
"Public schools have the power to change lives," says Mrs. Ellison. "I am where I am today because of public education and Putnam County Schools."
#PutnamProud #PutnamCountySchools #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Mrs. Ellison brings 19 years of experience in public education, beginning her career as an educational interpreter in 2007 before becoming a teacher in 2016. A proud Buffalo High School graduate, she is passionate about supporting students and staff while helping Poca High School remain one of the best schools around.
Outside of school, Ashley enjoys spending time with her husband, three children, family, friends, and her pets. She loves sports, fitness, reading, and spending time outdoors.
This year, she is especially excited to be part of PHS traditions like homecoming and sporting events, building relationships with students and celebrating all that makes Poca High School special.
"Public schools have the power to change lives," says Mrs. Ellison. "I am where I am today because of public education and Putnam County Schools."
#PutnamProud #PutnamCountySchools #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Congratulations to Hurricane High School's National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists!
We are proud to recognize five outstanding students who have been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists. This honor is awarded to students who earn some of the highest scores in their state on the PSAT/NMSQT, and it recognizes exceptional academic achievement.
Being named a semifinalist is a significant accomplishment and reflects hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence. We are excited to celebrate these students and the bright futures that lie ahead of them.
• Connor Westfall
Future College Plans: University of Alabama
College Major: Engineering
• Matthew Gabhart
Future College Plans: Marshall University
College Major: Mechanical Engineering
• Bear Fuller
Future College Plans: University of South Florida
College Major: Biology
• Paxton Haddox
Future College Plans: University of Chicago
College Major: Mathematics and Computer Science
• Miley Mynes
Future College Plans: Marshall University
College Major: Medical Biology
Congratulations to Connor, Matthew, Bear, Paxton, and Miley on this incredible achievement!
#PutnamProud #PutnamCountySchools #ILoveWVPublicSchools
We are proud to recognize five outstanding students who have been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists. This honor is awarded to students who earn some of the highest scores in their state on the PSAT/NMSQT, and it recognizes exceptional academic achievement.
Being named a semifinalist is a significant accomplishment and reflects hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence. We are excited to celebrate these students and the bright futures that lie ahead of them.
• Connor Westfall
Future College Plans: University of Alabama
College Major: Engineering
• Matthew Gabhart
Future College Plans: Marshall University
College Major: Mechanical Engineering
• Bear Fuller
Future College Plans: University of South Florida
College Major: Biology
• Paxton Haddox
Future College Plans: University of Chicago
College Major: Mathematics and Computer Science
• Miley Mynes
Future College Plans: Marshall University
College Major: Medical Biology
Congratulations to Connor, Matthew, Bear, Paxton, and Miley on this incredible achievement!
#PutnamProud #PutnamCountySchools #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Rock Branch Elementary’s Choir is off to an awesome start this school year!
Students and Mr. Skiles honored the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks by singing the National Anthem at the Charleston Dirty Birds’ Military/First Responders Night ballgame this past weekend. Their performance was a wonderful tribute to the brave men and women who serve our communities and country. Music has a special way of bringing people together, and our choir represented RBES with pride!
Way to go, RBES Choir!
#PutnamProud #PutnamCountySchools #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Students and Mr. Skiles honored the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks by singing the National Anthem at the Charleston Dirty Birds’ Military/First Responders Night ballgame this past weekend. Their performance was a wonderful tribute to the brave men and women who serve our communities and country. Music has a special way of bringing people together, and our choir represented RBES with pride!
Way to go, RBES Choir!
#PutnamProud #PutnamCountySchools #ILoveWVPublicSchools
💛 Putnam County, let's GO GOLD tomorrow, September 16! 💛
Join WV Cancer Crusaders in raising awareness and showing support for children battling cancer. Wear your favorite gold shirt, gold ribbon, or anything gold to honor these brave warriors and their families.
Together, we can spread hope, increase awareness, and let local families know they are not fighting alone.
Feature Friday will spotlight an employee in Putnam County Schools who helps make our county such a great place to learn, work, and grow. We are proud to recognize the dedicated individuals whose hard work and commitment make a difference every day.
This week's Feature Friday is Juanita Clark from Mountain View Elementary School!
Juanita is a dedicated custodian who takes tremendous pride in her work and consistently goes above and beyond to support our school. Her hard work, dependability, and commitment help ensure that Mountain View remains a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for everyone.
What truly sets Juanita apart is her kindness and positive attitude. She is always friendly, treats students and staff with care and respect, and is willing to lend a helping hand whenever there is a need. No matter the task, Juanita approaches it with a smile.
We are incredibly grateful for all that Juanita does behind the scenes every day. Her dedication, work ethic, and positive attitude and willingness to help others make a lasting impact on our school community.
Thank you, Juanita, for everything you do for Mountain View Elementary! We are fortunate to have you on our team.
#PutnamProud #PutnamCountySchools #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Please join us in welcoming Gene Estel as the new Assistant Principal at Winfield High School!
A lifelong member of the Putnam County Schools family, Gene began his journey with the district in 1995 as a substitute teacher before joining full-time in 1999. Throughout his career, he has served in numerous roles, including exceptional education teacher, general education teacher, coach, and now administrator. In his new role, Gene is focused on supporting students, staff, and families while helping foster a positive school culture where every student can thrive.
Gene is excited for this new chapter and looks forward to working alongside the outstanding students, staff, and families of Winfield High School to support student success throughout the year.
Outside of school, family is at the center of Gene's life. He and his wife, Robyn, will celebrate their 33rd wedding anniversary this October, and they are proud parents of Samuel and Ainsley. Together, they enjoy traveling and exploring America's beautiful national parks. In his free time, Gene enjoys fishing, canoeing, kayaking, spending time outdoors, and cheering on the West Virginia Mountaineers, Boston Red Sox, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
A strong believer in public education, Gene considers Putnam County Schools the best school system around and feels honored to have spent his entire career serving its students, families, and community. He is proud to be part of a district dedicated to doing what is best for students every day and looks forward to a great year ahead.
#PutnamCountySchools #PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
🎉 Happy Retirement, Lisa King!
After 20 years of dedicated service with Putnam County Schools, we proudly celebrate the retirement of Lisa King. Throughout her career as a secretary, Lisa has been a friendly face, a helping hand, and a dependable presence for everyone she worked with.
Known for her kindness, reliability, and dedication, Lisa has made a lasting impact on students, staff, and families. Her positive attitude and willingness to help others will be greatly missed.
As Lisa begins this exciting new chapter, she looks forward to spending more time with her family, going camping, and making special memories with her grandchildren.
Please join us in thanking Lisa for her years of service and wishing her a retirement filled with happiness, adventure, and well-deserved relaxation.
Congratulations, Lisa, and thank you for 20 wonderful years with Putnam County Schools!
After 20 years of dedicated service with Putnam County Schools, we proudly celebrate the retirement of Lisa King. Throughout her career as a secretary, Lisa has been a friendly face, a helping hand, and a dependable presence for everyone she worked with.
Known for her kindness, reliability, and dedication, Lisa has made a lasting impact on students, staff, and families. Her positive attitude and willingness to help others will be greatly missed.
As Lisa begins this exciting new chapter, she looks forward to spending more time with her family, going camping, and making special memories with her grandchildren.
Please join us in thanking Lisa for her years of service and wishing her a retirement filled with happiness, adventure, and well-deserved relaxation.
Congratulations, Lisa, and thank you for 20 wonderful years with Putnam County Schools!
Mr. George Aulenbacher is excited to begin his first year as principal of Winfield Middle School. With 29 years in public education and experience as a teacher, school administrator, and central office leader, he has dedicated his career to supporting students, educators, and school communities.
Family plays a big role in Mr. Aulenbacher’s life. He and his wife recently celebrated 24 years of marriage and are proud parents of three children. When he’s not at school, he enjoys spending time with his family, running, and being outdoors whenever he gets the chance.
Mr. Aulenbacher says he has been incredibly grateful for the warm welcome he has received from Winfield Middle School students, staff, and the community. He is honored to be part of the WMS family and looks forward to working alongside everyone to build on the great things already happening at the school while creating even more opportunities for student success.
Please join us in welcoming Mr. Aulenbacher to Winfield Middle School and wishing him a wonderful school year!
#PutnamCountySchools #PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Family plays a big role in Mr. Aulenbacher’s life. He and his wife recently celebrated 24 years of marriage and are proud parents of three children. When he’s not at school, he enjoys spending time with his family, running, and being outdoors whenever he gets the chance.
Mr. Aulenbacher says he has been incredibly grateful for the warm welcome he has received from Winfield Middle School students, staff, and the community. He is honored to be part of the WMS family and looks forward to working alongside everyone to build on the great things already happening at the school while creating even more opportunities for student success.
Please join us in welcoming Mr. Aulenbacher to Winfield Middle School and wishing him a wonderful school year!
#PutnamCountySchools #PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Mrs. Libby Bird is beginning her first year as principal of Hurricane Town Elementary, bringing with her 20 years of experience in public education and a passion for helping students succeed.
When she's not at school, Libby enjoys spending time with her family. She's a wife and mom of two who can often be found at the ballfield cheering on her favorite baseball player, shopping with her daughter, or relaxing by the pool.
As principal, Libby is focused on creating a positive, unified school culture where students can grow academically and feel supported every day. She's especially excited about building strong relationships with students, staff, and families and helping create a school community where everyone feels valued and proud to belong.
What she loves most about public education, and Putnam County Schools in particular, is that public schools are for everyone. She believes every child deserves to feel welcomed, supported, and important. As both an educator and a parent, she's seen firsthand how Putnam County Schools help students find their place, grow their confidence, and thrive.
Please join us in welcoming Libby to Hurricane Town Elementary and wishing her a wonderful school year!
#PutnamCountySchools #PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
When she's not at school, Libby enjoys spending time with her family. She's a wife and mom of two who can often be found at the ballfield cheering on her favorite baseball player, shopping with her daughter, or relaxing by the pool.
As principal, Libby is focused on creating a positive, unified school culture where students can grow academically and feel supported every day. She's especially excited about building strong relationships with students, staff, and families and helping create a school community where everyone feels valued and proud to belong.
What she loves most about public education, and Putnam County Schools in particular, is that public schools are for everyone. She believes every child deserves to feel welcomed, supported, and important. As both an educator and a parent, she's seen firsthand how Putnam County Schools help students find their place, grow their confidence, and thrive.
Please join us in welcoming Libby to Hurricane Town Elementary and wishing her a wonderful school year!
#PutnamCountySchools #PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Lakeside Elementary proudly kicked off the new school year with a strong message: attendance matters!
Principal Dr. Mastracci welcomed students with excitement and encouragement, reminding them that every school day is an opportunity to learn, connect, and succeed. His message was simple and powerful: "Be Present. Be Powerful. Be a Panther!"
Students also heard from Mayor Scott Edwards, who encouraged them to develop positive habits by attending school every day and being committed to their success.
As part of the celebration, students and staff members shared 20 reasons why being at school is important and fun, highlighting everything from learning new skills and making friends to participating in activities and building a bright future. The activity reinforced the idea that every day at school brings new opportunities to grow and succeed.
Students will also be competing throughout the year for the coveted Attendance Trophy. Each week, the class with the highest percentage of students in attendance will earn the trophy and the title of Lakeside's attendance champions!
To make the morning even more memorable, the Hurricane High School Drum Line delivered an outstanding performance that energized the crowd and had students engaged from the very first beat. 🥁
We're looking forward to a great year ahead filled with learning, growth, and strong attendance. Every day counts, and every Panther matters!
#PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Principal Dr. Mastracci welcomed students with excitement and encouragement, reminding them that every school day is an opportunity to learn, connect, and succeed. His message was simple and powerful: "Be Present. Be Powerful. Be a Panther!"
Students also heard from Mayor Scott Edwards, who encouraged them to develop positive habits by attending school every day and being committed to their success.
As part of the celebration, students and staff members shared 20 reasons why being at school is important and fun, highlighting everything from learning new skills and making friends to participating in activities and building a bright future. The activity reinforced the idea that every day at school brings new opportunities to grow and succeed.
Students will also be competing throughout the year for the coveted Attendance Trophy. Each week, the class with the highest percentage of students in attendance will earn the trophy and the title of Lakeside's attendance champions!
To make the morning even more memorable, the Hurricane High School Drum Line delivered an outstanding performance that energized the crowd and had students engaged from the very first beat. 🥁
We're looking forward to a great year ahead filled with learning, growth, and strong attendance. Every day counts, and every Panther matters!
#PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Please join us in welcoming Sam Neff to Winfield High School!
Sam is serving as the Assistant Principal of Curriculum and brings 9 years of experience in public education, including five years teaching English and three years as an assistant principal in Putnam County Schools.
A 2013 graduate of Nitro High School, Sam lives in Saint Albans with his wife, Jacey, and their 8-year-old daughter, Audree. When he's not at school, he enjoys spending time with family, trout fishing, golfing, playing basketball, and reading.
This year, Sam is looking forward to getting to know the Winfield community and building strong relationships with students, staff, and families. He believes public schools are the cornerstone of thriving communities and is proud to be part of a district that sets the standard for education in West Virginia.
Welcome to WHS, Sam!
#PutnamCountySchools #PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Sam is serving as the Assistant Principal of Curriculum and brings 9 years of experience in public education, including five years teaching English and three years as an assistant principal in Putnam County Schools.
A 2013 graduate of Nitro High School, Sam lives in Saint Albans with his wife, Jacey, and their 8-year-old daughter, Audree. When he's not at school, he enjoys spending time with family, trout fishing, golfing, playing basketball, and reading.
This year, Sam is looking forward to getting to know the Winfield community and building strong relationships with students, staff, and families. He believes public schools are the cornerstone of thriving communities and is proud to be part of a district that sets the standard for education in West Virginia.
Welcome to WHS, Sam!
#PutnamCountySchools #PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
Please join us in welcoming Pam Morris as the new Principal of Winfield High School!
Pam brings 31 years of experience in public education and a true passion for helping students succeed. Her focus is making sure every student at Winfield High School has the opportunities, support, and advantages they need to reach their full potential.
Pam and her husband, Scott, call Winfield home, and their three daughters, Jade, Paige, and Brooke, are all proud Winfield High School graduates. When she's away from school, you'll likely find her enjoying football, Disney, or spending time at the beach with her family.
One of the things Pam is most excited about this school year is seeing students enjoy everything that makes high school special. While academics are always the priority, she loves watching students make memories through ballgames, tailgates, dances, clubs, competitions, and Tournament of Classes.
As both a parent and educator, Pam has a deep appreciation for Putnam County Schools.
"We chose to raise our family here because of the excellent schools. They gave my daughters a strong academic foundation, and I’m proud to continue helping provide those same opportunities for our students today."
Welcome to your new role, Pam!
#PutnamCountySchools #PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
📣 Welcome to the Putnam County Schools Team! 🎉
Putnam County Schools is excited to welcome Alison Warner as our new Coordinator of Communications, Federal Programs, and PreK!
A proud graduate of Hurricane High School, Alison brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to education. Throughout her career, she has served students, families, and staff as both a teacher and an administrator, building strong relationships and helping create positive learning environments.
Alison's passion for education, communication, and student success make her a tremendous addition to our leadership team. We are excited for the expertise, energy, and dedication she brings to this important role as we continue working together to support the students and families of Putnam County.
Please join us in giving Alison a warm Putnam County Schools welcome! 💙💛
Putnam County Schools is excited to welcome Alison Warner as our new Coordinator of Communications, Federal Programs, and PreK!
A proud graduate of Hurricane High School, Alison brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to education. Throughout her career, she has served students, families, and staff as both a teacher and an administrator, building strong relationships and helping create positive learning environments.
Alison's passion for education, communication, and student success make her a tremendous addition to our leadership team. We are excited for the expertise, energy, and dedication she brings to this important role as we continue working together to support the students and families of Putnam County.
Please join us in giving Alison a warm Putnam County Schools welcome! 💙💛
As we head into the final weekend before the start of a new school year in Putnam County Schools, we want to take a moment to recognize the incredible work happening behind the scenes across our district.
For weeks, employees in every department have been preparing for the return of our students. Our school cooks have been inventorying supplies and planning meals. Maintenance crews have been mowing lawns, completing projects, and making sure our campuses are ready to welcome students. Custodians have been deep cleaning buildings, changing school signs, and ensuring every classroom and hallway shines. Teachers, psychologists, secretaries, and other staff members have jumped right into professional learning opportunities, trainings, and preparations for the year ahead. Our Technology Department has been busy preparing student devices and ensuring the technology our students and staff rely on is ready for day one. Bus drivers have been completing routine inspections and getting routes ready to safely transport students each day.
Our principals have also been hard at work preparing schedules, finalizing plans, supporting staff, and making sure everything is in place to warmly welcome students and families on Monday.
It truly takes every member of our team working together to create the best possible experience for the students and families of Putnam County. From the classroom to the front office, from the cafeteria to the bus garage, and from the maintenance shop to every school building, every role matters and every employee plays a part in student success.
We are proud of the hard work, dedication, and commitment shown by Putnam County Schools employees. Thank you for all you do to ensure our students return to safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environments.
Here's to a fantastic school year ahead. We can't wait to welcome our students back on Monday!
#PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools #BackToSchool #PutnamCountySchools #StudentSuccess
Thank You, SROs, for Your Commitment to Our Students and Schools!
Superintendent Mr. McGrew, Assistant Superintendent Mr. Harper, and Ms. Jennifer Miller met with our outstanding School Resource Officers to review school safety procedures and ensure everyone is informed, prepared, and ready for the upcoming school year.
We want to take a moment to recognize and sincerely thank our SROs for the extraordinary dedication, professionalism, and care they bring to Putnam County Schools every day. Their role extends far beyond school safety. They build positive relationships with students, serve as mentors and role models, and provide a reassuring presence in our schools.
The countless hours they invest in training, preparation, and collaboration help create safe and supportive learning environments where students can focus on growing, learning, and succeeding. Their unwavering commitment to the well-being of our students, staff, and families does not go unnoticed.
As we prepare to welcome students back for another school year, we are grateful for the partnership and service of our School Resource Officers. Thank you for your hard work, your vigilance, and your dedication to keeping every student in Putnam County Schools safe!
💙 We are proud to work alongside such an exceptional team. Thank you for all you do for our schools and our community! 💙
#PutnamCountySchools #SchoolSafety #ThankYouSROs #PutnamProud #ILoveWVPublicSchools
What an incredible day at the Putnam County Schools Back to School Blast! 🎒📚
Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our volunteers, hundreds of backpacks were packed full of school supplies to help students start the new school year strong. Families also had the opportunity to connect with a variety of local organizations, resources, businesses, and companies that shared information about the services available to support Putnam County families.
Students were excited to visit each table, meet community partners, pet the animals from Zoology Zone, and take home backpacks filled with supplies for the year ahead!
A special thank you to our donors, volunteers, Putnam Career & Technical Center, community partners, and everyone who contributed their time and talents to make this event a success. Together, we are helping our students and families begin the school year with confidence and support.
#PutnamCountySchools #BackToSchoolBlast #ILoveWVPublicSchools #PutnamProud
Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our volunteers, hundreds of backpacks were packed full of school supplies to help students start the new school year strong. Families also had the opportunity to connect with a variety of local organizations, resources, businesses, and companies that shared information about the services available to support Putnam County families.
Students were excited to visit each table, meet community partners, pet the animals from Zoology Zone, and take home backpacks filled with supplies for the year ahead!
A special thank you to our donors, volunteers, Putnam Career & Technical Center, community partners, and everyone who contributed their time and talents to make this event a success. Together, we are helping our students and families begin the school year with confidence and support.
#PutnamCountySchools #BackToSchoolBlast #ILoveWVPublicSchools #PutnamProud
