Preston High School

Every year, Preston County Schools' officials send out surveys to collect feedback on things the county and schools are doing well, but also areas in need of improvement. One such area that was at the top of the list at Preston High School, and many others, was the growing concerns surrounding bullying. As Mr. Brad Martin, Superintendent of Preston County Schools, and Todd Seymour, Principal of Preston High School, both told students in their addresses before today's presentation, was that the county heard you loud and clear, listened, and are being proactive in their approaches this school year and for the future. One such step was the invitation of a guest speaker, former Mrs. Maryland and current National Mrs. American Royal Beauties 2024, Judith Kinnie, who speaks frequently to students on a topic that's not only personal to her, but has affected her and her family (live video available on PCS Facebook Page). Lori Baker, the newest assistant principal at Preston High School, knew Kinnie, and while working in conjunction with the PHS admin team and county officials, planned and set-up today's assembly which was the first step in kicking off the school's 2024 Stop Bullying Campaign. Mrs. Kinnie, who has Preston County connections, even substitute teaching for two years at Bruceton Mills (Ms. Ridenour then), addressed PHS 9th and 10th grade students, as well as took a trip over to Kingwood Elementary to talk to 4th graders. Preston County Board of Education President, Lucas Tatham was also in attendance and not only appreciates the efforts of students and families to use their voices to assist in the positive changes we're all working towards in the county, but also to the PHS admin for taking on the initiative this year. Moving forward, students will be able to anonymously report any and all concerns, not just bullying, using QR codes that will be posted throughout the building, as well as continue to be encouraged to reach out to adults in the building when, as Kinnie put it, "things just may not be sitting well with them." Preston County Schools appreciates this partnership with Kinnie and will continue to work with all of our students and staff to ensure our students not only receive a high-standard of academics, but also the physical, mental, and emotional care they deserve while in our charge.