By Taylor Boyd
The Patrick County School Board discussed the Patrick County Education Foundation’s (PCEF) Patrick Promise program at its Oct. 15 meeting.
Schools Superintendent Jason Wood said the division is proud to have participated in raising funds for the program alongside the PCEF, the Board of Supervisors, and other community partners.
“Graduating seniors starting with the class of 2026 can attend Patrick & Henry Community College free to the family as a last-dollar balance. So any high school student wanting to attend, once they complete financial aid and scholarships, the PCEF and Patrick County Promise will pick up the tab,” he said.
Wood said the program levels the playing field for Patrick County students, allowing them to complete their first two years at P&HCC at no cost.
At the official launch of the Promise earlier this month, Patrick County High School Principal Hope Perry invited four graduating seniors to the event without telling them its purpose.
“Just hearing some of the comments about what a blessing this will be for their families. Some of them were wondering if they’d even be able to afford to go to community college, so it was just a great day and a proud one for Patrick County as a community,” Wood said.
In other matters, the board:
*Approved the 2025-26 school-wide Executive Summary and Comprehensive School Support Plan as presented.
*Presented Virginia School Board Association (VSBA) Academy award certificates to Chairman Amy Walker of the Mayo River District; Walter Scott of the Smith River District; Lester Harrell of the Peters Creek District; and board clerk Sara Leigh Collins.
*Heard an update on school division projects.
*Proclaimed October as VSBA Bullying Prevention Month.
*Approved the consent agenda.
*Approved personnel reports as amended.
*Approved the termination of Case Number 2025-2026-1.
