Around 65 people filed into the auditorium at Elkins High School for a public forum with Randolph County Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Phares Thursday night. It was the fifth meeting for the school system to gather feedback to help the Board of Education develop goals for the upcoming school year.

The first question to the crowd was, "What does our community value in our schools?"

"I value the small family oriented nature of the schools," Elkins resident Megan Hall said.

A parent of a special needs student said she values the open communication with the teachers. She said all of the teachers need to know the strengths and weakness of the students.

Another crowd member responded that she values the low turnover rate of teachers. A parent of a student at North Elementary said all the teachers are extremely committed and qualified.

"I value the opportunities our students have in career technical programs," an individual said. "It gives a lot of depth to the opportunities that students have."

Other people in the crowd value the extra curricular activities and the music programs at elementary school.

Phares' second question was, "What would you like to change about our schools?"

Phares responded to his question and said there were three things he was willing to do to help make changes at the schools. He said he was willing to model the accountability in the school system. He said his contract allowed the board to make a change in leader ship with two weeks notification.

"I know full well in October if the state takes over there will only be one person replaced," Phares said. "I am willing to go out and meet with folks and listen to them. Whenever we say we are going to do something we are going to do it. In March if the old high school is not gone, I am."

Phares said the old Elkins High School is his mission and he believes it is the one thing that will change the perception of the leadership in Randolph County Schools.

People in the crowd expressed concern over the curriculum in the middle school, the communication between the board and the community and the availability of textbooks to all students.

"I would like to see better use of technology in the classroom," an individual said.

Another in the crowd said there was a serious public relations issue in the school system.

"I would like to see a proactive system instead of a reactive system," a person in the crowd responded. "We have to be explicit about increasing pride in the schools and the education."

One parent said there is not enough recesses in the elementary school and the kids need more time for exercise. Another suggested an Junior ROTC program at EHS.

Elkins resident Nanci Bross-Fregonara said in Elkins Middle School students only spent 160 days in school and many were exempt from taking exams.

"They are not in school enough. There is an over use of films," she said. "I want the teachers to teach my child."

Phares' third question was, "What are you willing to do to bring about the changes you wish to see in our schools?"

Many people in the crowd said they would support a levy, volunteer, attend meetings and serve on committees. Hoy Ferguson said he was willing to help write technology grants and visit with businesses to help with technology in the schools.

"I am here for you folks," Phares said. "I think I can do this and I am looking for 10 other people that say we can do this. We are not here tonight to meet the superintendent. We are here to decide what you are going to do. Are you willing to do it for your kids?"

The last superintendent forum will be at Pickens School on June 30 at 6:30 p.m.