FRANKFORD W.Va (WVDN) – Governor Jim Justice visited Frankford Elementary recently to present the children and staff a check for $6,707,058 for additions and renovations to the existing school and grounds. The school is in dire need of electrical, sewer and structural repairs, which is how these funds will be well utilized. The plan is to join the main building with the temporary shelters already in place, removing awnings and allowing the front office much-needed space to operate fluently. The new building will create a safe passage between classrooms and daily activities.
In attendance were Governor Justice, Jeff Bryant, Superintendent of Greenbrier County Schools, Linda King, Frankford Elementary Principal, and Christy Clemons-Rodgers, Communications Coordinator for Greenbrier County Schools. Of course, bleachers were also filled with gleeful children and teachers. A press release notes that Justice, as Chairman of the West Virginia School Building Authority (SBA), announced a historic milestone as the SBA approved an allocation of $111,687,534 to 19 counties for Fiscal Year 2024.
This funding, the largest annual award by the SBA since 2011, will be used to construct ten new schools and perform major renovations on thirteen existing schools across the state.
“I am truly proud to vote for this historic investment in our schools because it represents our unwavering commitment to providing West Virginia students with the best possible learning environment,” Justice said. “This funding doubles down on our belief that every student deserves access to a high-quality education. These new and upgraded facilities will ensure our students have the resources and technology needed to succeed in the classroom and beyond.”
More information on which schools will be funded can be found online at: https://governor.wv.gov/News/press-releases/2023/Pages/Gov.-Justice,-SBA,-approve-over-$111-million-for-new-schools-and-school-upgrades-in-19-counties.aspx
The children and teachers were all decked out in their school colors and sporting the Frankford Pirate. They were cheering for the Governor and were incredibly happy to hear that their beloved school would begin a super makeover.
The Governor lovingly conveyed his heartfelt sentiments to the children, especially when he asked them, “Be honest. Which one would you rather see here today? Me or Babydog?” An uproarious “YOU” filled the room, and his smile stretched for miles. Although there was no Babydog at first, Justice told them that Babydog had a bit of an accident and couldn’t walk. Then, to the delight of the children, she rolled in, strutting in her yellow wagon to cheers and well wishes. To end the visit, the Governor invited all to pet and take photos with her.
