Board upholds proposed retention for West Preston student after closed session

The Preston County Board of Education voted to uphold the proposed retention of a West Preston School student at its July 24 meeting, with the motion passing 4–0. Chair Tatum moved the board into an executive session for the student appeal and later brought the matter back to the public meeting for an action vote.

Chair Tatum framed the threshold for the outcome, saying, "The motion is being made to uphold the proposed retention," and explained that a 2–2 tie would mean the retention is not upheld. Board records show Mrs. Noss recused herself from the hearing because of a family relationship; the vote to uphold the recommendation carried with four members voting yes and Mrs. Noss not present for the vote. The board announced that no formal action was taken while in executive session and then proceeded with the public vote.