June 11, 2024
Each year, the Mercer County Board of Education is required by West Virginia Code to assess the performance of the superintendent of schools, Mr. Edward Toman. The evaluation is based upon the goals set at the beginning of the school year, the most important of which is improving student achievement. Other goals include instructional leadership, managing finances and facilities, community relations and personnel. Having undertaken the evaluation process, including a meeting with the superintendent, the Board now provides this summary of its findings.
The board finds that Mr. Toman has met or exceeded expectations in every category evaluated. Regarding student achievement, there has been an observable improvement, a tribute to our hard-working staff under the superintendent's leadership. However, all acknowledge there is more work to do to make gains in achievement as well as with attendance and graduation rates, and efforts will be made , and resources provided to continue to improve.
The school system's finances are sound, our budget balanced and resources have been put into place to improve efficiency and to better utilize our resources. Our facilities have seen many significant improvements in the past three years, which will continue at numerous of our schools. There are plans in place to undertake further construction to improve our school community's needs.
Of note, Mr. Toman's community outreach and communication with faculty, students, and parents is strong. He takes the time and effort to communicate with our students, attend academic and sporting events, as well as faculty and staff.
Mr. Toman's efforts in working to pass the excess levy is to be commended. His leadership and work in the community, with community leaders, faculty and staff to gain support for the levy was noted as well.
The Mercer County Board of Education is pleased to have a good working relationship with Mr. Toman and commends him on his efforts to work toward the specific goals set for him by the Board. It is the intention of the Board of Education to continue to set high goals and expectations for Mr. Toman, all employees of the school system, and our students, in order to achieve an improved level of success in student achievement, co- and extra-curricular activities, attendance and graduation.