Anthony Cloud

Staff Writer

Pineville Independent School Superintendent Terry Hayes is not happy about the recent denial for the any-and-all student contracts between his district and the Bell County School District.

“We are very disappointed that the Bell County School District has decided not to continue with the same contract they have been doing for the past eight years,” said Hayes. “Since the Pineville Independent School District has officially received documentation, negotiations can begin. This is a process and this process has just started.”

Hayes said the Pineville board of education is willing to work with the Bell County school board.

“We hope to come to a resolution and keep this community together,” said Hayes. “We really have to look at this very diligently and think things through so we can protect all of the students that are here, those who want to stay here and those who want to come here.”

Bell County Superintendent Yvonne Gilliam and the Bell County board have stated they sent several proposals for a one-for-one student contract. One-for-one contracts mean the districts will be exchanging students simply on a one-to-one or an equal number basis.

Hayes pointed out there is a place for all students, stating some students perform better at a small school while others can do well at a larger school.

“It’s obvious that the Pineville Independent School District is a very safe, successful and productive school system that many students want to attend and are entitled to attend at their choice,” said Hayes. “We are all about kids and giving them confidence, hope, a dream and the necessary tools to be college and career ready. The institution they choose to gather these essential life skills should be a choice.”

Hayes stated a meeting is in the works between him and Gilliam to begin the negotiation process. Hayes stated he hopes the two will be able to meet after the holiday break and agree on a resolution.

Anthony Cloud is a staff writer for the Middlesboro Daily News. He can be contacted via email at acloud@heartlandpublications.com or by phone at 606-248-1010, ext. 208.