11/04/2026
A Day of Learning, Connection, and Growth!
November 2nd was a fantastic day for Pocahontas County Schools as our staff came together for a day of professional learning, collaboration, and fellowship!
We were excited to welcome back Dr. Larry Bell, who challenged and inspired us to think more deeply about the important role we play in the lives of our students. Building on last year’s message about the power of high expectations, Dr. Bell expanded our learning by sharing what great mentors do differently and how meaningful relationships, positive connections, and a sense of hope can make a lasting difference in student success.
The day was about more than learning new strategies. It was an opportunity to reconnect as colleagues, celebrate our profession, exchange ideas, and strengthen our shared commitment to the students and communities we serve. From the morning’s presentation to the afternoon’s school-based collaboration, it was wonderful to see our staff actively engaging, learning from one another, and growing together.
Of course, professional learning isn’t all work! Our staff also had some fun showing off their school spirit and striking a pose in our fall-themed photo booth. Be sure to check out the photos and all of the creative poses! It’s not every day we get everyone together, and these moments make for some great memories.
A special thank-you to Snowshoe and Nature’s Mountain Classroom, with a special acknowledgment to Tracy Valach, for providing the beautiful grazing tables that helped make our morning even more enjoyable. We appreciate their generosity and willingness to contribute to a special day for our staff. It’s always nice to see our community partners finding ways to support and celebrate the educators who serve our students.
We also appreciate our local food vendors for supporting the event and helping us continue to build strong relationships with our local businesses.
Thank you to Dr. Larry Bell for sharing his knowledge and expertise, everyone who helped coordinate the day, and all of our staff members who came ready to learn, collaborate, and celebrate what makes our profession so meaningful.
When we invest in ourselves and in one another, we strengthen the work we do for our students every day.
We are proud of the people who make Pocahontas County Schools such a special place to learn and grow!
