Energy Express had the honor of hosting two distinguished guests in one day: Lynne Bostic, Superintendent of Pocahontas County Schools, and Hailey Pugh, the reigning Miss Durbin Days 2023. The visit highlighted the vital community engagement and educational enrichment provided by the Energy Express program.
Lynne Bostic, known for her dedication to improving educational standards and opportunities in Pocahontas County, visited Energy Express to observe the program’s impact firsthand. Her presence underscored the importance of community support in fostering a positive learning environment for students. During her visit, Bostic interacted with students, mentors and volunteers through a read aloud and gained insights into the unique educational activities and literacy programs that Energy Express offers.
In her address, Bostic emphasized the importance of programs like Energy Express in bridging the summer learning gap for children. She praised the initiative for its focus on literacy and its role in ensuring that students return to school in the fall prepared and confident.
Hailey Pugh, crowned Miss Durbin Days 2023, is a 2022 graduate of Pocahontas County High School and is currently pursuing her nursing degree at West Virginia Wesleyan while working in the Labor and Delivery Unit of St. Joseph’s hospital. Hailey brought her charm and enthusiasm to Energy Express. As a role model for young people in the community, her visit was eagerly anticipated by the students. She shared her experiences, the journey that led her to become Miss Durbin Days and her life following her crowning, inspiring the children with her dedication, hard work and community spirit.
During her visit, Hailey engaged with the students in another read aloud of a children’s book. Her visit not only motivated the students but also highlighted the importance of community involvement and volunteerism.
The dual visit of Lynne Bostic and Hailey Pugh was a significant event for Energy Express. It showcased the program’s commitment to providing a supportive and enriching environment for children. The presence of these two prominent figures from the community reinforced the importance of collective efforts in education and community development.
Students, volunteers and staff were all inspired by the visits. The day’s events underscored the message that, with support from community leaders and role models, every child has the potential to succeed and thrive.
As Energy Express continues its mission to enrich young minds, the support and inspiration from esteemed guests such as Lynne Bostic and Hailey Pugh will undoubtedly propel the program to new heights, fostering a brighter future for the children of Pocahontas County.
Energy Express would not be possible without the following partners: WVU Extension Service, WVU STEAM, 4-H Youth Development, Volunteer West Virginia, The State’s Commission for National and Community Service, WV Department of Education and the Arts, WV Department of Education, the Office of Child Nutrition, AmeriCorps and countless local partners including the Pocahontas County Board of Education and the Family Resource Network.
Marlinton Elementary School Energy Express Open House, Thursday, July 18, at the Wellness Center. A production of “Say Something” at 5:30 p.m. will be followed by room tours to see all the children have accomplished the past few weeks and to celebrate the achievements of our young learners and support the continued success of the Energy Express program.
For more information about the Energy Express Open House, please contact Devan Gum at 304- 799-4505 ext. 2124.
