VWSD honors life, service of late coach

The Vicksburg Warren School District (VWSD) Board of Trustees met Thursday in a regular board meeting.

During the meeting, Noland Smith was honored posthumously with a certificate of recognition commemorating his life and work for VWSD. Smith, a decorated Marine veteran who served in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, was an ordained deacon for the military. After retiring from military service, he led Junior ROTC and coached the swim team at Warren Central. Smith passed away in June.

Elva Smith, from the 412th Engineer Command, accepted the recognition, presented by board members Jim Stirgus Jr. and Alonzo Smith.

A new policy for the 2024-25 school year regarding clear bags at athletic events was also approved. There will be exceptions for diaper and medical bags, which are subject to be searched. Clear bags cannot exceed 12 by 6 by 12 inches.

A job performance evaluation instrument for high level employees, specifically directors, was approved. Three teachers were released from their contracts. Also approved was a 10-year contract with the federal government to lease 16th section land near the Big Black River.

Kelvin Neal was introduced as the new vice principal at Vicksburg High School. Neal was previously employed at McCloud Elementary in the Jackson Public School System. He is a resident of Utica.