ELKINS — Randolph County Schools Superintendent Dr. Shawn Dilly has received significant criticism in recent months, and one Board of Education employee spoke up on his behalf during the last BOE meeting.

“I would like to first start, by saying these concerns that I have are mine alone and no one asked me to voice my concerns or my opinion,” Executive Secretary Vickie Dewitt told Board members during the public comment section of the meeting. “They are mine alone.”

“I’m here tonight to express my concerns regarding recent developments in our county,” Dewitt, who is retiring in June, said. “More than two years ago, prior to Dr. Dilly’s arrival, (school system Director of Finance) Brad (Smith) began warning that a financial cliff was imminent. While we now have new board members, this financial challenge has been an ongoing topic of discussion in board meetings.

“I was personally informed, by an individual who attended the superintendent interview process, that Dr. Dilly was asked if he would be willing to close and consolidate some rural schools. His response was yes, although he was not fully aware of the urgency of this matter until assuming his role at Randolph County Schools.”

Dewitt said that, since the Jan. 6 meeting when the BOE voted against closing Harman School, Dilly has been facing constant criticism.

“Dr. Dilly has been subjected to intense public scrutiny and personal attacks,” Dewitt said. “He has been ridiculed and called names. This raises questions about the true motivations behind some of these criticisms. For example, several individuals have publicly criticized Dr. Dilly, making accusations despite not having any direct stake in the school system. This raises questions whether underlying personal or financial interest may be influencing such statements.”

Dewitt said Dilly warned everyone of what would take place as the county entered the RIF (Reduction of Force) process. Randolph County School employees learned last week that the annual  RIF hearings will take place March 17-20. 

“Now as we enter personnel season, many of the challenges Dr. Dilly previously warned about, such as staffing adjustments, block scheduling changes, field trip limitations and overtime reductions, are coming to fruition,” Dewitt said. “Despite his efforts, he continues to face relentless public criticism, and unfortunately his family has been impacted. His wife and three children have felt the weight of negativity and misinformation being spread about him.

“It is important to clarify that administrative leaders in similar positions do not have voting power on key decisions,” Dewitt said. “They are responsible for presenting recommendations to the governing board. Ultimately, it is the board that reviews and determines the outcome of these proposals. As public discussions take place, I encourage individuals to direct their concerns toward those with decision-making authority, rather than those tasked with conveying necessary information.”

After the January decision to leave the Harman School open, Dilly has warned that potentially 32 school system positions could be eliminated in order to balance next year’s budget.