During a recent Cabell County Board of Education meeting, local educator Mister Casto was honored with the prestigious Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History award, which includes a $1,000 honorarium and a collection of educational materials. Casto, a West Virginia studies teacher, expressed his gratitude and shared insights into his award-winning lesson plan focused on the labor movement, specifically the Battle of Blair Mountain. His approach utilized primary source documents, including audio interviews and newspapers, to engage students in understanding this significant historical event.

The meeting also highlighted the achievements of Cabell County students at the recent county fair. Emma Jenkins, the current president of the Cabell Midland FFA, spoke about the organization’s role in developing agricultural leaders beyond traditional farming. She detailed the successes of FFA members, including awards in various competitions and the crowning of fair royalty. Jenkins emphasized the importance of mentorship from advisors and the collaborative spirit among FFA chapters.

Students from the FFA and 4-H programs showcased their accomplishments, with several members receiving awards for their livestock projects and showmanship. The meeting concluded with a reflection on the community's support for these educational programs, underscoring the value of hands-on learning experiences for students in Cabell County.