COURTLAND
Southampton County School principals gave an enthusiastic report about the first week of classes to the school board when it recently met.

“The energy bus was rolling on the first day,” said Dr. Allison Francis at Capron Elementary School. She added that the open house held the week before attracted 300 people.

“It was like a spark,” said Francis.

Principal Ricketa Jones of Meherrin Elementary said the open house at her school also had a strong turnout. She added that attendance went from an initial 298 to 309.

“We had a great first day,” said Nottoway Elementary Principal Susan Melbye. “I’m super excited to see what the year brings. She also added that enrollment is at 309.

Will Melbye, principal at Riverdale Elementary School, reported that the new bus arrival times/locations have helped to alleviate congestion.

The enrollment sits at 600, he added.

Southampton Middle School Principal Darian Bell said he has a talented group — referring to his staff.

Aronda Bell, who has been named interim principal at Southampton High School, said she is “eager for 2018-2019 year. Looking ahead to next spring, though, Bell said 193 seniors are slated to graduate.

In other school-related matters, Chris Tsitsera reported that all the equipment has been received to set up new caution lights on Route 58 in front of the high school.

The sign application has been submitted to the Virginia Department of Transportation and Miss Utility. The work is anticipated to take place within the next week.

The board gave its approval for the following:

• SkillsUSA going to a leadership institute Sept. 22-26;

• The 2018-2019 Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee was approved. Dr. Carolyn Modlin and William Worsham will represent the board;

• The Dream Chasers Relay Team request use of facilities for rehearsal and a pageant on March 1-2. The $100 daily fee was waived; and

• Girl Scouts Council Colonial Coast wanted to Riverdale on Sept. 18 for signups to the Girl Scouts program.