Mona Vice, Cheryl Rawlings, Brenda Mattox, Sharon Wilson, and Jarad Bromagen: Remembering the Nicholas County Board of Education Members
On May 8, 2025, the Nicholas County community in West Virginia experienced a profound loss with the passing of Mona Vice, the esteemed Chairperson of the Nicholas County Board of Education. Her death marks the end of an era for local education, as she leaves behind an enduring legacy of service, leadership, and a deep commitment to the students, educators, and families of the region.
Mona Vice: A Pillar of Educational Leadership
Mona Vice dedicated 28 years of her life to public education, serving as the Chairperson of the Nicholas County Board of Education. Her tenure was characterized by a steadfast commitment to improving educational standards and advocating for the needs of students and teachers alike. Under her leadership, the board implemented several initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of education within the county.
Beyond her administrative duties, Mona was known for her hands-on approach, often visiting schools to engage directly with students and staff. Her presence was a source of encouragement and support, fostering a positive and collaborative environment within the educational community.
Cheryl Rawlings: Vice Chair and Advocate for Educational Equity
Cheryl Rawlings, serving as the Vice Chair of the Board, was a passionate advocate for educational equity. Her work focused on ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or circumstances, had access to quality education. Cheryl’s dedication to this cause was evident in her involvement in various community outreach programs and her efforts to secure resources for underfunded schools.(Home – Nicholas County Schools)
Her collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment to fairness made her a respected figure among her peers and a trusted ally for parents and students seeking to navigate the complexities of the educational system.
Brenda Mattox: A Voice for Rural Education
Brenda Mattox brought a unique perspective to the Board, representing the interests of rural communities within Nicholas County. Her advocacy centered on addressing the specific challenges faced by rural schools, including transportation issues, limited access to advanced coursework, and the need for infrastructure improvements.(Home – Nicholas County Schools)
Brenda’s work extended beyond policy-making; she was actively involved in local initiatives aimed at strengthening community ties and supporting families. Her efforts helped bridge gaps between schools and the communities they served, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Sharon Wilson: Champion of Special Education
Sharon Wilson’s tenure on the Board was marked by her unwavering commitment to special education. She worked tirelessly to ensure that students with disabilities received the support and resources they needed to succeed academically and socially. Sharon’s advocacy led to the implementation of specialized programs and the hiring of additional staff trained to meet the diverse needs of these students.(Home – Nicholas County Schools)
Her compassionate approach and dedication to inclusivity made a lasting impact on the lives of many students and their families, earning her the admiration of colleagues and the community alike.
Jarad Bromagen: Bridging Technology and Education
As a member of the Board, Jarad Bromagen focused on integrating technology into the educational experience. He recognized the importance of preparing students for a rapidly changing digital world and advocated for the incorporation of modern technology into classrooms.(Home – Nicholas County Schools)
Jarad’s initiatives included the expansion of digital learning tools, the training of educators in technology use, and the development of online resources to supplement traditional teaching methods. His forward-thinking approach helped position Nicholas County schools at the forefront of educational innovation.
A Unified Commitment to Education
Together, Mona Vice, Cheryl Rawlings, Brenda Mattox, Sharon Wilson, and Jarad Bromagen formed a cohesive and dynamic team dedicated to the betterment of education in Nicholas County. Their collective efforts led to significant advancements in the local educational landscape, including the consolidation of schools to improve efficiency and resource allocation.(Home – Nicholas County Schools)
One notable achievement was the decision to close Glade Creek Elementary, Summersville Elementary, and Summersville Middle School, consolidating them into a new K-8 combined school. This move, supported by FEMA funding from the 2016 flooding, aimed to provide a more modern and centralized educational facility for students in the region .(wvnstv.com)
A Lasting Legacy
The passing of Mona Vice, along with her colleagues Cheryl Rawlings, Brenda Mattox, Sharon Wilson, and Jarad Bromagen, leaves a void in the Nicholas County educational community. However, their legacy endures through the policies they implemented, the programs they championed, and the lives they touched.(Home – Nicholas County Schools)
In honor of their contributions, the community has established memorials and scholarships to continue supporting the values they upheld. These initiatives serve as a testament to their enduring impact and the lasting difference they made in the lives of students and families throughout Nicholas County.
As the community moves forward, the spirit of collaboration, equity, and innovation that defined the leadership of Mona Vice and her fellow board members will continue to inspire future generations of educators and students.
Conclusion
The passing of Mona Vice and her colleagues marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of Nicholas County education. Their collective efforts have shaped the educational landscape, leaving a legacy of dedication, compassion, and progress. As the community reflects on their contributions, it is clear that their impact will be felt for many years to come.
