Charleston , Kanawha County , West Virginia

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin said he feels the passage of an education reform bill is just the first step in a long journey for improving schools in West Virginia.

Immediately following Friday's passage of the bill, there was a lot of celebrating at the West Virginia state capitol.

"I think the bill we got is one that will work,” Tomblin said. “We had input from parents. We put those recommendations. Overall, I think we have an excellent bill"

Tomblin, along with education advocates, said this is definitely a good sign.

“Well, it is a historic event in West Virginia when we can do something for education,” West Virginia Education Association President Dale Lee Dale Lee said. “This is just the first step, and now we can focus on things that will make education the cornerstone"

Tomblin said the biggest change parents will see is the 180 days of in-class instruction time and expanding the calendar year.

But the changes won't only affect students and parents. It also means changes for principals and teachers.

Teachers said they are open to the anticipated changes and just want to do what's best for the children.

One of the major key points in the bill is in the hiring process. The new bill includes two additional needs for hiring teachers, a recommendation from the principal and one from the faculty senate will be required.

Those recommendations will have double the influence when it comes to the decision process.

Two other major points include changing the calendar from a 43-week school year to a 48-week school year and enhancing technology within the classroom, such as online textbooks.

Many administrators said they are open to these changes within the education system.

“I do support change,” South Charleston Principal Michael Arbogast said. “I know change is difficult for everybody, but we have to do at some point what's best for our kids."

The bill must go to the desk of Gov. Tomblin before it becomes law

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