BCS Insider
July 2024
Musselman High School alumna Amanda Hugas is making her mark at Princeton University, following a path inspired by perseverance, community, and the belief that anything is possible. From meeting U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor to becoming a QuestBridge Scholar, Hugas' journey is a story of determination and leadership.
Meeting Justice Sotomayor on the Today Show was a defining moment for Hugas.
“Her energy carries a confident authority that isn’t intimidating, but inspiring,” said Hugas.
A small gesture from the Justice—holding her hand during their conversation—helped make the encounter feel real and grounded. For Hugas, it was a symbolic reminder that the path she is pursuing is achievable with focus and dedication.
Hugas admiration for Justice Sotomayor stems from their shared experiences. Both women come from humble beginnings and were among the first in their families to pursue higher education. As a Latina in the Ivy League, Justice Sotomayor faced isolation and challenges that required grit and perseverance. Hugas credits that example as a source of confidence and motivation to pursue her own educational dreams.
Her journey to Princeton was also shaped by the QuestBridge program, which connects talented, underrepresented students to top universities. Initially hesitant to apply, Hugas became a finalist and quickly recognized the life-changing opportunities the program offered.
“QuestBridge is a community built on the belief that, regardless of background, you can dream big,” said Hugas. “I highly encourage all students to apply—you never know where it can take you.”
Hugas' passion for law began during the 2020 COVID-19 shutdown. The political and legal conversations in the news sparked a curiosity that led her to study pre-law, with a focus on Constitutional, Contract, and Copyright Law, particularly exploring how artificial intelligence is shaping the field.
Reflecting on her time at MuHS, Hugas emphasizes that it was not only academics that prepared her for Princeton, but the opportunities to engage in leadership, sports, and clubs.
“The pride of being an Applemen motivated me to continue striving for bigger things,” said Hugas.
Like many students navigating elite universities, Hugas faced challenges along the way. Imposter syndrome marked her first year at Princeton, as she adjusted to a new academic environment alongside peers from highly privileged backgrounds.
She credits her perseverance to the lessons she learned in high school: if she could make it this far with limited resources, she could continue to push forward.
Hugas hopes to give back to the Berkeley County community by serving as a resource for students navigating the college application process, reviewing essays, and guiding them through opportunities like QuestBridge. In the future, she envisions establishing an advisory system within local high schools to support students pursuing higher education.
Looking forward, Hugas dreams of sitting down with Justice Sotomayor again to ask about overcoming her lowest moments and regaining focus—a challenge Hugas herself faces as she balances academics, leadership, and community involvement.
As we approach the halfway point in our school year, we want to take a moment to express how thankful we are for our wonderful students and dedicated staff.
The first part of the year has been filled with friendship, learning, goal-setting, and plenty of memorable moments. Together, we've seen students make new friends, discover new skills, set meaningful goals, and truly enjoy their time in school.
In November, there are only 14 school days. Each day will focus on essential learning, and it’s our goal for every student to be present for each of these days.
Every day counts as students continue to make strides in their learning goals, and we’re excited to see them build on the strong foundation they’ve established this year. Supporting their progress is one of the many things we’re most grateful for.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we help each student grow and succeed.
Our Personal Electronic Device Policy was recently updated to align and comply with requirements made by the State Legislature/House Bill 2003 and WV Board of Education Policy 4374.
WHY?
To foster a focused, respectful, and equitable learning environment, limiting cell phone use is essential. Research has shown that cell phone use in schools can significantly distract students, impair their concentration, and negatively impact their mental health.
Grades Pre-K - 5
Personal electronic devices must be placed on silent or turned off and must remain Off and Away in the student’s locker, backpack, or teacher-designated area at all times during the school day.
Grades 6 - 12
Personal electronic devices must be placed on silent or turned off and must be Off and Away at all times during instructional periods, which are defined by the school’s bell schedule, and class changes.
EXCEPTIONS
- In cases of emergencies or extenuating circumstances, such as inclement weather or changes to after-school activities, students may request permission from the principal to use their cell phone.
- Students with medical or learning needs may use personal electronic devices in accordance with IEPs or 504 plans.
Parents and guardians can support this policy by reinforcing the importance of staying focused and following school rules, while principals establish guidelines for parent-student communication that minimize classroom interruptions. The full policy is available on the BCS website.
Gratitude can be hard when anxiety or depression makes positivity feel out of reach, especially during stressful times or the holidays. Even small daily acts—like writing down what you’re thankful for or sharing a gratitude letter—can lift your mood, strengthen connections, and support your health. While not a cure, research shows practicing gratitude can make a real difference. Click the button below to read more tips on bringing gratitude into your day.
The Berkeley County Schools WV app is your all-in-one hub for everything happening across the district. From breaking news and important announcements to school events and community updates, the app keeps you connected—anytime, anywhere. Never miss out on what matters most to your student, your school, and your community.
Real-Time Alerts When You Need Them
Whether it’s a last-minute schedule change, weather-related closure, or an urgent emergency notification, the app ensures you’re informed the moment it happens. Stay ahead, stay prepared, and stay engaged with your schools.
Take Action Today
Download the Berkeley County Schools WV app now and select the schools you want to follow. Make sure notifications are turned on so you receive instant updates and critical alerts, keeping you connected no matter where life takes you.
BCS Unplugged is back! In this episode, we spotlight Musselman High School and Hedgesville High School—both named among West Virginia’s top five CTE (Career and Technical Education) high schools. Join us as we talk with CTE Director Ken Pack and students from each school about the hands-on learning, innovation, and real-world experiences that prepare students for success after graduation.
Our Family & Community Engagement program is hosting a career fair to connect BCS families with local business and employment opportunities.
✅Meet top local employers
✅Apply for jobs directly
✅Free resume building workshop by Blue Ridge CTC
✅Free headshots
✅Free pizza
✅Giveaways including flash drives and drawings for 4 iPads!
✅Free entertainment and childcare for ages 4 and up provided by James Rumsey Early Childhood Program and MHS groups
✅Transportation available from EPTA
📅Wednesday, November 12, 2025
🕠5:30PM - 7:30PM
📍Martinsburg High School Cafeteria
701 S. Queen Street
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Food and giveaways are made possible through grant funding awarded by the Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation.
Berkeley County Schools (BCS) remains a state leader in energy efficiency thanks to its long-standing partnership with CMTA Energy Solutions. Since the launch of its energy savings projects in 2016, BCS has made remarkable strides in reducing energy use and saving taxpayer dollars while creating healthier learning environments for students and staff.
According to CMTA’s latest Energy Savings Report, Berkeley County Schools has achieved:
47% reduction in electrical consumption – decreasing from 46.3 million kilowatt-hours to 24.6 million since 2016.
55% reduction in natural gas use – dropping from 470,000 therms to 212,000 therms.
These results are based on data collected from the two-year utility average of 2015–2016 and represent significant and sustained energy savings across BCS facilities.
Berkeley County Schools also continues to lead the state in energy performance. According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR® Certification Program, the district represents the largest percentage of K–12 facilities in West Virginia to earn a perfect ENERGY STAR score—with six of the seven top-performing schools statewide.
Financially, these energy efficiency measures translate into substantial savings for the district. For example, last year alone Berkeley County Schools saw:
$2.61 million in energy savings based on the rates established at the time of the project contract (escalated at 3% per year).
$2.53 million in energy savings based on actual utility rates during the reporting period.
These savings not only cover project payments but also generate additional funds that can be reinvested into school facilities.
Superintendent, Dr. Ryan Saxe, praised the partnership’s long-term impact, stating, “Our work with CMTA has allowed us to make real, lasting improvements in our schools—not just through energy savings, but in creating more comfortable, modern, and sustainable spaces for learning. We take great pride in leading the way for energy efficiency in West Virginia while being good stewards of our community’s resources.”
The final phase of the district’s energy projects, completed in 2024, is already producing measurable savings, with full reporting to come once all project work concludes.
