Martins Ferry — Unified Bank understands that academics, math, the sciences, social studies, reading, writing, and the arts are vital to young people’s fundamental development and that the strength and quality of our future depend on the education and care we provide to our youth. That’s why Unified Bank is partnering with Martins Ferry Schools on this $30,000 donation. The donation will provide the high school with modern, state-of-the-art classroom touch screens and financially support the school system’s Performing Arts Programs.

Martins Ferry Schools Superintendent Jim Fogle said, “We greatly appreciate the lasting relationship and support we have come to know from Unified Bank. They are true friends and champions of education and the community.” “Over the years, they have regularly supported Martins Ferry School’s scholastic and sports programs, but this time, they are stepping up in a very big way,” Fogle added. 

Over the years, blackboards and chalk gave way to dry-erase boards and colorful markers. New technologies now provide visual and audio boards that link to school computers and interact with students through touch. According to Martins Ferry High School biology teacher Paul Matuska, “The new touch screens allow teachers to produce their lessons on their computers and present them on the screens, complete with text, videos, graphs, and images, and all of this helps in the learning process.” Matuska added that teachers can share their screens, use search engines, and even share videos from sources like YouTube. Superintendent Fogle said that the new touch screens cost over $2,200 each. 

Though most of Unified’s donation will be used for the new touch screens, part of the funds will be allocated toward assisting and further developing the school system’s Performing Arts Programs. Fogle stated that when they designed the high school, great effort was made to ensure they best utilize every square foot of space. The cafeteria was designed to also serve as an auditorium, complete with a stage and performance area. Plays, concerts, and other school and community events are held in this area. Martins Ferry Schools provides performing arts programming for elementary through high school students. 

Unified’s President, Chairman, and CEO, Scott Everson, said, “Unified began in Martins Ferry over a hundred years ago, and we are proud and honored to be able to support our hometown school system.” “Creating better lives and futures for the people and communities we proudly serve is not only our official vision, it is part of our Unified Way, the culture we live and work by every day at Unified Bank,” Everson added.