CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education took significant steps to enhance the safety and support of students and staff with three unanimous votes on key policy changes during the latest Board meeting.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) Advisory Council Formation
The Board approved a policy for the CTE Advisory Council that will consist of at least nine members who will represent education, business, and community sectors across Mecklenburg County. The primary objectives of this council are to identify economic and workforce development trends and advocate for strong, local career and technical education programs.
CMS Superintendent Dr. Hill emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “With the support of the CTE Advisory Council, we can continue to eliminate the gap between the skills employers require and educational attainment, further supporting our goal of ensuring that all students are enrolled, enlisted, or employed upon graduation from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.”
Criminal Background Check Policy Update
In accordance with N.C.G.S. §115C-332, the Board has updated its criminal background check policy to further safeguard students and staff. Under this updated policy, all employees and applicants must report to the Human Resources Department any criminal charges, convictions, guilty pleas, pleas of no contest, prayers for judgment continued, or deferred prosecutions that occur after the employee’s or applicant’s application for employment was submitted. CMS Policy Committee Chair Dee Rankin, highlighted the necessity of these changes, saying, “Ensuring the safety and integrity of our school environment is always amongst our highest priorities. These policy updates reflect our commitment to maintaining a secure and supportive atmosphere for both students and staff.”
Legislative Agenda Additions
The Board also approved recommendations from the Intergovernmental Relationship Committee’s (IRC) May 10 meeting to add the following to the 2023-2024 legislative agenda:
- Health Screenings: Clarification on permissible health screenings under Senate Bill 49, specifically dental, hearing, and vision
- Technology: Increased funding for technology access and usage by students
- Salaries: At least a five percent increase in average teacher and school employee pay
- Advanced Teacher Roles: Modifications to section 115C-312 to support advanced teacher roles
- Allowing all schools employees to have all federal holidays off
Summer Nunn, the IRC Committee Chair, shared, “These legislative additions are vital for advancing our educational standards and supporting our dedicated teachers and staff. We will continue to advocate for changes that directly impact the quality of education and resources available to our students.”
