MONROE, NC – A second public hearing on redistricting Monday night brought out hundreds of Union County parents and students. There wasn’t much yelling like at last week’s public hearing, but just as much passion.
Many parents made pleas to the school board to slow down and consider all their overcrowding options. Union county parents are calling redistricting a quick fix lacking long term solutions. “We ask that redistricting be taken off the table as a solution to overcrowding, at least until all other options have been exhausted,” said Weddington H.S. Student Lars Knapp.
More than 50 parents and students spoke at Parkwood High School Monday night, including 8th grader Kaleigh MacKinnon. “Take the three million dollars you said you need to build mobile classrooms in order to stop redistricting. let me remind you, you said we can do it!” said MacKinnon.
Many parents and students say they’re tired of the one-sided conversations. They want town hall meetings where they can ask the school board questions, and get answers. “We need clear intent, cooperation, collaboration… enough with the stress and strife. If your focus is truly on student success, you will take your time and do what’s right,” said Angela Evans, a Marvin resident.
The board of education has not addressed a second $3 million offer from county commissioners to buy mobile classrooms. The school board meets tomorrow night at Porter Ridge High School.
The superintendent says her staff needs an overcrowding plan by April 1st to implement by next school year.
