In one of the more crowded races in recent history for the Buncombe County Board of Education, nine candidates are running for four seats on Western North Carolina’s largest school board. Arria Williams, a candidate for the at-large seat, dropped out of the race in September and endorsed previous opponent Charles Martin for the seat, citing “shared values and his commitment and determination to advocate for the needs of our students, staff and community,” she told Xpress. Her name will remain on the ballot.
These races come at a critical time for school districts, as both Buncombe County Schools (BCS) and neighboring Asheville City Schools (ACS) are going through a county-led consolidation feasibility study conducted by an independent consultant. That study is due to state legislators in February.
Last year, BCS grappled with all manner of modern-day controversies, including navigating a contentious rewrite of policies to comply with a new law, commonly referred to as the Parents’ Bill of Rights, while aiming to protect its LGBTQ+ students. Public meetings on the policies drew standing-room only crowds, armed with hours of passionate public comments on the issue. The existing board voted to ban one book from libraries districtwide, and a school-based committee voted to remove three others from the shelves at Enka High School.
For this election, voters may notice changes in what races are on their ballot, as the board begrudgingly redrew its district lines at the behest of the N.C. General Assembly, spending thousands of dollars to slightly change an alignment that had been in place since 1975. On this year’s ballot, voters will only see the district race for candidates representing the district in which they live, unlike previous years when any voter living in BCS territory voted for all board candidates. Voters should check their sample ballot at avl.mx/6nq before heading to the polls.
Editor’s note: Xpress reached out to this year’s candidates prior to the devastation our community experienced from Tropical Storm Helene. Please keep this in mind as you review our 2024 Voter Guide.
At-large:
Charles Martin
Website: electcharlesmartin.com
Occupation: Pastor
Previous candidacy or offices held: N/A
Key endorsements: Public School Strong, Buncombe County Association of Educators
Top three donors: Not provided
What inspired you to run, and what differentiates you from your opponents?
My professional career has been marked by roles that emphasize community service and support for education. Professionally, I gained fiscal management and human resources acumen from my time as operations manager for Home Depot. However, I have also served the needs of my community as the pastor of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in the Burton Street community for 11 years. Through my leadership at the church, I have implemented our Out-of-School Suspension (OSS) program through a collaboration with Partners Unlimited, which provides crucial support to BCS and Asheville City Schools students in need, fostering a safe and educational environment while they are out of school on suspension.
The Buncombe County school board unanimously voted to support a resolution opposing the expansion of the state’s private school voucher program in June. Do you oppose the expansion of the voucher program? Why or why not?
I do not support the private school voucher program and agree with the position of the Buncombe County school board. While private schools play a role in our education system, their funding should not come at the expense of public schools. Public schools are vital in providing quality education to countless families, yet they seem to be under threat. Unlike private schools, which fund themselves, and state and federal universities, which receive government support, public schools rely on taxpayer funding. If parents choose private education, they should cover the costs themselves rather than relying on taxpayer money.
What are your top safety concerns for students, and what policies could be implemented to address these?
Even though I believe that the Board of Education has policies and procedures in place to protect our students, I would highlight the following in the at-large position: 1. Physical safety (bullying and violence, school shootings and emergencies, and unsafe infrastructure or facilities); 2. Emotional and mental health (mental health issues and stress, social-emotional well-being and access to support services); 3. Digital safety (cyberbullying and online harassment, inappropriate online content, and privacy and data security); and 4. Health and well-being (spread of infectious diseases, substance abuse, and nutrition and physical health).
In addition to lobbying the state for more funds, what could local school districts do to better support and retain teachers?
We can employ a variety of strategies to better support and retain teachers beyond simply advocating for additional state funding. These include: professional development — tailoring opportunities to meet teachers’ needs and interests; mentorship programs — providing guidance and support for new teachers and staff; workload management — ensuring a manageable workload for teachers; supportive work environment — encouraging open communication, recognizing and celebrating achievements, and promptly addressing conflicts and issues; career advancement opportunities — offering clear pathways for career growth within the district; involvement in decision-making — engaging teachers in decisions that affect their work; and parental and community engagement — building strong partnerships with parents and the community.
Buncombe County Schools enrollment has been declining for several years until it stabilized last year. What do you think the district should be doing to limit the loss of students, which corresponds to a loss in state funding?
The Board of Education needs to understand why parents are withdrawing their children from public schools. We should investigate each case to identify where breakdowns are occurring and address these issues within our school system. Families leave when ongoing problems for their child remain unresolved. If elected to the Board of Education, I propose implementing exit interviews to determine the reasons behind parents’ decisions to withdraw their children. This will help us identify and address any unresolved issues and establish processes to improve our school system.
Do you think a potential consolidation of Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools would be good for the collective of public schools in Buncombe County?
There are positive aspects to consider when two school systems face a potential merger. Based on my research, I believe this could be a beneficial move for our students, staff and communities. Concerns have been raised that merging the systems might result in the loss of their unique cultures. Overall, the merger of our two districts presents an exciting opportunity to create a stronger, more dynamic educational system that better serves our students and communities. Based on my research, a merger appears to be beneficial for our school systems. However, I need to review the analysis before making a final decision.
Glenda Weinert
Website: glendaweinert.com
Occupation: Business owner
Previous candidacy or offices held: Ran for Buncombe County Board of Commissioners; served as chair of N.C. Child Care Commission from 2013-18
Key endorsements: Jerry Green (former Buncombe County principal)
Top three donors: N/A
What inspired you to run, and what differentiates you from your opponents?
I have spent my entire career with education being a part of my path. I care about children and their families. I believe I can continue to add value to the board. I am an educator. I have the knowledge and background to support our public school system. I ask the voters to allow me to continue in this role.
The Buncombe County school board unanimously voted to support a resolution opposing the expansion of the state’s private school voucher program in June. Do you oppose the expansion of the voucher program? Why or why not?
I believe in parent choice. I do not believe the vouchers and public schools need to be in opposition to each other. It is my goal to support public schools and understand the funding streams that support both. Vouchers should not reduce the funding to public schools.
What are your top safety concerns for students, and what policies could be implemented to address these?
Each school system has unique safety issues. We as a school board must maintain safety for all students as a central focus.
In addition to lobbying the state for more funds, what could local school districts do to better support and retain teachers?
Buncombe County Schools has worked extensively to support our teachers. The county commissioners continue to provide supplements for our teachers. We were named this week as a top 100 employer for the State of North Carolina.
Buncombe County Schools enrollment has been declining for several years until it stabilized last year. What do you think the district should be doing to limit the loss of students, which corresponds to a loss in state funding?
Our enrollment is up again this year. We are working to consistently be the school system of choice for students in Buncombe County.
Do you think a potential consolidation of Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools would be good for the collective of public schools in Buncombe County?
This question is currently under study. Each school system handles their strengths and unique circumstances to provide a quality education for all students. I am of the opinion it is best to wait for the results of the study to make an informed decision.
Arria Williams
Arria Williams has withdrawn her candidacy for the Buncombe County Board of Education and endorsed Charles Martin.
District 1:
Ann Franklin
Website: None
Occupation: Retired schoolteacher and former UniServ director for N.C. Association of Educators
Previous candidacy or offices held: Currently serves as chair of the Buncombe County Board of Education
Key endorsements: Currently completing questionnaires and interviews with various organizations and groups for endorsements.
Top three donors: N/A
What inspired you to run, and what differentiates you from your opponents?
My inspiration to run for school board comes from my lifelong work in public schools. I am a product of Buncombe County Schools and have benefited from that education. My experience working in education differentiates me from my opponent.
The Buncombe County school board unanimously voted to support a resolution opposing the expansion of the state’s private school voucher program in June. Do you oppose the expansion of the voucher program? Why or why not?
I oppose the expansion of state’s private school voucher programs. I believe public tax dollars should go to support public schools.
What are your top safety concerns for students, and what policies could be implemented to address these?
Safety is always a grave concern of mine. Students and staff should be allowed to work and learn in a safe environment. I acknowledge the challenge and am constantly searching for ways to provide that safety. We work cooperatively with our sheriff’s department to provide school resource officers (SROs) in our schools. My hope is for each school to have an SRO.
In addition to lobbying the state for more funds, what could local school districts do to better support and retain teachers?
In BCS we provide quality training and support for our teachers. We provide updated technology to enhance instruction. We work to offer support to help our teachers feel confident in their work.
Buncombe County Schools enrollment has been declining for several years until it stabilized last year. What do you think the district should be doing to limit the loss of students, which corresponds to a loss in state funding?
BCS is working to inform the public of the wonderful opportunities for student success. We strongly support the arts, athletics and academics in Buncombe County Schools.
Do you think a potential consolidation of Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools would be good for the collective of public schools in Buncombe County?
Regarding consolidation of our two school systems, I am reserving my decision until I receive the results from Prismatic. In Buncombe County, we have two very good school systems.
Greg Parks
Website: Facebook @gregparksforbuncombecountyboardofeducationdistrict1
Occupation: Quality assurance manager
Previous candidacy or offices held: Ran for a seat on the Buncombe County Board of Education in 2022
Key endorsements: Carolina Teachers Association
Top three donors: N/A
What inspired you to run, and what differentiates you from your opponents?
Our children are our most precious assets. My inspiration is for every child to have a solid educational experience — where a child can learn how to think independently, not just what to think. What differentiates me and my opponent is having school-aged children. I understand the struggles of families and the challenges they face daily. I understand what it is like to be ignored and forgotten by those making policies.
The Buncombe County school board unanimously voted to support a resolution opposing the expansion of the state’s private school voucher program in June. Do you oppose the expansion of the voucher program? Why or why not?
No, I do not oppose the expansion. I believe that everyone should have a choice in what is best for their families. Instead of focusing on resolutions, I would be working toward solutions to attract and retain students in the school system. If BCS is providing the educational experience that families demand, then the voucher program is nonrelevant.
What are your top safety concerns for students, and what policies could be implemented to address these?
Lack of school resource officers, aging infrastructure, safety training and staffing levels. Policy is just a start, but you must have ownership from the county to support funding for more officers. Must reexamine our school buildings and answer the question: “Do they provide the safe environment our children deserve?” We need to have fully staffed schools.
In addition to lobbying the state for more funds, what could local school districts do to better support and retain teachers?
Building employee engagement is key. Giving employees a voice, listening to their concerns and showing them that their opinions matter is critical. We must strive to create an environment where employees flourish and perform to their best abilities.
Buncombe County Schools enrollment has been declining for several years until it stabilized last year. What do you think the district should be doing to limit the loss of students, which corresponds to a loss in state funding?
Listening to the community and identifying where the school system is coming up short that causes families to seek other educational opportunities. To solve a problem, you must first identify the root cause. I don’t believe the school system has embraced the feedback they get from families.
Do you think a potential consolidation of Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools would be good for the collective of public schools in Buncombe County?
I have not found this to be a pressing issue to members of our community on the campaign trail. I will need more community feedback and review of the data from the study being conducted before forming an opinion.
District 2:
Greg Cheatham
Website: Gregforgood.com
Occupation: Firefighter, retired teacher
Previous candidacy or offices held:Not provided
Key endorsements: Public Schools First, Buncombe County Association of Educators
Top three donors: Not provided
What inspired you to run, and what differentiates you from your opponents?
I retired from Buncombe County Schools in 2023 after a 26-year teaching career. I am enjoying my second career as a firefighter with the City of Asheville. I am running for this position because I believe in public schools. I feel that my recent, extensive classroom teaching experience will bring an important perspective to the board.
The Buncombe County school board unanimously voted to support a resolution opposing the expansion of the state’s private school voucher program in June. Do you oppose the expansion of the voucher program? Why or why not?
I will never fault a family for seeking out a school placement that is the best fit for their child. I do not, however, support diverting funds away from public schools for private school vouchers. The only exception I could support would involve a voucher for a specialized school that could provide advanced interventions for a student with special needs.
What are your top safety concerns for students, and what policies could be implemented to address these?
I am concerned about the mass shootings in schools. Increased security in our buildings and more SROs could help.
In addition to lobbying the state for more funds, what could local school districts do to better support and retain teachers?
I do not think pay is the only reason that we lose staff. Finding ways to make our employees feel respected and listened to is equally important.
Buncombe County Schools enrollment has been declining for several years until it stabilized last year. What do you think the district should be doing to limit the loss of students, which corresponds to a loss in state funding?
I believe that the best way to maintain and increase student enrollment is to promote the many amazing programs that make our system special. Our schools have never done more to address the interests and learning styles of our students.
Do you think a potential consolidation of Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools would be good for the collective of public schools in Buncombe County?
I will need to read the comprehensive study on consolidation and listen to the citizens in my district before I form my opinion. Personally, I could only support consolidation of the two systems if there was clear evidence that it would benefit our students.
Nancy Hargrove
Website: Instragram: #electnancyhargrove and Facebook @electNancyHargrove
Occupation: Retired teacher of special needs students at C.D. Owen Middle School, Swanannoa
Previous candidacy or offices held: First-time candidate
Key endorsements: N/A
Top three donors: N/A
What inspired you to run, and what differentiates you from your opponents?
I became a candidate for school board because I seek to serve by preserving, improving and strengthening Buncombe County Schools to meet the needs of students and their families. Everyone in our family has either taught or attended/graduated from this school district. We have invested our life’s work as educators in this community. I have been loyal to our school district as a teacher, parent and grandparent, living, working and raising a family here for 34 years. One accomplishment, National Board Certified Teacher, shows my passion for learning and serving with skills developed over the years.
The Buncombe County school board unanimously voted to support a resolution opposing the expansion of the state’s private school voucher program in June. Do you oppose the expansion of the voucher program? Why or why not?
I oppose expansion of the voucher system. I agree with the June board meeting resolution calling on the General Assembly to prioritize teacher pay increases and early childhood education over more funding of private schools. Legislative lobbying on our behalf is important.
What are your top safety concerns for students, and what policies could be implemented to address these?
Physical harm, verbal and/or physical aggression/bullying and all forms of harassment can happen, especially in unsupervised circumstances. Data has shown that there is a lack of specialized staff in state and county schools for counselors, psychologists, nurses and social workers to handle mental health issues which students face, such as major depression episodes. Upgrade security and safety measures in each school, and train students to respond appropriately in campus emergencies. Address the root causes of mental health by hiring more counselors and specialized staff to serve students with serious depression problems and other time-sensitive mental health issues.
What could local school districts do to support and retain teachers?
We need to raise North Carolina teacher pay to the national average. Presently, base pay ranks 38th! Our local supplemental teacher pay is of huge value in attracting, retaining and supporting teachers. Other financial incentives, such as grants, scholarships and financial aid, would enable educators to improve their credentials. Mentoring programs for new teachers would help retain educators and likely help their instruction and discipline in the classroom. Team support by grade level or common subject areas is important.
Buncombe County Schools enrollment has been declining for several years until it stabilized last year. What do you think the district should be doing to limit the loss of students, which corresponds to a loss in state funding?
Our student population affects our state funding. Quality education needs funding. We need to ask the N.C. General Assembly for more funding per student. Our state is 50th in funding efforts that North Carolina legislators are willing to allocate. Positive publicity, (on social media and local news outlets,) about BCS’ successful programs will help, highlighting student groups’ achievements, service and individual testimonials of great experiences. Maintaining and improving the BCS and schools’ websites would be an asset for families. The priority is more state funding per student.
Do you think a potential consolidation of Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools would be good for the collective of public schools in Buncombe County?
Buncombe County Schools reported at recent board meetings the progress of a feasibility study devoted to collecting data on consolidation. We have had a consulting group in the county taking citizen input. The voters I have asked in District 2 are not for a merger. Voters have expressed the importance of school and community identity. If we lose schools in our community, this would affect us adversely.
Sara Disher Ratliff:
Website: facebook.com/SDisherRatliff
Occupation: Compliance manager
Previous candidacy or offices held: 2022 Buncombe County school board candidate, Reynolds District seat
Key endorsements: Jerry Green, former principal of 35 years at Black Mountain Primary; Michele Woodhouse, NC-11 GOP Chair
Top three donors: Not provided
What inspired you to run, and what differentiates you from your opponents?
As a full-time working mother with four children in Buncombe County Schools spanning elementary, middle, and high school, I bring a vital and underrepresented perspective to the school board. With only one current member having a child in the school system, I’m dedicated to being a strong voice for parents. My firsthand experience with the daily challenges families face — homework, communication, extracurriculars and peer relationships — gives me unique insights often missing in school board decisions. As an active stakeholder in public schools, I am committed to ensuring parents’ voices are heard.
The Buncombe County school board unanimously voted to support a resolution opposing the expansion of the state’s private school voucher program in June. Do you oppose the expansion of the voucher program? Why or why not?
Public education has always been the choice for my family. As a proud graduate of A.C. Reynolds High School, I wanted my children to benefit from the same exceptional system I did. However, I also believe that parents should have the freedom to choose the best educational path for their child. Higher-income families often contribute more in state taxes, while those in lower income brackets pay less. Given this, it’s unfair to penalize families based on income by limiting their educational choices. Everyone should have equal access to the educational opportunities that best suit their children, regardless of their income level.
What are your top safety concerns for students, and what policies could be implemented to address these?
My top safety concern is ensuring that every student feels secure while learning. While the current board has done a great job retrofitting and updating campuses, we must also utilize available technology to enhance safety. This includes better surveillance systems and secure access points. Additionally, we need to push for stronger partnerships between schools and law enforcement, with a full-time school resource officer (SRO) in every school by the end of our sheriff’s term. SROs are important, but technology and improved campus infrastructure will also play key roles in keeping our students and staff safe.
In addition to lobbying the state for more funds, what could local school districts do to better support and retain teachers?
My approach to recruiting and retaining qualified teachers emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive and empowering environment. Retention is about ensuring that teachers feel valued and have opportunities for growth that align with their professional goals. By listening to and addressing their needs, we can help them thrive in their roles. While compensation is a factor, true job satisfaction often comes from a teacher’s ability to make a meaningful impact in the lives of their students.
Buncombe County Schools enrollment has been declining for several years until it stabilized last year. What do you think the district should be doing to limit the loss of students, which corresponds to a loss in state funding?
Parents today have an unprecedented array of educational options beyond traditional public schools, further expanded by the pandemic. It is the school board’s responsibility to ensure our public schools are so welcoming, dynamic and high achieving that they become the preferred choice for families. While parents deserve the autonomy to choose the best educational path, the state must ensure equitable access to these diverse options. By understanding and addressing parents’ needs, we can enhance public education, making it a compelling choice for more families and benefiting all students.
Do you think a potential consolidation of Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools would be good for the collective of public schools in Buncombe County?
I oppose the consolidation of the BCS and ACS systems. As a lifelong resident, I understand the unique strengths of each system, tailored to their communities’ specific needs. These differences make each system valuable. Residents of Asheville and rural Buncombe County choose their locations based on their preferred school system, which aligns with their vision for their child’s education. From a budget standpoint, I believe neither county nor city residents want potential tax increases to cover shortfalls that could arise from consolidation.
District 4:
Amy Churchill:
Website: amychurchill.org
Occupation: Respiratory therapist
Previous candidacy or offices held: Current board member and vice chair of Buncombe County Board of Education
Key endorsements: Buncombe County and Asheville City Association of Educators and Public School Strong
Top three donors: Not provided
What inspired you to run, and what differentiates you from your opponents?
It’s been a privilege to champion the educational goals of Buncombe County Schools in innovative ways, such as STEM initiatives, including the Nesbitt Discovery Academy; digital learning initiatives; expanding Spanish dual immersion programs in elementary schools and adding Chinese for older students; expansion of career technical education programs; and supporting robust arts programs throughout our schools. Championing these and many other initiatives, and serving on the N.C. School Board Association, means I have experience my opponent doesn’t have — experience that, if reelected, will allow me to continue to be a highly effective champion for our public schools.
The Buncombe County school board unanimously voted to support a resolution opposing the expansion of the state’s private school voucher program in June. Do you oppose the expansion of the voucher program? Why or why not?
I strongly oppose North Carolina’s private school voucher program. Instead of fully funding public schools as mandated by the state constitution, the N.C. General Assembly is sending millions of taxpayer dollars not only to low-income families but now to high-income parents whose private school students never even attended public schools. Voucher funding is projected to reach $800 million PER YEAR by 2031. It is unconscionable that the 77% of North Carolina students who attend public schools, including students with special needs, will suffer as taxpayer dollars go to expensive, largely unaccountable, often religious and discriminatory private schools.
What are your top safety concerns for students, and what policies could be implemented to address these?
My concerns for student safety include bullying, mental health and, sadly, violence. No one can ignore the random attacks on students and teachers happening around the country. With the full support of the board, Buncombe County Schools has been a leader in working closely with law enforcement to develop, implement and practice “Safe Schools” policies, including tightening school access, communications and surveillance; increasing the number of SROs and mental health professionals; enhancing emergency preparedness through training exercises; and adding anti-bullying programs. As a board member, I would continue to advocate for the resources to enhance these programs, practices and policies.
In addition to lobbying the state for more funds, what could local school districts do to better support and retain teachers?
Recruiting and retaining well-qualified teachers is essential for maintaining a high-quality education system. By focusing on compensation, professional development, work environment and opportunities for growth, schools can build a supportive and attractive environment that draws in talented teachers and keeps them engaged over the long term. Focusing on these key efforts will allow Buncombe County Schools to continue being a top education destination.
Buncombe County Schools enrollment has been declining for several years until it stabilized last year. What do you think the district should be doing to limit the loss of students, which corresponds to a loss in state funding?
Buncombe County schools have always encouraged family involvement and welcomed visitors to their schools. Parents today are very savvy in researching the different options they have in educating their children. Buncombe County Schools has increased its effort in showing off all the amazing things our students are doing. I truly believe we have the best options for a well-rounded educational experience, including our wonderful arts programs, language programs, special-needs programs, STEM initiatives and athletic programs. My hope is that we will continue highlighting all of the great things going on in our schools every day, and parents will make us their first choice.
Do you think a potential consolidation of Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools would be good for the collective of public schools in Buncombe County?
It’s hard to say, honestly. We are waiting to hear from parents, students, school system and community members through surveys and listening sessions, and to learn the financial impact of a potential consolidation. I want to make an informed decision, so am keeping an open mind at this point.
Jim Fulton:
Website: Vote4JimFulton.com
Occupation: Recently retired project manager for an American multinational corporation (FIS Global) based in Jacksonville, Fla.
Previous candidacy or offices held: N/A
Key endorsements: Not provided
Top three donors: Not provided
What inspired you to run, and what differentiates you from your opponents?
I’m running for Buncombe County school board because I believe our children deserve better educational outcomes than they receive today. Over the incumbent’s 12-year tenure, we’ve seen no improvement in reading, math and science proficiency. This stagnation is unacceptable, and it’s what motivated me to step forward. As a technical project manager, I’ve spent my career solving complex problems, optimizing resources and delivering results. I value transparency, fiscal responsibility and advocating for policies that support both our students and educators. It’s time for fresh perspectives and real progress, and I am committed to making that happen for Buncombe County.
The Buncombe County school board unanimously voted to support a resolution opposing the expansion of the state’s private school voucher program in June. Do you oppose the expansion of the voucher program? Why or why not?
Rather than focusing on opposing vouchers, I believe public schools should focus on improving student outcomes. If public schools demonstrate strong academic performance and a safe, engaging learning environment, they will naturally retain and attract students without relying solely on funding concerns. So, I do not oppose expansion of the voucher program. I believe parents should have the right to choose the best educational setting for their children, whether that be public, private or charter schools. School vouchers give families, especially those from lower-income backgrounds, access to schools that might offer more personalized or specialized education for their children.
What are your top safety concerns for students, and what policies could be implemented to address these?
Student safety is one of my top priorities. My main concerns include bullying (both in person and online), the risk of school violence and mental health challenges that can go unaddressed.
To address these issues, I support strengthening the school resource officer (SRO) program to ensure that schools are protected by trained officers who understand the needs of students. Additionally, offering voluntary mental health screenings in schools can help identify and address issues early. Anti-bullying initiatives, both in person and online, should be enhanced to create a safer, more supportive environment for all students.
In addition to lobbying the state for more funds, what could local school districts do to better support and retain teachers?
We can support and retain teachers by improving work conditions, offering competitive compensation and creating professional growth opportunities. Mentorship programs for new teachers and ongoing professional development help teachers feel supported. Providing financial incentives, such as loan forgiveness or retention bonuses, can alleviate financial stress. Reducing class sizes and administrative burdens allow teachers to focus on instruction. Establishing strong teacher leadership pathways and offering recognition programs boosts morale. Prioritizing teacher input in decision-making processes ensures their voices are heard, fostering a positive work environment that encourages long-term commitment.
Buncombe County Schools enrollment has been declining for several years until it stabilized last year. What do you think the district should be doing to limit the loss of students, which corresponds to a loss in state funding?
To prevent student loss, we need to focus on the quality of education we’re offering. This means improving academic outcomes, offering more innovative programs like STEM or vocational training, and ensuring that we create a safe, welcoming environment for students. By offering more personalized learning options and focusing on early intervention for struggling students, we can address issues before they become reasons for families to leave the district. We should also improve communication and collaboration with parents to better understand their concerns and keep them engaged in their children’s education. Parental involvement is key to student success and retaining families in the district.
Do you think a potential consolidation of Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools would be good for the collective of public schools in Buncombe County?
Consolidating Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools could offer potential cost savings and efficiencies, but it’s not a decision to take lightly. Each district serves different populations — urban versus suburban and rural — leading to distinct logistical challenges, particularly with transportation, resource distribution and maintaining equitable access to services. Merging may also impact community identities and expectations. The ongoing consolidation study and community input will help determine whether consolidation would truly benefit students, teachers and taxpayers. Ultimately, the decision should focus on improving educational outcomes and using resources effectively for all students in Buncombe County.
Editor’s note: To look up which races you will vote for, visit avl.mx/6nq.
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