During the recent Public Schools of Robeson County Board of Education retreat, significant discussions centered around the demographics of both staff and students, highlighting the district's commitment to diversity and the need for targeted recruitment efforts.

The meeting revealed that the district employs a diverse workforce, with 45.8% identifying as American Indian, a figure notably higher than the national average. This representation reflects the local community's demographics, providing students with relatable role models. Female staff members make up 77% of the workforce, aligning with national trends in education. However, the representation of Hispanic or Latino staff remains low at just 3%, despite this group comprising approximately 22% of the student population. This disparity presents an opportunity for the district to enhance its recruitment and retention strategies to better reflect its student body.

In terms of student demographics, the district reported approximately 7,400 American Indian students, with a growing Hispanic population now at around 4,700. The Black student population stands at about 4,650, while the White student population has decreased to approximately 1,960. The data indicates a shifting landscape in student demographics, with the Hispanic group on the rise, suggesting a need for the district to adapt its educational approaches to meet the evolving needs of its diverse student body.

The Board also noted a slight decline in overall student enrollment, with current figures showing 20,452 students, down by 93 from the previous year. This trend underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the district in maintaining student numbers post-pandemic.

The discussions at the retreat emphasized the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive environment within the schools, not only to reflect the community's demographics but also to enhance the educational experience for all students. As the district moves forward, addressing these demographic challenges will be crucial in ensuring that all students receive the support and representation they need to thrive.