During a recent Board of Education meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding equity and safety in Cleveland County schools, particularly affecting the black community. A community stakeholder highlighted the urgent need for the board to address the underrepresentation of qualified people of color in administrative roles, emphasizing that the current demographic imbalance—where nearly 50% of students are minorities but 92% of teachers are white—must be rectified.

The speaker pointed out alarming safety issues, specifically mentioning a local school where students are at risk due to outdated asbestos materials. This concern was coupled with a call for the board to investigate and remedy the disproportionate disciplinary actions faced by students of color compared to their white peers, a trend that research indicates is not reflective of behavior but rather systemic bias.

Additionally, the stakeholder urged the board to ensure that history education in the district is comprehensive, acknowledging both the positive aspects of American history and its shortcomings. The overarching message was clear: the community is watching, and there is a pressing need for the Board of Education to take decisive action to foster an inclusive and safe educational environment for all students.

In response to these concerns, board members were encouraged to engage with the community and provide specific information regarding the issues raised. The meeting concluded with a call for accountability and a commitment to addressing the pressing needs of the community.