Forsyth County Schools unveil extensive leadership development programs for future educators

A Forsyth County student’s plea for inclusion in extracurricular activities sparked significant discussion during the Board of Education meeting on March 18, 2025. The student, CJ, shared their experience of being barred from participating in the color guard due to a school rule they were unaware of, highlighting a broader issue of accessibility in performing arts and sports for students across the county.

CJ emphasized the lack of private color guard options in Forsyth County, noting that nearby alternatives were limited to older teens and adults, leaving younger students without opportunities. They called on board members to collaborate with stakeholders to find solutions that would allow all students to participate in extracurricular activities without conflicting with school operations.

The meeting also featured a presentation by Dr. Josh Lowe on leadership development programs within Forsyth County Schools. Dr. Lowe outlined the need for these programs, citing a significant turnover in school leadership due to retirements and the challenges posed by the post-pandemic educational landscape. He reported that 74 out of 151 school leaders have been newly appointed in recent years, underscoring the urgency for effective leadership training.

Dr. Lowe detailed various initiatives aimed at cultivating leadership skills among educators, including programs for aspiring principals and lead counselors. He noted that the district anticipates a potential need for up to 80 new leaders in the next five years due to retirements, emphasizing the importance of proactive leadership development.

The board unanimously approved the consent agenda following CJ's public participation, setting the stage for ongoing discussions about inclusivity and leadership in Forsyth County Schools. The meeting concluded with a finance report, indicating a commitment to transparency and accountability in the district's operations.