Surry County Schools request $35M for high school renovations and alternative education program

In a recent budget meeting, Surry County officials discussed critical funding requests aimed at addressing pressing needs in local high schools and the establishment of an alternative education program. The Surry County Board of Education is seeking $35 million for phase one construction projects at Surry Central High School and East Surry High School, which are facing significant infrastructure challenges. The proposed renovations focus on upgrading the original cafeteria and kitchen facilities, which date back to 1960 and are currently inadequate for the growing student population. The overcrowding has led to students eating in hallways and outside, creating logistical and safety concerns for staff and students alike.

The board emphasized that these improvements are essential not only for the comfort of students but also for the efficiency of cafeteria operations, which currently struggle with space and storage issues. The request highlights a long-term capital plan aimed at modernizing school facilities to better serve the community's educational needs.

In addition to infrastructure improvements, the meeting also addressed the need for a new alternative education program designed to support students who struggle in traditional school settings. This initiative, which seeks $500,000 in its first year, aims to provide therapeutic support and personalized learning plans for middle and high school students facing various challenges. The program would offer flexible entry and exit points throughout the school year, allowing students to transition back to traditional schooling when ready.

The proposed alternative program is a collaborative effort among Surry County Schools, Elkin City Schools, and Mount Airy City Schools, reflecting a community-wide commitment to improving educational outcomes. Officials noted that similar programs in other North Carolina school districts have shown promising results, and they hope to replicate that success in Surry County.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the urgent need for both physical upgrades to school facilities and innovative educational programs to address the diverse needs of students. As the county moves forward, these initiatives aim to enhance the overall educational environment and better prepare students for future success.