Catawba County Schools lose three teachers amid student migration to private schools

The Catawba County Schools Board of Education meeting held on April 28, 2025, addressed significant concerns regarding teacher employment and student enrollment trends. The meeting began with a poignant statement from a community member who expressed distress over the loss of three teachers at a local high school. The speaker attributed these job losses not to impending federal budget cuts but to a decline in student enrollment, which has led to fewer teaching positions.

The speaker highlighted a troubling trend of students leaving Catawba County Schools for private institutions, noting the expansion of local private schools that offer financial aid and scholarships. This shift, they argued, is funded by state tax dollars through vouchers that allow private schools to operate without the same regulations as public schools, including hiring licensed teachers or adhering to state curricula.

The discussion also touched on the perception of Catawba County Schools as failing, a narrative that some school board members have reportedly propagated. The speaker criticized this portrayal, suggesting it has contributed to the exodus of students to private schools. They emphasized the responsibility of the current board members to address these issues and the implications of their previous statements on public education.

Following this discussion, Kevin Sparks commended the artwork of a student, Missy Aang, noting its significance in the context of modern art. He encouraged attendees to appreciate the piece, which he described as a remarkable representation of contemporary artistic themes.

The meeting underscored the challenges facing Catawba County Schools, particularly in light of declining enrollment and the impact of private school vouchers on public education. As the board continues to navigate these issues, the community remains engaged and concerned about the future of local education.