Chatham County Board of Education approves 2025-2026 academic calendar revisions

In a vibrant gathering at the Chatham County Schools Board of Education meeting on May 12, 2025, members celebrated significant advancements in the district's academic calendar and budget allocations, particularly emphasizing the arts. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as board members discussed the implications of a notable budget increase, which was largely attributed to enhanced funding for arts programs. This investment reflects a commitment to enriching the educational experience for students, a sentiment echoed by board members who expressed gratitude for the positive changes.

Dr. Batten, a key figure in the meeting, presented a revised academic calendar for the 2025-2026 school year. This revision aims to address community feedback, particularly from working families, by converting three previously designated teacher workdays into student instructional days. This change not only increases the banked instructional time but also responds to concerns about balancing educational needs with family schedules. The board highlighted the importance of clear communication regarding weather makeup days, ensuring families are well-informed about potential adjustments to the school calendar.

The meeting also featured a heartfelt acknowledgment of the Chatham Education Foundation's efforts, with representative Brittany Sandifer sharing her experiences at recent book fairs. Her enthusiasm for the children's engagement with reading underscored the foundation's vital role in supporting literacy and learning within the community.

Looking ahead, the board is set to welcome State Superintendent Moe Green for a visit to Chatham schools, providing an opportunity for him to connect with students and staff directly. This upcoming visit promises to further strengthen ties between the state education leadership and local schools.

As the meeting concluded, board members expressed their collective commitment to fostering an enriching educational environment, leaving attendees with a sense of optimism for the future of Chatham County Schools.