Forsyth County Schools enhance student safety through funding for psychologists and resource officers

In a pivotal meeting on May 29, 2025, the Forsyth County Schools Board of Education unveiled significant investments aimed at enhancing student safety and emotional health. Central to the discussion was the introduction of student advocacy specialists, who will support students in emotional crisis from kindergarten through high school, ensuring they receive consistent care throughout their educational journey.

The board highlighted a successful partnership with local legislators, who secured increased funding for school psychologists and partially funded three new advocacy positions. This collaboration underscores the community's commitment to prioritizing mental health resources within schools.

Additionally, the board announced the creation of two threat assessment investigator roles, one funded by the school system and the other by the sheriff's office. This initiative aims to address both real and false threats effectively, enhancing safety protocols across the district. Plans for a mobile safety panic alert system were also discussed, with hopes to have it operational by July 2026, aligning with new legislative requirements.

On the academic front, the board emphasized the importance of developing in-house instructional materials to ensure quality control and relevance in teaching. This approach has already shown promising results, with early indicators suggesting that students using these materials outperformed those relying on traditional resources.

To further bolster staff retention and recruitment, the board proposed salary step increases for eligible employees and plans to gradually extend the salary schedule for teachers to align with retirement eligibility. This strategy aims to retain experienced educators and maintain a high-quality teaching environment.

Overall, the meeting reflected a proactive approach to addressing both the emotional and academic needs of students, with a strong emphasis on community collaboration and innovative solutions. The board's commitment to these initiatives signals a robust investment in the future of Forsyth County Schools, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.