Alamance County residents voiced urgent calls for increased funding for public education during the June 2, 2025, Commissioners Meeting. Advocates highlighted the critical need for financial support for local schools and libraries, emphasizing the direct impact on community well-being and student success.
Community member Byrd passionately urged commissioners to prioritize education funding, citing studies that link investment in public education and libraries to reduced crime rates. "It is in your power to make things worse or make them better for our children and our community," Byrd stated, imploring officials to take action to support local schools.
Former commissioner Bob Burt echoed these sentiments, referencing a decade-old vision plan for public education in Alamance County. He stressed that quality education is essential for economic success and community growth. Burt pointed out that while the proposed budget aims to keep property taxes low, it falls short of addressing the pressing needs of the school system. He noted that Alamance County's property tax rate is significantly lower than the state median, suggesting that there is room to increase funding without overburdening taxpayers.
Burt, representing the NAACP Education Committee, called for full funding of the Alamance-Burlington School System's budget request, emphasizing the shared responsibility of both the Board of Education and the Board of Commissioners in ensuring educational success.
The meeting underscored a growing concern among residents regarding the future of public education in Alamance County. As discussions continue, community advocates remain hopeful that their voices will lead to meaningful changes in the upcoming budget decisions, ultimately benefiting students and the broader community.