School Board Faces Backlash Over Repeal Of Lottery System For Low-Income Students

During the New Hanover County Schools Board of Education Policy Committee meeting on July 15, 2025, a significant discussion emerged regarding the recent decision to eliminate the lottery system for school admissions. This decision has sparked a debate about equity and access in education, particularly for students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

One board member expressed strong concerns about the implications of this change, arguing that the lottery system was a crucial tool for ensuring that disadvantaged students had access to quality education. They highlighted research indicating that integrating students from various income levels benefits all students, not just those from lower-income families. The member emphasized the importance of creating equitable opportunities for all children, regardless of their economic status.

Another board member countered that the goal of the board is to provide equal opportunities for every child, suggesting that the previous lottery criteria may have inadvertently penalized families who were striving to improve their financial situations. This perspective raised questions about how socioeconomic status is defined and assessed in the context of school admissions.

The discussion also touched on the need for a clear definition of "at-risk" students, as the current lack of clarity leaves room for subjective interpretations. The board acknowledged that while the intention behind the changes is to promote diversity and inclusion, the execution must ensure that all students have fair access to educational resources.

As the meeting concluded, the board members recognized the complexity of the issues at hand and the necessity for ongoing dialogue. The implications of these decisions will likely resonate throughout the community, as they seek to balance equity with the need for clear and fair admission processes. Moving forward, the board plans to revisit these discussions and consider how best to implement policies that truly serve the needs of all students in New Hanover County.