Board adopts traditional 2026–27 school calendar, cites state law despite strong survey support for early start

The Moore County Schools Board of Education voted May 12 to adopt a traditional 2026–27 school calendar that complies with North Carolina General Statute 115C‑84.2.

Staff presented two calendar options at a prior work session: a traditional calendar that aligns with current state law and an early‑start calendar favored by many parents and families. The district said it solicited 943 survey responses and reported roughly three‑quarters of respondents favored the early‑start calendar. Board members described the survey as strong evidence of public interest.

During the meeting several members criticized state legislative action that restricts calendar flexibility. Board member Mister Dugan called the law "unfair" and another member described the issue as "politics at its worst," referencing Senate and House bills discussed in the meeting. Board members expressed concern that Senate language could empower the state superintendent or give third parties standing to sue districts that deviate from the law.

Despite the objections and the survey results, staff recommended the traditional calendar that follows the current statute. A motion to adopt the traditional calendar was made by Miss Davis, seconded by Doctor Dahl, and passed 5–2.

Board members urged community members to contact state legislators about calendar law; several said they would revisit the issue if state law changes to grant local flexibility.