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Public comments at Horry County meeting pressed for later start times, more recess and more staff diversity; charter governance concerns raised
Summary
During public comment, speakers urged later school start times and more recess and said lack of sleep and activity contributes to student medical and behavior problems; a community member criticized the Palm charter school's board for alleged lack of transparency; an employee‑citizen urged more diversity among teachers and administrators.
Five members of the public spoke during the board’s public‑comment period about student schedules, staff diversity and charter governance.
A resident who identified herself in the meeting as Millie urged later start times and added recess for younger students, arguing that insufficient sleep and activity causes medical and behavioral problems. "That bus should not pull in before 8AM. That is abuse," she said, and urged morning and afternoon breaks for young children.
Matthew Danillin, speaking from personal experience as a former Horry County student, supported options for short rest or quiet time and recommended scheduling tougher academic work earlier in the day followed by movement‑based specials and brief mid‑morning recess for elementary students.
Rick Rivers, representing the Palm Concerned Parents Group, criticized the Palm charter board’s governance, alleging that parents were not consulted when bylaws were rewritten, that meetings were not properly posted, and that the board has lacked transparency. Rivers asked the Horry County Board to consider ways to restore elections and transparency at the charter operator.
Benita Stephens, who said she attended as a citizen though she is also a school employee, urged the district to increase teacher and administrator diversity so staff better reflect student demographics. "A diverse group of teachers in the classroom is important because it allows students to be exposed to a wider range of perspectives," Stephens said.
Board chairman David Cox and the superintendent listened but the board did not take immediate action during the meeting; several public requests were noted for follow up by the superintendent's office.
