Public commenters press board on vouchers, enrollment and book removals; board debates requiring board approval for instructional materials

Speakers at the Catawba County Board of Education public comment period urged the board to address student enrollment declines and library‑book challenges, and later the board reviewed a proposed policy change that would add a requirement that all instructional materials be approved by the Board of Education.

During public comment, Kimberly Turk, who identified herself in remarks to the board, said three teachers at her school were told they would not have jobs next year because student enrollment had declined. Turk blamed enrollment declines in part on families using state scholarships and vouchers to send students to private schools she said have expanded and advertise financial aid. She also criticized prior campaign rhetoric about library books and curriculum, saying elected officials’ statements had contributed to…