Parent and civil-rights representative urge review after Anson Middle School suspension, request video and meeting

Henrietta Barringer, who identified herself as the guardian of a student at Anson Middle School, told the Anson County Board of Education she has been unable to obtain answers from school administrators about her grandson’s suspension and asked the board to intervene. Barringer said the principal had told the family the student did not touch the other student’s wallet and that the suspension was described in school records as assault and disruptive behavior rather than robbery.

Barringer said she sought to view video footage of the incident and that the school had not provided clarity. "I can't get no answers," she told the board during public comment, and she handed paperwork to the board outlining the incident and the initials of staff who prepared the report.

John Barnett, who identified himself as a third-party representative with True Healing on the Gods, the National Civil Rights Office, said he had traveled from Charlotte to press the issue and asked the superintendent to meet with families and representatives. Barnett said he had contacted the town manager's office and the principal previously and urged the board to request a meeting with central office or the superintendent.

A board staff member responded in the meeting that appeals of principal decisions should follow the district disciplinary policy and that families should contact central office to seek review. The transcript shows no board action on the matter during the meeting; it records public comment and guidance about the district's appeals process but no formal inquiry or vote.