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Public commenters press board on vouchers, library removals and district enrollment
Summary
Public commenters at the meeting said private‑school vouchers are diverting students and state dollars from Catawba County Schools and urged the board to consider the effects of library book removals on students without home internet.
Three members of the public addressed the Catawba County Board of Education during the public comment period and raised concerns about vouchers, library materials and district goals.
Kimberly Turk, speaking in person, said her principal recently informed her that three teachers at her high school would not have positions next year. Turk linked the teacher losses to declining enrollment, which she attributed in part to family decisions to use vouchers to send children to private religious schools. "Those state tax dollars are going to send children to religious private school," Turk said, adding that private schools do not always hire licensed teachers and are not required to follow the state curriculum.
Kevin Sparks praised a student artwork recognition and urged the board to adopt measurable goals for the school system so the district can demonstrate progress. "My question for this board is... will you write down your goals for this school system?" he asked, offering volunteer help to develop a balanced scorecard.
Online commenter David Niels said removing books from school libraries restricts access for students who lack internet at home. "When you take books out of the library, you're not depriving me of access, but you're depriving somebody of access," Niels said, urging the board to consider equity implications before removing library material.
Board members thanked the speakers and noted the concerns; no formal actions were taken during the comment period.
