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Matthews County superintendent outlines phased plan to consolidate Thomas Hunter and elementary into preK7 school
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Daniel presented a two-phase consolidation plan to operate Matthews Elementary and Thomas Hunter under a single preK7 administration starting in 2026–27 and to pursue later architectural renovations; the proposal responds to a roughly 40% enrollment decline since 2003 and aims to expand instructional continuity and Title I use while addressing safety, licensure and facility concerns.
Superintendent Doctor Daniel presented a two-phase plan at the Dec. 16 Matthews County School Board meeting to reorganize Thomas Hunter Middle School and Matthews Elementary into a single preK7 operating school.
The proposal calls for phase one to begin with the 202627 school year: a single administrative team, existing administrative staffing levels maintained (two administrators and three office staff), and instructional positions kept in place with adjusted assignments as needed. Phase two would contract architectural and engineering services to develop plans and cost estimates for internal circulation, a centrally located main office, safety upgrades and other renovations to make the combined footprint function as one school.
Daniel said the recommendation follows more than a year of committee work and community input and is driven by long-term enrollment decline: "Since 2003 we've seen about a 40% reduction in student enrollment," he said, and cited demographic and housing data that show Matthews has an older resident profile and limited new housing stock. He added that operating as a single preK7 school would allow the division to align curriculum vertically, spread Title I resources through seventh grade, and consolidate some specialized staff and services.
Board members and the superintendent repeatedly framed student safety, instructional impact and transportation as the top community priorities. Daniel acknowledged potential challenges including licensure differences across grade bands, grade-level separation and preserving the identity and traditions of Thomas Hunter. He said the committee recommended planning early to limit disruption and allow time for asbestos abatement, air-quality and mold work already underway.
The board did not take a final vote; Daniel said the administration will develop a timeline, leadership structure, and estimated renovation costs and return with subsequent updates. He recommended FAQs and regular communications to families and staff as planning proceeds.
Next steps: the administration will prepare a timeline, solicit an A/E firm for phase-two planning, and begin budget planning for the 202627 fiscal cycle; the board will continue receiving regular updates.
