Board authorizes study of possible East Arcadia Primary closure and consolidation

The Blaine County Board of Education voted Nov. 10 to authorize a study into a potential closure of East Arcadia Primary and consolidation with Clarkton School of Discovery, directing district staff to assemble statutorily required information and a proposed timeline.

Dr. Atkinson, the district superintendent, told the board the study is a required step under state law and would provide the facts needed for any later decision. “Weare not making decisions for closure or consolidations just to authorize the study so that could be finalized and completed,” he said, urging that the study include the statutory elements and a public‑hearing schedule.

Board members asked procedural and substantive questions about timing, stakeholder engagement and what would follow the study. The superintendent and staff said the study would be prepared by district administration using existing district and North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (DPI) data; if the board chooses to move forward later, the process would include a public hearing in the affected community and a further public vote. Dr. Atkinson noted potential effective dates would be hypothetical until the board acted on specific recommendations.

Board members emphasized the need to gather enrollment and staffing figures and to meet with affected faculties and families before any formal decisions. Staff reported that East Arcadia's current enrollment was 54 students and outlined that the school has four classroom teachers and additional support staff; district staff said those and bus counts would be verified and provided to the board.

The board approved a motion to authorize the study by voice vote; the motion carried. No decision on closure or consolidation was made Nov. 10, and the superintendent said the district will return the study to the board for review before any hearing or further action.