The board adopted a proclamation recognizing local first responders as part of a student-led Chick-fil-A Leader Academy project; the meeting also highlighted multiple student awards, national qualifiers and NJROTC’s distinguished-unit recognition.
The curriculum committee reported a $67,000 grant from the Burroughs Welcome Fund to support Eureka math coaching across several schools, covering stipends, substitutes, meals and site coaching; Eastfield will be a model site and Glenwood a tiered implementation site.
Superintendent advised the board to consolidate Marion Elementary and Eastfield Global Magnet School and to secure one of two parcels the county approved so the district can be 'shovel ready' for a competitive state capital grant; the board will consider a formal vote next month.
CFO and staff told the school board the district expects 93 fewer funded students for 2025–26, prompting preliminary budget assumptions including a 3% salary and 5% benefit planning scenario, use of fund balance, and requests to the county for additional support.
The Exceptional Children's director told the board that OSS days for students with disabilities dropped significantly and the district secured nearly $300,000 in grant funding to support behavioral and instructional services.
The board unanimously approved the district’s Take 2 summer learning camps and credit recovery program, which will offer free meals, bus transportation and retest opportunities for eligible students.
North Carolina / School Districts / McDowell County Schools
Superintendent recommended and the board approved making Feb. 13 a regular student day to recover instruction time; staff also presented a first read of multiple 2026–27 calendars (Eastfield, early college and traditional) for action in March.
North Carolina / School Districts / McDowell County Schools
The board accepted the district's financial and compliance audit, which reported no findings; the audit shows a fund-balance decrease of $287,000 and a remaining fund balance of $8.8 million for FY 24–25, per the report presented at the meeting.
North Carolina / School Districts / McDowell County Schools
The board highlighted student leadership, honored certified and classified employees of the month, recognized multiple schools for academic growth, and presented a bus-driver recognition for Lisa Robinson after student testimonials.
North Carolina / School Districts / McDowell County Schools
The McDowell County Schools Board approved two capital projects — $250,000 for luxury vinyl tile flooring replacements and $250,000 for mixing valves, piping and related HVAC repairs — in unanimous votes during the regular board meeting.