Gaston County Schools Funding and Staffing

Urged commissioners to invest more in public education and preventative community services rather than reacting on the back end.

Compared Gaston County's low per-pupil spending to neighboring counties and criticized the lack of support for teachers.

Highlighted the direct link between public education, population health, and economic development, urging higher school funding.

Criticized the status quo of underfunded schools and called for active engagement in local elections and advocacy.

Called for adequate school funding and questioned the board's priorities regarding education and the Confederate monument.

Criticized the board for ignoring years of warnings about school financial cliffs and treating education as a low priority.

Argued that school funding is an economic development issue and that quality schools attract families and investment.

Highlighted severe bus driver and staffing shortages impacting student schedules and called for greater board accountability.

Shared positive classroom experiences while emphasizing the heavy burdens placed on overworked teachers and staff.

Spoke as a school nurse about the high percentage of students with behavioral and developmental needs lacking adequate support.

Read a statement from an anonymous teacher resigning from Gaston County Schools due to inadequate support and instability.

Finished reading the teacher's statement and urged the board to fund the 174 cut positions to retain educators.

Shared her perspective as a parent who chose Belmont for its schools and emphasized the necessity of funding health and support staff.

Expressed concern over school underfunding and emphasized the critical role of school nurses and counselors in student safety.

Voiced frustration over school district challenges and urged the board to find creative solutions to properly support students.