To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.

CHARLOTTE -- The Charlotte Mecklenburg School Board is reviewing community feedback. Through a series of forums, the public weighed in on various topics ranging magnet programs, student assignment and diversity. It's all a part of the district's comprehensive review that could lead to closing schools, changing boundaries and modifying programs.

While many issues were discussed at the community forums, the board is identifying common concerns. They include a desire to simplify and make the student assignment process more predictable. Some also expressed an overwhelming concern with their home school options, saying magnets were the only way for many to have access to an adequate education.

"The school they were going to, there's just a lot of violence there," explained parent Bruce Erickson. "There's a lot of fights there, and when you have four pretty little girls that's not where you want them to be."

Magnet programs are a gem in CMS. They are high performing and its popularity often leaves thousands on a waiting list.

"They don't just teach them to pass the tests," Erickson said of his daughter's magnet school. "Although they have a great academic program as well."

Since placing his eldest daughters in magnet schools, he said he's seen measurable growth. That's why his youngest will attend an arts magnet in the fall.

It's a common theme board Chairman Eric Davis says he's gathering from community feedback.

"[they're saying] I'd like to have a school close to home but it better be a good school first," Davis explained during Monday's board work session. "I'd like to go to a magnet school, but it better be a good magnet school."

The flight out of neighborhood schools is costly for the district. Before implementing shuttle stops, it costs around $1,100 more to transport a magnet student versus one attending a neighborhood school. It sheds light on the core problem, the perception or reality that some neighborhood schools do not provide a quality education to its students.

"Until we are able to get good teachers, those who are board certified, those with track records of success to go into some of our low performing schools we're going to have difficult times," said board member Joyce Waddell.

While the board is in agreement about the importance of magnet programs, they are discussing redefining its purpose.

Board member Rhonda Lennon stresses that the programs are meant to tap into a child's special talents, rather than providing a supplemental educational opportunity to families unhappy with their home school option.

"[Magnets should provide] programs that are very distinctive that cannot be transferred to a home school or neighborhood school curriculum," Lennon said.

Should the board make strengthening home schools a priority or should they bolster magnets? Can they do both? Those are questions they must address in a time when funds are limited.

Like Monday, Bruce Erickson plans to attend every meeting to monitor the process.

"Our goal is to be everywhere we are invited," he said.

The final decisions regarding closing schools, possibly changing boundaries and altering programs won't be made until November.
First, the board is identifying its priorities to help guide the decision making process.

It's next work session will be held on Tuesday, June 29 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Education Center board room.