Final middle school redistricting meeting Tuesday

The last of three forums to discuss middle school redistricting in New Hanover County takes place Tuesday night.

The school board's decision comes down to creating diversity or keeping kids close to home. One school board member says she wants to make sure parents on both sides of the redistricting proposals have their say.

"We are not very pleased with the redistricting efforts of the school board. We have not been for a long time,” said Wilmington NAACP President Harold Beatty.

New Hanover County school leaders say they need a new plan to include Holly Shelter Middle School opening next year. Parents are voicing their opinions on the two options the school board is considering.

“I would hope that they keep it fair, balanced, keep a good mix as far as the students go, that's the most important thing,” said Gregory Williams.

Tuesday, the final forum for redistricting takes place at Williston Middle School where officials expect a large turnout for those in favor of school busing for socioeconomic diversity. But school board member Janice Cavanaugh says she wants those who support neighborhood schools to make their voices heard as well. “I really believe that a child should go to a school as close to their home as possible,” she said.

Cavenaugh sent an e-mail to parents who support neighborhood schools, urging them to come out to the meeting. In the e-mail she notes the expected support for socioeconomic redistricting by parents and members of the NAACP.

“I understand that a lot of people feel like they were waiting, in favor of 3B, were waiting for this meeting and I didn't want it to be out of balance one way or the other,” Cavenaugh said. “I think that we ought to have a strong support from both sides.”

Beatty says the issue has generated a lot of buzz. “We discuss it every meeting, every week.”

Beatty says he expects a strong turnout supporting socioeconomic diversity. “In a diverse setting, all students learn better.”

Supporters of neighborhood schools will make sure their side is not forgotten. “It encourages parental participation. It allows children to be involved in extra curricular activities, and I just think it's a good way to go,” Cavenaugh said.