NHCS: “No local funds appropriated for teachers, textbooks, classroom materials, supplies or equipment” used for Foust firing

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The New Hanover County Board of Education has released a new statement on its decision to fire Superintendent Dr. Charles Foust:

During its July 2, 2024 regular meeting, the New Hanover County School Board voted unanimously 5-0 to terminate Dr. Charles Foust’s contract of employment as Superintendent. Board members Stephanie Kraybill and Josie Barnhart were not present at the meeting.

A statement signed by Board of Education Chair Pete Pete Wildeboer sums up the facts released above and continues:

“Because it is a personnel matter, North Carolina law greatly restricts the information we are allowed to disclose regarding this matter. However, we can tell you that this decision was not
undertaken lightly, and, in light of our current budgetary situation, it was a difficult one. The Board concluded that a change in leadership was necessary to put the district on track to accomplish our goals for academic progress as well as college and career readiness.

We can also tell you that no local funds appropriated for teachers, textbooks, classroom materials, supplies or equipment will be used or transferred to pay for any severance or other separation expenses related to this decision. At the close of the 2023/2024 fiscal year on June 30, 2024, it was determined that the school system had sufficient fund balance which can be used for this purpose.

We would like to thank Dr. Foust for his service to the NHCS system over the past few years and wish him well in his future endeavors.”