Lenoir school board approves improvement plans, hears transportation concerns
The Lenoir County Board of Education approved school improvement plans for all 17 district schools and heard concerns about student transportation during its Nov. 2 meeting.
Board members also received an update on construction of the new E.B. Frink Middle School, reviewed career education opportunities and recognized educators for their achievements.
During public comment, a grandparent asked the board to address unreliable bus transportation for students at the Lenoir County Learning Academy.
He said his grandson sometimes was not picked up until about 9:30 a.m., missing instruction, and that a lack of afternoon transportation left students relying on rides from others.
The speaker acknowledged the difficulty of finding drivers and praised the principal’s efforts, but urged the board to make the issue a priority. He said removing a tardy designation does not replace missed instruction.
The board did not announce a transportation solution during the public portion of the supplied recording.
In its action items, the board approved the district’s 2026-27 school improvement plans, which members received for review in October.
Associate Superintendent Frances Herring said the plans would be submitted to the state by Dec. 1. Board discussion included the value of clearly stated benchmarks for measuring progress.
Assistant Superintendent Nicholas Harvey II reported that the new E.B. Frink Middle School remains on schedule and within budget. The construction report projects completion in early 2027.
About 95% of classroom and bathroom flooring in the academic wings had been installed. Cabinetry installation was underway, bathroom fixtures were in place and work continued on ceilings, flooring and exterior improvements.
Upcoming work includes gym flooring, bleachers, lockers and completion of classroom lighting and ceilings.
Superintendent Brent Williams said the district was arranging a joint construction visit for school board members, county commissioners and La Grange officials.
During a Career Development Month presentation, staff outlined opportunities ranging from elementary school career exploration to high school internships and pre-apprenticeships.
The district has returned to holding career fairs at individual traditional high schools. A Careers on Wheels event planned for Nov. 19 will introduce fourth graders to more than 40 business partners.
Staff also highlighted paid internship opportunities within the school district’s transportation, maintenance, child nutrition and technology departments.
The board approved policy revisions presented for review in October and spring trips to Virginia for eighth graders at Frink and Woodington middle schools.
Recognitions included Banks Elementary School’s Lauren Artis, the district’s Beginning Teacher of the Year, and science educators Mattie Sowers of Rochelle Middle School and Ryan Gardner of South Lenoir High School, who earned regional honors.
The board recognized Michelle Davis for four years of service. Williams also was recognized as one of eight regional finalists for the inaugural North Carolina CTE Superintendent of the Year award.
The board moved into closed session following its public business.
