Grant would help recovery process for Butler HS after deadly shooting

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools want more help for students and staff recovering from last year's deadly shooting at Butler High School.

On Tuesday, the school board is scheduled to vote on a $95,000 federal grant that would do just that.

[PDF: Project School Emergency Response to Violence Grant]

CMS is asking the school board for money that would help hire a part-time social worker and increase mental health services at Butler High School for more than a year.

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The push for additional resources comes after a shooting at Butler High School last October that killed Bobby McKeithen.

Jatwan Cuffie,16, is accused of shooting McKeithen in a hallway full of students just minutes before the first class of the day began. Investigators said the shooting stemmed from an off-campus fight.

Past coverage:

• Arrest affidavit details possible motive in deadly Butler High School shooting
• Slain Butler HS student's father: 'My son lost his life over foolishness'
• Parents march to school to get children after deadly shooting
• Students, parents recall emotional moments following school shooting
• Teen accused of killing classmate inside Butler HS bonds out of jail

The fatal shooting led to security changes across CMS and reinforced the need for more school counselors.

Last month, Channel 9 reported on the districtwide effort for more funding to hire social workers, counselors and psychologists.

[PAST COVERAGE: CMS pushes need for additional emotional support staff in schools]

The current number of district social workers sits below the national recommendation, and school leaders want to fill the gap.

Count on wsoctv.com to update you on the school board's decision.

Cox Media Group