Parents push leaders for CMS neighborhood schools

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Parents had a chance to talk to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, county and state leaders Saturday about CMS student assignment and a plan to break away from CMS schools.

The conversation was heated at times as parents told CMS School Board member Paul Bailey they want leaders to make neighborhood schools a priority in student assignment.

Parent Billy Gordon said many are frustrated because they feel they're not being heard by the district.

"At this point, I don't think it matters what we say,” he said. “Unless we have members of the CMS School Board who have opposing views and they come out and talk to us, I don't think it's going to matter."

Matthews Mayor Jim Taylor and Rep. William Brawley, R-Mecklenburg, were also at the meeting to talk about the possibility of pulling away from CMS. The idea drew mostly positive feedback.

A task force was created to discuss the possibility of Matthews breaking from the school system but one parent said she wants more involvement.

"Poll the citizens and see who's interested; if they have a majority, then follow up," said Connie Sharma.

Bailey also talked about the proposed $805 million

proposed

bond referendum to build new schools and remodel old ones. He said it’s vital to the district's future.

Some parents said they'd vote against the measure if they feel priorities like neighborhood schools aren't supported.

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