What is happening in
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools?
The superintendent was investigated, reinstated and then fired. Board members are facing questions over contracts and spending. Here's a guide to what happened — and what comes next.
↓ Choose a question below to get caught up
01 / The timeline
What happened?
Here's the short version of how a superintendent investigation turned into a much larger fight over leadership, contracts and the future of CMS.
02 / The people
Who's involved?
Several people and organizations sit at the center of the controversy. Here's who they are and why they're part of the story.
03 / What we know
What did the investigation find?
This is where the story gets complicated. The board investigated Hill, but Hill later raised separate allegations about the board. Those are not the same investigation.
04 / The road ahead
What's next?
Hill is out, CMS has an acting superintendent and multiple questions remain about the district's leadership and finances.
At a glance
The CMS Shakeup Timeline
June 2026
Dr. Crystal Hill is placed on paid leave (Link)
CMS begins an outside investigation into the superintendent's administrative and operational oversight.
July 2026
The board continues meeting behind closed doors (Link)
Board members meet privately to discuss the investigation and its findings.
Aug. 11
Hill is reinstated (Link)
After nearly two months on paid leave, the board votes in closed session to bring her back.
Aug. 26
Board votes to release portions of the investigation (Link)
The board votes 5-4 to prepare a public summary of legally permissible findings and governance changes.
Sept. 17
Hill's 200-page memo becomes public (Link)
Hill alleges problems involving board conduct, contracts, spending and the circumstances surrounding her leave.
Sept. 18
The DA asks the SBI to investigate (Link)
Mecklenburg County District Attorney Spencer Merriweather requests an investigation into alleged financial irregularities.
Sept. 22
Hill is terminated (Link)
The school board votes 5-4 to terminate Hill for convenience. Stephanie Sneed also steps down as board chair.
Sept. 23
The State Auditor says his office is investigating (Link)
State Auditor Dave Boliek says his office is examining financial irregularities and is working with the SBI.