CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Parents and teachers gathered at Pawtuckett Academy Thursday to watch the last fifth-grade graduation take place. As they watched the children walk across the stage, parents appeared stunned by the sudden resignation of Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools Superintendent Dr. Peter Gorman.
"Um, just questions. I don't understand, you know? Why he would all of a sudden (resign) without notice whatsoever?" said parent Peter Elkovich.
Pawtuckett Academy is one of 11 schools slated to close at the end of the school year. Gorman recommended the closures as part of an effort to shave $100 million from the district's budget.
"I was a little bit surprised with so much work to do," said teacher Ronald Monroe. "To start this work of changing the way we're evaluated in the schools, and where students attend."
Pawtuckett Academy opened in 1932. Next year would have been its 80th anniversary. Marion Park has been a teacher assistant at the school for over 30 years. She is retiring with the academy.
"This has been such a family, the kids included. I've watched the parents of some of these boys and girls grow up," said Park.
Dr. Gorman is expected to take a new job as a vice president for News Corporation. News Corporation is the parent company of Fox News.
Gorman's last day as CMS superintendent is Aug. 15.
WSOC
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