Robbinsville – The Graham County Board of Education discussed many items at its Nov. 2 meeting, including the new legislation on the reduction of high school credits.
The school board was informed of a newly-adopted law that ensures high school students will graduate in three years instead of four.
The number of required credits was changed to 22 credits for all students. In the past, local boards could require 28 credits, but now local boards must abide by the state’s legislation.
The legislation was passed, but the explanation hasn’t been finalized. School superintendent, Angie Knight said details are forthcoming and is not sure when the law will come into effect.
All students entering the ninth grade will be informed of the change since it will be applied to their grade. It may be an option for 10th graders and they will be made aware.
“The state’s goal has been to dismantle public education,” Robbinsville High School Principal David Matheson emphatically stated.
Matheson thinks the reduction of school credits to graduate is a terrible idea because it will reduce other public-school programs and electives. Teachers could potentially receive less pay or lose positions.
Matheson is also concerned that students won’t be as well rounded if they complete high school in just three years.
Other news and notes
* Both Robbinsville Middle and High schools received the Wheels of Career and Technical Education Grant from Dogwood Trust for a new vehicle, new courses, a CTE employee position and other benefits for the CTE program. The total grant is for $471,000 and portions of it will be used for the CTE program. The grant will fund rotational CTE classes on various careers like carpentry and culinary for the next five years to eighth graders. The board made a motion to accept the lowest bid at $51,450 for a 2024 Ford F-150 funded by the grant. The grant also allows the CTE program to hire Shannon Knott as a part-time career development coordinator and part-time CTE teacher for the middle school.
* Josh Winfrey was hired as the new female wrestling coach, with Sarah Orr being appointed the assistant.