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Martin County School Consolidation On Hold Until Trial Save Email Print
Posted: 4:12 PM May 2, 2008
 Last Updated: 9:37 PM May 2, 2008
 Reporter: Dave Jordan
266 comments
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A judge ruled Friday in Pitt County that a lawsuit challenging the school consolidation in Martin County can proceed.

The Martin County School Board sought to have that lawsuit dismissed. The judge denied that motion and also said consolidation can not proceed until a trial.

The parents filed suit after the board decided to close Jamesville and Bear Grass high schools. The students who go to those schools would be moved into Williamston High and Roanoke High.

More details this afternoon on WITN News beginning at 5:00 p.m.
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Posted by: Chris Location: Jamesville on May 13, 2008 at 10:42 PM
Uhhh..Crystal...your comment about not sending kids to the semi-private school of Jamesville is not possible. Unlike many people, I abide by the school district rules and regulations. My child is supposed to go to Jamesville and I am not about to take them out because someone tells me to. My point is Jamesville schools are not a true representation of what my community is like. Look at the population of the school and the teachers teaching them. You will get my point. No school should be used to cater to any group of people and the students need teachers that will truly have their best interest at heart. Nt trying to make this a race issue but...Jamesville could use a major adminstration and educator restructuring if you folks wanna keep it open.
Posted by: To Williamston Movers/Shakers on May 13, 2008 at 09:31 PM
Bond biting you in the rear now, isn't it? Who among YOU will foot the bill for the middle school?
Posted by: To lg on May 13, 2008 at 09:30 PM
You guys in Williamston may have "leaders" and you may be a "follower", but we don't here in BG. Everyone is respected as equal here. The farmer, fireman, preacher, teacher, and the owner of the Pitt County business of the year. When everyone has the BEST interest of the children in mind, no one needs anyone to tell them what to think!
Posted by: FYI--BG's fearless leader on May 13, 2008 at 09:25 PM
If you're ever at the Pitt County business of the year, wave at ALL the Martin Co people employed there. Your arm will surely get tired. There are enough of your county-mates happily employed there to fill a BIG OL BUS (you know, like the ones taken to the courthouse the other day...)This business is successfully keeping jobs in Eastern NC and giving opportunities for people to stay in eastern NC after graduation. Kudos to you, Pitt County Business of the Year!
Posted by: To lg on May 13, 2008 at 09:21 PM
it wasn't board members doing the asking. It was the people with the REAL power ($) in Wmston, trying to "cut a deal". A deal they weren't in a position to make (or were they?). Why would non-board members go to other non-board members from BG and J to try a deal? Worried about redistricting and their precious ones going to Roanoke? BG and JHS knew these were unkeepable promises and weren't to help their communities out! Stand proud BG and J-ville...stand together...I'm so proud of those who are willing to take a stand for what is right. One thing I know in BG is that chemists ROCK!
Posted by: A Location: Bear Grass on May 13, 2008 at 07:26 PM
Martin County did not want this business, but Pitt County welcomed it with open arms
Posted by: Support 4 Schools! Location: BG on May 13, 2008 at 05:18 PM
Support 4 Schools Rally - this Thursday, May 15th at 7:00 at the Sen. Bob Martin Ag Center! This is for EVERYONE who supports 4 schools... if you live in BG, Jamesville, Robersonville, or Williamston. If you support our cause, then please come!
Posted by: Former Bear Grass resident Location: Pitt Co. NC on May 13, 2008 at 04:38 PM
I cannot speak for others, but having once had my child in the Bear Grass School district was NEVER a race issue for me. It was all about a smaller school, more individual attention from teachers, and higher test scores than any other school in the county at that time! My child was average athletically, but was able to play three sports at Bear Grass because of the school size. He graduated with Beta Club Honors, was only a few points from topping out in math on the SAT, and received a generous scholarship for his first year in college. I credit his teachers at Bear Grass, who all went above and beyond the call of duty to make sure he achieved, with the majority of his success.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 13, 2008 at 04:33 PM
Has it ever occurred to you that he might be reason that the schools have not consolidated before now?
Posted by: lg Location: williamston on May 13, 2008 at 04:04 PM
why don't people in Bear Grass let it be know the some board members ask one of the leaders in the keep 4 schools group if they would be willing to go to Williamston , and he said no way, so now you can go to Roanoke.
Posted by: To Janet Location: MC on May 13, 2008 at 03:05 PM
I can only imagine your anger and rightfully so. One thing about DALY is he is NEVER WRONG! Maybe at the rally this week, our leaders will come up with a way that we can start gathering facts that prove DALY's poor leadership. Maybe a box that those in the county who have complaints can express them on paper and we can gather this information to give it to BOE members. Maybe then they would ask for his resignation or maybe there will be some helpful info for the lawsuit. Something needs to be done and soon!
Posted by: anonymous Location: chocowinity on May 13, 2008 at 01:43 PM
Look people, I go to Southside High but I have a lot of friends in BG! I don't think it's fair that they should have to move! Yeah they're in smaller classes but if they move and their classes increase that means less teacher student time and nobody wants to ask questions because they're worried about what other people will think of them! Let them be! They've been there this long and seem to be doing fine!!!
Posted by: To Anonymous May 12, 5:24pm Location: Janet in Bear Grass on May 13, 2008 at 01:31 PM
I won't say Daly is out to get our children - BUT basing my opinion "as facts and not hear say" on my own child, I will REFUSE to say he has the children's best interests at heart. I'm happy for you that he's nice to kids face-to-face & will listen to you - but actions speak louder than words! Try getting some response from him when your ADHD child goes to school, with a note to NOT get on the bus, the teacher even reads it - but the child gets put on the bus anyway..... going to an empty house and the bus driver having him get off & leaving him - with the lady who always shows herself in the door to the busdriver, not there that day. NO ONE got reprimanded, from the elementary principal to Daly - they all pointed at someone else being at fault. NO ONE! The little boy was found crying, all alone, on the steps by a neighbor. You dare tell me Daly cares??? We talked to him! Care? SHOW ME! I'm not buying.
Posted by: JIM is right Location: Williamston on May 13, 2008 at 01:04 PM
YES of course this is about race.Bear Grass has very few black people.And the few they have are landowners.Good,hardworking folks.And those blacks ,don't want to consolidate either. There are no projects in Bear Grass.It seriously eliminates so many problems for our kids. Jamesville is more diversified.And down there,they handle all well.Keep them open. Williamston is bigger.We have more kids that are not being taken care of at home.So sad. I understand wy Jamesville is fighting.They do live in the real world.Bear Grass,send your kids to private school.I am tired of funding an all white school for Bear Grass. ,
Posted by: anonymous Location: BG on May 13, 2008 at 12:51 PM
FOUR the kids!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: reasonable Location: williamston on May 13, 2008 at 12:48 PM
As said before. It is happening,consolidation. As a county,lets do it the best way it can be done. Of course,community schools are the best way.But,we can not afford that any more . So,lets look at the best way to consolidate. No one wants kids to travel a long distance. Let's stop calling each other rednecks and elite people .LOL,there are both in each community. But remember,if you ain't a redneck or elite,then you prolly are the majority. And majority decides most votes.
Posted by: Jim Location: Williamston on May 13, 2008 at 12:45 PM
Please dont tell me this not about race. I work and know many people that have moved to BG because (out of their on mouth) there are too many blacks at Williamston. Come on people we know the real reason!
Posted by: to fearless leader Location: williamston on May 13, 2008 at 12:30 PM
I am not judging you.I do believe what you are doing for our community is commendable,in regards to school consolidation. I asked a question.Why is our business not located in your communuty? Put all hostile comments to the side. In regards to your efforts for your school,this is a question that needs to be answered. Martin County did not want it?Your business.Tell us,we all need to know.Do you realize this is a majop talking point against your efforts to keep your school open. The county needs to know. There are more people in Williamston that are open minded than you think. Much more. I am from Williamston and I do not want Jamesville closed. Look at the distance those Jamesville kids will ride.That concerns me. However,Bear Grass is right down the road from Williamston.Close them,send them to WHS. PEOPLE be reasonable.....Consolidation is happening. Lets fine tune it,for the kids.
Posted by: diane Location: wlliamston on May 13, 2008 at 11:34 AM
Why are we sending kids that live 5 miles from WHS to Roanoke?When we consolidate,send them to the school closest to them. It makes no sense to bus kids that far when there is a school right down the road. It is about the children,isn't it?
Posted by: fearless leader Location: martin county on May 13, 2008 at 11:08 AM
To Eric. I am the fearless leader that you are talking about. The reason I put my business in another county: Martin County didn't want it. They weren't interested in what I had to offer. Now . Why are you blaming me? Is it because you have no one else to point your finger at? Let me be the first to say BGHS and JHS don't need your money. Why? Because "fearless people" like me are fighting for what we believe in. It takes money to fight. And I'll make sure we have enough to win our case. Nobody thought we"d get this far, did they? Too bad they were wrong..again. A word of advice to you and all who are like you: If all you have to do is ridicule people, just stop and look at yourself. What are you doing that's positive? I'm going to stop now because I have a business to run and more important things to do than argue with people like you. You don't even know me, but yet you judge me?
Posted by: anon too Location: williamston on May 13, 2008 at 10:57 AM
One of the more vocal members of the BG Education. foundation can possibly answer a question for me. If Bear Grass as a community is so precious to you,then why did you not locate your business there? There has to be a reason Bear Grass and Martin County do not benefit from your successful business.What is it? Who benefits?Pitt County?Isn't that where you chose to locate your business? Your efforts for Bear Grass and the school are commendable,however you do not conduct business in your own town. Is it because Bear Grass is just a crossroads perhaps? But however,you believe we should pay for a high school there of 130 or so kids. It is a private school.Bear Grass school should have been closed years ago.
Posted by: JHS Alumni Location: Williamston on May 13, 2008 at 10:14 AM
There have been a lot of comments concerning the future size of the classes. Considering that all of the current teachers will be relocated along with the students, why will the class size change? There is not a big difference in the present class size among all 4 schools. I don't believe that if 10 classrooms of students are moved from BG to Roanoke or from JHS to WHS, the students will be added to already present classrooms so that the class size will increase and the 10 teachers will be reassigned to a non-teaching positions. The individual class sizes won't see a big change, but the graduating classes will increase. Maybe I am missing something?
Posted by: Crystal Location: Jamesville on May 13, 2008 at 09:14 AM
For those of you that continue to call JHS and BGHS semi-private schools, stop sending your children to them. Many of us moved to these two communities because of the schools. If we wanted our children in WHS or RHS we would have moved in those areas. Furthermore I pay Martin County Taxes and I feel I have the right to send them to either school I choose. Also for those of you that continue to call those of us from Jamesville and Bear Grass rednecks, Get a life! There are just as many in Williamston and Robersonville. In addition, if standing up for something makes me a redneck, then so be it.
Posted by: parent Location: bg on May 13, 2008 at 04:16 AM
To Bruce. You continue to belittle RHS. When does that stop? I am sending you some things you need so that you can 'have some knowledge of something'and 'carry on a conversation'.

.Please use at your discretion.

Posted by: anon Location: Robersonville on May 12, 2008 at 11:30 PM
Back in 1975, Robersonville was the victim. We lost our Robersonville High School when Roanoke was built and still haven't gotten over it. So to all in Jamesville and Bear Grass, we do feel your pain. Losing the school that anchors your community is something you will never get over. All of a sudden you're forced to have a new school pride to replace the old one. It's like getting a new puppy the same day you euthanize your old dog to kill the pain and force yourself to smile and act happy. Also, it doesn't make sense to spend money on new mascots, new signs, new colors, new uniforms, etc. when the lack of money is supposedly the main problem to begin with. If we're so poor then consolidate and do not change any names or colors. That money should be used for educational materials instead of dreaming that it will be a quick-fix for school pride.
Posted by: To Anonymous May 12th 5:24pm Location: MC on May 12, 2008 at 10:46 PM
I've stated plenty of facts about how Daly's leadership has been detrimental to the student's of MCS. Apparently, they went over your head. You must be one of the citizen's he feels far superior than! You need to wake up...you child's education may depend on it. I've seen him throw educational opportunites for our students out the door just so he can make the citizens of MC think that he was right. When in fact, he manipulated it to appear that way and no one ever questions. It's all there in front of you if you open your eyes and see! And WHEN we receive you leadership...all will see the difference and wonder how they could be sooooo blind!
Posted by: Blog Refuter Location: NC on May 12, 2008 at 09:58 PM
Oh Lord, here we go again...
Posted by: eric on May 12, 2008 at 09:49 PM
I hope they leave Jamesville alone and close BG. You BG people are really showing your redneck side and I hope it bites you!!! The majority of the county is laughing at you. Don't ask us taxpayers to foot your bills. Why don't you ask for the money from your fearless leader who put his business in another county. That speaks louder than anything he can say!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on May 12, 2008 at 09:38 PM
Can anyone tell us what happened at the meeting tonight?
Posted by: bruce whitaker jr Location: Bear Grass on May 12, 2008 at 09:30 PM
False, does it stop? Fact there was a meeting tonight. fact daly spoke of new middle school. Even one of the commissioners warn him of it. As usual he said it wasn't part of the plan. fact between me and my wife we had or have six kids in mc schools. Where doe the kids from oak city go now. Huh roanoke. Fact before you address me have some of knowledge something. Best thing to do is get involved so you can carry on a conversation. Here is something to think about forget the new middle school move students to the school you want our kids to goto. Taxes and roanoke school shoot just call and ask.
Posted by: BGHS Student Location: BG on May 12, 2008 at 09:00 PM
I'm sincerely sorry that you will lose your precious name of the 'tigers' but needless to say I'm sure you'll be okay..Isn't that what you are saying about BG/J? All I can hear about is how our red and blue shirts are always on WHS campus during the day, but last semester I do recall seeing a green shirt in one of my classes at BGHS. I'm sorry that MY town is such a selfish town..but your oppinion really don't matter because you don't live here in this GREAT community with this GREAT school made up of fabulous students, teachers, and parental involvment. All Williamston wants is ALL of the money to go to them, as if it hasn't went to them enough over the years. SUPPORT 4 SCHOOLS
Posted by: Chris Location: Jamesville on May 12, 2008 at 08:53 PM
Editor....what is your excuse for leaving this story posted for two weeks? Yet when tough questions were asked about a murder that occured in Martin County you quickly took that story off the most comment section. I live in Jamesville and could care less that the parents in Jamesville and Bear Grass feel that they have won something. I was kind of looking forward to my kids going to Williamston and not in the semi-private school of Jamesville. I am so sick of it all. If we are unfortunate enough to keep this school open, a major shakeup is needed in both the administration and the educators. Not to say that all teachers in this school are bad, but for the most part I feel that this school caters to a select group of people. In other words, if you ain't in their circle thay don't have your best interest at heart.
Posted by: Tired Location: Of This Topic on May 12, 2008 at 06:57 PM
I will be glad when this case is settled so you will all just stop
Posted by: Anonymous on May 12, 2008 at 05:24 PM
Do you people honestly think that Dr.Daly and the BOE are out to get your kids? Get Real!!! I have worked closely with Dr. Daly, I have seen him interact with kids from all the schools on many occassions and he is great with them. As a parent I have been able to address concerns with him and he has never denied to speak to me. He is a very open minded person and if you have never had a chance to speak to him one and one maybe you should give it a try. Lets base our opinions on facts and not hear say.
Posted by: To Bruce Location: Western MC on May 12, 2008 at 05:08 PM
Bruce I would like to know where you are getting all of your false information from. Yes, I said false because that it what it is. You must have a lot of free time on your hands to sit back and come up with some of this information. Do you even have children in school?
Posted by: Williamston Parent Location: Williamston on May 12, 2008 at 04:16 PM
Like it or not, Williamston IS the seat of government in this county and will remain to be. If any schools close it needs to be outlying schools allowing children in outlying areas to come to the area most populated and most convenient for ALL involved, not a couple hundred in very small rural community. This is the way it is, was, and will be.
Posted by: To concerned in Williamston Location: Concerner from Bear Grass on May 12, 2008 at 03:48 PM
I did not recieved a letter yet but know several that have, about lunch. But I have forgot to leave my child lunch money before but paid later. The day a school offical takes my childs lunch and throws it in the trash I will file a lawsuit of my own. This is ridiculous especially when elected officals owe past due taxes and continue to serve on the board. I leave before my child does and always in a hurry like many other parents in this county and sometimes forget. But to take a child's lunch away from them is uncalled for. About eight years ago Rodgers School lost funding for a math teacher because not enough children recieved free lunch. The board said there was nothing that could be done. I contacted the National Board of Education in Washington DC. We got the funding back. The board does not have our childrens best interest at hand.
Posted by: to RE:to Bruce Location: MC on May 12, 2008 at 02:59 PM
Do you realize that Daly knew that bond would not pass because it included fixing BG and all he has ever wanted to do is close BG? And the public voted not to raise their taxes...which included a new middle school for Williamston. So are you going to the County Commissioners meeting tonight and tell them and DALY that 3 years ago the county said NO and we don't want a new middle school. Please...Williamston wants the lions share and their cake and eat it too! Learn to share! And I still feel you are wrong about being a victim and superior your statement doesn't fly with me. Hope to see you at the meeting tonight telling the board we voted against a new middle school during the referendum. Fair is Fair...right? Or do you live by a double standard?
Posted by: Concerned Location: Williamston on May 12, 2008 at 02:47 PM
To all of you who talk about the BOE/Daily having the best interest of our children at heart...How many rec'd the letter from the BOE/Tom Daily regarding past due money owed for lunch stating that if a child owes for more than 2 lunches and receives a meal it can be taken away from them "thrown away" and a supplemental meal given (piece of fruit, cup of vegatables, bread & a cup for water). I know the children at two schools rec'd this letter. Let's not punish the children for parents doing wrong. I have changed my view regarding the BOE & Daily. They don't have the children as their top priorty. Don't misunderstand I beleive in paying your way, but to even threaten to take a meal away from a child & thrown away - there is something wrong with the system and our leaders. It should not be allowed to get to that point. I think our leaders have more important issues to work on than consolidation.
Posted by: To HGK Location: MC on May 12, 2008 at 02:36 PM
Daly only cares about HIS agenda, folks! His arrogance is surpassed by none! He loves controversy and a challenge. So he is empowered by the fiasco he has caused putting neighbor against neighbor. He has administrators that know this to be true. His leadership is the worst thing that has happened to MCS and we need to get someone who cares about our students and their education...not about being a puppetmaster and trying to manipulate the BOE, his employees and the citizens of MC by tuggings on the strings. He thinks he is far superior than anyone in this county and plays each of us as a fool. Not this girl...I saw through him the first meeting I sat in with him at helm as one of his employees who left for a better opportunity. Please wake up!
Posted by: Re: To Bruce Location: Williamston on May 12, 2008 at 02:30 PM
The poll I am referring to is the school bond vote a couple of years ago whereas the voting public in Martin Co voted down 4 schools overwhelmingly. Can't get more official than that, I'm not a myspacer'er so I'm not sure what online poll you are referring to. And, yes, it IS possible to feel victimized and superior at the same time. Just look at all the "they are picking on us and want to close our school, but our school is SOOOO much better than Williamston and Robersonville
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Robersonville on May 12, 2008 at 02:21 PM
Yes, the poll is located on Myspace. It's free to join so what's the problem? Go to www.myspace.com/robersonville and vote to make your voice heard. Every vote counts. This is the first time MC citizens have been asked to vote how they actually feel about this subject. Let the results themselves speak to the BOE. While you're there, add Robersonville to your top friends list. It's a friendly community in the midst of a county being torn apart. Let's prove we can all be friends.
Posted by: HGK Location: Jville on May 12, 2008 at 02:02 PM
To Diane from Williamston: If Dr. Daly is so wonderful and listens to everyone, how come he didn't seem to care what anyone thought at the board meetings?
Posted by: Breezy Location: BG on May 12, 2008 at 01:39 PM
Recently I heard something that I find disturbing. This came from a WHS parent and I quote "I hope they(BOE) shut down the school in BG. Screw BG! I hope they do close the school just so I can laugh in Anonymous's face when his children have to go to Roanoke." Why all the hate? Obviously this is not about the best interest of the children, it is about something more. Why do you want our school's closed so bad? Let us be. You have your school and we will have ours! SUPPORT 4 SCHOOLS!!
Posted by: All Support 4 Schools supporters Location: BG on May 12, 2008 at 12:55 PM
THe BOE will meet with the COunty Commissioners tonight to discuss the budget (and giving $ for a new WIlliamston Middle School). The meeting is at 7:00 at the TeleCenter. Please come show your support of 4 schools! Reminder: Support 4 Schools Rally - this Thursday, May 15 at 7:00 at the Senator Bob Martin Ag Center!!!
Posted by: To the Person from Wlliamston who wrote to Bruce Location: MC on May 12, 2008 at 11:28 AM
I'm not a psychology major but I sure do have a hard time believing the folks of BG can feel victimized and superior all at the same time. Usually, a victim would have issues with inferiority. And where is this poll...if you are talking about the one on my space...that one doesn't amount to the space it takes up in the atmosphere. You have to have a my space account to vote so it limits who would vote AND it only has 20 votes with 45% wanting 4 schools and 45% wanting 2 schools. So if there is another poll let me know. I think you are just blowing smoke! And all we hear from Williamston folks is that "you need a new middle school and I'm not supporting BG". So each locality has things they whine about. And trust me...there is alot of legal issues that have to be unraveled before this case is over. Don't be so sure we will close...you might be surprised in the end!
Posted by: To Bruce Location: Williamston on May 12, 2008 at 09:48 AM
Bruce is just one of the MANY folks in BG/J who think the whole county should revolve around them. BG was the first community to complain about the county water installers tearing up thier yards, even after hundreds of other yards had to be trenched to allow for water pipes, Bear Grass thought they were special and went to CC meetings and raised cain to no avail. BG has been whining to DOT about Cherry Dr in BG for years, which MAY have a daily traffic count of 20 cars. Nevermind that half the streets/roads in the county are in need of repair, their little street is more important. These are just two examples of how this town thinks. They have a mentality of victimization and superiority. The school issue is just another example (albeit a much more hotly contested one). Know this: Martin County, as a WHOLE, is NOT supporting you. It has been made abundantly clear in the polls and in the court of public opinion. Your school WILL close, and it will be YEARS overdue.
Posted by: WHS Location: Williamston on May 12, 2008 at 09:18 AM
Everyone..please stop your crying and bickering....act like mature adults for once in your life...PLEASE!
Posted by: Bruce Whitaker Jr Location: Bear Grass on May 12, 2008 at 08:59 AM
Parent, if you have a child in school, then you know it’s better to have a small as possible class. The teacher should have more time with each student. Bear Grass has more students per class than either r/h or w/h. We have to put trailers in our schools to hold excess students. The grades should reflect how our system is doing. R/h has already been consolidated once. Students have been taken out of their happy schools and put in to a system that is not up to par yet. Now the state board has been looking after this school for 2 years. Don’t believe me call the state no child left behind board. I will say again it is not the students or teachers it’s the system. Taxes simple they base our taxes on that we live in a desired school zone. So if you take that school away what would you base our taxes on? If anything tax rate should get lower. I have never said that I speak for anyone than myself. I have asked how this consolidation would help my children. You have no answer. Does anybody?
Posted by: parent Location: bg on May 12, 2008 at 05:30 AM
To Bruce. As said below you seem to have inside info. However, you are never clear in what you are trying to say. You have not proven anything about taxes. And while you may want someone to enlighten you on why this (I assume 2 schools) is going to help your children, can anyone explain how having 4 schools in the county will help my children. Your opinion is not fact. Your statement that Daly and Bryant are receiving kickbacks should be considered libel. Do you think you are helping anyone in the county by such remarks? The county is being torn apart by negative statements like yours. You may think that by attending meetings and talking with others that you have all the answers. You do not. Nor are you speaking for all the people of BG.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Robersonville on May 12, 2008 at 12:35 AM
How many high schools SHOULD Martin County have? To vote in the poll and see the results, go to www.myspace.com/robersonville.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Hamilton on May 11, 2008 at 11:24 PM
The good news is that you are not forced to attend MCS. You can pay for a high quality education at Hobgood. Check out their website at hobgoodacademy.com "Hobgood Academy is pleased to announce that for the first fifty families that return an application on or before May 31, 2008, the family membership fee will be waived. The application must be submitted by May 31 with a $600.00 nonrefundable deposit. Upon registration of student(s), the $600.00 deposit will be applied towards the tuition."
Posted by: JHS 1983 on May 11, 2008 at 10:47 PM
As a former graduate of JHS, I hate to think of hearing the the county is trying to close BG and JHS. They have tried needlessly for YEARS...instead of closing the schools who have high EOC scores, how about focusing on the ones who don't? Hmmm....think about that one. WHS has ALWAYS hated these two schools...why should it change now? My kids did not attend schools in MC, and yet I have always supported JHS. Leave well enough alone, Fix the problems in the other schools, not put a high dollar bandaid on them. If I did have a child attending MC schools now, they WOULD NOT BE having to be educated at WHS. Plain and simple.
Posted by: SAT score focus Location: williamston on May 11, 2008 at 10:34 PM
Shouldn't Dr. Daly,the BOE,the public all be focused on SAT scores,Dropout rate,and more after school help for at risk kids? I will certainly be glad when the court hears this case and makes a ruling. Hopefully,the judge will not be from Martin County. This issue needs to be decided by neutral parties. We the people of Martin County have been argueing about this for 40 years. The court will decide and it will be over.Someone please tell me that the judge hearing this case is not from Martin County.
Posted by: To Bruce Location: Martin on May 11, 2008 at 08:46 PM
Bruce, you seem to know a lot of inside info. Where do you get it all from?
Posted by: x Location: Martin county on May 11, 2008 at 08:05 PM
Please someone make some sense of this. 200 high school students sent to WHS from JHS. 700 tops in the school. Still a small school. Send 500 middle school students to WHS ... now there is a 1000 students. Don't WHS students have a right to a small school as well? People, you can't send WMS to WHS. The numbers will bring overcrowding. Please use some common sense. That is not an option.
Posted by: bruce whitaker jr Location: bear grass on May 11, 2008 at 06:01 AM
Nope it hasn't happen yet. Its this Monday night the 12th. I don't believe I am a friend of any judge. This wouldn't of happen if the special interest group wouldn't of cater to Daly and crew. It seems the guy who wants the healing to begain is taking about the bad dealing with his brothers and this contract of the middle school would even them up. I think personally Bryant and Daly are getting a kick back from the deal. Its not for the children if so they would take their time and make sure things went according to the law. What I am looking for on here is anyone who can enlighten me on how this is going to help my children. Forget the taxes I have already proven its going to hurt the county on taxes. Why not support the hospital and ask big companies like dominion to support our schools like other electric companies. i mean after all they are charging one of the highest rates and hurting or maybe even stopping some other business from coming to this area.
Posted by: Jay Location: J'ville on May 10, 2008 at 11:10 PM
To taxpayer tapped: Why send the J’ville students to Williamston, and the WMS to J’ville?? Make everyone happy and keep all the students in their own schools. Send the WMS students to Williamston High School, they have room for them. Remember that Williamston voted the new middle school down. People need to understand that the Jamesville High School will still be open. So don’t talk about how much money will be saved if the HS goes to another school. Support 4 Schools.
Posted by: to Anonymous on May 10, 2008 at 01:39 PM Location: Williamston on May 10, 2008 at 10:50 PM
The bond referendum that did not pass was to build a new middle school,and repair money for Jamesville and Bear Grass school. The majority did speak...it did not pass. The BOE reps from Jamesville and Bear Grass said the bond did not pass because people did not understand it. That is not true.People did understand.They did not want to pay to repair Jamesville and Bear Grass. The county voted and that spoke volumes.The majority of the county does not want 4 high schools.
Posted by: What is consolidation REALLY about? on May 10, 2008 at 10:17 PM
Schools falling down, taxes, sports, color of skin? Looks like SOME people have HATED the people of BG and Jamesville for quite a while (I've heard 40 plus years)and finally have found a "Leader" (pawn) to do their bidding. What's with all the HATE people?
Posted by: harry Location: bear grass on May 10, 2008 at 02:08 PM
I don't think any of the Martin County schools are good. Look at the SAT scores from any of the schools. Compare those scores nationally.Pretty bad folks.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 10, 2008 at 01:39 PM
If the board should acknowledge peoples vote, then maybe the consolidation issue should be put up there. That would make sense to me.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 10, 2008 at 01:39 PM
Children don't go to school to make friends. They go to school to learn. Yes, school is considered a 'social institution'. Whats so bad about her making NEW friends at her NEW school?
Posted by: to Bruce Location: williamston on May 10, 2008 at 12:10 PM
So you say Dr. Daly and the BOE are in contempt of court because of the meeting Monday night? If so,then why has there not been a formal declaration from Judge Everitt? Are Bears and Bullets in the negotiation process with Everitt possibly?
Posted by: taxpayer tapped out Location: williamston on May 10, 2008 at 12:03 PM
The bond referendum for the new middle school did not pass.People went out to vote and the BOE should acknowledge the peoples vote. We can do without a new middle school.We have enough buildings in this county. Use one of the existing buildings as the middle school.Jamesville High School building will be available soon.
Posted by: eric on May 10, 2008 at 08:42 AM
taken their time? This has been going on for many, many years.kind of slow aren't you?
Posted by: Bear Grass Parent Location: Bear Grass on May 10, 2008 at 07:35 AM
I do not want the redistricting, my child is a student a BGHS and if they redistrict my child would more than likely go to school at Williamston and all her best friends would be at Roanoke. I can not afford private school, my daughter has no problem going to Roanoke as long as she is with friends she has been going to school with for 10 years. Yes I would rather stay at BGHS but if not at least keep my daughter with her friends Keep 4 High Schools in Martin County
Posted by: Anonymous on May 9, 2008 at 09:29 PM
The cost of the lawsuit is a result of the haste of Dr. Daly and the BOE...if they had taken their time, they may have had time to follow the state statutes without question. I think Dr. Daly and the BOE underestimated the citizens of Martin County. They felt they could push this through quickly and we would just sit back and accept it. In the rush of it all, they simply didn't take the time to do it right.....now it's costing everyone. Blame your elected board members and our wonderful superintendent. Note to be taken: if something is worth doing, shouldn't you do it right? How bout that redistricting??---fair to everyone.
Posted by: To WHS Parent Location: BG on May 9, 2008 at 02:23 PM
Dr. Daly doesn't have a choice about letting our children take these classes. Maybe if he would allow them to be taught at the "higher performing schools", then your children would come to BG! Once again a descrimination against BG and Jamesville! You people need to wake up about Dr. Daly! Maybe you will during the court hearing! Are you people that are praising him, the parents of children who are being allowed to attend WHS even though you live in the other surrounding school districts? You might change your mind after the judge rules on redistricting! Oh well, I invite everyone to attend the meeting with the county commissioners and the BOE on Monday night....Let's see if Williamston will get there new middle school?????
Posted by: To WHS Parent Location: MC on May 9, 2008 at 02:00 PM
The students are sent to those schools because the county does not have the funds to hire teachers at every school nor the classrooms to put these teachers. EVERY school district in the nation does this. Ask Daly why he told his principals and guidance counselors they could not offer MCC level 1 classes in the fall the year the start of school date changed? They were put on the schedule for the spring of that year and level 2 was offered in the beginning of the year. I know this for a FACT! That meant that seniors could not take MCC classes like auto tech 1 & 2 or welding 1 or 2 that year. And the parents of MCS never questioned him. Get the state to probe why that was done and the employees at MCC were told if they even breathed a word of this they would be fired. Get involved with that one if you think Daly is so great! He did this to obscure the total number of students attending MCC. It was more important that he was right instead of what was best for the students of MCS. Wake up!
Posted by: WHS Parent Location: Williamston on May 9, 2008 at 12:30 PM
Dr. Daly is trying to work an agenda into the schools that will benefit all the students of Martin County. Some of the programs that the schools can offer have to have a certain # of students enrolled in the school to get these programs. If the parents at BG & Jamesville do not want your children to benefit from this, then why do you allow them to go to WHS & RHS to take some of these classes. Dr. Daly SHOULD NOT allow any of your children to come to WHS or RHS to take any classes at all. KEEP them in your own schools!!!!!!!!
Posted by: To Anonymous Location: MC on May 9, 2008 at 12:05 PM
We've done nothing but protect our children and to see that they get an equal education in their community that the rest of MC is receiving. The only reason the taxpayers are having to pay for this lawsuit is because of the decisions that DALY has made and the BOE reps were stupid enough to renew his contract for another two years. He only wanted to stay to finish HIS agenda. His ego wouldn't let him go without accomplishing that. So if the BOE would have let his contract expire, we wouldn't be having this lawsuit right now is the way I see it. Go to the trial...find out for yourself.
Posted by: Charter Schools on May 9, 2008 at 11:36 AM
Enlighten yourselves...little ones. Check out the state BOE website section on Charter Schools. Click around and visit. See the awesome technology, community involvement, achievement, etc many of these (no not all) schools have created. The best thing I can see about charter schools is that it is designed to be about the kids and it is not bogged down with bureacrary and "agendas" so that if a change is needed, it can happen rather quickly and efficiently. Also, there is a lot of corporate cooperation with successful charter schools! Best of luck!
Posted by: Anonymous on May 9, 2008 at 11:35 AM
The people of BG and Jamville are the ones that are costing the tax payers more money. The BOE wouldnt be in Court now if it werent for you all. Quit trying to blame Daly for what you all have done.
Posted by: TO X on May 9, 2008 at 11:32 AM
The competition you speak of for BG and JHS comes in the form of State EOC scores (website). Who isn't cutting it there?
Posted by: to Anonymous Location: MC on May 9, 2008 at 10:06 AM
Actually, I have seen more mudd slinging from Williamston and Robersonville than BG and Jamesville. And I understand why those two towns are upset. When the haves begin to lose some of their power and money then they stand up and take notice. They attack the have nots...that's the way it has always been. Williamston and Robersonville have ALWAYS received the lions share and now that we fight to keep our schools open and it will take away from you taking from BG and Jamesville to get what you want then Daly is an asset because HIS is agenda is YOUR agenda! I don't buy your logic. And what is really sad is Daly knows what he has done and he laughs because he still has people snowballed in this county. Believe what you will but I know THE TRUTH! I chose not to close my eyes when I worked for him.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 9, 2008 at 08:43 AM
Daly is an assett to this county. I hope and pray that my children are out of school before the people from BG and Jville try to get someone in his position when he retires. It would then be a joke. Only the people from BG and Jville would have a say in what goes on in our school system, no one else. Tell me then who would be hurting the children? BG and Jville have done nothing but hurt the children through this entire affair. Very negative attitudes towards Williamston and Robersonville, as we who are from these 2 towns arent considered people, but animals. You sure are teaching your children well. Good luck!
Posted by: bruce whitaker jr Location: Bear Grass on May 9, 2008 at 08:41 AM
Here we go. Dr. Daly and crew are headed to The County Commissioner’s meeting on Monday night @ 7:00pm. They are going to ask for the funds for a new middle school. So, here is where one of the real issue surfaces. This is a plan of the consolidation. Hold the press. This is a direct tempt of court. He is moving on with the consolidation. Knowing, we can not afford this right now. He will cost us greatly if he puts the boe in contempt. He is going to put in a plan to raise teachers pay hoping the commissioners only see that point. Before you yell, yes I believe the teachers should get better pay. He is putting all this in one budget request. I for one don’t want to see another law suit. This one will come directly from the courts. The only good thing we will get from this is a new superintendent. At this last meeting, Heath tried to warn him (Daly). So tax payers get ready cause if he goes threw with this we will have to pay. His bosh work has already cause him a trial.
Posted by: To Diane: Location: MCS on May 9, 2008 at 07:30 AM
Daly knows who to cater to and who to blow off. If you are not one of the elitist, consider yourself lucky that your child fit into HIS agenda. And you hadn't upset his apple cart along the way...otherwise...your child would not have received the outcome he did. Trust me, there are more who feel the way I do about Daly than you do. And there is a reason for that...They know HIS agenda is all that is important to him and if the students fit that agenda then so be it. Daly is not an asset and when he is finally gone for good, and we get real leadership, then you will see the difference. Wake up and see what is really happening in our schools.
Posted by: to Anonymous who finds Daly an asset... Location: MC on May 9, 2008 at 07:20 AM
too bad you are anonymous because you need to be enlightened. There may be a handful who work FOR Daly that agree with you. However most do not. And I say work FOR Daly, no one works WITH him...it is HIS way or the highway, including those in leadership roles in MCS system. He looks down upon everyone he comes in contact with. I left MCS because I received a better job offer. My employment record is excellent. I'm just smart enough to see him for what he truly is. Unfortunately while I worked for him, I couldn't speak out because he has made it clear, if you work for him, you have no opinion except his opinion and if you do you BETTER keep it to yourself. So I know many colleagues who feel the same as I do, but they have to make a living and Daly knows that. The sad part is he thrives on controversy and it becomes a challenge to him. It's very sad because it is the student's he is hurting most of all. It's time you and the BOE wake up. There are alarms going of all around you.
Posted by: eric Location: MC on May 9, 2008 at 06:03 AM
that is pretty funny. most of the BG and JHS kids that make the team do so because there are open spots. From what I have seen there is not always a lot of talent involved.that is why they want to keep 4 schools.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Williamston on May 9, 2008 at 12:19 AM
The county should approve a lottery so all 4 schools will have the needed funds to operate. Historic preservation of older schools should be part of our education process. Read this: http://www.preservationnation.org/issues/historic-schools/additional-resources/schools_why_johnny.pdf document and you will see that a movement started in 2000 for schools as centers of the community to anchor neighborhoods. Read also how shortsighted policies undermine historic neighborhood schools. Let's respect our history by renovating our landmark schools. A lottery would give us the needed dollars. Copy, paste, and read the above link and you will learn that our existing historic structures have the potential for being turned into state of the art facilities.
Posted by: parent Location: martin on May 8, 2008 at 11:45 PM
charter school? I wish you guys the best of luck,however,not many charter schools in NC still open. Because of mismanagnement and low performance. No way you will get the numbers you had last time with the charter effort. Ingalls was a prime example of how and why charters have not done well in NC.
Posted by: coach on May 8, 2008 at 11:41 PM
I am a coach. I do not need Bears or Bullets. you people(Bullets and bears) have an inflated opinion of yourselves. Not enough of you to make a difference. Hence...........no school necessary in your community. Numbers people.look it up
Posted by: x Location: taxpayer martin Co on May 8, 2008 at 11:38 PM
ouch ouch. Somebody told Jamesville and Bear Grass they couldn't make a team because their would be competition. Hit the nail on the head. Jamesville and Bear Grass want to live in their sanitized wolrds.No competition sports or academics. Does it make them afraid. We think so,

Slight Edit

Posted by: Jay Location: Jamesville on May 8, 2008 at 11:31 PM
To X of Williamston on May 8 10:42. I can't believe someone from Williamston would dare say something negative about students from J'ville and BG. I thought only the J’ville/BG people talked badly about the Williamston students. (That’s what people from Williamston say). Our children are not a joke and yes they would be great candidates to make any of the sports teams in the county. So keep your negative comments to yourself. You are just worried that they would be competition for the Williamston students and that some of those Tigers will find themselves on the bench or maybe not even on the team. Remember, it’s not nice to talk about children. You are the one that is ridiculous!
Posted by: anonymous Location: Hassell on May 8, 2008 at 11:30 PM
I better not see any of those parents complaining about the drive from BG to Roanoke enrolling their kids at Hobgood!
Posted by: x Location: williamston on May 8, 2008 at 10:42 PM
This is ridiculous! Consolidation is not about athletics. Williamston is not so desperate for the Jamesville and Bear Grass kids that play sports.What ,would it be about 10 kids ,maybe? Williamston does pretty good in sports.Bear Grass and Jamesville keep those few kids that might could compete at our conference level That truly is a joke. Fact is,most would not even make the team from Jamesville and bear Grass. Ouch Bears and Bullets,you might have competition. Seriously,consolidation is not about sports people.
Posted by: Diane Location: Williamston on May 8, 2008 at 10:28 PM
Dr. Daily is an asset to this county.Have you ever called him about an issue involving your child?He listens to all who call him. I believe he has the best interest of the children in this county.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 8, 2008 at 11:26 AM
I have worked with Dr. Daly for 5 years now and I find him to be an assett to Martin County and our school system.
Posted by: Jamesville Location: Jamesville on May 8, 2008 at 10:36 AM
you know..that is what it all boils down to is SPORTS..Williamston needs Jamesville and Bear Gress players to help them.. You all know that I am right
Posted by: Taxpayer Location: Martin County on May 8, 2008 at 10:04 AM
IF the parents knew what kind of person Daly is, they would change their opinion about him. No body knows but the people who work w/ him. For someone who has been in the school system for more than 20 years, I've never seen anything like it.I'm glad I retired when I did. He looks down on the children and the teachers, b/c we aren't the fancy school system he's use to coming from. REMEMBER: His children NEVER went to public schools, only private. The taxpayers use to have a vote in who got the super. job. What happened? I didn't work @ BGS or JHS. There will be a charter school, because the parents have the money to make sure it happens.

POST EDITED
Posted by: To Daly Rocks Location: MC on May 8, 2008 at 07:41 AM
Daly's intelligence is superseded by his arrogance and THAT will be his downfall. Most intelligent people LEAVE when they are on top of their game...not after their empire has crumbled. Let's see how intelligent he really is. If you think he is that great, obviously you like under handed manipulative people. He has sold our students education down the path in order to make sure HIS agenda is accomplished. Sad but VERY TRUE! Be at the trial...Hopefully, they will be able to expose HIM for the arrogant, manipulative man that his has proven himself to be. He has NEVER tried to make things better for the county...he has done things that are detrimental to the students in order to make us believe he was right. When all we really saw was obscured facts that he manipulated by him solely making decisions that would generate the outcome to make him look like he was right. If you only knew what I know...you would not feel the same about Daly. We need NEW leadership in our schools NOW!
Posted by: To Bruce Location: MC on May 8, 2008 at 07:28 AM
I am a former employee of MC Schools and I know why the teacher's do not speak up. Have you not read my comments stating that Daly threatens our jobs if we speak up and it is against HIS agenda. I have state in mandatory meetings that he has called and been told that if we have a different view on the referendum than his then it's best if we keep it to ourselves "if you get my drift'. If they speak out they lose their jobs. UNLESS they ALL come forward. What would he do then? Fire everyone, probably with his ego. I have given the info I know to the 4 schools group...what they are doing with it...I don't know! Just hope I could help.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 8, 2008 at 07:26 AM
If teachers expect to keep their job in the county they can't stand up and let their voice be heard. The teachers that support consolidation would be attacked by the JHS and BGHS parents, and we as professionals don't get paid to deal with that mess. Its so much more peaceful to sit back and watch others make fools of themselves.
Posted by: Daly Rocks Location: Eliteville on May 7, 2008 at 09:10 PM
Daly for president!!! What a great man to try and make things better for the whole county. You haters are just jealous over his superior intelligence.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 7, 2008 at 08:20 PM
If you want to place to blame for the county's legal fees, aim it at our elected Martin County Board of Education members. State statutes are in place for a reason. There apparently is reason to believe that the board failed to follow the statutes, hence the injunction. Maybe if they weren't in such a hurry to consolidate they could have taken the time to comply with the statutes.
Posted by: bruce whitaker jr Location: bear grass on May 7, 2008 at 08:05 PM
Anonymous I understand you hiding your name. I am not saying Raleigh doesn't have anything to do with charter schools. You must understand that the boe and the commissioners have a lot to do with it. Please also understand that the county would lose funds if a charter school is granted. I also know that the state will only allow 100 charter schools. What I am saying is if you(as 2 schools supporters) are tired of all this mess or just plain tired of hearing about it. Ask it to be granted. Then listen to the response. Only then you will relize what the boe is really doing. Have them to sale the (tax burden)schools to the towns. I mean if your going to close them down anyway. Let j/ville and b/g used them as charters. To all the teachers on here. Where were you when this mess was going down? If you got a voice; stand up in a boe meeting and let it be heard. For me I will be at the commissioners meeting Monday night. Hope to see you there.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 7, 2008 at 08:03 PM
To mad on May 7, People don't care if you are mad! What else is new. Everyone seems mad. I can just tell you one thing, the outside world is laughing at Martin County. Shame on all of you!
Posted by: mad Location: bg on May 7, 2008 at 06:17 PM
You all act like this is a brand new problem. No. This has been going on for over 25 years. To think that any school in Martin County is a large school is laughable. If you put every high school student in Martin County into one school - as should have been done 25 years ago - then you would still have a SMALL SCHOOL. BG and JVille are being self centered and selfish. Look closely at any budget in the county and you will see that things are stretched to the max. Pool our resources, open our students to outside the box thinking (or at least past 1950s thinking) and work together as a whole county. What is so hard about that? What is shameless is people's attitudes towards working together as a cohesive unit - a county. Also shameless is the attitude that has been expressed on this blog towards RHS. Shame on you all.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 7, 2008 at 05:52 PM
First BG had a charter school approved years ago. The group chose not to start the Charter and the property was sold during forclosure. The State then took the Charter away because it was not started. Second the County Commissioners do not grant Charters. That is done in Raleigh.
Posted by: Daniel Location: Bear Grass on May 7, 2008 at 05:09 PM
Bruce, I understand the actions that the county has taken over the last months, and I agree with you on what they are doing and the reasons they are doing it. I want one of our elected officials to tell all of us, what their reasons are. B/c we as taxpayers of Martin Co., have not heard why we can't keep our schools. Bruce, I have seen you at all the meetings, have you been told by a public official yet what their hidden agenda is? If the school is in such bad shape, and we are the only ones willing to fix it, then give us the school. And the people of BG will educate our own children. As for anonymous, we our paying for our own attorneys, and we are paying the taxes that fix the schools in the county. I know where the money raised for the attorney is going, where is the money to fix ALL schools going?
Posted by: to Vickie on May 7, 2008 at 04:52 PM
Move away. No one really cares
Posted by: BG student on May 7, 2008 at 04:47 PM
If the students from BG wanted to participate in sports that aren't offered there, then they would go to another school. I know plenty of kids that I went to Rodgers with and that attended BG in 7th and 8th grade that left to pursue other sports. And I also agree with Vicky. If my parents had wanted me to go to a larger school, they would have taken me to a high school in Greenville, where my mom works. If our school has NO opportunities for us students, then WHY ARE WE STILL THERE??? If I felt like I was not getting all the learning and sports oppurtunities I needed, I wouldn't be going there right now. And another thing, yes the injunction was temporary, but my fellow students and I get AT LEAST one more year at BG! And I am a CHILD so I can be CHILDISH and say HAHAHAHAHA I GET TO AT LEAST BE A JUNIOR AT THE SCHOOL THAT I LOVE!!!
Posted by: Michelle Location: Williamston on May 7, 2008 at 04:26 PM
As a Williamston resident I would like to say that Martin County tax money did not pay for the ball park in Williamston. Further more, that ball park is used by everyone in the county, not just residents of Williamston. If you dont like our ball park, then please dont use it. Same goes for the boat landing and the sidewalks, dont like em, dont use em, simple as that. And the state BOE and June Atkinson were not on the first motion filed, so therefore they were dragged into this mess by the BG and Jville Educational Foundation, or whatever you call yourselves these days.
Posted by: This is to To Shelby on May 7, 2008 at 04:23 PM
If the people that are talking crap about Bear Grass are soooo perfect in every aspect, there wouldn't be a comment from To Shelby who didn't spell grammar correct!!!!!
Posted by: TO ANONYMOUS Location: BG on May 7, 2008 at 03:05 PM
what's the difference in out taxes paying for your ball park and your side walks and new boat landing. if uou dont like what your taxes are being spent on move. bg and jville have not drug anybody into anything, tax payers money are not paying for our attorneys, we have our own money.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 7, 2008 at 02:10 PM
Right now your tax dollars are paying VERY high attorneys fees. They are paying for 2 separate attorneys for the BOE and if you've donated money to BG and Jville cause, then you are paying for a third attorney. And you are paying for the attorneys of the State BOE and others that BG and Jville have dragged into this mess.
Posted by: Pay your Taxes! on May 7, 2008 at 01:56 PM
Why is it that some of our BOE members think that they are excluded from paying their taxes. How about if everyone in the County decided not to pay theirs? Our County is in a turmoil and the root of our problems begin with our local officials. There are no jobs,no new industry and now the one asset we had is in trouble. Small schools have been proven time and time again to be more effective...Where is all the money going in our county? There have been no repairs to our schools in sometime, so where is the money? Martin county has more money coming in than ever before and now it seems we have less,,Why is that? We (Martin County as a whole) need to hold our officials accountable for all their actions.
Posted by: Vicky Location: BG on May 7, 2008 at 12:44 PM
If my husband and I wanted our children to go to a large school we would not have chosen to remain in Bear Grass to raise our children. My point? Let me break it down for you folks that can not understand. Maybe talk a little slower..If I wanted my children to go to a larger school I would have lived in a larger town !! SUPPORT 4 SCHOOLS
Posted by: bruce whitaker jr Location: bear grass on May 7, 2008 at 12:02 PM
Daniel lets look at something’s first. The boe said it to much for Martin County to pay for schools. People on here say they are tired of pay ing taxes for the schools. The repairs for the schools would be too much. The enterprise editor would have bear grass to become an old folk’s home. Our school enrollment is going down. It been said that it’s a racist thing. That’s what has been sold to Williamston and Roanoke. If all that was true, then the county would not have blocked the charter school. It’s simple Daniel. There schools are too big. They have to find a way to support it. They simply don’t have the students for it. We have a lot of new homes coming around here with young couples. The boe knows this and there declining school enrollment. They will have to shut us down for the students to go to there schools. They get a certain amount for each student. If you guys don’t believe me or just plain tired of all this, ask your county commissioners to grant a charter school.
Posted by: Concerned Citizen Location: Hamilton on May 7, 2008 at 11:37 AM
Who is paying for the money involved in the law suit for the BOE?? If this consolidation is put on hold for a year, I do not think our tax dollars should be applied to change the name to 2 schools and change band uniforms, ball uniforms, gym floors school signs, paint inside and outside at the buildings. If we consolidate this year, yes I have no problem with the cost of the changes, if we consolidate next year or in the near future I think the schools should be kept as WHS and RHS why should the names and colors of the school change for 150 students at each school that might or might not continue going to public school. I want my tax dollars going to educate our future in Martin County not paying for color and name changes.
Posted by: Daniel Location: Bear Grass on May 7, 2008 at 09:05 AM
I read all the comments. But, there is one thing that has not been convincing to me. Why is the BOE trying to consolidate? If you break down everything I have heard and read, this doesn't make sense. I invite everybody that thinks these buildings are so far gone that they cannot be repaired, to come by and look for yourself. This is not a realistic reason for consolidation. It is not about the money, I would like for someone in this county, to be honest and let the people know what the hidden agenda really is. A little bit of maintenance goes along way on a structure. Why don't we shut the White House down in D.C., it really is an old building. It is dumb to even say that, isn't it? People look at what you are saying.
Posted by: TO WITN on May 7, 2008 at 08:54 AM
Did you know that our BOE passed a motion to ask the county commissioners to put a 17 million dollar bond on the Nov ballot to build a Williamston Middle School? Why? It's too far to drive from Williamston to Jamesville!!! (but no