Actualización de la comunidad del 23 de octubre

Our community came together once again in a strong showing of support for Spalding Drive Elementary.​

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Five speakers representing the Spalding community and two from High Point presented clear, compelling arguments against the school's closure. Among the key highlights were:

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• Inconsistent Capacity Models: Speakers pointed out the conflicting capacity data, with one model showing Spalding at full capacity and another indicating 200 seats available. Further, closing a small school like Spalding does little to address overall capacity issues.

• Challenges in Providing Feedback: Frustration was voiced about the inability to provide feedback during redistricting meetings. Issues also surfaced around open enrollment—occurring simultaneously with this process—where just one example of a concern is parents worry that listing Spalding could be seen as a lack of confidence in their own school.

• Support for Unique Learning Needs: Spalding’s commitment to students with unique learning needs was highlighted, including one of our community members' powerful speech opening up about his own family's story. Presentations on data explained that elevated operating costs can be attributed to school’s significant population of students with additional learning needs. Even with slightly elevated costs, Spalding’s outcomes, especially considering the number of economically disadvantaged students, demonstrate strong academic success relative to peers (academic success per dollar spent).

• Enrollment Projections and Housing: The unique housing mix surrounding Spalding may have been overlooked in FCS’s enrollment models, potentially affecting projections.  A "baby boom" in the community was also presented as anecdotal evidence that the models may be wrong.  

• Advocacy from Public Officials: Also during the Public Comment portion of the meeting, Councilwoman Dr. Melody Kelley spoke on our behalf, underscoring the challenges parents and future parents face in seeking information, staff engagement, and transparency throughout this process. Several other public officials also appeared in media or lent bipartisan support to our cause including Commissioner Bob Ellis, Georgia Representative Deborah Silcox, and State Senator Josh McLaurin.  

 

Of course, many other valuable points were made. A huge thank you to everyone who spoke, coordinated among our speakers, and helped connect with public officials and media. Tonight was a big success for our community.

 

Additionally, we appreciate the support and coverage from WSB, Fox 5, AJC, and Rough Draft.