Growing up, I am watching my children thrive in a year-round school environment in Cumberland County, North Carolina. This flexible schedule allowed them to continuously engage in learning, giving them educational stability that fostered both academic and social growth. I'm concerned that Cumberland County Schools are considering closing Anne Chesnutt Middle School and shifting E.E. Miller Elementary to a traditional schedule. This change risks depriving hundreds of families of the benefits offered by year-round education.

The looming closure of Anne Chesnutt and schedule change for E.E. Miller are not just logistical adjustments; they represent a significant shift that could negatively influence the educational journey of many children. The decision to use Reid Ross to house E.E. Smith students for its rebuild exacerbates the issue, potentially leaving no year-round schooling options in our community.

Research shows that year-round schooling can prevent learning loss, reduce teacher burnout, and improve student attendance. The National Association for Year-Round Education highlights the positive impacts of maintaining such schooling schedules, which include improved retention rates and consistent academic performance. These benefits are crucial, particularly in a world where educational disruptions became prominent during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to studies, the breaks in traditional schooling intensify educational inequalities and stunt personal growth, an issue year-round education mitigates by providing ongoing access to academic resources and structured learning.

Transitioning to a traditional schedule may lead to overcrowded classrooms, increase in dropout rates, and a decline in educational quality. Our priority should be to protect our youth's education and ensure they have the best possible opportunities to succeed. Cumberland County has always championed forward-thinking educational strategies, which is why it's essential to keep our year-round schools.

We urge the Cumberland County School Board to reconsider this decision and explore alternate solutions that preserve the year-round school option for our community. The implementation of existing facilities for temporary solutions should not come at the cost of dismantling effective educational models.

Sign this petition to voice your support for maintaining year-round schools in Cumberland County. Let’s ensure our children continue to benefit from an educational system that prioritizes their growth and future success.

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Anne Chesnutt Middle School is a historic cornerstone of Fayetteville and a symbol of Black educational excellence. Named after pioneering educator Anne Chesnutt, and connected to the legacy of Charles W. Chesnutt, whose name graces the FSU library, ACMS represents generations of resilience, achievement, and community pride. The decision to close and sell this campus for $1 threatens to erase a vital piece of our history. By signing this petition, you are standing to preserve our past, protect year-round schools, and ensure that ACMS remains a recognized landmark for future generations.

Be apart of the discussion: Facebook.com/groups/saveourschools

Greg West

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