The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) system faces ongoing challenges that affect student learning and family engagement. Overcrowded classrooms, limited resources, and large class sizes reduce the amount of individual attention students receive. Traditional models often fail to meet the diverse academic, social, and emotional needs of all learners, particularly those who struggle with standard teaching methods. Rising mental health concerns, equity gaps, and disparities in access to advanced courses highlight the urgent need for innovative solutions. Many families also feel disconnected from the traditional school structure, and the heavy emphasis on standardized testing can stifle creativity, critical thinking, and holistic learning. As technology becomes an integral part of education, students and teachers need proper training and resources to use it effectively.

It is time for CMS families to have flexible public education options that meet the needs of every child.

My Story

I have been hybrid schooling my son at a CMS school for three years. Even with about 60 absences per year, he is thriving academically, socially, and emotionally. This experience has shown me that parents can take control of their child’s education while still staying connected to public school resources. Flexible learning empowers students to succeed and allows families to plan for their child’s future and financial stability. I want to empower other parents to do the same.

Our Vision: The CMS FlexLearn Program

The proposed CMS FlexLearn Program would create a structured hybrid homeschool–public school partnership, allowing families to:

• Access select public school courses and academic programs
• Participate in extracurricular activities and school resources
• Maintain a hybrid learning schedule that includes home-based instruction
• Provide personalized academic pathways tailored to each student’s goals and needs

This program helps students thrive in flexible learning environments, reduces attendance conflicts, increases parental engagement, and ensures students remain connected to the resources and community of CMS schools.

Flexible learning models allow students to pursue advanced coursework, explore specialized interests, and prepare for college or career pathways without being limited to a single educational model. Innovation in education should be encouraged—not discouraged.

Our Request

We respectfully call on CMS administrators and school board leaders to:

1. Implement the CMS FlexLearn Program
2. Engage parents and community members in discussions about hybrid learning models
3. Develop policies that support flexible education pathways for Charlotte families
4. Ensure there are no repercussions for families choosing what’s best for their children

Education shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all. By supporting flexible learning options, CMS can create an education system that works for every student and every family.

Sign this petition if you believe Mecklenburg County families deserve flexible public education options and innovative learning pathways.

Read the CMS FlexLearn Program Proposal here.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EHIFi3l-zoW9Ci8f0CnXa_jsfG31zIsH/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=106364714579950598935&rtpof=true&sd=true 

Do not donate money for this petition.