5 days ago
Public hearing takes place to discuss possible closing of elementary school in Beaufort County
CHOCOWINITY, N.C. (WNCT) — A public hearing discussing the possible closure of Snowden Elementary School took place at Southside High School Thursday night, May 29, 2025.
Members of the school board welcomed the community to hear their thoughts and opinions on the closure's impact.
They spoke about student safety, lack of convenience and of what losing the school would mean. One message that was clear from both board members and people in the community was that solutions are needed.
Concerns started with the meeting's location as some people said it was too far from the people in Aurora for them to voice their concerns.
Beaufort County Schools Superintendent Dr. Matthew Cheeseman said he's grateful for the people who did voice their opinions.
'It's exciting to hear from all these people,' he said. 'We're working on transportation solutions but also enjoyed hearing the support for our strong teachers.'
Some parents and other community members remain unhappy with the possibility of the school's closure.
If the school does close, Beaufort County Schools would save $1.76 million, according to the recommended budget from Beaufort County Manager Brian Alligood.
'This is a long-term issue, we are seeing less people in Beaufort County,' Dr. Cheeseman said.
The board will make a decision Tuesday, June 3rd, but leadership said they are looking at solutions to the problem for both possible outcomes.
'Leave it to the board to have dialogue with each other and approach both possible outcomes,' Dr. Cheeseman said.
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