Public Hearing to Decide Future for Two Specialized Schools in Winston-Salem
This Tuesday evening, a pivotal public hearing is set to unfold in Winston-Salem, where the fate of two schools dedicated to students with significant developmental needs hangs in the balance. The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools district is evaluating the potential relocation of students from these facilities to optimize financial resources.
Currently, the district leases the premises for The Special Children’s School and The Children’s Center. To cut costs, officials are contemplating moving students from The Special Children’s School into a district-owned property.
The board of education has put forth a proposal to transfer Pre-K students from The Special Children’s School to Middle Fork Elementary. Meanwhile, older students would move to The Children’s Center, which would continue operations at its existing location under a renewed long-term lease agreement.
However, according to district documents, families have voiced substantial opposition to this plan. Concerns have been raised about the challenges of transportation to the proposed new school, the absence of a specialized learning environment, and the implications of splitting student groups.
In response to these concerns, the superintendent has proposed an alternative solution: relocating all students from The Special Children’s School to Ward Elementary. This option aims to maintain proximity and unity among students, addressing some of the primary worries raised by families.
The school board is set to consider community feedback during the public hearing before making a final decision on the proposed changes.
