The Fight For Bear Grass & Jamesville High Continues
The Fight For Bear Grass & Jamesville High Continues Save Email Print
Posted: 9:23 PM Feb 8, 2008
 Last Updated: 11:42 PM Feb 8, 2008
 Reporter: Christine Kennedy
125 comments
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Motions and affidavits have now been filed on behalf of concerned citizens of Bear Grass and Jamesville High schools.

They're opponents of the Martin County school board's decision to shut down the two high schools.

The board voted Monday to consolidate the four high schools to just two, shutting down Bear Grass and Jamesville. The motion alleges the board's decision infringes on the student's right to a sound, basic education.
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Posted by: Leigh Location: Jamesville on Mar 28, 2008 at 02:50 PM
I saw on one post that someone had suggested that Derek Price would make be a good choice for MC commissioner. I believe that just about anyone other than the ones we have (most of them) that is running would be an improvement. Just because someone says he/she is a democrat or a republican does not prove to me that the person votes that way. To me how a person votes in an election matters to me. Therefore, anyone who professes to being a republican I cannot vote for in an election for MC commissioners. I could do this even if it were a spouse, a child, or my best friend. I'm a full attack democrat and will never change. Who sits on the MC board of commissioners matters a great deal to me. I want to be very careful for whom I vote because we may end up with worse than what we have now if that is feasible. As far as the school consolidation, I can't do anything but pray about it and what is best for the children and parents. Yes, the parents should be considered as well along with others
Posted by: to Derek Location: Martin Co on Mar 24, 2008 at 09:34 AM
The county can not deny access to the school finance information. It is public information. If you would like to see it, you can do so.
Posted by: Alex Johnson Location: Williamston on Mar 11, 2008 at 11:46 AM
I think that if the schools consolidate that there will not be enough room inside williamston and we might have to share books, rooms and more. We might have to have lunch later in the day and maybe not have all of our classes.
Posted by: Cra Location: Jamesville on Feb 29, 2008 at 11:08 PM
God will cause a harvest to come from the seeds we have sown! Our harvest will have the nature as the seed we have sown. The God I serve is a on time God. He is never to late. If he wants 4 schools then that's what we will have if he wants to then we have 2!
Posted by: Spa Location: jamesville on Feb 29, 2008 at 11:00 PM
Think about the kids that go to school and live with there grandparents! My grandmother can't get up every day to take me to school i can ride the bus but she don't want me to!!
Posted by: Laura Location: Bear Grass on Feb 26, 2008 at 09:27 PM
I have been in bear grass for almost 2 years. I originally came from the OBX. I know alot about small schools, and I must say that in my opinion students get a much better education in small schools than they would in larger ones due to the volume of students. I think it would be much better if money could be put towards building a school somewhere off highway 17, preferably near farm life, and send the Jamesville and the Bear Grass students there. I mean think of this, it is going to cost either way. They will have to plan more bus routes, possibly more busses, some students will have to get up much earlier to catch a bus, if they have parents/friends that drive them then what about that? I attended school at Manteo, but I lived in Kitty Hawk. During the fall that could constitute up to a 1 hour haul one way for me. I was glad that dare county put the students first. Now I am wondering why won't martin do the same? seems to me martin does not care to put citizens first much of the time
Posted by: HGKC Location: Jamesville on Feb 25, 2008 at 05:54 PM
To Kelly From Farmlife. I think that is a very good idea. I think that Jamesville and Bear Grass would definetly win that too.
Posted by: Derek Price Location: BG on Feb 19, 2008 at 10:01 PM
Continued: The frustrating part of this for BG and JHS residents is the misinformation being put out by proponents of school consolidation. We have repeadedly asked for a complete cost analysis of the school system. This consolidation effort has been going on for at least 40 years. You would think there would be all kinds of figures and charts to show how we are going to save all this money. We have seen nothing except a quote in the paper saying "Daly is still trying to figure out what consolidation is going to cost". We have tried to offer financial figures for replacing WMS and doing minor repairs at BG and JHS, but the board won't consider them. I have read just about all the consolidation reports in the Country, yes it took weeks, and there is no evidence that bigger schools are cheaper to run, or can offer more courses. I have mentioned the NC initiative "virtual classrooms" which NC pays for, but, it has fallen on deaf ears. Students can take any AP course in these rooms.
Posted by: Derek Price Location: BG on Feb 19, 2008 at 09:43 PM
To Lynn: Excellent question! How do we solve this mess? For years, we have traded money back and forth between the communities in MC. I am looking to bring people into MC. People with money to spend, have a good time, or get products, then go back home. Also to bring new businesses to the County.

I am willing put up my livelihood for what I believe in, are you? Yes, I would like to see this all end, but I will not look back 20 years from now when our community schools are gone and wish that I had done something. Are some people carrying this to the extreme, probably so, but you have to understand how important this issue is to them. I just want to help

Edited for content.

Posted by: Will Raiford Location: Williamston (Bear Grass student) on Feb 19, 2008 at 07:20 PM
First I would like to ask a question: shouldn't this be about the students? The students are the only reason that schools are here; if it weren't for them there wouldn't be a need for schools. It seems now that the vote has been cast to consolidate, MOST (not ALL) Williamston and Robersonville students don't want consolidation. The BOE didn't really seem to care about the students in the first place, but now it is even more obvious. I am reasonably convinced that the majority of the students in the Martin County Schools system do not want consolidation. However, we are having to take it to court to have any chance of staying open. I believe this is highly unneccessary, but if that's what it takes to finally have the students' opinions heard, so be it. And please, enough with the arguing, yelling, etc. It's a shame that even adults have stooped to this level.
Posted by: Lynn Location: Williamston on Feb 19, 2008 at 02:48 PM
In response to Derek's post below, how can you promote business in the entire county when everyone is boycotting certain communities within the county, particularly Williamston. Shouldn't we be united as one county and not community against community?? If you won't do business in Williamston aren't you affecting the county's business as a whole? People have to shop somewhere and seems they would rather go across county lines than to go to Williamston.
Posted by: To Four School Supporters Location: Bear Grass on Feb 19, 2008 at 10:50 AM
Dont worry about the lawsuit being withdrawn. This happens all the time. The lawyers may think a judge somewhere else will be more friendly to their case. The may think a higher court (even Federal) will be more likely to act quickly. The may believe that they can get Judge Manning involved either now or on appeal. Remember he is the Judge that was going to shut down certain underperforming schools in our state.
Posted by: Anonymous on Feb 19, 2008 at 10:09 AM
I found out the reason for the dissmissal of the suit here in Martin County and I have to say, I think its crazy. All of this is absolutely crazy. You arent helping the children, you all are hendering them from concentrating on the most important aspect here, EDUCATION. You have your children worried about where they are going to attend school more than they are worried about their class subjects. It is what it is, let it be..
Posted by: Lynn Location: R'ville on Feb 19, 2008 at 08:27 AM
When all is said and done; 2 high schools in the county is the best thing for everybody!! I wish it happen 40 years ago!!
Posted by: Pretender to be Jill Location: Really from BG on Feb 19, 2008 at 07:17 AM
I hope WITN will post this....to whoever is pretending to be Jill from BG......This is the real Jill from BG and I do work for the man mentioned below. I did not write the blog below. If you cannot sign your real name, then you are a sad human being! Pretending to be someone else is very childish! I guess you wouldn't understand the full picture of owning a business. People of BG and Jamesville, just be patient....good things come to those who wait!!!! I am NOT ashamed to put by name on this blog and would appreciate it if others would NOT use my name...besides how many Jills could there be in BG?????

Editor's Note: Post edited slightly.


Posted by: To 4 school supporters on Feb 18, 2008 at 11:26 PM
We all have questions about the dropping of the lawsuit. What I do know is that this should not be taken as a sign of defeat. If you know anything about the guys/gals on the committee, they are dedicated to keeping these schools open. Want to know answers? Remember that there is a 4 schools rally on Feb 26 at the Bob Martin Center. All 4 school supporters are welcome and encouraged to attend!!
Posted by: Derek Price Location: BG on Feb 18, 2008 at 11:14 PM
To Macks: You hit the nail on the head. Any small business owner in the County will tell you that there seems to be an anti-business climate here. It is a combination of things. Some feel that certain people have made all their money and want to stay in control; others fear that new businesses will somehow take away from their's. I know from experience. For years, everytime anything new opened: restaurants, arenas, etc., everyone asked me the same question, "Aren't you afraid that they will hurt your business?" I can honestly tell you that every single time anything new came to the County, including the new park, that I saw an increase in business. We have a two-fold problem to address here. We have to project a more pro-business attitude in the Co., and we have to reassure our existing businesses, some of which are controlled by very influencial people that more businesses in MC mean that there is a better chance someone will turn their car in our direction instead of Gville.
Posted by: Insider info. Location: MC on Feb 18, 2008 at 08:24 PM
Can't get a fair trial in MC most likely. New tactics coming. Absolutely under no circumstances has the group given up. Only fools with a false sense of superiority will take this as a victory for school consolidation.
Posted by: To WITN too on Feb 18, 2008 at 07:05 PM
I'm also curious why the original blog fell off your most comments section? And even more curious as to why you posted the question and didn't include the editor's note to answer the question? Do you care to enlighten us?

Editor's note: Most stories, including the two on Martin County School Consolidation, are still accesible on the site if you use the search feature to find them. Look at the datelines for the other stories on the home page. Most are from the last two days. The Martin County stories were up for several weeks.

Posted by: What happened Location: MC on Feb 18, 2008 at 06:49 PM
I saw where the lawsuit has been dropped... does anyone know why?
Posted by: To WITN Location: MC on Feb 18, 2008 at 03:55 PM
Curious why the original blog fell off of your "most comments" section? Wasn't it over 1200 or so?
Posted by: Transplant to Bear Grass Location: Bear Grass on Feb 18, 2008 at 02:52 PM
To those wondering why the Bear Grass native didn't put his business in Martin County - Have any of you ever stopped to think that maybe this man was not the sole investor in this business? I am sure that he would have liked to have had his business in Martin County but he likely had to appease investors and business partners as well. It is very easy to sit back and judge, but do any of you know just how much is involved in his business? I know I don't, and I doubt many of you pointing fingers do either.
Posted by: Jill Location: Bear Grass on Feb 18, 2008 at 01:37 PM
I agree. Why would the person mentioned below (native of Bear Grass) take his business to Pitt County instead of right here in Martin County. Sounds like we could have really used his business in the county. Maybe we should ask him and he could give insight why other businesses aren't coming as well. Seems hypocritical to me.
Posted by: Macks Location: Jamesville on Feb 18, 2008 at 12:33 PM
One has to wonder if some of the info shared in these blogs is going any further than those of us who are either reading or responding to them. It would be wonderful to have a supt. in Martin County like Beaufort County has..one who is willing to look at what technology can offer in the classrooms, one who is putting emphasis on our drop-out rate in MC and one who has just an ounce of VISION! Our county is full of leaders who are only looking out for a few. We need to shake the bushes to get qualified leaders in the BOE and County Com. spots at the next election. It is time that MCounty was a place that was seeing growth in businesses; let's face it, I'm not going to pay but so much more for convenience, so why not try to get more businesses to come into MC to help give competition to some we already have here. Maybe this whole consolidation issue will wake people up throughout our county and make us realize that the school issue is not the only problem that needs to be addressed.
Posted by: Macks Location: Jamesville on Feb 18, 2008 at 12:15 PM
To Inquisitive: In response to your question regarding a "natural disaster" hitting our school...at 4 AM this morning a storm, possibly a tornado came through Jville hitting houses on each side of our elementary school. The tarp that the pre-k play under is still in place; however witin seeing distance vinyl is torn off 1 house and a tree is on another. Maybe this was God's way of saying, he'll take care of HIS business and of our schools in Jville. We wish you and others would see that community schools is a way of allowing parents to still be a part of the most important years a child has! Maybe if more parents across the county took this approach, all of the children in our schools would be easier to teach and more respective of their teachers. I've been in schools throughout the county and yes, parent involvement does make a difference!
Posted by: J Location: J'ville on Feb 18, 2008 at 11:37 AM
To Inquisitive: The only national disaster that J'ville and BG are going to have has already hit. "The BOE National Disater Team". Yes we will recover and be stronger than what we where. Support 4 high schools.
Posted by: bruce whitaker jr Location: bear grass on Feb 18, 2008 at 03:36 AM
There is a lot to say why North East Carolina is at a low income level. Have you ever sat in a budget meeting in a big business company. The first concern is the high energy bill. North Carolina Power aka Virgina power has the highest rate in the Carolinas. Next, our gas tax is one of the highest in the union. Look at our neighbors they built there city buy investing in their hospitals and colleges. When you think Martin general or mcc what do you think of. They are not bad but we could invest more in them. Ask your commissioner what he/she is doing to help. Our leadership has derailed and made some bad investments. First a big new park was built. Then they invest a large some in a board walk along the river. Ok, what would the out come be if they put all of that money in schools and the hospital? They are smart by covering this up. Its call consolidation. This put communities against each other. I say we stand up and all vote in people whom are educated in economics.
Posted by: to Jim Location: Martin Co. Resident on Feb 17, 2008 at 08:45 PM
You stated that the tax rate in BG would fall if it becomes part of the RHS district. Have you ever considered that the tax rate for the RHS end of the county may increase to match those across the rest of the county?
Posted by: kellie Location: to jt on Feb 17, 2008 at 07:01 PM
Are you serious? I just wanted to show you how simplistic the kids are.
Posted by: inquisitive Location: mc on Feb 17, 2008 at 01:42 PM
Are there any answers to the questions I asked in an earlier. I surely don't want that to happen, but what would bg and jville communities do in that type of scenario?
Posted by: Transplant to Bear Grass Location: Bear Grass on Feb 17, 2008 at 01:25 PM
My family and I moved to Martin County, specifically Bear Grass, with the sole purpose of having our children attend the Bear Grass schools. It really saddens me to think that the thousands of dollars that my family has put into the Martin County economy have been a waste and that our reason for relocating my soon be gone. The only reason Martin County has ever gotten a penny of our money is because of the schools in Bear Grass. I won't sling mud and I won't get involved in the fight because I feel it is a shame when adults act like children and get their own children involved in the attacks. I do know my way out of Bear Grass and if/when the time comes when my children are forced to go elsewhere to school, it will not be in Martin County - and Martin County will cease to get any more of my family's money.
Posted by: to its a new day Location: MC on Feb 17, 2008 at 10:34 AM
Yeah, but in his defense, a large part of his workforce lives in Martin Co. Plus, a man with that much on his plate is taking a whole lot of his time, (which is a commodity, with what he has going on), to fight for these schools. If I had his money, I would be on a boat in the Carribean, soaking up the sun.
Posted by: To its a new day Location: martin co on Feb 17, 2008 at 08:02 AM
Its too bad that a BG native didn't bring it home when he could have to set up shop here instead of Pitt Co. Developing Medicine would have been a nice boost to the the Martin Co economy and ultimately the schools.
Posted by: inquisitive Location: mc on Feb 17, 2008 at 01:42 AM
Lets say some freak natural disaster came along and destroyed the schools what would be the argument as it relates to consolidation in order that the students are still able to maintain their education? Would you stay home and wait for another school to be built or would the students be allowed to attend the other schools?
Posted by: New Day Location: Martin on Feb 16, 2008 at 06:45 PM
Yes, it will be a new day when we rid ourselves of what is now leading our county or we can just decide to rename the county when we rename our schools----How does HAZZARD grab you? Do you get my drift? Now, it doesn't take much imagination to figure out who will be cast as "BOSS HOGG"!! We need forward thinking, above board officials who will represent everyone, without agendas, who will work with citizens to attract new businesses to MC, who sincerely run for office hoping to make MC a better place for its residents and their children and future generations. The future looks bleak with what we have in place now. Unfortunately, much trust has been lost for some of our leaders. I hope those who REALLY CARE about Martin County will step up and run for office. You can make a difference.
Posted by: Spectator Location: MC on Feb 16, 2008 at 06:35 PM
Tired of hearing how BG and JHS have badmouthed RHS and WHS. I was at the public meeting and heard the students speak. They did not call names or put down intelligences. They merely asked that their schools not be closed. But in the WHS section , cheerleaders (with their coach,I understand,) much jeering was heard even as a WHS student spoke welcoming JHS to her school. The "HaHa, I told you so" came as BG and JHS students left the building. Later, "my space' comments became derogatory towards BG and JHS students. No warm fuzzies have been demonstrated. Some from the WHS and RHS communities have continued the insults, claiming insults of their own. Believe me, the intent of BG and JHS students that night was to plead for their schools. It has been turned into something disgusting and false. These students continue to love their schools. Insult and name call if you must, but there is not much you can do to change this fact. Your attempts to tear down strengthen their bonds.
Posted by: SUPPORTS 4 SCHOOLS on Feb 16, 2008 at 06:05 PM
Lane maybe your right Rode the bus to WHS 3 years and RHS for 1. So what are you trying to say. That all the kids and parents in Williamston and Robersonville want this. Hate to tell you but you are wrong.
Posted by: To Derek Location: Martin Co on Feb 16, 2008 at 06:04 PM
Let's get it together to run for MC Commissioner. I am hearing lots of support for you in the communities. People are ready for a change. There is no trust left on either side of the issue. Folks around here know that you speak what you think and also that you think about what you speak. Thank you for your continued support for your community.Thanks also for asking the BOE for some figures..It doesn't appear that they have any to give. You and your family have given BG something to be proud of. I hear people in other counties singing Deadwood's praises. Keep up the good work.
Posted by: Educator Location: Martin Co. on Feb 16, 2008 at 05:54 PM
Has anyone mentioned how much consolidation will affect class ranks and honor graduates? I taught in another county where the BOE voted to limit valedictorian and saluatorian to students who had attended the high school for at least 2 1/2 years. This was done to keep transfers from taking slots away from home boys and girls. What will be done about this in MC? Imagine what 35 BG and 35 JHS seniors will do to ranks at WHS and RHS (or whatever they will be called?) Has the BOE thought about all this?
Posted by: To Jim Location: Martin Co. on Feb 16, 2008 at 05:48 PM
Hey, Jim, Somebody's tax dollars HAD to pay for your education...Maybe my dad paid taxes to support your school..Turnabout is fair play.
Posted by: It's a new day! on Feb 16, 2008 at 04:12 PM
Continued Bring new businesses to Martin County, support our schools, create a tax base of businesses and not one that just increases the taxes of the individual. That's exactly how these sucessful school districts did it! Find a superintendant that will hire someone who search for grants and apply for them. We should have a technology supervisor for instruction and that would be their only job, Not split between other duties. People elect new officials, find a new superintendant and make sure they have a VISION that moves Martin County into the 21st Century. If you do...you will love the benefits for yourself and your children. How many of our children go off to college and find a job 2 or more hours away because we offer them nothing to return home to...no place that pays well, where they can moveup and no place to support there families. Make this change and bring our children home to be close to their families again. Keep our children in Martin County, give them a reason to stay!
Posted by: It's a new day! Location: MC on Feb 16, 2008 at 04:03 PM
Derek, again you are absolutely right! If you look at some of the finest schools in this nation, you will see that technology is high on their lists when budget time rolls around. They support their teachers will competitive salaries to recruit the best and they supply their classrooms with the tools they need to keep their educators teaching in the 21st century. Our BOE and Superintendant has done neither. Asks the principal how hard it is to fine teachers for our schools. Oh..that's right...they have no voice or they lose their jobs! When will the truth ever be told and dealt with in a manner that all elective officials and the superintendant knows we are watching and they better do what is best for our children if they want to keep their jobs. No more selfish agendas, under the table bargaining, threats, and letting a few make Contdecisions for all. It needs to stop and it needs to stop NOW! Continued
Posted by: to MR. Knox Location: jamesville on Feb 16, 2008 at 03:47 PM
please submit your editorial to the washington daily news. I'm sure that would like to run it as well. They have been covering the events and currently have a poll about consolidation. Thanks!!
Posted by: LET MARTIN COUNTY GROW Location: Martin Co on Feb 16, 2008 at 08:20 AM
I agree with John....who is stopping these businesses from coming to MC. I hear Whitley lumber co now has 2 mills in Plymouth....Washington county is growing....what is wrong with the Martin County commissioners? STOP sending new businesses to other counties....LET MARTIN COUNTY GROW!!!!!!!!!!!Don't let these few "ELITES" keep Martin County from growing.
Posted by: Mike on Feb 16, 2008 at 05:58 AM
Want to talk about taxes?? I would bet the 2 schools not closing are already near or above capacity and next year the commissioners and school board would be singing the blues crying about the need for a new centralized school. It seems here in NC it's already a done deal even before citizens voice their opposition. Face it! There is nothing you can do to stop it! Shed your voter apathy for a change and change the faces on the school board and county commission.
Posted by: Anonymous on Feb 15, 2008 at 08:18 PM
Washington Daily News opinion poll about consolidation www.wdnweb.com
Posted by: To Jim Location: MC on Feb 15, 2008 at 08:06 PM
Jim, your tax dollars also support the police, fire dept., first responders, etc. Pray you don't ever need their services either...
Posted by: Derek Price Location: BG on Feb 15, 2008 at 08:00 PM
Of course you can live with any outcome. Because, No matter what happens, you don't lose your school. There is a big difference between taking on a third more students in your school and LOOSING your school. Contrary to popular belief in Williamston, we are not all militant hillbillies. We have our loudmouths just as you do, but, ask yourself, what exactly is it that you hope to gain by closing us. It has already been said by Daly and the BOE that there will be no cost savings. Furthermore, if your only beef is that you aren't getting enough AP classes offered, that is the BOE's fault. The State is ready to help rural areas like ours with virtual classrooms. The State pays for it. You can take any class on the planet now. Have you ever heard of the World Wide Web? Our REAL problem is that the current leadership accross the board is not in touch with the 21st century. Hand any 5th grader a phone and tell them to download a song, then do the same with the BOE. We need VISION!
Posted by: To Jim Location: BG on Feb 15, 2008 at 05:42 PM
Jim, I am a taxpayer with no children as of yet, and I have to pay taxes of which an unfair portion goes to pay for Williamston district. I will be ticked though, if I have moved to BG, pay taxes to this county, and they STILL close the best school in the county, the school I had hoped my kids would go to!
Posted by: To: Jim Location: MC on Feb 15, 2008 at 04:46 PM
I have not heard any talk of a tax increase. If this consolidation does take place though, Martin County will lose tax revenue due to property revaluation. Currently, properties in the BG school district are valued with a "desirable school" designation. When consolidation is accomplished, property valuations should mirror those in the Robersonville, Oak City areas. Ironically enough, a tax increase may come as a result of consolidation to offset lost revenue from the revaluations.
Posted by: wb Location: mc on Feb 15, 2008 at 04:37 PM
Thank you Jim!
Posted by: Jim Location: Martin County on Feb 15, 2008 at 04:01 PM
Many of these blogs keep talking about tax money for this and tax money for that. Is it fair for those that do not have children in any of the schools to pay additional taxes to support 4 schools?
Posted by: jt Location: williamston on Feb 15, 2008 at 03:14 PM
this is to kellie. Do you think that would end all of this? With all due respect to your son isn't there enough hurting going on without the mention of physical contact. I don't have a problem with you all keeping your schools but attorney's have been secured to fight on each side of the issue so let us all discontinue all the strife and friction between all the communities within MC and let the higher authorities decide the best course of action. If BG and Jville lose their fight will there be any hard feelings and if the citizens and the MC boe lose their fight will there be any hard feelings. Good luck to all. My only concern here is for all children in the county not any one community. I can as an adult live with any decision made 2 or 4 schools. Can any of you say the same?
Posted by: BG4L Location: Bear Grass on Feb 15, 2008 at 02:59 PM
BEAR GRASS 4 LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: jt Location: williamston on Feb 15, 2008 at 02:43 PM
Well it's bg's and jville's fight if that's what they want to do, but any blatant hurtful statements about the students of rhs and whs need to be left in their minds and not on these boards. Because as I stated in the post that was deleted the children of rhs and whs are not the ones who made the dedcision to consolidate and shut down bg and jville. These children do not deserve to be ridculed in the manner in which they have been on these boards. Thank you and a good day to you all!!
Posted by: kellie Location: farmlife on Feb 15, 2008 at 12:50 PM
My 7 year old son has the solution for the consoldation issue. The parents who are for the conslidation form a team and those against it form a team. Have a football game, the winners get what they want.
Posted by: MR Location: Williamston on Feb 15, 2008 at 12:27 PM
This Blog has completly lost its purpose. Everyone from all areas of the county are making false statements about the schools and community. The only time I've ever been in BGHS or JHS was when I went to the gym, and the same holds true for many of the other citizens, on going into WilliamstonMS. I don't know the conditions of the others school, I don't know how bad/good they are except what people have said which is ALL OPINION (THIS HOLDS TRUE FOR ALL MARTIN COUNTY SCHOOLS)... point being if you don't know... BE QUIET!!! You can defend YOUR school if you want but don't bring the other schools into it as well. If you have to bring someone or something else down to prove you point your point must not be very strong anyway. You can Be proud of your school without representing it like some people are doing. (BTW WMS may need a new school but the Parents of the students who go to WMS realize this are are willing to accept change and explore new options. We are not demanding anything)
Posted by: MC Location: YOU on Feb 15, 2008 at 12:26 PM
It doesn't take but 1 time on here to see the same names listed 4-5 times within a couple of days. It provides a good laugh and people's true colors are coming out. No pun intended.
Posted by: Tonya Location: Martin County on Feb 15, 2008 at 11:16 AM
I have 3 children. My oldest attends BGHS, one goes to WMS and the youngest attends Hayes. I can see the biggest change in ALL 3 of them since the BOE made their decision. I was @ a conference yesterday and heard a teacher make the comment that he wasn't sure if he'd have a job next year or not. This is a sure fire way to MAKE people move out of MARTIN COUNTY. Why do you think Hobgood Academy & Lawrence Academy are advertising in the Enterprise for students? I think we need to get rid of the Board member and start over again. I also think we should have a vote on WHO WE WANT AS SUPERINTENDENT.
Posted by: Martin County Location: Martin County on Feb 15, 2008 at 10:34 AM
Looks like to me Hobgood and Lawrence Academy will have some students trying to attend there schools.
Posted by: Citizen at Large Location: Martin County on Feb 15, 2008 at 09:18 AM
To WITN: I warned you over a weeks ago that this blog was helping to drive a wedge deep into the communities of Marin County. You did not allow that post because it would have a bearing on how many people visited you web site. Sometime a business decision hurts many people. This one has!
Posted by: J Location: J'ville on Feb 15, 2008 at 08:50 AM
To Heather: The people of J'ville and BG shouldn't have to use their rebate money for education. We are TAX PAYERS just like the rest of the county. We want our children in our communities and i'm sure the rest of the county wants that also. The more I read these blogs the more I realize that most of the people in MC would like to keep the four schools, especially their identity of mascots, colors, and names. These things are so important to the children of MC. So lets all pull together and fight to keep 4 HS in MC. I believe that all citizens in MC should stand up for what they believe. When people support a cause in large numbers you will see results. Support 4 Schools.
Posted by: jt Location: williamston on Feb 15, 2008 at 05:26 AM
This is to witn. I am curious to know why my post was deleted yesterday. Nothing I said was offensive and everyone that comes in on this board has had their say. When apost stating that rville was slum appeared it was allowed. Why is that?

Editor's Note: We are becoming more and more cautious as to the posts we put up on this issue. We are opting not to post anything that calls out people, businesses, groups or communities at this point. If we saw a post coming through today referring to any Martin County community as a slum, I believe all our editors would reject it.

Posted by: John Location: Martin County on Feb 15, 2008 at 12:05 AM
Martin County is a poor county but it continues to deny new business from coming into the county. Wonder who blocked Lowes, Whitley Lumber (that went to Plymouth) and who knows how many others have been kept out by the Williamston Elite. The monies are scarce so the county has not maintained the school buildings. The WMS is not safe for children to attend classes; BGS and JHS need repairs but it seems monies are not available and this has been true for years.
Posted by: jack Location: Martin County on Feb 14, 2008 at 11:56 PM
I am tired of being told for BHS and JHS to build private schools. Does that mean we can quit paying county taxes. It seems that you forget we pay taxes but we are supposed to be content to let Daly and the BOE close our schools and not do anything about it. I don't know where Daly gets these outlandish figures he states it will take to repair BHS and JHS. He just wants them closed and that will accomplish the goal he was hired to accomplish. BHS and JHS communities might be defeated but it is certain we will go down FIGHTING for what we believe in which is our children..
Posted by: Wayne Location: Jamesville on Feb 14, 2008 at 09:34 PM
If we are rednecks and the comments get stupider then quit reading them. If you know how much we are up here then you must be up here a lot. Make sure you are smarter than the people that you talking about. If you are embarassed to be from MC I can tell you the roads that lead out of here.
Posted by: To Heather Location: BG on Feb 14, 2008 at 08:05 PM
I actually make too much to benefit from the "rebate". But I'm sure much of the rebates received by those in BG and Jville will go to supplement the meager amount provided to those districts so that Williamston can continue to get the "lion's share" of the county's $. Many of us in BG and Jamesville could easily afford private schools if that is what we desired. But, many cannot. All of the people in these communities want to keep all of our children, both well off and not financially, together, in a productive, safe, loving environment. In BG and Jamesville, unlike Williamston, it is not about the "have and have nots". Its about FAMILY!
Posted by: Superintendent Evaluation Location: MC on Feb 14, 2008 at 05:23 PM
Dr. Daly has been the Superintendent of MC Schools for about 9 years. Has our BOE ever held him accountable to an annual performance plan? Most all of us in our jobs have to perform at some level to maintain employment or to qualify for a pay raise. I have been doing research on our county schools and have been frustrated by the lack of information available on the Martin County Schools website. Our county school website has to be ranked as one of the worst in the state, and sadly, what we have now is better than it was a few months back. The website has recently been updated but is a mostly empty shell. Check it out at: martin.nc.schoolwebpages.com Dr. Daly has been with us through the internet boom and we have very little school information available online. Somebody has not been doing their job. Makes you wonder how our leader can get us into these 21st century schools when we are by all measures in the internet stone age. Has he done a good job for MC schools?
Posted by: Heather Location: here on Feb 14, 2008 at 05:19 PM
Why don't sll of you from Jamesville and Bear Grass put your rebate money together and build you another privte school?
Posted by: me Location: martin county on Feb 14, 2008 at 05:17 PM
Thank you all for the entertaining comments you have submitted. You know you're a red neck if....you argue with people on the internet and it gets stupider and stupider and shows MC's ignorance to the whole nation. Do ya'll think no one else reads this stuff but the locals? I'm embarassed for you and I'm embarassed to admit, in other counties, that I am from Martin County. A best seller could be written from this stuff. Great day! Get back to work and stop obsessing over this. If the time you've spent on this blog, was time spent building a house, you'd have a mansion by now. You don't even realize how much you are up here, do you?
Posted by: wendy Location: MC on Feb 14, 2008 at 05:07 PM
You will continue to waste $$$ with your LAWSUIT
Posted by: Wayne Location: To Martin Co Citizen on Feb 14, 2008 at 09:12 AM
Congratulations, it sounds as if you are doing well for yourself. I graduated from JHS and was a double major, my sister graduated from JHS and was a double major, my wife graduated from JHS and was a double major also. They are both currently working on their masters degree and that is just three people from a small school. There are pros and cons on both sides, but JHS & BGS are doing fine w/out consolidation. If you would like to got to JHS or BGS fine if not we would like to be left alone. It is not about race, it is about being fair. What is happening in Martin Co. isn't fair to any one in the county. When this started it was about a new WMS, I haven't heard about that anymore. I guess consolidating the high schools are more important than the children's safety at WMS. This is just the opinion of someone that graduated from JHS. I have learned that the opinions of people from Jville & BG don't matter much. So we will continue with our LAWSUIT.
Posted by: BGS Parent on Feb 13, 2008 at 11:25 PM
To Bedwell, you are so right. Many sr citizens in all the communities still attend sporting events at the schools and alot of grandparents pick up children from schools all 4 schools are part of their community. I have had several people make comments to me about sitting on their porch and listening to the band prepare for competitions and how much they enjoy it. Gas prices have gone up and will most likely continue to rise. But my question still has to be what about ALL of the staff not just the teachers what will happen to them. Who is going to keep their job and who will lose theirs. Who stays a teacher that has taught in this county for 15 years or a teacher who has taught for 2 but has a higher education. Someone that has worked in the lunchroom at Bear Grass for 10 years or the one at Roanoke who has been there for 5. If the schools combine they cannot justify all of the staff. Some will lose there job so who should it be.
Posted by: Bedwell Location: Jamesville on Feb 13, 2008 at 10:21 PM
What hasn't been said so far I wonder? Everyone has an opinion and whether that opinion is right or wrong is not something I know for sure, however, as I have said in the past, there are nice people in all four schools. I can honestly say that I do not want my little people traveling a long distance to get to and from school. Furthermore, it will bring hardships on not only the parents, but most of the grandparents who may have to pick children up from one activity or another or take them. With gas prices so high, there is nothing to be accomplished. The economy is the worst in history other than the depression I suppose and the rich are getting richer and the poorer are doing okay with help, but it is the middle class who is truly suffering financially. The board needs to realize the struggle and strain that people in the middle class and poor will have to endure. One cannot know what it is like until one has walked in his/her shoes. No truer said.
Posted by: To Williamston Parent Location: Bear Grass on Feb 13, 2008 at 05:47 PM
Thank you for finally admitting that you do want our children to lose as long as your children gain. The funny thing is...we've known it all along. We're GOING to fight for our school & people like you just make us fight harder. My tax money is being wasted too - on your town. Hey, we're even!
Posted by: NEXT MEETING on Feb 13, 2008 at 05:35 PM
Students need to meet at the flag pole at all schools for prayer. Thats what our 4 schools need no let me correct this ALL schools in this county need to pray.
Posted by: JB on Feb 13, 2008 at 05:32 PM
hope your happy. This is what happens when you lie to people. You have destroyed a great county that will probably never recover from this. Cannot go to church, the store or out to eat without something being said. Chalk one up to the BOE way to unite your county that you are supposed to serve.
Posted by: To: Williamston Parent Location: BG on Feb 13, 2008 at 05:20 PM
Please read my post again. I did not say that consolidation was "not at all" about people in Williamston or Robersonville. I said "It's not all about you" meaning that people in RHS and WHS are taking it as a personal attack that we desire to keep our schools.I am a WHS graduate but I stiil support 4 schools because I don't believe the BOE has gathered enough information to fully understand the impact of consolidation. I will say again the BOE has been asked repeatedly for projected cost savings and specific benefits which they believe will be gained from consolidation. They will not provide specifics. They obviously don't have a plan beyond consolidation.
Posted by: JJ Location: williamston on Feb 13, 2008 at 04:23 PM
Williamston Parent sounds like she's a little jealous of the good test scores at BG. I had much rather pay taxes on a GOOD school than to pay taxes that is used to plant unneeded trees flowers benches to sit along the street big clocks that are not needed or a 2 million $$ ball park...Think about all the other ways your tax money is being wasted and you have NO say about it.....oh but all that is to beautify Williamston so that is ok?
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Williamston on Feb 13, 2008 at 04:15 PM
Bravo Williamston Parent.. well said.. that's been a long time coming..
Posted by: Williamston Parent Location: Williamston on Feb 13, 2008 at 03:17 PM
To the poster who said that the consolidation issue is "not at all" about people in Williamston and Robersonville, you are entirely incorrect. It is very much about me and everyone else in the county who is tired of paying for your aging, no longer needed schools while you walk around and smear your "test scores" in everyone's face. On one hand, I really don't care...my children do well in Williamston and I'm happy, but after all of the negative actions chosen by members of YOUR communities, I just want to see you lose. Even if it does mean your childen (filled with your negative opinions and false sense of superiority) will flood into MY school next year. There, I said it.
Posted by: Concerned Parent on Feb 13, 2008 at 08:35 AM
The Enterprise yesterday quoted Dr. Daly saying the BOE has not had the time to focus on the drop out issue because of time being spent on consolidation...why is the BOE and Dr. Daly putting an issue as important as the drop out rate in Martin Co. second to consolidation? The front page stated "the BOE and others" voted to consolidate and close BGHS & JHS....who are "the others"???? Regardless of your stand on consolidation these are issues all citizens need to have answers to. School of choice was terminated at a meeting, Dr. Daly told one parent whose child currently in enrolled in another school by school of choice this issue will be "ironed out" at a later date - no decission has been made on it. He's dancing around the issue.
Posted by: To: Citizen in Martin Co. Location: Location: MC on Feb 12, 2008 at 10:50 PM
I am sick and tired of being judged for standing up for something you believe in. People on both sides of this issue have said things that would have been better left unsaid, however fighting for something you believe in is what has made this country what it is today. Many from RHS and WHS have taken BG & JVL's desire to keep their community schools as an attack on their schools. It's not all about you. BG & JVL students and parents just simply are passionate about their schools and will fight to keep them. Add to that our BOE's handling of the consolidation issue and you should understand why people are upset. Many have asked for a plan showing projected cost savings and specifics regarding new opportunities that students have been told will be available at each school if consolidated. If there is a plan with specifics, we have not seen it. If we are going to give up our school, the least our BOE can do is paint us a fairly accurate picture of the future. The BOE has lost our trust.
Posted by: jack Location: martin county on Feb 12, 2008 at 10:18 PM
I don't understand the uproar from students from WHS; we are not saying they don't have a good school. The people in BG and Jvlle just want to keep what they have. First thing was WMS needed to be replaced now it is not even mentioned. Guess if the four BOE members that want consolidation are successful, then they will by some miracle find money to build the new WMS. If the BOE was smart they would move the WMS over to WHS and add extras buildings as needed and would be much cheaper than building a new building. Then BG and Jvlle could keep their schools and maybe the county could come together again.
Posted by: Citizen in Martin Co. Location: Williamston on Feb 12, 2008 at 07:22 PM
I'm in shock to still see the shameful level of maturity & non-Christian attitudes people have. It's embarassing to see the comments. Call it what you may, but I've never seen so much racism & pregidous in my life! It's horrible reading the comments much less those outside Martin Co. to see them! I'm sorry,I've worked jobs all my career serving very diverse people of race & socio-economic status. My parents were middle class & couldn't afford to send me to college when I graduated & I'M A PRODUCT OF A 4 SCHOOL CONSOLIDATION & wasn't a failure! Later, I got my under-grad & graduate degrees! Go after your law suit if that's what you think you must do, but quit "STONING PEOPLE". WHS has graduated MANY SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE; Your actions are horrible examples for our children!
Posted by: To Tonya on Feb 12, 2008 at 02:25 PM
I agree! Check out these two websites from our own NC State Agencies. Here is the place to go to file a complaint and get the ball moving in the right direction. "If you get my drift!" http://www.ethicscommission.nc.gov/colaws.htm http://www.ethicscommission.nc.gov/cboards.htm This could be a good start for change in Martin County!
Posted by: Tonya Location: Williamston on Feb 12, 2008 at 01:14 PM
Martin County residents WAKE UP! THIS IS YET ANOTHER STEP THAT OUR CC ARE TAKING TO KNOCK MARTIN COUNTY EVEN LOWER. SOMEONE SHOULD GO AHEAD AND SEND DR DAILY ON HIS WAY. LET HIM GO ON TO THE BEACH AND LIVE LIKE HE WAS GOING TO DO BEFORE HE WAS ASKED TO STAY HERE TO SEE THIS MESS THROUGH.WHO PUT HIM IN HIS POSITION.WE SHOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO VOTE FOR CERTAIN POSITIONS IN THE COUNTY. THIS RIGHT IS BEING TAKEN AWAY FROM US.WE DON'T HAVE A LOT LEFT THAT THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS HAVEN'T TAKEN FROM US. WHAT WILL THEY TAKE NEXT? WHAT HAPPENED TO ALL THE JOBS THEY PROMISED TO BRING TO THE AREA? EVERYTIME SOMETHING WANT TO COME TO TOWN THE CC VOTES IT DOWN. HOW ABOUT LOWES', MAYFLOWER. LOWES DIDN'T COME B/C CERTAIN PEOPLE WERE AFRAID OF THE COMPETITION THAT COREY'S WOULD HAVE. SO IT CAN'T COME. AT LEAST WAL-MART CAME THROUGH. HOW ABOUT THE EMPTY BUILDING WALMART WILL LEAVE, IT WOULD BE PERFECT FOR A TARGET OR GOODYS. IT DON'T MATTER WHAT THE MIDDLE CLASS SAY. WE DON'T HAVE THE RIGHT LAST NAMES
Posted by: Macks Location: Jamesville on Feb 12, 2008 at 12:16 PM
Today's Enterprise is giving another reason why consolidation should be reconsidered!Our dropout rate is increasing, yet they insist on putting the hardship of more miles on low-performing students! Again, who's interest is our BOE looking out for? The Enterprise on Thurs. also had an editorial which stated:"who cares what the condition of BG school is in"? Well, I'll tell you who, the citizens of Jville & BG. It is no doubt that you believe this county is moving in the right direction, but maybe you should do a little research on consolidation. There are states who have passed laws prohibiting schools from being built that will house more than 200 students. According to researchers, Jville & BG are right in their pursuit to save our schools. County Commiss. gave a 5 year lease to the Ethnol director for a bldg. in Jville that should be retracted so other legitimate businesses can have a chance to bring jobs to our county. Incompetence is jumping out at us from both BOE and CC.
Posted by: Brookes Location: Jamesville on Feb 12, 2008 at 11:01 AM
WAKE UP WILLIAMSTON!!!! Your Middle school is about to fall down and you seem to have forgotten about that. Let's work together and get a New MIDDLE School and leave JHS and BGHS the yeck alone. Together we can all be HAPPY AND SAFE
Posted by: To Bedwell on Feb 11, 2008 at 11:24 PM
You don't have to go clear across the nation to find out how far behind NC Public schools are, especially Martin County Schools! Look no further than your neighboring state of Virginia. Check out these websites to see the difference. www.hanover.k12.va.us www.spotsylvania.k12.va.us www.chesterfield.k12.va.us www.henrico.k12.va.us Everyone of these school districts with the exception of henrico were small rural districts. The board of supervisors(commissioners in NC) made decisions that brought business and increased revenue to these areas. We need a change! And it starts with the Commissioners! I hope you run for office Derek...you are a proven smart and successful business man with common sense and intellect to know what our students need in Martin County. We need to bring them into the future instead of remaining stagnant with the current administration and BOE. I vote for change! But not in the number of schools..CHANGE county seats and a NEW DAY at the school board office.
Posted by: Katie Location: bear grass on Feb 11, 2008 at 05:59 PM
don't coumt om Bear Grass and Jamesville giving up on the fight- because we are not!!! We are not going down without a fight!!!!! Just wait and see what will happen.
Posted by: cayla Location: bear grass on Feb 11, 2008 at 04:13 PM
i only have one question...why is it a waste of time and money for bghs to get a lawyer?? wouldnt you waste your tin=me and your money if it was your school that was being consolidated?? i can answer that question for you...yea you would waste alot of your money and time trying to save your school so all of you who say its a waste, you need to put the shoe on the other foot before you go and run your mouth about something that you dont know about completely!!!
Posted by: Tonya Location: Williamston on Feb 11, 2008 at 10:45 AM
We should also include the county commissioners in this discussion. They are the ones who give the money to the schools.Ask Mr Chesson, Mr Bowen & all the other ELECTED OFFICIALS. We put these people in charge of our county and see what shape it's in now.WHERE HAS THE MONEY GONE TO? EVIDENTLY THE SCHOOLS HAVEN'T BEEN GETTING IT. I'd like to take a look at the spending records for the last 10-15 years or so. Maybe then we'll b able to explain to our children why this county is in the shape it's in. Martin County is slowly falling to the bottom of the poverty barrel, and we have our county commissioners to thank. How many of them have children who attend Martin County schools?... I wish they were ALL middle class workers like we are, We are the ones who are going to pay for THEIR mistakes.LONG LIVE JAMESVILLE AND BEARGRASS.WE'RE SMALL BUT WE CARE
Posted by: Macks Location: Jamesville on Feb 11, 2008 at 09:26 AM
To all those in favor of keeping our schools, how do we go about asking the BOE members who don't want to and Dr. Daly to resign and let some "SMART EDUCATORS" take their place who do have the best interest of our children as their agenda. I have a niece who is an Asst. Supt. in another county and believe me, she represents ALL children, not just a few. We need someone like her leading us to get our school system in Martin County straightened out. There are many presidental candidates running on "WE NEED A CHANGE" platform....Martin County needs to adopt this as well. All students will be affected in some way by the consolidation issue! There is no doubt that Wmston and Roanoke are good schools with good teachers/students, but so are the other two. Studies across the country support what our fight is about.too bad that those for consolidation don't take the time to read these reports! We will stay focused on fighting to keep our schools b/cause we believe it is the right thing.
Posted by: Bedwell Location: Jamesville on Feb 10, 2008 at 11:25 PM
The more I think about the consolidation issue, the more I think about how far down the line the NC schools are compared to states such as: CA and other states. Check it out. Nonetheless, we want what we have and Jamesville and Bear Grass are their community schools. No Williamston and Robersonville have no business with our students and besides I doubt if they want them...just more students who may not perform and maybe a few who can perform on a level acceptable in order to make it into a college/university. The thing that is going to happen is Robersonville and Williamston will still be where they are at the present because of the children from Bear Grass and Jamesville not attending. People should fight fire with fire as the saying goes. I hope that my two granddaughters will not go to Robersonville. I'd probably have a breakdown if I knew they had to travel that distance every day. There are nice people in Roanoke High and Middle, but children do not need that kind of travel
Posted by: To Upkeeper Location: BG on Feb 10, 2008 at 09:39 PM
Again, BG is not about to fall down!!! That is WMS!!! The repair the maintenance dept. did to one of the beams under the library at BG was not done properly or 1 of the problem areas would have been corrected already.
Posted by: Anonymous on Feb 10, 2008 at 09:34 PM
To the person from Williamston who supports 4 schools and Tammy from Everetts you need to show up with your friends and help fight for your schools at the next board meeting believe me this is not over if the board pulls this off they will close RHS and WHS and build one new high school not junior high they will go to the old high school. This is what they want one in particular one good football, baseball and basketball team that is more important than our childrens education. WMS parents should be madder than anyone else they did not even care enough about your children to do anything about a building that was in bad shape when my brothers went there in the 70's. Something should have been done about that along time ago. I guess upkeeper has not been in that building
Posted by: anonymous Location: Everetts on Feb 10, 2008 at 09:13 PM
i really think that we should keep these schools because the teachers at Williamston and Roanoke will be more busy and the teachers from Bear Grass and Jamesville will be out of a job. i think it is very unfair. whoever decided this is not very nice and fair. the school buses will have to go further from the schools. that means that the kids that ride the bus will have to get up earlier and get home later. i think that it was fine just the way it was. now it is going to be harder on the students, bus drivers, and definitely the teachers. it will probably have an affect on the student's parents, too. so, i just want to finish with just 1 question, "WHY COULDN'T IT STAY WITH 4 SCHOOLS AND NOT GO TO 2 SCHOOLS?" that will be a hard question for everyone to answer.
Posted by: CBH on Feb 10, 2008 at 08:51 PM
THANK YOU TO YOU ALL ITS NICE TO SEE SOMEONE VOICE WHAT IS TRUE IN THERE HEART THEN SEE THEM WANT TO PUT DOWN OTHER PEOPLE WHICH EVERYBODY IS GUILTY OF INCLUDING ME
Posted by: upkeeper on Feb 10, 2008 at 08:48 PM
I am not saying that the buildings could not have been maintained better than they were. But the fact is that they were not and now the main building is unsafe.We cannot go with the "what ifs" now, we have to go with reality. I simply state that I would not want my child in a bulding in that condition.
Posted by: To you all Location: Williamston on Feb 10, 2008 at 08:25 PM
I live in Williamston and I don't support consolidation. I think we should all be fighting for 4 schools, its for the children, not about the money! I'm glad to see two communities stand for what they believe is right. Seems like most Williamston people are scared to stand as say "support 4"!
Posted by: to upkeeper Location: BG on Feb 10, 2008 at 07:26 PM
I have been under the Auditorium Building. There are no other buildings that you can go under. They are on concrete.
Posted by: to upkeeper Location: mc on Feb 10, 2008 at 07:24 PM
If you were really much of a structural engineer then you would know that buildings built the way BG and Jv were built way back when that where constructed out of real wood that can last an extremely long time unlike homes and buildings built today. Much like the historical homes of Williamston if kept up properly can support lives for multiple generations. My home is over 75 years old but since we have made minor repairs all along it is still perfectly safe. My point is, if the BOE and County commissioners had properly kept up the buildings and their responsibilties then we wouldn't have this problem further more a few repairs are cheaper than a new school or a county in complete uproar. If I only need a muffler I replace it not buy a new car instead. It is called "rountine" maintanence for a reason. P.S. Derick go ahead and run you have my vote.
Posted by: Tammy Location: Everetts on Feb 10, 2008 at 06:11 PM
What is the deal?I have been busy and have not really heard much else about it.My kids go to Roanoke and we need to keep the story going and fight to keep all 4 schools open.Roanoke is a small community school just like BG and JHS, and I would like to keep it that way.I think it will affect all of the children in all 4 schools if they continue with the crazy idea to combine them.There IS money to fix the schools, so the BOE dont need to use money as an excuse. What are the chances of keeping all 4 schools open?? Do we have a good chance or what? By the way I have 2 children at Roanoke and both of them make A's and B's, and are very good students and have VERY good teachers!I think alot of that has to do with they have a small # of kids to each classroom.Like average class size is 15-16 kids per class.If they combine the schools, this will change, and I think it will be for the worse!! Keep fighting BG, and JHS, and I also think Roanoke and WHS should also be fighting too!!
Posted by: upkeeper on Feb 10, 2008 at 05:27 PM
Enough of one to know that BG is unsafe. Don't get mad with me for speaking the truth. Have you ever been under the buildings? I didn't think so.
Posted by: Andy Location: Bear Grass on Feb 10, 2008 at 01:29 PM
To "Upkeeper" I have one questioned for you. Are you a structural engineer?
Posted by: Andy Location: Williamston on Feb 10, 2008 at 01:27 PM
To "Williamston Parent" The only half empty school is Williamston
Posted by: to upkeeper Location: BG on Feb 10, 2008 at 11:43 AM
You do not have a clue. The Structural Engineer was brought in to see if the alegations were true that the BOE were making. The engineering report was sealed by him and any false statement could cost him his license and the rigt to do business in the state of NC. He was paid but only for his profesional services. I am also a profesional in the construction industry and accompanied him during his entire inspection. He only looked for the structural deficiencies and only found the isolated beams under the Auditorium Building. This can easliy be fixed for the amount suggested and the only reason these beams were rotten was due to the neglect of the BOE letting water stand under the building for years. I can only assume you work for the school system and if so, you should have made the BOE aware of the water standing under the building long ago and prevented this issue for a lot less money. The other blgs you say have rotten timbers are concrete floors. Get you fact straight.
Posted by: Williamston Parent Location: Williamston on Feb 10, 2008 at 08:39 AM
$100K to fix the beams at BG, fine...Till something else breaks. This county can't afford to continually pump money into four aging, half empty schools. We could have consolidated 20 years ago, and we'd probably be much better off now if we did. Our children and schools have been on stand by for YEARS while the BG/J crowd huddles in the corner, afraid thier children will be struck stupid the moment they walk into a different school building. Enough is enough! Get over yourself. Are the kids going to grow up and work in the town limits of Bear Grass? They're gonna have to interact with all types of people in the college/work world, so why try to "shelter" them now? Anyway, I guess we'll wait until the lawyer blows through your money and try again later. As a side note, your boycott of Williamston businesses isn't working...I see just as many blue shirts in Williamston after school as ever. There are, however, MANY Williamston people who will not be going to BG for Supper!
Posted by: upkeeper on Feb 10, 2008 at 08:11 AM
You could not even begin to repair those buildings with $100k. That "engineer" said what he was paid to say or either he just doesn't know what he is doing. It is not just the beams under the library that are rotten.
Posted by: Macks Location: Jamesville on Feb 10, 2008 at 07:24 AM
To fairness for all schools: at the BOE mtg in Jan. Dr. Daly got the BOE by a vote of 4 to 2 to remove the SCHOOL OF CHOICE from the table! Those of us there knew this meant that this eliminated any child changing from their assigned school unless your parent was a teacher in Martin County. If so, they could continue traveling to the teacher's assigned school. No doubt, this was setting the stage for Feb.'s vote! To anyone thinking that Jville school is about to fall down, please look again! The only bldg condemmed was the one the BOE put a $30,000 roof on last May, so if you think or support this BOE b/cause you think they are SMART, think again! They have an agenda to please the ELITE of Wmston, and to heck with the education or well-being of our children. We might believe they honestly knew what they were doing if they had presented an outline at one of the mtgs. but needless to say, they haven't got that far yet! Jville & BG will continue their fight to keep our schools!
Posted by: Fairness for all Location: Martin Co. on Feb 10, 2008 at 12:45 AM
There is 1 issue that needs to be addressed. There are many students across the county that have transferred to another school in the county because of sports, etc. Will all these students go to the school in the district where they live or will they go to the school where they attend school now? Dr. Daly has been telling different stories to different people. We need a straight and truthful answer! What have you heard?
Posted by: To Upkeeper Location: BG on Feb 9, 2008 at 11:55 PM
A structural engineer says there are 2 beams in the library area that need repair. One was not repaired properly by the BOE. Both can be repaired for 100K, less than the BOE plans to spend on reimbursing class rings!
Posted by: To upkeeper Location: jamesville on Feb 9, 2008 at 09:51 PM
If the BOE was so worried about the middle schools condition then they should have made it part of the motion. as It stands right now we don't even have a working plan for where the middle shcool will go. How about ask the BOE do they really care about the safety of those kids or just consolidation of our shcools just more important.
Posted by: want to know Location: martin co on Feb 9, 2008 at 09:22 PM
Where is it documented what each township pays in taxes? I found www.dor.state.nc.us/publications/propertyrates.html I don't see it to be a higher tax rate than other townships.
Posted by: Concerned Parent Location: Martin Co on Feb 9, 2008 at 08:23 PM
To upkeeper, WMS is in terrible shape much worse that BG or JV what about these kids not our tax dollars. There are board members that don't pay taxes in this county so why should any parents from BG or JV. Parents have offered to pay for some of the repairs on the 2 high schools but the board rejected them. The parents of these schools are used to paying for alot of these things ie: air conditioning units, playground equipment, band uniforms, sporting equipment and uniforms, etc. It has gone on for years People in BG school district have already been told they pay higher taxes because of were they live so maybe we should not pay property taxes this year. Then were will the money come from. So don't tell me about the buildings been in almost every school in the county. WMS is the in the worst shape. And I know what it will take to repair the 2 high schools. 2 of my brothers are contractors 1 in lives in Washington and the other probably moving there. Live here because of SCHOOLS
Posted by: The rights of the people Location: Williamston on Feb 9, 2008 at 08:16 PM
How can there be a decision made by a small group of any elected or appointed group without them taking in complete consideration what our entire county wants. Is there 4 people anywhere that are so comfortable that they are so power hungry that they change the lives of an entire county without listening to the people who voted them in. How arrogant and self centered can people be.
Posted by: upkeeper Location: MC on Feb 9, 2008 at 05:44 PM
You folks just don't see the real picture do you? The foundations of the buildings are rotten. You can stick a screwdriver through the joists. Before you come back with some off the wall comment, let me ask you one thing. Have you actually been to the school and seen it from to to bottom? I have. I would not want my kids in those buildings because of the conditions they are in. Recently moving the library should be proof enough.Think about the kids' safety instead of your personal desires.
Posted by: CHristopher hurdle on Feb 9, 2008 at 02:21 PM
Cont.. is parents who have kids in each school. 1 parent from each high school then bring a 5th person in that has no ties whit any schools so the decision of the BOE will not be made to help deepen thier pockets
Posted by: Christopher Hurdle Location: TO WILLIAMSTON PARENT on Feb 9, 2008 at 02:19 PM
IT IS NOT US CALLING YOUR KIDS STUPID WE ARE JUST SAYING WHAT THE SCHOOL BOARD SAID BECAUSE THE REASON FOR CONSOLIDATION A FEW YEARS AGO WHEN BOE WANTED JV AND BG AT WILLIAMSTON WAS FOR TEST SCORES BUT NOW THAT THE STATE IS COMING IN TO ROBERSON VILLE THE BOE CHANGED THIER VIEW THEY FIGURED THAT LETS SEND THE KIDS FROM BG TO ROANOKE AND WHEN THE BG STUDENTS DONT GO TO ROANOKE BECAUSE WE WILL GO TO OTHER SCHOOL AND THEN THEY DONT MAKE THE GRADE FOR THE TEST SCORES THEN WE CAN CLOSE ROANOKE AND GET OUR ONE 4A HIGH SCHOOL... SO SEE ITS NOT BG AND JV CALLING THE KIDS STUPID FROM THE OTHER SCHOOLS ITS THE BOE IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD OUR MOTTO IT'S 4 SCHOOLS WHICH MEANS WILLAMSTON ROANOKE JAMESVILLE AND BEAR GRASS WE DONT WANT ANY SCHOOL TO BE CLOSED WE WANT IT TO STAY LIKE IT IS I HAVE FRIENDS THAT GO TO ALL OF THE SCHOOL AND I DONT WANT TO LOSE THERE FRIENDSHIP OF THE DESCIONS OF THE BOE WHEN SOME OF THEM DOESNT NEED TO BE ON THE BOE. I THINK THE ONLY BOARD MEMBERS WE NEED ON THE BOARD COnt..
Posted by: Willamston Parent Location: Williamston on Feb 9, 2008 at 12:38 PM
The OLF and this issue are apples and oranges. The OLF issue had county wide almost universal support, your cause does NOT. You don't get support from people by calling their kids stupid. Waste of time and money!
Posted by: Fight Towns Fight Location: Jamesville on Feb 9, 2008 at 10:07 AM
Fight and stand up for what you believe your child's education should be! Small is sometimes better and the two small schools know that. Fight for what you believe. Go Bullets and Bears!
Posted by: unknown Location: Jamesville,N.C. on Feb 9, 2008 at 09:19 AM
To dr. weekly!!!! The people thought that the folks from Washington and Beaufort counties were wasting there time and money to, when they fought against the OLF, but you see who won, did you not. So I say they should go for it. If you give up on the things you believe in, you will never have anything. I think they are doing the right thing. GO JAMESVILLE AND BEAR GRASS! I hope that you all win this fight. I hate to see these wonderful schools closed down.
Posted by: dr. weekly on Feb 9, 2008 at 08:40 AM
WASTING YOUR MONEY PEOPLE!!!
Posted by: Dadof2 on Feb 8, 2008 at 11:19 PM
What good is doing this? What are you going to do? Make sure the 10th graders are going to get to graduate from their present schools? The BOE has already sold their "souls" and they are going to make sure that they do not look like fools. As bad as this sounds you might as well get prepaired to start riding all over Martin county to see the kids goto school and play sports.
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