"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
There's a cease fire in Charlotte's latest high school battle.
According to CMS, the tension at Harding High School is now under control.
This comes after dramatic increases in on-campus crimes and arrests.
New security measures have been implemented -- 100 cameras, 10 security officers and 2 full time city police officers.
A new, uneasy student body was created this year at Harding, as students from Waddell and West Mecklenburg were involuntarily merged.
As is often the case, only a small percentage of troublemakers is causing the disruption.
Looking back, CMS says it should have done a better job with this merger.
We agree. More focus should have been placed on this new, unique student body as soon as the merger was announced...
After all these students were rivals on and off the athletic field.
Assuming the merger would not have some backlash was insensitive, or at least, naïve…
If increased security is necessary to keep students safe, fine.
But we say that won't do it alone.
Making sure the second half of the school year is positive and productive at the " New Harding" is now on the shoulders of many, including students, parents, teachers, and administrators.
This high school has too rich a history and legacy in our community to settle for anything less.
Tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
