"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
To close a school or leave it open?
That is the question the Gaston County school board just answered.
This editorial is not about trashing the board for placing three schools on the chopping block.
Instead, we're applauding the school board for the way it handled such an emotional issue.
We thought it was smart the Gaston County school district did NOT to take a page from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school district.
When CMS closed several schools, their decision resulted in confusion, drama and, sadly, arrests.
Gaston County learned from that infamous episode.
The district in Gaston County did see protests and vigils…and parents spoke out – which was expected.
But we also saw Gaston overload the community with information on the reasons for the closures and stick to that message.
We were also impressed the district gave the community options to deal with the issues the system is facing.
School closures weren't the only thing being considered.
The superintendent has said this is not all about saving money, but more importantly, how to run a more efficient school district.
Efficiency includes good communication with the community you serve.
In the future, we hope the CMS board takes a page from Gaston's playbook when difficult decisions need to be made.
Tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
