I want to share an update following today's meeting of the North Carolina State Board of Education regarding the proposed merger of Hickory City Schools, Newton-Conover City Schools, and Catawba County Schools.
During the board chair's report, Chairman Eric Davis shared that the State Board received the original merger proposal from the Catawba County Board of Commissioners on June 25, followed by an updated proposal on July 7. He stated that the board will carefully review the proposal and all accompanying materials using the criteria established by North Carolina law.
Chairman Davis also shared that the State Board plans to discuss the process and timeline for its review, as well as the appropriate next steps, during its September 2–3, 2026, meeting.
I was especially encouraged to hear Chairman Davis acknowledge that the board has already received hundreds of emails regarding the proposed merger and that each one is being read carefully and given thoughtful consideration. He also recognized that this is an important issue—not only for the State Board, but for the citizens of Catawba County, and most importantly, for our students and educators.
To everyone who has taken the time to write, attend meetings, advocate, and stay informed—thank you. Your voices are being heard, and your continued engagement is making a difference.
I encourage you to continue sharing your perspective with the North Carolina State Board of Education. Your voice matters, and as Chairman Davis shared today, every email received is being carefully reviewed and given thoughtful consideration. Written comments may be submitted to Tiffany Lucas, general counsel, at tiffany.lucas@dpi.nc.gov.
As always, our focus has always been, and will continue to be, our students. We remain committed to advocating for the educational opportunities, relationships, and programs that make Hickory City Schools such a special place for children to learn and grow.
We will continue to monitor this process closely and will keep our staff, families, and community informed as additional information becomes available.
Thank you for your continued support of Hickory City Schools.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jennifer Griffin
Superintendent, Hickory City Schools
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Hickory City Schools
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