As a born-and-bred Randolph Countian, I am writing to express my gratitude for the Randolph County Board of Education’s recent decision to keep Harman School open, and the subsequent withdrawal of the proposal to close Pickens School.

The Board’s thoughtful stance, especially in the face of significant financial challenges, demonstrates its commitment to serving and protecting all Randolph County students, including those in our most remote areas.

The Board’s decision required courage, wisdom, and foresight. Undoubtedly, the county school system is faced with immediate and significant financial concerns. Yet, the Board chose not to be nearsighted. In looking beyond the sole issue of money, the Board has recognized that the value of these small, rural schools extends far beyond monetary considerations.

The benefits of small schools are numerous and well-documented. They foster strong relationships between students, teachers, and the community. They provide individualized attention, promote student engagement, and often result in higher academic achievement. Moreover, they serve as the heart of our rural communities, preserving local culture and providing economic stability.

Most importantly, the Board’s decision prioritizes student safety. Consolidation would have resulted in unacceptably and illegally long bus rides over treacherous mountain roads, violating State Code regulations and putting children at risk. By keeping these schools open, the Board has helped ensure student safety and well-being.

The Board thoughtfully considered all the financial data, legal information, and arguments with which it was presented over the past months in reaching its decision. It was shown that closing these schools, particularly Pickens School, would have barely made a dent in the financial deficit. Unfortunately, in the wake of these decisions, the Board is left with significant financial challenges. However, I believe it sets the stage for a more collaborative approach to problem-solving.

This is not an “us vs. them” situation, but an opportunity for our communities to come together and find innovative solutions to our shared challenges.

It’s encouraging to see that this issue has caught the attention of our local legislators, who have expressed interest in trying to amend the school funding formula at state level, which is the root of many of our financial difficulties.

I urge all of us to engage with our representatives, encouraging them to prioritize education funding and work with us to develop creative solutions to our financial challenges.

In closing, I want to reiterate my appreciation for the Board’s leadership and vision. They’ve gone out on a limb to protect our smallest schools and the students there.

As we move forward, let’s continue to work together, support one another, and find ways to ensure a bright future for all of Randolph County’s students.

Mildred Biggs

Morgantown