Wake’s problems – and ours
In this community, we have our share of lingering and, as some have correctly argued, festering inequalities in our schools. No one could say we haven’t tried to right this wrong, but the universal assessment is that we’re not there yet.
Given our experiences with what works, or at least what mitigates the problems, it is disquieting to see the events unfolding in the Wake County school system.
Wake’s woes are not happening in a vacuum. Our community, long willing to go the extra mile and provide the extra dollars for its school system, is likely to feel some repercussions from the Wake school board’s experiment with the re-segregation of its schools and dismantling of a successful magnet program.
With three top-flight high schools and a reputation as a good place for high-achieving students, we have always had a strong attraction, especially for families with kids in their middle school years.
Right now, Wake County is undoubtedly full of worried parents looking at an uncertain future and contemplating a jump to a private school or another school system. In addition, for those considering a move to the Triangle, Chapel Hill-Carrboro just got a whole lot more attractive.
That dynamic, mixed with more than the usual amount of real estate inventory in our area, could boost high school attendance down the road, exacerbating overcrowding and accelerating the need for further expansion.
Another election cycle or two may alter a bit the dynamics in the Wake County system, but for now the board seems to be deeply divided and committed by thin majority to policies that might make one believe they’ve lost their moorings.
Unfortunately, their loss may be our gain.
Claiming the streets
The pedestrian vs. automobile battle continues here in Carrboro with a report from the police department on heavier enforcement against drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. The matter was brought up at a board of aldermen meeting earlier this year, where tales told of crosswalk danger spurred the recent crackdown. In all, police officers acting as decoys netted 46 offenders.
That so many were caught in the act is further evidence that belief in the divine right of autos remains ingrained in our culture. Thankfully, the board and the police are refusing to yield to it.
Kudos
One more word about walking – congratulations. The 2ndFriday Artwalk celebrated its 101st month in grand style last Friday. Having a monthly event to gin up interest in the arts has paid dividends for the town, gallery owners and artists alike.
Thanks to all the volunteers and participants, and here’s to a successful 100 or so more.