Asheville Residents Stand Up for Public Education
Asheville, N.C. — On a warm Thursday evening, June 6, the heart of downtown Asheville buzzed with the kind of energy that only come from a community united by a common purpose. Educators, parents, and community supporters gathered in Pack Square Park to raise their voices in a rally aptly named “Save Our Schools.” This heartfelt event, organized by the North Carolina Association of Educators, kicked off at 5 p.m., and attendees donned their brightest red attire, creating a striking sea of color that symbolized their shared commitment to public education.
A Call for Funding
The rally was not just a colorful display but carried with it a serious message: the urgent need for increased funding for Buncombe County Schools (BCS) and Asheville City Schools (ACS) in the upcoming Fiscal Year. With the federal government set to pull the long-extended Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds following the 2023-2024 school year, local educators and community members fear that the loss could significantly impact schools’ budgets and resources.
The ESSER funds, which were introduced during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic to support public education districts, have played a crucial role in helping schools navigate financial challenges over the last few years. However, as these funds are scheduled to dwindle, the community feels the pressure to advocate for the educational resources that children depend on.
Voices of Concern
During the rally, community leaders and educators took to the mic to express their concerns about the future of education in Asheville. “For years, our schools have been defunded and deprioritized by our state General Assembly,” one speaker declared, voicing the long-standing frustrations felt by many in the crowd. “We’ve had to do more and more with less and less. We’re at a critical juncture where we can’t continue to wait on a state government that’s not sending money or help any time soon.”
This statement resonated with those present, who recognized the desperate need for action. The rally was a clarion call for the Buncombe County Commission to consider increasing the allocation of funds for education, especially as BCS and ACS have submitted requests for more budgetary support. In fact, BCS is looking at a $3.4 million increment for the next school year, although their original request was substantially higher at $13.1 million.
A History of Advocacy
This was not the first time that community members gathered at Pack Square Park to express their support for education. Just a few months back, in March 2023, the NCAE also hosted a rally focused on securing more funds specifically for teachers. However, this time, the emphasis has shifted towards the schools’ broader needs, reflecting an evolved understanding of the challenges facing local education.
Uniting for the Future
The overall sentiment at the rally was one of unity and purpose. As one of the speakers noted, “Now is the time for all of us to come together—school staff, parents, and the community—to make sure our students get what they need.” The collective determination of attendees highlighted the community’s commitment to ensuring a brighter future for its children.
The gathering served as a vibrant reminder of the power of community action. In a world where challenges can often feel overwhelming, moments like these can instill hope and fuel the drive for positive change. As the sun began to set over Asheville, it was clear that the fight for public education would continue, with voices ready to rise and make sure their message was heard loud and clear.
