Lawmakers stepped into the shoes of some Buncombe County Schools principals to take part in NC Legislators in Schools Week Monday.
The initiative from the Public School Forum of North Carolina is meant to strengthen connections between lawmakers and public schools. BCS offered leaders the opportunity to be "Principal for Day," shadowing principals and participating in activities such as the car rider line, morning announcements, and classroom visits. The guests experienced the great things happening in our schools, while also getting a better idea of challenges for students and teachers.
"A lot of what we do in Raleigh impacts school systems, so it’s important that those making the decisions know what’s happening in our schools,” NC Rep. Lindsey Prather shared on her way to a Foods and Nutrition class with Erwin High Principal Chip Cody. Rep. Prather taught at Erwin from 2011 to 2015. “That was pre-COVID. A lot has changed. I think it’s important for lawmakers to know what day-to-day looks like for teachers and students, and how we can help support them.”
Other lawmakers participating include NC Rep. Eric Ager, who visited Fairview Elementary. From the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners, Jennifer Horton visited Black Mountain Primary, Al Whitesides came to Valley Springs Middle School and the Progressive Education Program, Martin Moore visited T.C. Roberson High School, and Terri Wells enjoyed a day at North Buncombe Middle School.
Asheville City Councilman Bo Hess was Principal for a Day at A.C. Reynolds High School, while Montreat Mayor Tim Helms came to Owen Middle School. Robin Ramsey, the field representative for US Sen. Thom Tillis, participated at North Windy Ridge Intermediate. School board member Judy Lewis greeted students as they arrived at Sand Hill-Venable Elementary, while school board member Kim Plemmons welcomed students at Emma Elementary.
Buncombe County Commission Chair Amanda Edwards will visit Weaverville Elementary and NC Rep. Brian Turner will join students at Johnston Elementary in the coming days.
