Highlights from Durham Public Schools Board of Education

DPS Board Chair Bettina Umstead looks back on a year marked by student achievements and leadership changes, while acknowledging ongoing budget challenges and the need for collaboration to support students moving forward.

The board approved a new agreement with the Sheriff's Office for school resource officers, discussed the shift toward restorative practices in student discipline, and heard a call for stronger allergy support in schools. Updates also included student achievements, summer meal programs, and retroactive pay for social workers and nurses.

The board narrowly passed changes to its meet and confer policy after a tense debate over legal risks, trust, and process, with concerns about third-party certification and representation thresholds taking center stage. The meeting also covered a $1 billion facilities needs assessment, tough budget choices, and celebrated student and teacher achievements.

The board unanimously adopted the superintendent's recommended budget and approved a classified reduction in force, citing a major budget shortfall and the end of some federal funding. Leaders emphasized efforts to avoid cuts to academic positions and to place affected staff in existing vacancies.