Highlights about Education

The Springfield District 186 Board of Education reviews late bus tracking, billing credits with the contractor, and communication fixes for route changes. The board also reports strong participation in the Superintendent search with an announcement expected near the end of January, and shares student program celebrations and key dates for preview night and winter break.

The Durham County Board of Commissioners approved multiple non‑emergency ambulance franchises and clarified that providers bill patients directly, not the county. The board also unanimously backed performance‑based awards for a new headquarters by Aspida Financial Services and a Novartis manufacturing expansion, citing nearly 1,300 projected jobs and commitments to internships, school programs, and local hiring. Commissioners additionally accepted final‑year SAMHSA funds supporting EMS opioid and overdose response.

The board reviews a bold plan to lease UIS land and seek a boundary change for a new South Side elementary, outlining tax-neutral impacts, partnerships, and attendance rules. Plus, Lanphier’s redesign earns the state’s top distinction and the board shares upcoming calendar dates.

The board moved a new student phone policy forward after hearing student and parent feedback, debate over lunch use, and research on learning impacts. Members also celebrated seven schools exiting the low-performing list while questioning state support, and reviewed enrollment declines, family choice pressures, and Chromebook repair needs.