Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

The system in a consolidated city and county system created in the 1970's in response to court-ordered desegregation. That order, which mandated crosstown busing, was replaced in 1992 with a new desegregation plan that uses three methods to acheive integration: naturally integrated neighborhood schools where possible, midpoint schools, and magnet schools. Parents and community leaders are engaged in a debate about the pros and cons of programs designed to promote integration.

CMS instituted its magnet program in 1991. As of Spring 1998, 44 magnet programs were available at elementary, middle, and high schools, with additional programs approved to begin in a year or two. Offerings include Montessori, language immersion, academically gifted, learning immersion, visual and performing arts, International Baccalaureate, communication arts, year-round school, math/science and technology, an academy of finance, and an academy of medical sciences.

One recent initiative to help youngesters prepare for school is the prekindergarten program for children who will be four years old on or before Oct. 16. The program which began in Fall 1997, promotes a child-centered, literacy-rich education for children with identified educational needs and requires long-term parental involvement for students who are accepted.

Cabarrus County Schools

Although there is currently another school building under construction, the Cabarrus system is struggling with ways to meet the demand of growth. Two tax proposals that would have raised money for construction were defeated, leaving school officials to consider a number of sensitive options. Ideas include capping enrollment at certain schools and busing additional students to other schools in the county, year-round schools, and double sessions.

Cabarrus County Schools have a number of special programs. Among these programs are before- and after-school care for elementary school students whose parents work. There are also a number of successful extracurricular programs in the schools throughout the county.

Union County Public Schools

This system is rapidly building new schools and expanding old ones
to accommodate a projected growth to 24,000+ students by the year 2001. Weddington and Sardis Elementary schools opened in 1997, a new middle school opened in Weddington in 1998, and a new Weddington High school is scheduled to open in August 2000.

Union County Schools emphasis a well-rounded education. Sports programs, services for exceptional students, and computer labs are just some of what they offer toward this end. The system also conducts an annual parent survey to collect feedback and suggestions on the ways the system can improve.

Fort Mill School District

Fort Mill has just opened two new schools, both middle schools. Additions are underway at Fort Mills High School, and other projects are under study. Fort Mills High School uses an innovative 4X4 semester block schedule. Each semester, students take four 90-minute classes daily. The program allows them to devote in-depth time to subjects but still allows them to earn eight credits toward graduation each year.