Durham Public Schools approved a $325,800 demolition contract for the Durham School of the Arts' relocation despite community pleas to renovate its current historic Duke Homestead Road site.
Board unanimously approved a $325,800 demolition contract for Durham School of the Arts' relocation despite community advocates presenting analysis showing renovation could cost $183 million versus $241 million for new construction.
Board authorized administration to model a $8.8 million classified staff pay restructure with 45 to 55 percent pay spreads, but Board Member Valladares insisted on delaying formal action pending clear county and state funding confirmation.
The adopted 2024-25 budget includes a $26 million local funding request plus $954,000 for monthly EC and ESL teacher supplements and $1.5 million for hard-to-staff position pay equity planning.