The Durham Public Schools Board of Education held its February 26 monthly meeting to celebrate student and educator achievements, including recognizing students of the month, community service volunteers, and nationally board-certified teachers.
Durham County faces a $5 million revenue shortfall that threatens DPS's $15.7 million budget request for 2026-27, with sales tax growth collapsed to $700,000 and property taxes up 19 percent in three years.
Superintendent Dr. Lewis demanded the district recommit to professional accountability after a protocol breach, while the board acknowledged staff turnover continues draining teachers to higher-paying neighboring districts despite a $100 million funding increase since 2014.
Lions Farm Elementary parents opposed a plan to eliminate dedicated art, music, and STEM rooms for enrollment growth; the board deferred action and approved a 50 percent tuition hike for after-school programs to prevent collapse.