Parents give final inputs on Richmond County schools’ 5-year plan

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - The final public meeting for Richmond County School’s 5-year master plan wrapped up on Tuesday.

The meeting ended around 4:30 p.m. where parents were able to give their final input on the plan.

The school board will only vote on next year’s portion of the plan. This includes closing A. Brian Merry Elementary School and Spirit Creek Middle School, opening up Richmond Hill Elementary School and Belair Middle School, splitting up the current Richmond Hill and Belair K-8, Tutt Middle School and Langford Middle School would combine to help construction speed up at the new Langford Middle School.

This would be the first step to get more resources to schools if approved.

Some parents are still concerned about the overall outcome for the long-term plan.

“That’s what needs to come out of the situation, the best thing possible for the county. It’s not a one man show. It’s not a one school show you so we don’t lose the we don’t keep some, but let’s lose the ones that we have to lose. But let’s keep the ones that are definitely doing the job for these babies,” said parent Delvin Howard.

For a week, parents listened and gave their inputs on the future for the school systems.

Tiffany Prieto, a parent, said: “We have to consider the legacy that’s being built there, the legacy that has been there, and what’s to come.”

Another parent, Janice Ramirez, said: “Are we willing to make that sacrifice for somebody else’s kid? And if we are not then you know, that says a lot about the community and what we need to do.”

No matter what happens, parents say they want what is best for their kids.

“No matter how much we bicker and we’re different, we’re one team in this building and I need everybody to know that,” said Howard.

The Richmond County Board of Education will meet next week to vote on next year’s changes.

Copyright 2024 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.