During the monthly meeting of the Wayne County Board of Education, Superintendent David Lewis discussed House Bill 983 with the Board. Essentially, the bill allocates $15 million for Goldsboro High, $5 million for Dillard Middle, and $5 million for Brogden Middle for renovations and repairs.

After some discussion, the Board unanimously approved a Joint Resolution with the Board of Commissioners in support of House Bill 983.

In other action taken by the Board, they unanimously approved keeping masks optional at school.

Ken Derksen, Executive Director of Community Engagement and Student & Family Support, presented an informal COVID-19 update. Derksen expressed that NCDHHS guidance for schools has not changed since the Board’s last monthly update on May 2. He shared that community metrics remain low but have seen a slight uptick in cases, which has also resulted in school metrics also seeing a slight uptick in cases. Derksen shared that last week schools reported 25 cases which was higher than what was reported the previous month. Derksen shared that NCDHHS still recommends that masks remain optional in schools.

Following the update and recommendation, the Board, as required by general statutes, took action on its current masking policy. The Board unanimously approved keeping masks optional at school. This was the final legislated vote the Board had to take regarding masking in schools.