CCS board adopts 2027-28 calendar; Spurling bids farewell in final meeting
By Chuck Thompson | The Shelby Independent
EDUCATION – The Cleveland County Board of Education approved a calendar for the 2027-28 school year Monday night.
The meeting also marked the final appearance of board member Walter Spurling, who is preparing to move to Florida after serving on the board. Each board member took time during the meeting’s closing remarks to recognize Spurling and thank him for his service.
The board also recognized Holly Hensley of Boiling Springs Elementary School as the district’s 2026 EC Educator of Excellence.
Board approves 2027-28 school calendar
The board approved Calendar Option A for the 2027-28 school year following a review of public feedback and several available options.
The selected calendar allows students to complete their first semester before Christmas break, an arrangement intended to better align with the North Carolina college calendar.
The calendar also is intended to benefit students participating in the state’s Career and College Promise program and those who may qualify to graduate early and begin college during the spring semester.
The motion to adopt Option A cited the support it received during the public feedback process.
The calendar was approved by a 7-2 vote, with board members Ronnie Grigg and Gloria Sherman voting against Option A. Neither member publicly stated a reason for opposing the calendar during Monday night’s meeting.
Blanton asks district to consider biweekly pay for classified employees
Board member Danny Blanton asked Monday night that the district consider returning classified employees to a biweekly payroll schedule rather than the current once-a-month payment system.
Blanton described the change as a potential benefit to employees, particularly those working in classified positions who may have difficulty managing household expenses between monthly paychecks.
Board Chairman Joel Shores asked Finance and Personnel Committee Chairman Aaron Bridges to bring the issue before the committee for discussion.
No change to the district’s payroll schedule was approved Monday night. The request will first be considered by the committee before potentially returning to the full board.
Holly Hensley recognized as EC Educator of Excellence
The board recognized Holly Hensley of Boiling Springs Elementary School as Cleveland County Schools’ 2026 EC Educator of Excellence.
Hensley was recognized for her dedication to exceptional children, consistent communication with families and efforts to connect students with school-system and community resources.
The presentation highlighted her supportive leadership within the Exceptional Children department, her collaboration with fellow educators and her commitment to creating inclusive learning environments that improve access to instruction for students with exceptional needs.
District representatives praised Hensley’s student-centered approach and contributions to the school system.
Marion School sale completed
Superintendent Dr. Chris Bennett reported that the sale of Marion School has been completed.
Bennett also provided an update on communications with the county manager and county commissioners, describing those discussions as productive.
District receives additional state and federal funding
(CCS meeting continued below...)
Rob McDaniel presented several budget amendments reflecting additional state and federal funding.
The amendments included approximately $2 million in additional state funding, primarily associated with bonuses distributed to employees.
The district also reported approximately $7.5 million in additional federal funding that had become available following approval and release of funds, primarily involving Title I and Title II programs.
Another $267,950 was added to the Head Start budget through a grant specifically designated for playground improvements and a vehicle.
During the discussion, board members also addressed the uncertainty surrounding state budget negotiations and the effect delayed funding decisions can have on local school systems.
A separate discussion involved a recommendation from the State Board of Education for approximately $12 million in additional transportation funding statewide to help school districts offset rising fuel costs.
The recommendation had not yet been approved for distribution.
Spurling reflects on service during final board meeting
Monday’s meeting marked the final appearance of Walter Spurling as a member of the Cleveland County Board of Education.
Superintendent Bennett and board members took time during the closing portion of the meeting to recognize Spurling’s service and offer their well wishes as he prepares for his next chapter in Florida.
Spurling reflected on the circumstances that led him to seek public office, recalling a conversation with someone in the community who asked whether he had ever considered running for the school board.
He said he and his wife discussed the possibility and prayed about the decision before he ultimately chose to pursue the position.
Spurling encouraged residents, particularly younger people, to become involved in their communities and local government.
He said public service should be motivated by a desire to improve the community rather than personal grievances or the expectation of financial gain.
“Don’t ever think your circumstances determine your future. It’s your choices that determine your future,” Spurling told those attending the meeting.
He also encouraged residents who are dissatisfied with their circumstances to take action rather than simply expecting things to change on their own.
Spurling thanked fellow board members for the discussions, disagreements and friendships developed during his time on the board and encouraged those continuing to serve to do their best for Cleveland County.
Bennett also recognized Spurling’s advocacy for student safety and his willingness to share lessons from his military background with students.
Each board member offered personal remarks, thanking Spurling for his service and wishing him and his wife well as they prepare to relocate.
Superintendent provides district updates
Bennett provided updates on his ongoing efforts to meet with employees, administrators and community partners throughout the school system.
The district recently recognized employees celebrating 20, 25, 30 and 35 years of service, representing a combined 1,755 years of service to Cleveland County Schools.
Other highlights included a district fun run that attracted 66 participants and a career fair that brought approximately 1,000 eighth-grade students together to explore potential career opportunities.
The district also hosted a robotics event involving more than 200 students.
Bennett reminded board members of upcoming community listening forums and other district events, including the CTE Honor Society induction ceremony scheduled for November 23.
The board also discussed a proposed January 5, 2027, workshop that could replace regularly scheduled committee meetings that month. The proposal would allow board members to address committee matters and participate in a broader workshop.
The meeting concluded with the board entering closed session to discuss confidential personnel matters
The next regularly scheduled Board of Education public meeting will be held on Dec. 14. 2026.
Follow The Shelby Independent on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. To contact Chuck about a story idea, send an email or visit the contact page.
Chuck Thompson is a reporter and columnist for The Shelby Independent.
THE SHELBY INDEPENDENT.
Comments