High Point Mayor Proposes Separation From Guilford Schools

The mayor of High Point has suggested moving the city's schools out of the Guilford County Schools system. 

During his State of the City Address on Tuesday, Mayor Jay Wagner proposed forming a committee to study the pros and cons of remaining under the Guilford school system umbrella.

Wagner tells The News and Record he's heard from residents wondering if the quality of the schools has improved since a merger with the Guilford system in 1993.

Wagner believes there is a public perception that High Point schools are inadequate, which in turn hurts economic development and property values.

Guilford County Schools Superintendent Sharon Contreras released a statement arguing that larger school districts provide greater opportunities for their students, while being less of a burden on taxpayers. She also said resources need to be funneled to High Point schools struggling with poverty in their communities.

Wagner says a study could at least shine a light on how the schools are doing, and provide a springboard to discuss options.

According to the N.C. Center for Public Policy Research, splitting the school district would require legislative approval.

*Editor's Correction: A previous version of this story aired and was published identifying the High Point mayor as Joe Wagner. This story has been updated to reflect that the High Point mayor is Jay Wagner.