In a recent meeting of the Durham Public Schools (DPS) Board of Education, the air was thick with urgency as parents, students, and educators voiced their concerns over critical issues affecting the district. The meeting, held on April 24, 2025, served as a platform for heartfelt testimonies that highlighted the pressing need for change in how the district addresses student welfare and food quality.

One of the most poignant moments came from Sarisha Dawson, a mother and educator, who shared a harrowing incident involving her nonverbal son with congenital muscular dystrophy. Dawson revealed that her son was mistreated at school, an event that was only disclosed to her days later by the Durham Police Department. “It is the response, the urgency, transparency, compassion that determines whether trust is broken or built,” she stated, calling for a district-wide review of how incidents involving disabled students are managed. Her plea resonated deeply, emphasizing the need for accountability and better communication from school officials.

The conversation shifted to the quality of school lunches, with students from the DPS Student Food Advocacy Council passionately advocating for improvements. Ninth grader Brian Alfaro Chavez recounted a troubling experience where his school ran out of food during lunch hours, leaving students hungry and unable to focus. “Food is an essential part of a student's day,” he asserted, urging the board to consider more nutritious options and to support initiatives like the DPS Good Food Program, which aims to provide healthier meals.

As the meeting progressed, Amanda Baker, a parent, addressed the board about the impact of state funding cuts on local schools. She urged the board to prioritize hiring more school-based positions to support students directly, rather than central office roles. Baker highlighted the need for a balanced student-to-teacher ratio, suggesting a compromise to maintain effective classroom management.

The importance of arts education was also underscored, with educators advocating for the continuation of dance programs that foster creativity and emotional expression among students. “Dance is not just movement. It’s a tool for developing the whole child,” one educator emphasized, arguing that such programs are vital for a well-rounded education.

As the meeting drew to a close, the board faced the challenge of addressing these multifaceted concerns while navigating budget constraints. The testimonies shared that evening painted a vivid picture of a community deeply invested in the well-being of its students, calling for action that prioritizes their needs and voices. The discussions underscored a collective desire for transparency, accountability, and a commitment to nurturing every child’s potential within the Durham Public Schools system.