Sampson County's Board of Commissioners Budget Workshop on June 13, 2025, highlighted pressing educational infrastructure needs, with a strong focus on the challenges faced by local schools. The discussion centered around the difficulties of student transitions between schools, particularly the impact of changing schools after kindergarten. Educators expressed concern that limited time with students hampers their ability to build lasting relationships, emphasizing the need for stability in early education.

A significant proposal emerged to consolidate Butler Avenue and LCK schools, allowing students to remain together from pre-kindergarten through second grade. This initiative aims to foster stronger connections among students and teachers, addressing the current challenges of frequent school changes.

The aging infrastructure of local schools was a major topic, with many buildings over 70 years old. The need for urgent repairs, particularly roofing issues at Sampson Middle School, was underscored. A roof audit conducted in 2018 revealed $10 million in necessary repairs, a figure that has likely increased due to inflation. The board members expressed gratitude for recent funding commitments that will support these critical needs over the next five to six years.

Commissioners and school officials acknowledged the importance of collaboration between the education sector and local government. They emphasized the value of partnerships in securing funding for essential projects, including energy-saving initiatives and safety upgrades. The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to work together to ensure that students have safe and supportive learning environments, reinforcing the shared goal of serving the community's educational needs.