To the Editor:

S.W. Snowden is facing yet another new principal for the upcoming 2017-18 school year. This will be the sixth principal in the school’s 10-year history. North Carolina is one of the top states with principal turnover. These adversely affect school climate and performance especially in struggling schools (Education Week, 2014). Snowden’s scores have improved somewhat from a school composite of 24 percent to 38 percent since 2013 but are still around 14-percent below the county average. These are somewhat respectable figures considering the unique challenges facing the smallest and most rural school in the county. The last three principals have stayed two years each. Replacing the educational leader of the school also entails new visions and procedures that directly affect both staff and students. Forward momentum is continuously in turmoil. Snowden also enjoys the highest staff turnover in the county. By leaving an effective principal in place, these could be addressed. There are examples of long term, successful administrations in Beaufort County Schools.
Many have said, “Just close it and be done with it. Bus them up the road.” Aurora has suffered with the closing of its grocery store and impacts from Irene. The school’s student population has been increasing in recent years, and to close it would be the death knell for the town.
In 2007, Superintendent Moss was criticized for overbuilding with the $33 million bond. Snowden does indeed have empty classrooms. Let’s do right by this wonderful building and provide stability for the town and its students.

Joy McCracken
Aurora