Wake County Schools Face Budget Cuts, Parents Protest

0:00This is Cory with the story, and here's what is making news across Durham right now. Way County Public Schools wrapped up its two-day family and community engagement summit on Saturday. The event drew families for breakout sessions, keynote talks, and resource booze after day-one targeted educators. A major worry centered on planned budget cuts to special education programs. District leaders aimed to trim $18 million from special education next fiscal year, including 130 positions. Superintendent Robert Taylor explained, this step prevents a deficit if spending stays the same. He shared these details ahead of his state of the school's address on Friday. Parents like those with special needs kids voiced frustration over scarce resources. Teacher protests erupted Thursday, with many fearing added strain on families, schools, and students if staff levels drop. The summit highlighted support for reading, health, and technology skills. Attendees push for stronger training and artificial intelligence to better prepare graduates for uncertain job markets.

1:03Taylor assured everyone that course services remain intact, with teachers possibly handling larger caseloads, but no regional programs touched. Budget talks press on as the district balances needs.