The New Hanover County School Board voted 5-1 on April 14 against moving a teacher workday from May 4 to May 1. Superintendent Christopher Barnes proposed the switch to limit instructional disruptions if staff attend the NCAE-organized "Kids Over Corporations Rally" in Raleigh that day, protesting the state budget delay, Leandro ruling, and voucher expansion.
The majority opposed, calling it political pressure and citing state anti-strike laws, potential parent/childcare burdens, and risks to school operations. One board member supported it, arguing teachers need to advocate more. As of recent reports, 137 teachers have requested May 1 leave. The board plans to recruit subs and may deny some requests if staffing is critical.