Hickory City Schools Community,
As we begin a new school year, there is so much to be excited about across Hickory City Schools. Our classrooms are once again filled with students learning, growing, building relationships and discovering new opportunities. This is a special time of year and a reminder of why the decisions we make about public education matter so deeply.
At the same time, the proposed merger of Hickory City Schools, Newton-Conover City Schools and Catawba County Schools remains under review by the North Carolina State Board of Education. The merger is not final, and our community's voice continues to matter.
State Board Chairman Eric Davis recently shared that the board has received hundreds of emails regarding the proposed merger and that those messages are being carefully read and thoughtfully considered. To everyone who has already taken the time to write and advocate for our students — thank you. Your engagement matters.
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The State Board's next meeting is scheduled for September 2–3, 2026, when members plan to discuss the process and timeline for reviewing the merger proposal and appropriate next steps.
I encourage you to keep writing and to share your perspective before the September 2–3 meeting. Continue sharing your personal connection to Hickory City Schools and what you believe State Board members should consider as they review this proposal. Our community knows our schools, our students and the programs and relationships that make HCS special. Those experiences are important for decision-makers to hear.
For your convenience, you may copy and paste the email addresses below into your message:
mo.green@dpi.nc.gov; eric.davis@dpi.nc.gov; alan.duncan@dpi.nc.gov; rachel.hunt@dpi.nc.gov; brad.briner@dpi.nc.gov; olivia.oxendine@dpi.nc.gov; reginald.kenan@dpi.nc.gov; jill.camnitz@dpi.nc.gov; jwendell.hall@dpi.nc.gov; john.blackburn@dpi.nc.gov; catty.moore@dpi.nc.gov; janet.mason@dpi.nc.gov; tiffany.lucas@dpi.nc.gov
You can also find additional information and resources on our HCS Merger Information webpage.
As we move forward, we will continue to do what we do best: welcome our students each morning, support our teachers and staff, celebrate learning and work together as a community.
Our focus has always been, and will continue to be, our students. Thank you for standing with them, supporting our schools and helping ensure Hickory's voice continues to be heard.
Here's to a wonderful school year ahead.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jennifer Griffin
Superintendent, Hickory City Schools
