Weekly update, May 1

Happy May Day!

NPR reports that demonstrations around the country will protest "a billionaire takeover of government" today. That same article devotes a fair bit of space to educators in our state marching in Raleigh. You've probably heard that per-pupil spending and teacher salaries in North Carolina are among the lowest in the country. This march is the third in eight years advocating for "Kids Over Corporations" and many school districts across the state cancelled school today due to the large number of anticipated staff absences.

Carrboro High School teacher, Matthew Murchison, explained the purpose of the march as a way to keep attention on the fact that North Carolina is falling behind other states in funding public schools. "I think that all teachers want to be adequately compensated for our work and want what's best for our students."

He maintains that change is needed at the state level. "Public schools are the foundation of a functional democracy. Without quality public education, we don't have a functioning democracy. If you care about democracy, you should care about public education."

Next week is Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4 - 8) in the U.S. You can support our local teachers by advocating for public education and better teacher compensation to our state lawmakers, making donations to the Public School Foundation of Chapel Hill - Carrboro, and contacting your local school's PTSA about volunteer and donation opportunities.

We continue to follow updates regarding the April 14 shooting near Carrboro High School, which resulted in no injuries but prompted a multi-hour lockdown in the building. Last week, CHCCS Superintendent Dr. Rodney Trice sent an email to the Carrboro High community acknowledging the ongoing recovery among students, families, and staff, and discussing information about those charged in the incident, three of whom are Carrboro High School students. Charges include possession of a firearm on school property on March 6. The Carrborean published essays from students and a parent online and in the May print edition.

Online this week

We featured stories about a service dog training program in correctional facilities, how to engage in town and county budgeting processes, and Carrboro Family Pharmacy, celebrating 25 years serving our community.

In other news, The Flying Pierogi has organized a fundraiser to help it recover from some unexpected costs. If you haven't visited this special culinary gem, now is a great time to do that.

The Carrborean Radio Hour

We spoke with former mayor Damon Seils and Council Member Catherine Fray about how the Town's and County's budgets are made and how anyone can engage in that process. On Monday, we'll discuss Orange County's baseline food system assessment report with Jonathon Smith, County Extension Director, his colleague Mike Ortosky, Extension Agent for Community & Rural Development, and John Nicholson, local food system advocate and activist. Tune in to WCOM 103.5 on Monday from 4-5pm or find the recording here later in the week.

News from Town and County

Invasive plant clean-up at Adams Tract. Information from Town:

• When: Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 2 - 4 p.m. 
• Where: Participants should meet at the information kiosk by the main parking lot at Wilson Park (101 Williams St., Carrboro). 
• What to Bring: Volunteers are asked to wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and closed-toe shoes. Please bring a reusable water bottle. 
• Provided: The Town and event organizers will provide all necessary tools and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). 

Volunteer Sign Up: Please visit Rewild NC to sign up to volunteer for this event - Adams Tract (Carrboro) Invasive Plant Clean Up. Groups welcome! 

Questions: Please contact Amy Armbruster, Chief Sustainability Officer, at aarmbruster@carrboronc.gov or 919-918-7345. 

OWASA update: On April 23, OWASA held a budget work session and the Board expressed support for what was proposed, including a 4% rate increase. More information about the draft budget will be published. Next Board meeting is May 14 at 6pm in OWASA's community room at 400 Jones Ferry Road.

The Orange County Board of Commissioners met April 30 and you can find highlights here. Summary: The Orange County Board of Commissioners hears from both school districts on deepening funding pressures, from state budget cuts and unfunded mandates to stagnant teacher supplements and rising special education costs. Leaders debate how to balance a $300 million school bond, pay-go shifts, and tax burdens while coordinating on a new elementary school and future construction timelines.

Final Notes

The Community Bulletin Board has announcements and opportunities for giving and civic engagement and is updated weekly.

There's so much going on in Carrboro! Check out The Events Calendar to see what's happening and help us keep it up to date.

Please consider a paid subscription to support community journalism (local news from the people living it) and ask your favorite businesses if they advertise in The Carrborean. Subscribers at the "Angel" tier get the first-ever Carrborean T-shirt among other benefits. Thank you! Big thanks to The Merch for printing the shirts! 

Poetry Moment