An inside look at Chatham County Schools with Superintendent Anthony Jackson

March 12th, 2025

By Gene Galin

Pittsboro, NC – In the Q&A session after his presentation at the 79 Degrees West Breakfast Club event, Chatham County Schools superintendent Dr. Anthony Jackson addressed pressing issues facing the district, including nutrition in school meals, funding challenges, and the importance of community advocacy. As parents and community members raised concerns about the quality of food served in schools and the impact of potential budget cuts, Dr. Jackson emphasized the need for collaboration and strategic planning to ensure the well-being and education of students in Chatham County.

The Importance of Nutrition in Schools

A Parent’s Concern

During the Q&A, a concerned parent highlighted the nutritional quality of meals served in Chatham County schools. He expressed frustration over the prevalence of highly processed foods, such as Pop-Tarts, being offered to students for breakfast. The parent notes that these options lack the necessary nutrients to support children’s cognitive and physical development, advocating for a reevaluation of the meal program to prioritize healthier, whole-food options.

Dr. Jackson acknowledged the concerns, noting that while the school district aims to provide healthy meals, the menu options are often limited by federal guidelines and funding constraints. He emphasized the importance of understanding the system and the challenges involved in sourcing better food options without incurring additional costs.

The Impact of School Meals on Learning

Research indicates that nutrition plays a critical role in students’ academic performance. A well-balanced diet can enhance concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function. Dr. Jackson reiterated that addressing the nutritional needs of students is essential for fostering an environment conducive to learning. He expressed a willingness to explore ways to improve the quality of meals served in schools but acknowledged the complexities of the existing food service system.

Funding Challenges and Educational Resources

The Role of Federal Funding

Dr. Jackson provided insight into the financial landscape of Chatham County Schools, explaining that the district relies heavily on federal funding to support various programs, including the food service program, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and support for students with special needs. He noted that approximately 90% of the budget for exceptional education comes from federal sources, making the potential loss of these funds a significant concern for the district.

The superintendent highlighted that cuts to federal funding could have immediate and far-reaching consequences for students and educators alike. Programs that provide essential resources for at-risk students, English language learners, and new teachers could be jeopardized, impacting the overall quality of education in the district.

Advocacy for Education Funding

In light of these funding challenges, Dr. Jackson urged community members to become advocates for education. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing educational needs at the local, state, and federal levels. He encouraged parents and community members to engage with local representatives and express their concerns about funding for schools.

Dr. Jackson noted that while local government officials, such as the Chatham County Commissioners, have stepped in to support educational initiatives, a broader advocacy effort is necessary to secure sustainable funding for schools. He called on community members to work collaboratively to advocate for the needs of students and educators.

The Role of Civics Education

Teaching Democracy in Schools

A participant in the Q&A asked Dr. Jackson about the district’s efforts to educate students about democracy and civic engagement. Dr. Jackson responded by affirming that civics education remains a priority in Chatham County Schools. He stated that students continue to receive instruction in civics, U.S. history, and other foundational subjects.

However, he acknowledged that the landscape of information and discourse has evolved, with students now exposed to a broader range of opinions and perspectives through social media. Dr. Jackson believes that this shift presents both challenges and opportunities for educators to engage students in meaningful discussions about democracy and civic responsibilities.

Enhancing Civic Engagement

To enhance civic engagement among students, Dr. Jackson highlighted initiatives such as the citizenship seal program, which allows students to demonstrate their understanding of civic principles and earn recognition on their diplomas. He emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of civic responsibility among students and preparing them to be informed and engaged citizens.

Community Involvement and Support

The Importance of Partnerships

As the conversation shifted to community involvement, Dr. Jackson stressed the significance of building partnerships with local organizations and businesses to support educational initiatives. He acknowledged the role of the community college in providing resources and programs that benefit both K-12 students and adult learners.

Dr. Jackson highlighted successful partnerships with organizations like Wolfspeed and local energy companies, which have provided valuable opportunities for students to learn about renewable energy and workforce development. He encouraged community members to explore potential partnerships that could enhance educational programs and provide students with real-world experiences.

Solar Initiatives and Sustainability

One parent raised the topic of solar energy initiatives in schools, advocating for continued investment in renewable energy to reduce operational costs and promote sustainability. Dr. Jackson acknowledged the importance of these initiatives and expressed a commitment to exploring opportunities for solar energy implementation in new school facilities.

He emphasized that while the initial investment in solar energy may be significant, the long-term benefits in terms of cost savings and environmental impact are worth considering. Dr. Jackson reiterated the need for community support and collaboration to make these initiatives a reality.

Thanks to all our Private Office Tenants at 79°West

Millennium Planning Riitthink Digital Greener EHS

Company Marketing Solutions

EKI Consulting McDevitt Law Chatham EDC

Munson Law Firm Frank Land Design OCHAR

LSS Realty Rose Group, CPA BOLD Real Estate

Shanklin Wealth Dunning Custom Triangle Media

Planning Homes Partners

Eller Therapy The Results Company Great Neck Realty