Special Called Open Meeting June 30, 2026

The Asheville City Schools held a Special Called Open Meeting on June 30, 2026, primarily addressing budgetary and programmatic issues. A significant portion of the meeting focused on public comments concerning the proposed elimination of the orchestra strings program due to low enrollment, with many speakers advocating for its retention and highlighting its value to students and the community. The board approved the consent agenda, which included contracts such as the nurses contract and facility fee schedule, as well as budget amendments and insurance recommendations. They also approved the traditional elementary school calendar and updated salary schedules for principals and central office staff, noting that salary schedules are living documents subject to future adjustments. The personnel report was approved in its entirety despite some opposition to a specific non-renewal. Discussions included concerns about transparency and collaboration in the budget process, particularly regarding staff workload and pay, with commitments to continue dialogue through the meet, confer, and collaborate (MCC) process. No direct votes on program eliminations were taken, as the orchestra program decision was described as an administrative recommendation rather than a board vote.