Two more counties in Eastern North Carolina have joined the growing list of school districts that plan to close on Wednesday when thousands of teachers from across the state are expected to rally for increased funding for public education.
Administrators for Wayne and Onslow County school systems have announced plans to close for students after hundreds of teachers requested the day off to participate in the "March for Students and Rally for Respect," organized by the North Carolina Association of Educators. The demonstration, which will take place in the state capital, coincides with the General Assembly's first day back into session.
More than 650 teachers had asked to take off in Wayne County, and almost 300 requested time off in Onslow County before the school boards decided to cancel classes. Those districts are among at least 38 others in the state -- including Pitt County Schools -- that are closing.
Among the NCAE's members' demands are higher teacher pay, more school nurses and guidance counselors and increased per-student spending.