Closing a Legacy: East Arcadia School | Fayetteville News

East Arcadia School, a historic Black school in Bladen County with deep roots in the Jim Crow era, is shutting down for good this fall — a heartbreaking blow to the community as families say goodbye with celebrations and tears. The closure, driven by low enrollment, a $2 million repair bill, and staffing shortages, is part of a troubling statewide trend: 16 traditional public schools are closing this year, 11 of them serving mostly Black students. Advocates warn this reflects systemic neglect of schools in low-income and non-white communities, where underfunding and shifting enrollment patterns leave kids behind. With state funding tied to student numbers and rising interest in charter and private schools, these historic institutions — vital anchors for generations — are disappearing, raising urgent questions about equity and opportunity for Black and brown children. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/3a2ea3f8392b1d66