Winston-Salem Schools Reconsider Special Needs Relocations

Winston-Salem’s school district is facing a major shift as it rethinks the future of The Special Children’s School and The Children’s Center—two vital campuses serving kids with serious developmental and medical needs. Facing budget cuts and declining enrollment, officials initially proposed moving pre-K students to Middle Fork Elementary and older kids to The Children’s Center under a new lease. But Superintendent Don Phipps has now pivoted, suggesting all students relocate to Ward Elementary starting in 2027-2028, claiming it would keep staff and students together, reduce travel, and offer more space. The move has sparked backlash, with a viral petition urging the board to pause and gather more community input. Tonight’s school board meeting will decide the fate of these critical programs—balancing financial realities with the urgent needs of vulnerable children. Support the show:Get a discount at https://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/14aaafea46fea6d8