The Bladen County Board of Education will hold two public hearings for the public to be heard on the closure of East Arcadia School and consolidation with Clarkton School of Discovery, pursuant to NC General Statute 115C-72. The hearings are scheduled as follows:

Wednesday, January 7, 2026 - 6:00 PM
East Arcadia School (Gymnasium)
21451 NC Highway East
Riegelwood, NC 28456

Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 6:00 PM
Clarkton School of Discovery (Media Center)
10000 North College Street
Clarkton, NC 28433

The purpose of a public hearing is to gather information and hear opinions from the community. Generally, board members will respond only to seek clarification. The procedures for the public hearings will be governed by the procedures for public comment outlined in Section B of Board Policy 2310, which is available on the Bladen County Schools website in the Policy Manual, except the thirty (30) minute total limit for comment will not apply. The public hearings will conclude once all those who have signed up to speak have been given the opportunity to do so. Each speaker will receive no more than three (3) minutes. Substitute speakers are not permitted, and speakers cannot donate any portion of their unused time to another speaker.

The Board welcomes all points of view, including criticism directed at substantive ideas, actions, or procedures. However, the Board’s public comment policy also requires that order and decorum be maintained. In the interest of maintaining civility order and decorum, speakers are encouraged to address their comments to the Board of Education and must refrain from personal attacks and insults directed at the Board, individual Board members, staff, or members of the general public. Disruptions by any person or persons of a public meeting will be subject to action in accordance with General Statute 143-318.17.

Clarkton School of Discovery

Clarkton School of Discovery

Notice of Public Hearings

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