August 25, 2025 – Lexington, NC
Superintendent Dr. Nakia Hardy and Executive Director of Human Resources Dr. Bruce Carroll addressed Mayor Hayes and the Lexington City Council during public comments Monday evening, sharing both strong momentum at the start of the school year and urgent needs that remain for Lexington City Schools.

Celebrating Momentum

Dr. Hardy opened by highlighting the district’s theme for the year, “The Energy Bus Continues,” with a focus on “Leveling Up” in academics, attendance, and facilities. She celebrated that:

• Every classroom opened this year with a certified teacher, a milestone at a time when many districts across North Carolina are facing shortages.

• The Class of 2025 graduated 190 students who collectively earned more than $4.3 million in scholarships, including standout senior Jayden Moore, who received a full QuestBridge National Match Scholarship to Princeton University.

• Local media outlets — WXII, FOX8, ABC45, and Spectrum News — highlighted LCS’s readiness, safety measures, and transportation systems such as the “Where’s the Bus?” app.

“These are real results that show how Lexington City Schools is empowering students to achieve big dreams,” Dr. Hardy shared.

Addressing Challenges

Even with early successes, Dr. Hardy stressed the challenges facing the district:

• Transportation: LCS began the year with seven bus driver vacancies, forcing existing drivers to cover double routes. The district is gathering parent input at Charles England, Pickett, and Southwest Global Academy on the possibility of combined bus stops. She asked for City partnership in areas such as crossing guards and sidewalks to ensure student safety.

• Facilities: The Facilities Needs Study completed by SFLA last school year gave every school in Lexington a failing grade. While the renovated middle school shows what is possible when resources are invested, most campuses continue to face serious challenges.

“Safe, modern schools are not optional — they are essential,” Dr. Hardy emphasized.

Fiscal Responsibility & Next Steps

Dr. Hardy also announced the district’s application for the Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund 2025–26 Grant. This grant is a highly competitive opportunity that would allow LCS to modernize facilities using state dollars, not new burdens on local taxpayers.

“Even if we are not awarded the grant, our needs remain urgent,” she added.

Focus on People

Dr. Carroll spoke about the district’s staff, underscoring the connection between facilities, recruitment, and retention.

• In a recent staff survey, 93% of employees said LCS is a great place to work and learn, reflecting the pride and culture of the district.

• However, bus driver shortages and classified staff pay remain pressing concerns. A majority of classified employees earn less than $18/hour, despite being essential to daily school operations.

“To remain competitive in today’s school choice environment, Lexington must be able to attract and retain the very best people,” Dr. Carroll said. “Strong staff create strong schools, and strong schools create a stronger city.”

Ongoing Commitment

Both leaders pledged to make civic updates a regular practice through the “What’s Happening in the Hive” series.

“So tonight, I want you to know this: you will see me here regularly,” Dr. Hardy concluded. “Together, we can celebrate the positives, address challenges responsibly, and ensure our schools strengthen Lexington’s economy and future. The Energy Bus continues — and this year, we are committed to Leveling Up — together.”