👋 Welcome Back!
Welcome back to all our students, families, teachers, and staff! I realized this is beginning my 14th year with CMS, and I’ve seen firsthand how hard our administrators, teachers, and support staff have worked to get ready for this school year.
Teachers return Monday, and we’re excited to see students back in the hallways soon. Parents and students—you’ve got this!
👉 Families: Please visit the CMS Back-to-School Website for calendars, transportation, supply information, and more so you’re ready for day one.
I also invite you to sign up for my newsletter at easleyforcms.com. Each edition breaks down board updates, funding news, and policy changes in plain language, so families, educators, and community members can stay informed and engaged.
📌 ICE Enforcement and Schools
This was the most discussed topic at our last board meeting, and I want to be clear and transparent with you.
Earlier this year, the federal government changed its guidance on immigration enforcement in schools. Schools are no longer considered “protected areas” like they were under the previous administration. Instead, ICE agents may now conduct what they call “common sense” enforcement.
Here’s what that means for CMS families:
To date, ICE has not appeared on CMS property.
CMS has not invited or welcomed ICE. No school district can control federal policy, and CMS did not ask for this change.
CMS is not cooperating with ICE. Just like any other law enforcement agency, ICE cannot remove students or speak with staff without a valid judicial warrant or subpoena. They are also not allowed to “hang out” on school grounds.
Principals and staff are prepared. They have been trained and provided resources from our Office of General Counsel on exactly what to do if ICE ever shows up.
CMS goes above the basics. We have clear policies and safeguards that go beyond minimum requirements to protect our students.
✋ Personal Point of Privilege
I do not support ICE in our schools. I believe that schools should always be safe, welcoming, and inclusive places for every student—no matter their background or immigration status.
I’ve heard the fear and anxiety in our community, and I want to be very clear: CMS is not cooperating with ICE. We are committed to protecting our students, and I will continue to fight for schools that are safe havens for learning, not places of fear.
This is personal for me. As a teacher for 20 years and now as a mom with two CMS students of my own, I know how important it is for every child to feel secure walking into their school building each day.
📊 Equity Committee Annual Report
The Board’s Equity Committee presented its annual findings. Their six subcommittees focus on:
- Educational opportunities & high expectations
- Family & community engagement
- Leadership & staff
- School composition
- School facilities
- Student wellness
Each subcommittee shared recommendations that will guide how we create a fair and supportive learning environment for all students.
🎒 Back-to-School Presentation
Superintendent Hill and her team shared how CMS is preparing for the new year. Some highlights:
- CMS is the 2nd largest district in NC and 16th largest in the U.S., serving 141,000+ students.
- Our strength is in talented teachers, diverse programs, and 70+ career pathways to prepare students for future success.
- New “I Love U Guys” safety protocols are in place with clear training, communication, and drills.
- Families should prepare for:
- New legislation limiting personal device use during class (HB 959).
- Required immunizations and health screeners.
- Open houses and free/reduced meal applications.
👉 All Back-to-School forms are now online and can be filled out ahead of the first day. Visit the CMS Back-to-School Website to complete your forms in advance and make your first day smooth.
I’ll also link the full back-to-school presentation video so you can watch and access resources directly.
🎓 Goal 4: Graduate on Track
One of our key Board goals is ensuring more students graduate ready to be enrolled, enlisted, or employed.
- Goal: Increase readiness from 72% in 2023 to 85% in 2029.
- Update: For 2024-25, we are on track to exceed expectations, projected at 78% (goal was 76%).
This shows encouraging progress for our high school students across CMS.
🙌 Celebrations & Shout Outs
Mallard Creek High School Men’s Track & Field – Congratulations to the Mavericks for their third straight State Championship! They also earned their first Indoor 4A State title, competed nationally at the Florida Relays, and closed out the season with the 2025 Outdoor 4A State Championship. Incredible work by our student-athletes and coaches.
Charlotte Pride – This weekend, current, retired, and former CMS teachers will be in the parade on Sunday. Keep an eye out for Gus the Bus rolling through Uptown! A big thank you to the CMS teachers and staff who made it happen.
☕ Minute with Melissa – September
Every month, I host Minute with Melissa—a casual community meet-and-greet where you can ask questions, share concerns, or just connect.
📅 Thursday, September 11th
📍 Summit Coffee – Highland Creek
Come meet me, ask questions, and connect with your fellow neighbors. My goal is to always meet the community where you are—I’d love to see you there!
As a mom, a former teacher, and your District 1 representative, I know how important it is for families to feel prepared and supported as we start this school year. Please share this Chalk Talk with neighbors, and encourage them to subscribe to stay informed.
Together, we’ll keep working toward stronger, safer, and more equitable schools.
In partnership,
Melissa Easley
CMS Board of Education, District 1
