Board of Education Closes School to Students on May 1

Guilford County, N.C. - The Guilford County Board of Education voted to make Friday, May 1, an optional teacher workday, citing recent developments at the state level, including the Leandro decision and legislators not passing a budget.  

Thousands of educators from across the state have planned to go to Raleigh to request change from state legislators on education issues. A similar event took place on May 1, 2019.  

The Guilford County Board of Education respects the voices of our educators and recognizes their advocacy for competitive compensation. In the district’s 2026 Legislative Agenda, the Board called for a number of supports for student success including a substantial increase in educator pay and investments in market-rate wages for classified staff.  

"Competitive salaries aren't just about fairness to teachers. They're about ensuring every child has access to highly qualified, experienced educators who can stay focused on teaching rather than worrying about making ends meet,” Board Chair Deena Hayes said.  

Guilford County Schools remains focused on working together with teachers, families and policymakers, to ensure every student has access to a high-quality education that is supported by outstanding educators.