GUILFORD COUNTY — Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the opening of Guilford County’s latest new construction project, the School Board met today to discuss ongoing projects, most of which involve financial resources.

The Board of Education passed a resolution to put a sales tax referendum on the November ballot. If passed on Election Day, the tax for Guilford County residents would be increased by a quarter of a cent.

The increase is intended to finance higher salaries for teachers and service staff.

Although the resolution passed unanimously, some board members are calling on county commissioners to change the way education funds are allocated.

“The commissioners have to do their jobs and support the public schools,” said Dianne Bellamy-Small, board member for District 1.

According to Guilford County school officials, the district currently pays 35% less than surrounding school systems.

In addition to launching two new renovation projects at Grimsley and Page high schools, board members stressed the importance of providing the necessary resources to keep conditions at Guilford County Schools safe for students.

“If we can’t maintain and service our equipment, it will fail. And we have to pay our employees,” said Michael Logan, board member for District 3.

Members praised Claxton Elementary as an example of what schools should be – with the right funding and care.

“Claxton is not exceptional. Or it shouldn’t be, because our kids simply deserve it. Our teachers need it and deserve it. I want to encourage us to also see this grand opening as something normal, something we should normalize and strive for throughout our system,” said Alan Sherouse, Board Member At-Large.

Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley also renewed another four-year contract at today’s meeting; this vote was passed unanimously.