Controversy Brews for Gaston County School Board over Social Media and School Closures

Gastonia, NC (WNN) - The Gaston County Board of Education will be under much scrutiny after several actions over the past week. The NAACP has asked for the resignation of school board member Tod Kinlaw. Kinlaw admitted to sharing a post, which is now deleted, that depicted "Islam" as a "satanic cult" and Allah as "Satan" along with Muhammad as a "false prophet". Kinlaw states that he is a Christian, and his faith contradicts the Islamic faith, along with his right to freedom of speech. The NAACP's logic is that Kinlaw should be held to a higher standard as a member of the Board of Education. This is not the only situation with Gaston County Schools in which social media posts are being scrutinized. Holly Ackerman, a Gaston County teacher, was fired after she made remarks about Charlie Kirk's death on social media. Ackerman supporters are calling for her reemployment on First Amendment grounds, as in Kinlaw's reasoning.

Tod Kinlaw - Gaston County Board of Education - South Point Township

Gaston County Schools

School Consolidation and Cuts Likely

Also, Gaston County Schools will likely be consolidating Cherryville's Beam Intermediate with other Cherryville schools. In a Gaston County Schools operations meeting held on Monday, March 30th, it was discussed that the study shows cost savings from the consolidation. Fourth graders will attend Cherryville Elementary (Grades K-4), and Fifth graders will attend Chavis Middle School (Grades 5-8). According to sources, public forums will begin in April, with a board vote in June. The consolidation will begin in August if approved. Concerned teachers, parents, and public officials have expressed concern over the consolidation. However, Gaston County Schools Superintendent Morgen Houchard stated that his kids went to a 5-8 grade school and are better for it. All of this comes on the heels of a deep budget deficit caused by inaccurate Gaston County School data and a lack of state funding, per Houchard. Along with the consolidation, approximately 170 positions are being reduced. However, over 200 positions are expected to open next year due to retirements and non-renewals.

W. Blaine Beam Intermediate - Cherryville, NC - March 31, 2026

Mason Beam (WNN)

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