Hatch Provides CMS Updates Ahead of School Year

With Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools preparing to open for the 2026-27 school year, District 1 Board of Education member Dr. Charlitta Hatch is highlighting policy changes approved during the past year and addressing questions about an ongoing investigation involving the superintendent.

District 1 includes Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville, as well as other northern Mecklenburg County communities.

In a recent update, Hatch said the Board of Education approved several policy and regulation changes intended to make the CMS experience more consistent for students and families.

Families can expect clearer access to information and more consistent communication, updated expectations for technology and artificial intelligence, stronger protections for student safety and rights, and academic practices aligned with state requirements, Hatch said.

Hatch

The changes are intended to create more consistent expectations across the district, including greater alignment between board policies, classroom practices and student supports.

Hatch also outlined the issues she said she hears about frequently from District 1 families. They include student safety and well-being, technology and screen time, communication and transparency, student supports and exceptional children services, pre-K teachers, school choice and magnet programs, transportation and traffic, and the district budget.

Hatch also addressed one of the most common questions she has received recently: the Board of Education’s investigation of superintendent Crystal Hill, who was placed on temporary paid leave in June pending an investigation into matters involving administrative and operational oversight.

Hatch said she understands why families, employees and community members want more information but said she cannot discuss details while the investigation remains active.

“Under North Carolina law, discussions regarding personnel investigations occur in closed session,” Hatch wrote, citing the need to protect due process and the rights of those involved.

Hatch said she supports providing as much information as legally permitted when the board is able to do so. She also said she will work to help the community understand the board’s decisions and the reasons behind them when additional information can be released.

CMS has had seven full-time or interim superintendents in the last 15 years.

In the meantime, Hatch said CMS educators, principals, support staff and district leadership are preparing for the new school year. The district serves more than 138,000 students.