NEW HANOVER COUNTY — The New Hanover County NAACP is encouraging members of the community to voice their opinions and vote following the censure of a New Hanover County school board member on Friday.
READ MORE: NHCS board member censured after decrying ‘unfair and hateful policy’
It was evident during Friday’s censure hearing of Dr. Tim Merrick there are actions that need to be taken by the community,” President LeRon Montgomery wrote in a statement. “We must ensure the rights of all stakeholders are upheld, especially as it relates to free speech and expression of school employees, the rights of all parents are adhered to and the assurance that all students will receive a sound education. In addition, we must require that all elected school board members, regardless of political party affiliation, serve with integrity and not fear.”
Merrick was censured last week in a 5-2 vote, himself and fellow Democrat Judy Justice dissenting, after discussing the display policy with a teacher that wanted him to change the policy after being reprimanded for having a Pride flag on their bookshelf. Merrick was accused of violating several policies related to sharing confidential personnel information and interjecting in the superintendent’s authority to handle employee complaints.
The NAACP’s full statement is below:
To the Citizens of New Hanover County,
On April 11th, 2025, our community had the opportunity to witness the censure of one of the newly elected NHCS school board members. Within the last four years, there havebeen two censure hearings of NHCS school board members where resolutions have been adopted by a 5-2 vote. It was evident during Friday’s censure hearing of Dr. Tim Merrick there are actions that need to be taken by the community. We must ensure the rights of all stakeholders are upheld, especially as it relates to free speech and expression of school employees, the rights of all parents are adhered to and the assurance that all students will
receive a sound education. In addition, we must require that all elected school board members, regardless of political party affiliation, serve with integrity and not fear. They must build a rapport with all faculty and staff and advocate for policies and protocols which promote the safety of all. Political agendas should never take precedence over the
educational well-being of our students.
Timing Matters
As a community, the timing of the meeting did not impact those who had a desire to attend, However, the decision to hold this meeting at 2:00 PM on a Friday, while the school adjacent to the meeting location dismisses at 2:15 PM, did impact the students’
peaceful transition from school to home. The timing of the meeting diminished the probability this will occur, especially since the adjacent to the school serves students with
specific behavioral needs. The additional traffic or change in routine could have truly
traumatized the students and caused undue stress. We must ensure the elected officials of
the NHCS BOE always make their priority the safety and smooth dismissal of students
and staff.
Respect Matters
As a community, we urge all elected officials and representatives of the NHCS BOE to read, understand and effectively utilize the processes and protocols Robert’s Rules of Order and to uphold standards of public decorum. Robert’s Rules of Order protocols ensure diverse mindsets work together with respect. This will ensure, especially during all public forums, such as censure and board meetings appear as acts of accountability, and not as personal or political attacks. This will also demonstrate to our students how to effectively communicate with others who have diverse perspectives. Even as some may quote scriptures and say public prayers, we must commit to acting in love, humility and
mutual respect. As a community, we must always remember loving one another is the
greatest commandment. The love of our students must be reflected in our leadership and
our actions.
To the community, you must ask the question with so many pressing issues affecting our local students, teachers, staff and schools—ranging from academic achievement to mental health—why does the board seem to be focusing on a political agenda that does not serve the local community? Based on the recent censure resolution meeting, the elected officials of the NHCS BOE, did not demonstrate a commitment to NHCS’s mission of providing children with a superior education in a safe and positive learning environment, preparing them with the skills to succeed, in collaboration with parents and the community.
Elections Matter
Remember, elections have consequences. If we want change—real, lasting change—we must engage by voting, showing up to meetings, and actively engaging with all your elected board members. Parents, you have the right to ensure your child receives a
superior education despite the school they attend in the district. As always, support
candidates who lead with compassion, wisdom, and a true commitment to our children’s
futures, and not fear or retaliation.
As the community evaluates policy decisions being outlined by the NHCS BOE ask yourself: Is the decision serving the children and families of New Hanover County or advancing a political agenda at their expense?
When our elected officials make decisions, they must always remember: Our students are
watching, our families are paying attention and our community deserves the best! With concern and hope,
LeRon T. Montgomery
President, New Hanover County NAACP
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