Moore County Connect Newsletter 9/18/2023 Issue #004

Tragic Drowning in Southern Pines

A distressing event transpired in Highland Trails neighborhood in Southern Pines on Saturday, September 16. Phillip Hause, a local, tragically drowned in a lake near his home, following a 911 medical assistance call. On arrival, officers found Mr. Hause in a visibly disturbed state. Attempts to calm him were unsuccessful, leading to Mr. Hause fleeing into a neighboring lake known for its sudden depth changes. Despite immediate rescue efforts by local firefighters and the Cypress Pointe Fire and Rescue team, Mr. Hause could not be saved.

The Moore County Board of Education has decided to hire virtual teachers for Crain’s Creek Middle School i Carthage due to a shortage of math teachers for the 2023-2024 school year. In the meeting held on Sept. 11, it was determined that each vacant math teacher position would be replaced by a certified virtual teacher and an in-person assistant. The total cost for this approach is estimated at $138,843 for the virtual teachers and $87,000 for the assistants. While the decision is pending legal review by the board’s attorney, concerns have been raised about setting precedents and the possibility of current teachers shifting to better-paying virtual roles. The virtual staffing contract offers a clause allowing termination with 30 days' notice if an in-classroom teacher is employed.

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