No school for DPS students on May 1 as teacher absences surge

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Durham Public Schools will make May 1 an optional teacher workday, canceling classes for students as the district prepares for unusually high staff absences.

After-school programs are canceled, but high school athletic events will continue as scheduled.

District officials said they received a large number of leave requests for May 1 and determined that operating schools with so many staff members out would be unsafe.

Thousands of educators, families and public-school advocates from across North Carolina are expected to gather that day as the North Carolina Association of Educators encourages teachers to call out of work.

Educators plan to voice concerns about the state budget and teacher pay.



Students will not be required to make up the missed day.

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