GOP says no school on Memorial Day

WAKE COUNTY Memorial Day, which was established in 1868, is a national holiday of remembrance of the millions of American patriots who have fought to protect this country's freedom. It is shameful that the WCPSS decided to make this special day a school day for Wake students who attend year-round schools," said Wake GOP Chairman Claude E. Pope, Jr.

Pope called on parents to keep their children home.

"We just started getting calls this week from angry parents, why are our kids going to school on Memorial Day," Pope said. "I think a lot of parents will be keeping their kids home on Monday."

Only students in year-round schools are scheduled for classes Monday.

The Wake County school board approved the current calendar in 2007. Officials said then that principals preferred class on Memorial Day because they wanted the Wednesday before Thanksgiving off in order not to shorten the winter break.

"We're holding school as normal and we're expecting students to be there," said Michael Evans with the Wake County Public Schools.

Wake school officials say it will still be considered an unexcused absence on Monday unless parents fill out forms saying why it should be excused.