Families seek answers on STEAM2 future as they prepare for closure of Glenwood Elementary

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) -- As Glenwood Elementary School prepares to close in fall 2027, families are seeking answers about the future of the school's STEAM Squared, or STEAM2, magnet curriculum.

The program serves about 400 Glenwood students and is a major draw for some families.

Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools officials say they are working to preserve the program, but it remains unclear whether it will move to a single school or be split between two campuses.

Mary Scroggs Elementary School and Rashkis Elementary School are among the schools being considered as potential hosts.

Alex Jackson, a Glenwood parent with twin first-graders in the program, said the curriculum has been a positive experience for his children.

"They've really thrived there," Jackson said. "They do a wonderful job. The teachers there are excellent ... I think it's a really great set up."

Jackson said he supports efforts to place students in well-maintained facilities but worries about the program's future.

"I understand we want our kids to be in buildings that are in good condition, but it's becoming less clear that (the program) will be able to be maintained at the same level it has been," Jackson said.

During the July 16 school board meeting, some parents urged board members to delay a decision on the program's future.

Superintendent Rodney Trice said postponing action could threaten the district's redistricting timeline.

"The more that we delay, the more in question whether we would do a redistricting next year comes up," Trice said at the July 16 meeting. "If we were into September, I think it would be in serious jeopardy whether we could pull it off."

Parents also spoke about the impact potential changes could have on students and families.

Kayan Cheung-Miaw said aspects of the program that support students' identities and sense of belonging are especially important to her family.

"It will be sad to lose his friends, that's one of his main concern because he loves being with his friends," Cheung-Miaw said. "I think having that self-love and that sense of self ... those are kind of core things and values that I think why families choose this particular school and this program."

No decision has been made on the future location of Glenwood students or the STEAM2 program.

The school board could vote Aug. 20 on where students and programs will move. Board members could then approve a redistricting plan this winter, with a final plan released next spring.

Jackson said he hopes district leaders will make a long-term commitment to the program.

"I want to know that the program is safe. I want to know that it really is something that they want to commit to," Jackson said.

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