Schools

Through our programs and resources, we empower teachers by giving them the tools they need to inspire student achievement.

Our school district serves over 3700 students each year. Of the nine schools, seven schools serve populations where more than 40% of the students live in poverty. In two of our schools (Hall Fletcher Elementary and Randolph Learning Center), more than 80% of the students qualify for free or reduced lunch. In 2007-2008, the turnover of teachers in Asheville City Schools (ACS) averaged 17.2%, and at each grade band, ACS turnover was higher than state/regional averages. ACS is an urban school system where more than 45% of students live in poverty, and nearly 50% are minorities. This high turnover is consistent with national trends; these trends indicate schools with large percentages of minority students and poverty experience the greatest loss as teachers migrate to lower poverty, less diverse systems.  

Nonetheless, we are fortunate to have extremely qualified and energized teachers who are dedicated to serving the children of our community. We have a responsive administrative team and a wealth of parent leaders. In spite of the many challenges we face, we are proud to be one of the best school districts in the state. We have achieved that ranking precisely because of our engaged and committed community who has joined together to support public education.  

The district spends its dollars on teachers, programs for those with special needs, and infrastructure. Consequently, there is a great need to raise support for innovative curricula at the classroom level. Struggling students need a caring adult to coach them in learning and life. Many parents need help supporting and nurturing their children's progress at school. Our highfliers need to be engaged with materials so that they, too, can be excited and inspired by learning. The Asheville City Schools Foundation was established to identify these needs and mobilize the community to address them.