School board votes unanimously to merge Martin County high schools

WILLIAMSTON, N.C. (WNCT) — In a unanimous vote on Monday, the Martin County Board of Education voted to merge South Creek High School with Riverside High School permanently.

The merger means South Creek High School will be closed. The vote comes after the required public meetings on May 7 and May 9.

The board also voted to change the name of the fully consolidated high school to Martin County High School. The name change will be effective July 1 and will reflect, the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year.

“After conducting an extensive review of everything connected to South Creek High School, I am confident this is the best alternative for the success of our students,” said Martin County Schools Superintendent Dr. Michelle White. “We must provide the students of our district equitable opportunities and this is a tremendous step forward. The positive changes already occurring in one semester of a unified high school are undeniable.”

Officials said South Creek Middle School, which is housed in the same building as South Creek High School, will continue to operate in its current location. The district’s Alternative Learning Program was moved to the South Creek campus earlier this year. It will continue to operate in a portion of the campus previously dedicated to high school students.

Discussions regarding a mascot for the unified high school will begin soon and involve the children, staff, and community. The two schools combined to play sports this season only as Martin County.

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