Local News

Cumberland Schools asks judge to throw out special education lawsuit

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Tuesday, 14 July 2026

Written by Dasia Williams, CityView Today

Attorneys representing Cumberland County Schools are asking a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit alleging the district unlawfully delayed special education evaluations, arguing the plaintiffs failed to complete required administrative procedures before filing suit and have not presented legally sufficient claims.

The May 1 motion from Mary Webb, Amie Sivon, and Edward Coleman—attorneys with Raleigh-based law firm Ragsdale Liggett—was filed on behalf of the Cumberland County Board of Education, Ayanna Richard—the executive director for Exceptional Children’s Services who now serves as principal of A.B. Wilkins High School—and Sherwood Park Elementary School Principal Shannon Booth. 

The filing asked U.S. District Court Judge James Dever to dismiss the amended complaint, which expanded the original lawsuit filed in November by adding a fourth student plaintiff and additional legal claims.

The lawsuit was filed by Cynthia Lee, a former teacher at Sherwood Park Elementary, and three former second-grade students. The suit alleged Cumberland County Schools violated the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) by delaying or denying special education evaluations for students suspected of having disabilities. The complaint accused the district of improperly requiring students to complete all tiers of its Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) before initiating IDEA evaluations, resulting in unlawful delays. Schools use MTSS as a framework to provide increasing levels of academic or behavioral intervention before referring a student for special education.

In February, CityView reported that the lawsuit followed a 2025 investigation by the N.C. Department of Public Instruction that found Cumberland County Schools’ special education evaluation practices were “inconsistent” with federal law and state policy. The state ordered the district to complete corrective actions, including staff training, and has continued monitoring the district’s compliance.

In the motion to dismiss, the school district’s attorneys argued the student plaintiffs’ claims should be thrown out because they failed to first exhaust the administrative remedies required under IDEA.

“The IDEA clearly establishes that litigants may not file a civil action in court unless they first exhaust their administrative remedies,” the attorneys wrote.

According to the filing, there are “no allegations and no evidence to show” that three of the student plaintiffs sought due process hearings through the state’s Office of Administrative Hearings before filing the federal lawsuit. Attorneys also argued claims involving one student plaintiff should be dismissed because the school district ultimately agreed to conduct the student’s initial evaluation, leaving “no live controversy before this Court.”

The plaintiffs argued they were not required to exhaust those administrative remedies because the lawsuit alleged systemic violations of IDEA. They contend Cumberland County Schools maintained a practice of using MTSS to delay referrals for special education evaluations.

Attorneys for the school district disputed that allegation.

“Defendant CCBOE has no such policy,” the motion stated, calling the claim “just a conclusory assertion without support.”

The filing also asked the court to dismiss claims brought under federal civil rights law, arguing the complaint does not sufficiently allege discrimination.

“These contentions do not amount to discrimination,” the attorneys wrote.

District Disputes Retaliation Allegations

The motion also asked the court to dismiss claims against Richard and Booth. The attorneys argued that the board of education is the proper defendant in the case and that the federal law cited by the plaintiffs does not allow those claims to proceed against individual administrators. The filing also challenged claims brought by Lee, who alleged she faced retaliation after raising concerns about the district’s special education practices and was constructively discharged—essentially being involuntarily terminated—from her teaching position at Sherwood Park Elementary.

According to the motion, Lee voluntarily resigned and has not alleged working conditions severe enough to constitute constructive discharge.

“Frustrations, challenges and disappointments do not rise to the level of constructive discharge,” the attorneys wrote.

The plaintiffs opposed the motion to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing it alleged systemic violations of federal special education law and should proceed.

While the court has not ruled on the motion, the case continues to move forward. On July 7, Dever ordered attorneys for both sides to meet by August 6 to develop a plan outlining how they will exchange evidence and prepare the case for trial. The proposed plan must be submitted to the court within 14 days of that meeting.

Safety first at the beach

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Wednesday, 08 July 2026

Written by Staff Report

When the sun is shining and the temperature is warm, a day at the beach can be the perfect balm for whatever ails you. Is it any wonder that so many vacations or day-long excursions revolve around spending time at the shore?

Although a beach excursion can be the ideal way to rest and recharge, individuals should be mindful that there is the potential for some danger. Safety is essential when visiting coastal locations. The following are some safety hazards to keep in mind and how to navigate them. 

Rip currents

Rip currents are powerful, channeled currents of water that flow away from the shore. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration notes rip currents can occur at any beach. Lifeguards call rip currents "drowning machines" since they are implicated in most water rescues. They are very dangerous for weak or non-swimmers because they can pull people away from the shore rapidly. If a person gets caught in a rip current, it is important to swim parallel to the shore until escaping the current. Only then can the person try to get back to the beach.

Hookworms

There is a reason why companion animals may not be allowed on the beach during the swimming season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says hookworm is a parasitic infection contracted when larvae in sand or soil contaminated by animal feces burrow into exposed skin. It is common in moist, warm climates. Keeping cats and dogs away from the beach, wearing sandals, and using beach mats or towels when on the sand can help prevent hookworm contraction.

Jellyfish

Jellyfish can be a wonder to behold, but crossing paths with a jellyfish can be a painful experience. The National History Museum says jellyfish have survived for more than 500 million years. These invertebrates are gelatinous and jelly-like, with a curved, bell-shaped body with tentacles hanging down. The tentacles can be covered in stinging cells called cnidocytes. Beach-goers should heed warnings about jellyfish in the water, but also be mindful of ones washed up, as they can still sting if the tentacles are wet.

Sand fleas

Despite the word "flea" in the moniker, sand fleas are not insects or parasites. Terminix says they are small, shrimp-like crustaceans. 

While sand fleas do not seek out people to bite them, certain species can leave itchy, red welts if they come into prolonged contact with the skin. This may be more pronounced for women or girls when sand fleas become trapped between swimsuits and the skin. Sand fleas are more active during cooler, low-light periods like early morning or evening.

Beach debris

Glass beverage containers should not be brought to the beach, as there is the risk of breakage and shards becoming left behind. Cuts from broken bottles can lead to infection. Beach-goers also need to be mindful of other debris that can wash up on the beach, particularly after strong storms. Unfortunately, medical waste, trash, and drug paraphernalia can wash up on the shore. Wearing sandals or water-safe shoes can protect feet.

A carefree day at the beach is a staple of summertime. However, people must be mindful of potential hazards when enjoying a day at the beach.

Kind Seeds Project helps with food insecurity in Fayetteville

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Wednesday, 08 July 2026

Written by Tara Kamiya

The Kind Seeds Project is helping connect families across Fayetteville and surrounding communities with free groceries, fresh food and basic household necessities through partnerships with churches, ministries and local organizations.

The community outreach initiative focuses on reducing food insecurity by supporting mobile pantry events and grocery distributions in Cumberland County, Spring Lake, Raeford and nearby areas. Rather than operating from a single permanent location, the project often works through temporary distribution sites and community events that allow food to reach residents where they live.

The project has been successful in meeting people where they are. Information about upcoming events is shared through the Kind Seeds Project Facebook page, which serves as a central source for distribution announcements and local assistance opportunities. Recent posts have highlighted grocery box distributions in Spring Lake and food and clothing support available in Fayetteville.

The project’s work reflects a broader network of organizations addressing hunger and financial hardship in the region. Local churches, public institutions and ministries provide overlapping forms of support, including groceries, clothing, gardening resources, prayer and community fellowship. These partnerships allow organizations to combine volunteers, supplies and community connections while reaching more residents.

Pleasant Grove Church of Christ is among the organizations offering recurring assistance. Its Mission Ministry hosts a food and clothing giveaway every third Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at 208 N. Racepath St. in Fayetteville. The program provides food, clean clothing and personal encouragement to individuals and families. No advance registration is required, and community members may attend as they are.

Teach All Nations Ministries also supports food access in Spring Lake and across Cumberland County. The ministry has organized large grocery distributions, including drive through events designed to serve many households efficiently. Events of that size can help families who may face transportation barriers, high food costs, or limited access to full-service grocery stores.

 Residents interested in longer term food independence may also use the Cumberland County Public Library’s Seed Library. The program allows community members to obtain seeds for backyard gardens and container gardens. It gives residents an opportunity to grow vegetables, herbs and other plants even when they have limited land, gardening space or household resources.

Seed libraries do not replace emergency food assistance, but they can complement it by encouraging practical gardening skills and household food production. Container gardens may be especially useful for apartment residents or families with small yards.

Together, these programs show how food insecurity is being addressed through several strategies. Mobile food distributions provide immediate relief. Church ministries offer recurring assistance and social support. Seed programs encourage residents to develop sustainable sources of fresh produce.

The Kind Seeds Project helps connect these efforts by promoting local events and building partnerships among groups with similar missions. Its emphasis on kindness, hope and self-empowerment is reflected in its public outreach and its focus on helping families obtain essential resources without unnecessary barriers.

Community members can support the work by volunteering at distribution events, donating food or clothing, sharing event information and following local organizations online. Because dates and locations may change, residents seeking assistance should review the latest announcements before traveling to an event.

For families facing food insecurity, the growing network of pantries, ministries and seed programs offers several entry points for help. The Kind Seeds Project remains part of that network, linking neighbors with groceries, resources and community support throughout the Fayetteville area.

Free meals provided throughout summer by CCS

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Wednesday, 08 July 2026

Written by Katie Herring

When school lets out at the end of May, most kids are jumping for joy and can’t wait for weeks on end of sleeping late, trips to swimming pools, vacations, camps, and more.  But for a lot of kids in our community, being on break from school means missing out on the availability of a reliable lunch Monday through Friday.  The Cumberland County School Child Nutrition department is on a mission to fill that gap for most of the summer for as many kids as possible.

From June 1 through July 31, Child Nutrition Services provides free lunches to kids 18 and younger at locations throughout Cumberland County.  There is no income requirement to receive these free meals.  They are offered on a first-come, first-served basis; no registration required.  Children must be present to receive a meal, and the meals must be eaten on site.

These meals provide kids with important nutrients needed to support growing bodies, but are still fun foods that kids want to eat.  Each meal includes vegetables, fruit, and cold milk.  A complete menu of what meals are served on which days throughout June and July can be found on the Child Nutrition Services website.

Meals are available at the following locations:

• Cliffdale Rec Center @ 6404 Cliffdale Rd., Fayetteville

• College Lakes Elementary @ 4963 Rosehill Rd., Fayetteville

• Hope Mills Municipal Park @ 5766 Rockfish Rd., Hope Mills

• Kiwanis Rec Center @ 352 Devers St, Fayetteville

• Lake Rim Elementary @ 1455 Hoke Loop Rd., Fayetteville

• Massey Hill Rec Center @ 1612 Camden Rd., Fayetteville

• Mendoza Park @ 1774 Little River Rd., Spring Lake

• Roy Turner Park @ 4623 Blanton Rd., Fayetteville

• Smith Rec Center @ 1520 Slater Ave, Fayetteville

• Spring Lake Library @ 101 Laketree Blvd., Spring Lake

• Spring Lake Rec Center @ 245 Ruth St, Spring Lake

• Sunnyside Elementary @ 3876 Sunnyside School Rd., Fayetteville

• Walker Spivey Elementary @ 500 Fisher St, Fayetteville

• Westover Rec Center @ 267 Bonanza Dr., Fayetteville

Meal distribution times do vary at different locations, but are all between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.  For specific pick-up times at the location nearest you, check the Child Nutrition Services website at www.ccs.k12.nc.us/page/child-nutrition-services.

In addition to locations and meal times, you will also find additional information about each location.  Many meal locations are at schools and recreation centers that also have activities for kids and families to enjoy while they are getting their lunches, such as playgrounds, splash pads, and gymnasiums.  Not all locations have additional amenities, so be sure to check out the website for details.

While summer should be a time of rest and fun for school-aged kids, it’s hard to enjoy the free time when you are hungry.  And the reality for many families is that they depend on meals provided at school to fill gaps in what is available at home, from August through May.  Cumberland County Schools wants to make sure to continue to fill those gaps, even when the classrooms are empty. This is why each summer, the Child Nutrition Services works hard to get meals distributed to kids who need them, all around Cumberland County.  For additional information, check https://www.ccs.k12.nc.us/page/child-nutrition-services or call 910-678-2502.

When school lets out at the end of May, most kids are jumping for joy and can’t wait for weeks on end of sleeping late, trips to swimming pools, vacations, camps, and more.  But for a lot of kids in our community, being on break from school means missing out on the availability of a reliable lunch Monday through Friday.  The Cumberland County School Child Nutrition department is on a mission to fill that gap for most of the summer for as many kids as possible.

From June 1 through July 31, Child Nutrition Services provides free lunches to kids 18 and younger at locations throughout Cumberland County.  There is no income requirement to receive these free meals.  They are offered on a first-come, first-served basis; no registration required.  Children must be present to receive a meal, and the meals must be eaten on site.

These meals provide kids with important nutrients needed to support growing bodies, but are still fun foods that kids want to eat.  Each meal includes vegetables, fruit, and cold milk.  A complete menu of what meals are served on which days throughout June and July can be found on the Child Nutrition Services website.

Meals are available at the following locations:

• Cliffdale Rec Center @ 6404 Cliffdale Rd., Fayetteville

• College Lakes Elementary @ 4963 Rosehill Rd., Fayetteville

• Hope Mills Municipal Park @ 5766 Rockfish Rd., Hope Mills

• Kiwanis Rec Center @ 352 Devers St, Fayetteville

• Lake Rim Elementary @ 1455 Hoke Loop Rd., Fayetteville

• Massey Hill Rec Center @ 1612 Camden Rd., Fayetteville

• Mendoza Park @ 1774 Little River Rd., Spring Lake

• Roy Turner Park @ 4623 Blanton Rd., Fayetteville

• Smith Rec Center @ 1520 Slater Ave, Fayetteville

• Spring Lake Library @ 101 Laketree Blvd., Spring Lake

• Spring Lake Rec Center @ 245 Ruth St, Spring Lake

• Sunnyside Elementary @ 3876 Sunnyside School Rd., Fayetteville

• Walker Spivey Elementary @ 500 Fisher St, Fayetteville

• Westover Rec Center @ 267 Bonanza Dr., Fayetteville

Meal distribution times do vary at different locations, but are all between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.  For specific pick-up times at the location nearest you, check the Child Nutrition Services website at www.ccs.k12.nc.us/page/child-nutrition-services.

In addition to locations and meal times, you will also find additional information about each location.  Many meal locations are at schools and recreation centers that also have activities for kids and families to enjoy while they are getting their lunches, such as playgrounds, splash pads, and gymnasiums.  Not all locations have additional amenities, so be sure to check out the website for details.

While summer should be a time of rest and fun for school-aged kids, it’s hard to enjoy the free time when you are hungry.  And the reality for many families is that they depend on meals provided at school to fill gaps in what is available at home, from August through May.  Cumberland County Schools wants to make sure to continue to fill those gaps, even when the classrooms are empty. This is why each summer, the Child Nutrition Services works hard to get meals distributed to kids who need them, all around Cumberland County.  For additional information, check https://www.ccs.k12.nc.us/page/child-nutrition-services or call 910-678-2502.