Burke Schools weighs relocating Hallyburton Academy students to Draughn High

Discussions to relocate students from Hallyburton Academy, Burke County’s alternative school, have hit the table.

According to school officials, staff from Draughn High School and Hallyburton Academy learned of the proposal to move Hallyburton students to Draughn on Thursday at a faculty meeting.

How many students, faculty, and staff could potentially be impacted — as well as the possible timetable — have not yet been confirmed.

Cheryl Shuffler, the public relations officer at Burke County Public Schools, said that “no formal announcements” have been made, but relocation scenarios are being considered.

She clarified that the discussion is part of a proposal Superintendent Dr. Mike Swan intends to bring before the Board of Education at a future session.

Late last year, when the district gathered suggestions from directors for cost-saving measures to combat a $4.5 million deficit, “Hallyburton Relocation” appeared twice on the list, suggesting a potential savings of $356,043.

This is a developing story.

—JC