Ashley Elementary Reaches A Major Turning Point In Its Long Journey Forward

Following extensive community advocacy, board discussions, and bond measures, the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools district and Forsyth County Board of Commissioners have made significant strides in replacing one of the city's most troublesome school buildings. On November 7, commissioners sanctioned $500,000 in bond financing for Ashley Elementary School’s revitalization, which includes $50,000 for acquiring a 0.26-acre adjacent lot and $450,000 for architectural and construction expenditures. This land acquisition eliminates the costly need for a retaining wall, ultimately saving expenses.Ashley Elementary, originally a middle school from the 1960s and converted in the 1990s, has longstanding issues of overcrowding and maintenance neglect. Advocates have pursued a new facility since 2016, leading to a $46 million plan for a new school set to open in the 2026–27 academic year. While this recent approval marks progress, the complete funding for construction is yet to be secured, necessitating ongoing community engagement and oversight.