Huntsville City Schools (HCS) has received recognition from a federal judge for its continued progress under the district’s long standing consent order.
Chief U.S. District Judge Madeline Haikala issued an opinion on the Board of Education’s pending Motion for Unitary Status in three areas known as Green Factors: Faculty/Staff, Extracurricular Activities, and Facilities.
In her ruling, Judge Haikala released the district from federal supervision in both Faculty/Staff and Extracurricular Activities, granting Huntsville City Schools unitary status in those two areas.
Regarding Facilities, Judge Haikala noted, “The record demonstrates that the Huntsville Board of Education has complied in good faith with the facilities requirements in the 2015 consent order.”
Before issuing a final ruling on the Facilities Green Factor, the Court is providing an opportunity for the Desegregation Advisory Committee (DAC) to meet.
“This is an important milestone for Huntsville City Schools and a reflection of years of intentional work for all students,” said Superintendent Dr. Clarence Sutton. “We are encouraged by the Court’s recognition of our progress and remain committed to continuing this work."
If the Court ultimately grants the motion related to Facilities, Huntsville City Schools will have achieved unitary status in four of the seven Green Factors required for full release from federal oversight. The remaining areas include Equitable Access to Course Offerings and Programs, Student Discipline, and Student Assignment.