Many families in Cumberland County believe the time has come to decide whether faith is simply professed or actively lived out. For them, the issue at hand is not only political but spiritual, moral, and deeply personal. It centers on protecting children, empowering parents, and standing for truth when systems fall short.
Supporters argue that faith driven responsibility begins with stewardship. Scripture teaches that parents are entrusted with their children’s development, and when educational systems fail to recognize legitimate needs or delay support, families carry the burden. Believers, they say, cannot remain silent when policies or practices deny children the help they need to thrive.
A recent case before the Office of Administrative Hearings reflects what many parents say they experience quietly. One mother reports seeking an Individualized Education Program, called an IEP, for nearly three years. According to her complaint, she alleges repeated denials and claims that grades were altered to make her son appear more successful than he was.
Advocates say her story mirrors a broader pattern across North Carolina.
“Here we go again”
Parents point to a July 25, 2025 decision from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, which found Cumberland County Schools in violation of federal regulations and state policies regarding Child Find obligations, timely referrals, and evaluation procedures. Child Find laws require schools to identify and evaluate students suspected of having disabilities. DPI concluded that delays and failures to open referrals did not meet legal requirements.
Families say similar concerns continue today.
Faith and advocacy
For many believers, the debate extends beyond policy into questions of justice. Faith leaders emphasize Scripture’s call to defend those who cannot defend themselves. When a child struggles academically or medically, they argue that child deserves timely support—not delay.
The complaint filed Jan. 20, 2026, alleges that verbal requests for evaluation were made over multiple school years but were not acted upon within required timelines. Parents navigating the system often describe feeling overwhelmed or unheard, making community awareness essential.
A statewide effort for accountability
The issue now reaches beyond Cumberland County. A federal lawsuit, Cynthia Lee, et al. v. Cumberland County Schools, et al. (EDNC No. 5:25 cv 746), seeks certification that could include families statewide who experienced similar delays or denials.
Parents or guardians who requested testing, asked for an IEP referral meeting but were denied, or received a meeting after the 90 day legal timeline may contact attorney Robert Ekstrand at 919-452 4647 or rce@ninthstreetlaw.com for information about their rights.
Advocates say help often begins with a single phone call or email.
They argue that strong families build strong communities—and protecting children must become a clear priority. When systems drift from accountability, they say faithful citizens must respond with courage and conviction. Kingdom influence means standing in the gap for parents who feel unheard and for children whose futures depend on timely support.
The question before the community, advocates say, is simple: Will citizens remain silent, or will they lead?

Editor's note: Tracy C. Pelt-Waterford is PR chair for the Cumberland County Republican Women’s Club and writes on parental rights, education accountability, religious liberty and community leadership. She is founder of C2C Equipping Institute and advocates for civic engagement rooted in God, country, family and freedom.