Thursday Wrap: Grading without a curve

The state issued its first letter grades for public schools statewide, and although most received C or above, the 30 percent that received a D or F were primarily in low-income areas.

Posted 12:29 a.m. Feb 6, 2015 — Updated 12:29 a.m. Feb 6, 2015

RALEIGH, N.C. — The state issued its first letter grades for public schools statewide, and although most received C or above, the 30 percent that received a D or F were primarily in low-income areas.

Some lawmakers want to change the formula created for the system, which emphasizes test scores and not how much improvement students show throughout the year. Others say the grades show the impact of education cuts in recent years.

Following Gov. Pat McCrory's State of the State address on Wednesday, questions swirled over his statement that 40 percent of workers compensation claims filed by state employees are fraudulent. His office hasn't provided evidence to back up the claim, and the State Employees Association of North Carolina called the allegation absurd.

McCrory also pushed for more economic development incentives in his speech, and Golden LEAF quickly ponied up $50 million to help North Carolina attract a car manufacturer.

In other news, the House gave tentative approval to a proposed constitutional amendment that would limit the power of government to seize private property through eminent domain.

Suggest A Correction