WS/FCS Board of Education Republicans Share Safety, Discipline Plans

GOP candidates in Forsyth County propose changes to student code of conduct and increased security measures

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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As 37 candidates vie for nine seats on the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education, the 10 Republican candidates in District 2 are addressing concerns about school safety and student discipline. The candidates shared their ideas on revamping the district's Code of Character, Conduct, and Support, as well as proposals to increase security, such as implementing OPENGATE weapons-detection systems and working more closely with the Forsyth County Sheriff's Department.

Why it matters

School safety and student discipline have emerged as key issues in the WS/FCS Board of Education race, with candidates offering differing views on how to address these concerns. The Republican candidates' proposals could significantly impact the district's policies and procedures if they are elected to the board.

The details

The Republican candidates in District 2 are calling for a stricter code of conduct that would impose more accountability and consequences for student misbehavior. Some proposals include removing disruptive students from classrooms, requiring them to shadow professionals, and involving parents when students repeatedly act out. The candidates also want to see increased security measures, such as more OPENGATE systems and closer coordination with the sheriff's department, to address issues like gang activity around schools.

  • The WS/FCS Board of Education election will be held in November 2026.
  • Only four of the ten District 2 Republican candidates will advance to the general election.

The players

Jill Nelson Berlin

A radio show host and entrepreneur who says the current code of conduct needs more accountability and punishment for student misbehavior.

Allen Daniel

A former software writer and math teacher who says the code of conduct needs to address student behavior starting in pre-K.

Derrick Hinson

A former Guilford County teacher who says disruptive students should be removed from classrooms and placed in in-school suspension.

Zach Hubbard

A combat veteran who proposes working more closely with the Forsyth County Sheriff's Department to improve school safety, though acknowledges budget constraints.

Tracy Lesser

A former accountant who supports implementing additional OPENGATE weapons-detection systems in the district's schools.

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What they’re saying

“The code of conduct. There's got to be more accountability. There's got to be punishment. There's got to be strict rules that are followed. And teachers have to be supported, because right now they feel like they aren't.”

— Jill Nelson Berlin, Radio show host and entrepreneur (WXII)

“It has to start the first day of pre-K, walking in the building. This is the way life is in school. You have to share. You have to get along with others. You can't lash out.”

— Allen Daniel, Former software writer and math teacher (WXII)

“Teachers must be in the hallway, admin must be in the hallway. Between classes, you've got five minutes. I walked, I stayed outside. You want to greet students as they come in the door as a teacher to begin with.”

— Derrick Hinson, Former Guilford County teacher (WXII)

What’s next

The WS/FCS Board of Education election will be held in November 2026, and only four of the ten District 2 Republican candidates will advance to the general election.

The takeaway

The Republican candidates in the WS/FCS Board of Education race are proposing significant changes to the district's student discipline policies and increased security measures, highlighting the importance of these issues to voters in Forsyth County. The outcome of the election could have a major impact on the future direction of the school district.