Former Lee County student urges schools to apply for 'Learning Happens Here' field‑trip fund

Malia Lyle, a Lee County Schools alum and current coordinator for tours and volunteers at the North Carolina State Capitol, urged the Lee County Board of Education during public comment to consider applying to the Learning Happens Here Fund, a DNCR (Department of Natural and Cultural Resources) initiative that can cover field‑trip expenses including substitute teachers, bus transportation, food and admissions.

Lyle said she noticed schools from neighboring counties participating and wanted Lee County students to have the same access. “First time applicants have an acceptance rate of 98 percent. And I want my county to go,” Lyle said. She encouraged district staff to contact Rebecca Barefoot, the fund’s main coordinator, whom Lyle said could help arrange charters or cover substitute costs.

Lyle described the Capitol as an active learning space where students can meet legislators and experience government in session. She offered to leave printed information for board members and said she would be available after the meeting to share materials and answer questions.

Board members thanked Lyle and arranged for staff to take a photograph and collect her materials after the meeting. The public comment did not result in a board action at the meeting but the district indicated staff would follow up.