To keep pace with continued student growth in the northwestern portion of Cabarrus County, the Cabarrus County Board of Education has unanimously approved a temporary limited enrollment cap for W.R. Odell Primary School and W.R. Odell Elementary School. This decision is meant to reduce overcrowding, keep students safe, and protect the quality of learning for students and staff.

The limited enrollment cap will remain in place until a new elementary school opens in the northwest area of the county, currently projected for the fall of 2028. Cabarrus County has already purchased land for the future northwest elementary school at 11151 Sudbury Road, showing early planning as the area continues to grow. Construction of the new school will require funding approval from the Cabarrus County Commissioners.

District leaders say the cap is a short-term solution while long-term plans move forward. 

“Our goal is to make sure every student learns in a safe, high-quality school,” said Dr. John Kopicki, Superintendent of Cabarrus County Schools. “This temporary step helps us manage crowding now while we continue planning for the future growth of our community.”  

Beginning April 1, 2026, any new students in grades one through five who live north of Highway 73 within the Odell attendance area and enroll for the 2026–2027 school year or later will be assigned to Carl A. Furr Elementary School as their school of attendance. Kindergarten students will continue to enroll at their assigned home school.

Carl A. Furr Elementary School is located at 2725 Clover Rd NW in Concord.

Questions about sibling enrollments will continue to be handled according to Board of Education Policy 4150. In addition, staff members who work at Odell Primary School, Odell Elementary School, or Harris Road Middle School will still be allowed to enroll their children at those schools.

The limited enrollment cap applies to families of new enrollees north of Highway 73 within the Odell attendance area who enroll in Cabarrus County Schools after April 1, 2026. Students affected by the cap will attend Carl A. Furr Elementary School until boundaries are created for the new northwest area elementary school. Transportation will be provided by the district for students who live in the capped area and are assigned to Carl A. Furr.

The limited enrollment cap will begin with the 2026–2027 school year and will stay in place until the new northwest elementary school opens. District leaders stress that the cap is temporary and will be lifted once the new school is ready to welcome students.

For more information, please visit Engage with CCS. All questions should be directed to capping@cabarrus.k12.nc.us.