Thomas County Branch of the NAACP, et al. v. City of Thomasville School District, Docket No. 6:98-CV-63 (WLS) Witness Review

The Thomas County Branch Of The National Association For The Advancement Of Colored People, Shernika Holton, Gladys Shotwell, Spencer Wilson, Sandra Mcintyre, Mary Hill, Willie Mae Lewis, Jennifer Hightower, Evelyn Wilkerson, Sharon Bostick, Audrey Linder, And Lisa Webb versus City Of Thomasville School District case began on July 21, 2003. The case lasted for two weeks and two days ending on August 6, 2003.

During the course of the trial the plaintiffs provided a total of 27 witnesses. Among the list of witnesses were nine parents, whom testified about their children’s experience within the school district. Three students testified about their personal experiences. Nine expert witnesses testified on the historical background of the district, curriculum offerings in the Elementary and high School, statistical evidence on the placement of students under the District’s policy, discipline, as well as the special education and gifted programs. Other witnesses included the President of the Thomas County Branch of the NAACP and five school officials including former principals, teachers and a member of the School council.

Over the course of the trial, the defense presented testimony from an expert witness on the history of the school district, an expert on curriculum, six principals, two school administrators, and the district superintendent.