Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education Chair Dee Rankin says he has no plans to resign as criticism continues over the board’s decision to fire former Superintendent Crystal Hill. Several online petitions call for board members who voted to remove Hill to step down. The largest has collected just over 1,100 signatures. Rankin said he understands residents’ concerns but urged the public to let ongoing investigations proceed while board leaders continue their work. The board was scheduled to meet Tuesday evening, Oct. 13, with 42 people signed up for public comment. About 10 were expected to speak about Hill’s firing. Rankin said the board’s rules bar comments about individual student matters, vulgar language and personal attacks. District 1 representative Dr. Charllitta Hatch said in a statement that her commitment to the district goes beyond any single vote. She said she welcomes engagement from people who agree and disagree with her decisions. Former board Chair Stephanie Sneed said last week she did not intend to resign. Vice Chair Liz Monterrey Duval, who also voted to fire Hill, had not responded to a request for comment by Monday evening. Board members’ terms run through 2029. Rankin said he would not step down “at this moment.” He also noted that Tuesday’s meeting included other board business, including work on policies. The scheduled public comment offers residents a chance to raise concerns as the board faces pressure over its leadership decision.