In overcrowded halls, learning vies for space: Solutions lag, leading to frustration at Alexander Middle.

Byline: Ann Doss Helms

Sep. 30--HUNTERSVILLE -- In overcrowded halls,

learning vies for space

Solutions lag, leading to frustration at Alexander Middle

Ann Doss Helms

HUNTERSVILLE -- When school picture day came for Alexander Middle, sixth-graders trekked across the street from their trailers at another school.

Five years ago, Mecklenburg voters OK'd money to plan an expansion and renovation of this 49-year-old Huntersville school.

Today the project is stalled by a shortage of money and a surplus of kids. Half the students spend their day in temporary classrooms, including 10 mobiles at Blythe Elementary.

This year's bond would build a new school to relieve the crowding. But the work at Alexander wouldn't be finished until 2012.

In this northern suburban district, yearning for new schools mingles with frustration over the slow pace of progress. Two years ago, voters rejected bonds that would have benefited this district more than any other.

Leaders say sentiment may be tipping toward support, but the emotional brew remains volatile.

"I'm having a tough time gauging where we're going to end up on this," says county commissioner Karen Bentley.

Bentley, of Huntersville, opposed putting the $516 million package on the ballot,…