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GREENSBORO — Scores of public school boosters helped convince county commissioners to put three education-related bond packages on the ballot this May.

If Thursday night's county commissioners' meeting was any indication, voters should expect to hear this spring from passionate parents and community leaders who want real schools, not trailers.

Boosters and detractors spoke out about the spending packages before commissioners agreed to place a total of five bonds on the May 6 ballot.

Here's a look at what people said and how the commissioners voted.

Guilford County Schools, $412.3 million

For four new schools, 13 renovation and addition projects and upgraded athletic facilities to eight high schools.

What they said: This bond boasted the most supporters. Sharon Shepherd of Jamestown said her research has shown that one in four students in Guilford County learns in trailers. Brick-and-mortar schools are a much better investment, she said, because they last longer.

Clarence Davis of High Point said Andrews High School desperately needs new air conditioning, something the bonds could supply.

Said Margaret Arbuckle, executive director of the Guilford Education Alliance: "The need of 10 years ago is even greater today."

Only one person, Leon Nutes of Greensboro, spoke against putting the bond on the ballot, saying he wanted more information on how the money would be spent.

How they voted: 9-1 in favor. Commissioner Steve Arnold voted against it. Commissioner Melvin "Skip" Alston was absent for all the bond votes Thursday night.

Guilford County jail, $114.6 million

For a 968-bed jail that would receive bids for construction in late 2008.

What they said: Catherine Netter, a detention service officer in Greensboro, said there are only two officers for every 150 inmates at the jail. That's too crowded for safe conditions, she said.

"We have to provide adequate space for those who have not yet learned to follow the law," she said.

Chief District Court Judge Joe Turner said, "It is dangerous. It is dirty. It is almost inhuman."

No one spoke against it.

How they voted: 8-2. Commissioners Carolyn Coleman and Bruce Davis opposed it.

GTCC, $79.5 million

For a northwest campus, an aviation training classroom; a parking deck, HVAC renovation and land purchase near existing campuses for expansion.

What they said: Don Cameron, president of GTCC, said the area's growing aviation industry will mean more students for the community college.

How they voted: 9-1. Arnold opposed it.

Eastern Guilford High, $45 million

For a new high school, already under construction, to replace the one that burned in 2006.

What they said: There was not much discussion on this topic. It's hard to argue against replacing a burned-out school. This bond likely will have the public's support.

Nutes was the only person to oppose putting the bond on the ballot.

How they voted: 10-0 in favor.

Parks and recreation, $20.2 million

For greenways, parks, upgraded athletic facilities and maybe a skate park.

What they said: Nothing. No one spoke for or against.

How they voted: 8-2. Arnold voted against it; Coleman left the room and her vote was counted as a "no."

Contact Margaret Moffett Banks at 373-7031 or margaret.banks@news-record.com