Building a Brighter Future for Our Public Schools

I believe that education is not merely a pathway to success; it is the bedrock of a thriving and equitable society and democracy. Every child deserves access to a world-class education and we all must understand the pivotal role that schools play in shaping the future of our children.

My Vision for NC Public Schools

Ensure Full Funding:
North Carolina’s public schools are the backbone of our communities, and it's essential they receive the financial support they need to succeed. I am committed to advocating for full and fair funding for all public schools, ensuring that every classroom is equipped with the resources necessary for a high-quality education. This includes up-to-date textbooks, technology, well-maintained facilities, and support services that cater to the diverse needs of our students. With full funding, we can reduce class sizes, expand enrichment programs, and provide our teachers with the tools they need to inspire and educate the next generation.

Promote Equity:
Every child deserves a fair start, and that begins with equitable access to education. My vision is to close the educational gaps that persist across our state by promoting policies that address disparities based on income, race, geography, and other factors. Equity means ensuring that schools in underfunded districts receive the resources they need to offer the same level of education as those in more affluent areas. I will fight for funding formulas that prioritize need, support bilingual education, and provide targeted interventions to help every student reach their full potential. By leveling the playing field, we can ensure that every child in North Carolina has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of where they live or their background.

Empower Teachers:
Our teachers are the heart of our education system, and they deserve our unwavering support. I will advocate for fair and competitive salaries that reflect the vital role teachers play in shaping our future. Beyond pay, teachers need access to continuous professional development opportunities that allow them to grow and innovate in their roles. I will push for the resources necessary to create positive teaching environments, including adequate classroom supplies, mental health support, and smaller class sizes. Empowering teachers also means involving them in policy decisions that affect their classrooms, ensuring their voices are heard and respected at every level of education reform.

Ensure Every Student Can Thrive:
For our students to truly thrive, they must feel safe, supported, and valued in their school environments. I am committed to fostering secure and inclusive schools where diversity is celebrated and every student, regardless of their identity, feels a sense of belonging. This includes implementing anti-bullying programs, promoting mental health awareness, and ensuring that schools have the resources to address the needs of all students, including those with disabilities, LGBTQ+ students, and students from historically marginalized communities. By creating a nurturing environment, we can help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the confidence and skills they need to thrive in life.

Address Voucher Impacts:
The rise of private school vouchers threatens the financial stability of our public schools by diverting essential resources away from the students who need them most. I will work to address the negative impact that vouchers have on public education by advocating for policies that ensure public funds are used to support public schools. This includes pushing for transparency and accountability in the use of vouchers and fighting for equitable resource distribution that prioritizes public education. Our focus must be on strengthening the public school system so that it serves all students effectively, rather than undermining it in favor of private interests.