Education

Every child deserves quality education regardless of their zip code. Our coalition is fighting to fully fund our public schools and raise teacher pay to at least the national average.

Our coalition supports:

  • Fully funding our schools. Every student deserves access to a quality education. Because North Carolina spends $3,692 less than the national average on students, it’s clear that Raleigh has not prioritized our schools. Terri LeGrand supports raising per pupil spending to at least the national average so North Carolina can fulfill its constitutional duty to provide a sound, basic education.
  • Raising teacher pay to at least the national average. Our teachers are working two or more jobs just to make ends meet – all while spending roughly $500 out of pocket to make sure their students have classroom supplies. While Joyce Krawiec brags about raising teacher pay, teachers have said that her $350 bonus before taxes is not enough, and Governor Cooper described the pay raise as inadequate.
  • Ensuring health and safety during COVID-19. Whether it’s K-12 or higher education, no student should be put at risk in order to get an education. 
  • Fighting for equity and equality. During Joyce Krawiec’s terms in the North Carolina Senate, school segregation has worsened. The outcome of a student’s education should not be determined by the color of their skin or by their zip code. Our coalition believes every child receives the education they need and deserve to reach their full potential.
  • Investing in higher education. North Carolina’s community colleges and universities have a renowned reputation for excellence; however, due to inadequate investment, the cost to students continues to rise. More than 60% of college graduates in North Carolina have student loan debt, and the average student loan borrower in North Carolina owes more than $25,000.
  • Making bold investments in job training and workforce development. College isn’t the path for everyone, which is why we support job training programs in every community, as well as Governor Cooper’s Finish Line Grants Program, Governor Cooper’s NC Job Ready initiative and investing in trade schools through community colleges.
  • Supporting the workers who support us. Cafeteria workers, bus drivers, custodians and other school support staff are critically underpaid. All school employees deserve a living wage with full benefits. No one working in our public schools should have to work two or more jobs just to put food on the table.
  • Providing access to early childhood education. Early education is the foundation for the future of all children. We support Governor Cooper’s North Carolina Early Childhood Advisory Council (NCECAC) and the NC Early Childhood Action Plan – which focuses on health, safety and success. We believe every child should have access to quality childcare, regardless of family income.