Almost 350 K-12 leaders from across the state attended the opening of NCASA’s 2025 Conference on Educational Leadership this morning, where Governor Josh Stein and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Mo Green both made remarks about public school priorities. The two state leaders spoke after an opening keynote session on leadership by Flip Flippen, a New York Times best-selling author and motivational speaker.
Governor Stein began by recognizing the strong leaders in western districts impacted by Hurricane Helene. In his remarks, he highlighted key education priorities outlined in his state budget proposal last week, which include raising teacher pay, investing in literacy, providing universal free breakfast, and providing a $4 billion bond referendum for school construction. Additional information about his budget priorities can be found here.
Stein also touted public schools as something North Carolina leaders, business, and citizens should uplift and champion.
“Where you come from should not limit how far you can go,” Stein said. “Delivering on that promise starts in North Carolina’s public schools.”
Superintendent Mo Green followed with an uplifting speech focused on gratitude, vision, and advice for school and district leaders. He thanked school leaders for their remarkable work in their communities. Superintendent Green also indicated his vision is for North Carolina public schools to be the very best in the country. He believes North Carolina can accomplish this by elevating and investing in educators, while supporting safe and secure learning environments. He also advised school leaders to continually engage parents and celebrate accomplishments amidst challenging times.
“There’s chaos all around, but I know my leaders will lead,” Green said, adding that school leaders need to take care of themselves and share the stories of the great things happening for students.
“We have got to celebrate the good of public education every day.” Green said. “Every moment, there’s something wonderful happening in our schools. Let’s celebrate. Excellence is the only option!
