More than 300 teachers, administrators, school staff, students, parents and community members gathered at Westover High School tonight to engage in an open conversation with North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice "Mo" Green as part of his statewide “Mo Wants to Know” listening and learning tour.
Cumberland County Schools proudly hosted the Sandhills Region stop of the tour, which is one of eight sessions taking place across the state. Green is using these sessions to hear directly from citizens about the current state and future of public education in North Carolina. Feedback gathered will inform the development of the next statewide comprehensive strategic plan for public education.
The session focused on four key themes:
What public schools are currently doing well and should be celebrated
Emerging challenges and potential solutions
Innovative ideas from everyday citizens to improve education
Immediate actions public education advocates can take to make a difference
In a packed auditorium, community members gathered to share diverse perspectives on key education issues. Passionate attendees emphasized the urgency of tackling chronic absenteeism; raising salaries for teachers, bus drivers and cafeteria staff; expanding Pre-K programs and addressing students’ social-emotional needs. Other priorities included increasing vocational curriculum offerings, responding to recent federal policies and ensuring every school has a dedicated nurse.
Green noted that the feedback gathered during the tour will be shared with the State Board of Education and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction to inform upcoming strategic planning efforts. He also urged attendees to stay involved and continue raising their voices to support public education in North Carolina.
"I want to thank you for being a champion of public education," said Green. "And, I want to remind 'us' one more time, as I conclude, this isn't about me doing this. All of us together will make public education in North Carolina the best in the country when we do it together."
Community members who were unable to attend the event are still invited to share their input by visiting the “Mo Wants to Know” online feedback portal at
https://go.ncdpi.gov/mwtk.
Moments Captured During Listening & Learning Session
