Skip Navigation
Read Our Plan Get Involved The Plan to Win
Legal Support
Join PAC Private School Vouchers 2025-26 Legislative Priorities Immigrant and School Safety Toolkit
Press Office Updates from NCAE Union Elections 2026 NCAE Convention and Representative Assembly
Become a Member Become a Community Ally
Online Learning Portal Micro-credentials ESP Professional Growth National Board Certification W.E.L.L. Center
Our Mission, Vision & Values Our Leaders Our Members Contact Us Member Benefits
Welcome to the Portal Principals/Administrators Division Student Services Division Educator Free Speech Member Support Member Organizer Tools & Resources Advocacy & Action NBIs Environmental Justice
We use cookies to offer you a better browsing experience, provide ads, analyze site traffic, and personalize content. If you continue to use this site, you consent to our use of cookies.
Press Release

NCAE Applauds Governor Stein’s Call for Educator Pay Raises

The budget proposal includes a nearly $4 million investment in education, with teacher pay increases and restored master’s pay.
NCAE
By: NCAE Communications
Published: March 9, 2026

Raleigh, NC — The North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) is applauding Governor Josh Stein’s call for the General Assembly to fund North Carolina’s critical needs, including raises for educators.

Part of Governor Stein’s budget proposal includes nearly $4 million for public education to:

  • Increase teacher pay by 13%
  • Provide a nearly 6% average raise to all teachers
  • Restore extra pay for teachers who have master’s degrees

“Governor Stein, like many North Carolinians, understands the value and importance of investing in our public schools," said Tamika Walker Kelly, NCAE President. "Paying educators a dignified, livable wage is the only way we can remain competitive in recruiting and retaining teachers and ensure our children receive the quality education they deserve.

Unlike the General Assembly, the governor continues to demonstrate his commitment to building a brighter future for the children and working-class families of North Carolina.”

North Carolina Association of Educators logo

A leading voice for educational excellence

The North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) is our leading voice for educational excellence, for children and their families, and for the public schools they count on. As the public school employees union and the largest association of professional educators in North Carolina, our membership extends to all 100 counties and includes teachers, non-classified school staff, administrators, students, retirees, and community allies. NCAE believes that every child has a right to a high-quality education, an excellent teacher, and a well-funded school.
About Us
Join NCAE
Our Strategic Plan

The North Carolina Association of Educators is a state affiliate of the National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest professional employee organization. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.

Learn more at NEA.org

Signup

Indicates Required

Validate your NCAE membership to create an account and access members-only content.

Use the same first and last name as your NCAE membership.

Find your member ID on the mailing label of NEA Today or by emailing [email protected].
A valid email address. All emails from the system will be sent to this address. The email address is not made public and will only be used if you wish to receive a new password.

Login

Indicates Required

Log in to access content only available to NCAE members.