NCAE Statement on Governor Cooper's Proposed Budget

RALEIGH – Today, the North Carolina Association of Educators released the following statement in regards to Governor Cooper's proposed state budget:

“Every day, educators across North Carolina show up because we believe in the future of our youngest generation, and they are doing great work despite being asked to do more and more, with less and less. Unfortunately, the strain on our school communities shows in rising teacher turnover and large-scale staff vacancies. North Carolinians want our state to invest in excellent public schools, because they too believe in a high-quality education for our children.
 
Governor Cooper’s proposed budget makes it clear that he shares that commitment to provide every child with a high-quality education, an excellent teacher, and a well-funded school.

Among the highlights of that commitment:

• Funds to hire more professionals in our schools including teacher assistants, school counselors, nurses, social workers, and psychologists;
• Additional support for children with disabilities;
• Major investments in childcare and school construction;
• More free lunches for eligible students;
• Significant salary increases for teachers and school staff; and
• A moratorium on private school vouchers.

Governor Cooper’s budget shows there is a path for our state’s elected leaders to unite behind a vision for excellent public schools. It is within our means and within our grasp. Our kids, families, and communities that depend on public education are waiting for us to make the right choice.”

- Tamika Walker Kelly, NCAE President

NCAE is North Carolina’s leading voice for educational excellence, for children and their families, and for the public schools they count on. As 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.