As more educators across North Carolina ask how to create real change in their communities, many are exploring a powerful next step: running for office. The See Educators Run program is helping turn that interest into action—equipping educators with the skills, confidence, and support they need to lead.
In November, a dozen participants from North Carolina took part in the training as they prepared for potential campaigns for school board, county commission, and other local offices. They trained alongside educators from sixteen other states, all brought together by the National Education Association to sharpen the skills required to step into public leadership. Together, they represented a growing wave of educators running for office to defend and strengthen public schools in their own communities.
For participants like Amanda Anthony, an FCAE member and candidate for Rural Hall Town Council, the program offered clarity and direction. “See Educators Run helps you figure out whether running for office is right for you and where you want to start,” Anthony shared.
The See Educators Run training focused on the essential building blocks of a successful campaign. Participants refined one-minute stump speeches, practiced message discipline and bridging techniques for public forums, learned how to set and reach a vote goal, strengthened fundraising strategies and direct-ask skills, and worked through field planning and volunteer recruitment.
For many, the practical focus made the process of running for office feel more accessible. “Going in, you don’t know a lot, and See Educators Run helps with fundraising, field, and how to actually get votes,” Anthony said.
Beyond technical skills, the training also created space for connection and reflection. Participants clarified their purpose, shared lived experiences, and supported one another—bringing a wide range of perspectives that added depth to every workshop and conversation.
Across the state, more educators are stepping up to run for office in 2026, building on the momentum created by programs like See Educators Run. Educators bring firsthand knowledge of what students and schools need—and when they lead, communities benefit.
If you’re interested in learning more about the process of running for office, or if you’re already running and want to learn about upcoming training opportunities, click here to connect. We want to support you as you consider your next steps.
Educators know our communities. When we step forward to lead, we bring our values—and our commitment to students—into the public square.
