A long-standing initiative led by UNC-Chapel Hill to strengthen early childhood education across North Carolina is facing an uncertain future after losing federal support. The US Department of Education has recently written a notice to UNC-Chapel Hill, cancelling the federal grant that funds the university’s impactful SCRIPT-NC program.
When students return to public schools across North Carolina, they may notice some familiar faces missing. According to the News & Observer, budget cuts and delayed state funding have forced districts to eliminate hundreds of positions, freeze programs, and prepare for the possibility of even deeper federal cuts under the Trump administration.
Amid the back-to-school season, North Carolina teachers are facing significant financial challenges, ranking second in the nation for out-of-pocket spending on classroom essentials. The North Carolina Association of Educators notes that the out-of-pocket spending level is a 22% increase from last year’s average of $1,338.
“National reports indicate that the U.S. Department of Education has backed down and is releasing all frozen funds — $6.8 billion nationwide, including $165 million for North Carolina — after we filed suit last week. This should end weeks of uncertainty — our schools can now plan, hire, and prepare for a strong year ahead. My absolute best wishes to our state’s 1.5 million students who are ready to make this their best year yet,” said North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Mo Green, in a statement.
Governor Josh Stein has vetoed several bills that, if passed, would have an impact on North Carolina’s charter schools, environment, and the balance of political power.
“North Carolina families are struggling to find quality child care while centers are closing their doors, making it harder for children to get the education they need and for parents to go to work without worry,” stated Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt. “This Task Force has brought together industry leaders and community partners to find real solutions. While our work will continue, I believe this report lays out a path forward to make child care more accessible and affordable.”
Dozens of North Carolinians and local advocates read banned books outside of the state’s General Assembly, protesting against several Republican proposals. Tuesday’s read-in, organized by Red, Wine & Blue, included meetings with lawmakers to share concerns about book banning, discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, attempts to erase Black and other marginalized communities in our state, and voting rights.
The move has left hundreds of school systems and food banks reeling. They already face rising food prices and are struggling to help community members with growing food insecurity.
According to EdNC, Gov. Stein talked about his newly released state budget, which would raise teachers’ compensation 10.6% over the next two years, give higher raises for beginning teachers, restore master’s pay, and give smaller raises to administrators and other school staff.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein revealed his state spending plan, launching his first budget battle since taking office. The proposal includes more money for schools, Hurricane Helene recovery, and targeted tax cuts for working families.