As North Carolina students and educators gear up for a new school year, Governor Josh Stein has announced significant investments aimed at bolstering education in the state. During the latest NC Strong Update, the Governor, alongside a student, a teacher, and a principal, highlighted the state’s efforts to strengthen public education through enhanced funding and strategic initiatives.
Addressing Education Funding
North Carolina’s current position near the bottom nationally in per-pupil funding is a concern, with the state spending $5,660 less per student than the national average. The newly enacted budget seeks to address this shortfall by investing in essential educational resources, though more progress is needed.
Boosting Teacher Salaries
Governor Stein recently approved North Carolina’s first full state budget in over two years, marking a significant increase in teacher compensation. The budget includes an average 8% raise for teachers, the largest in two decades, and a 17% increase in starting pay, the highest in nearly 50 years.
“Teachers are the single most important in-school factor in a student’s success, and they deserve to be valued accordingly,” said Governor Josh Stein. “For too long, North Carolina has struggled to be competitive in teacher pay and support, but this budget puts us back on track.”
Enhancing Student Learning
The budget allocates funds to expand programs that enhance student learning and teacher development. It extends the Advanced Teaching Roles initiative, promotes early literacy through diagnostic assessments and Science of Reading training, and introduces Mathematics Success Plans to improve math achievement. Additionally, AI literacy is being integrated into curricula, and school safety measures are being upgraded.
“We need to do what works when it comes to educating our kids,” said Governor Josh Stein. “The training all North Carolina elementary school teachers have now received on the Science of Reading is helping kids build a strong foundation in reading.”
Focusing on Principal Recruitment
To improve leadership in low-performing schools, the budget expands the Principal Recruitment Supplement Program. High-performing principals are incentivized to join these schools, where they can drive student success and transformation.
“Principals with a demonstrated record of improving student achievement can produce both immediate academic gains and lasting improvement,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Through investments like the Principal Recruitment Supplement Program, we recognize and reward our excellent principals.”
Streamlining DMV Services
The Governor also provided updates on DMV services, highlighting reduced wait times and improved customer experiences. The DMV has implemented online transaction capabilities and a new document upload tool, helping over 337,000 customers complete transactions without visiting a DMV office.
“I am really proud of our team at DMV for providing excellent customer service throughout the summer rush,” said Governor Josh Stein. “To ensure you have the best experience possible, remember to check live wait times at visitDMV.nc.gov before you go to the DMV.”
Celebrating NC Awards
Governor Stein announced the recipients of the 2026 North Carolina Awards, honoring individuals who have made significant contributions in fine arts, literature, public service, and science. Proceeds from the awards ceremony will support charities aiding veterans and military families, including Blue Star Families and Camp Corral.
“Our 2026 recipients represent the best of our state, and it is a privilege to honor these outstanding people,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I am also honored to focus this year’s awards ceremony on supporting active and former servicemembers.”
- Literature: Jason Mott
- Public Service: Richard Petty
- Public Service: Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen (Ret.)
- Public Service: Dr. Randy Woodson
- Science: Dr. Lindsay Zanno
- Fine Arts: Beverly McIver
Read More Here
