Charlotte, North Carolina, October 22, 2025
News Summary
Mo Green, the North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction, has introduced a comprehensive five-year plan aimed at elevating public education in the state. The initiative focuses on high academic performance, character development, and enhancing public school quality. Supported by educators and community stakeholders, the plan outlines measurable goals including increasing public school attendance rates and improving graduation outcomes. With ambitious targets in place, the reform effort aims to position North Carolina’s public schools among the best in the nation.
Charlotte, North Carolina
North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction, Mo Green, has announced an ambitious five-year plan aimed at transforming public schools within the state into the best in the nation. During a presentation at West Charlotte High, he received enthusiastic support from the audience, creating an atmosphere of excitement and commitment to educational reform.
Following his election in November and subsequent swearing-in on January, Green initiated a comprehensive tour across the state’s eight education regions to introduce his strategic plan, titled “Achieving Educational Excellence.” His presentation outlined three main goals: achieving high academic performance, fostering character development, and creating premier public schools across North Carolina.
Mo Green emphasized that the plan is a collaborative effort, incorporating the insights and feedback of educators and community members from across North Carolina. This blueprint was shaped after a listening tour that spanned from February to May, during which Green gathered valuable input from various stakeholders. An initial draft of the strategic plan was presented to the State Board of Education in June and received unanimous approval on August 7.
The detailed plan is structured around eight critical pillars, seven measurable goals, and outlines 110 specific actions to be executed in the next four and a half years. Supporting Green’s vision, Crystal Hill, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools superintendent, expressed robust backing, aligning with Amanda Thompson, the president of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Association of Educators. They both affirmed that the plan resonates with educators’ priorities and aligns with community needs.
Currently, North Carolina’s public schools serve approximately 84% of children in the state, with a target to increase this percentage to 89% within five years. Additionally, the state’s goal for the four-year high school graduation rate aims for an increase from 87.7% to 92% by the end of this period. Notably, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ graduation rate currently stands at 84.3%, which falls below the state average.
The plan also targets enhancements in student performance metrics, seeking to elevate the average ACT composite score from 18.5 to 20. Furthermore, participation in advanced placement courses for students in grades 10 through 12 is currently recorded at 21.5%, with aspirations to increase this figure to 30% by 2030. In terms of career and technical education (CTE) participation, the current figure is at 36.1%, with a goal set to reach 41% by 2030.
In terms of educator compensation, the plan aims for North Carolina to lead the Southeast, despite its current ranking as low for teacher pay nationally. On average, the state spends $5,000 less per student compared to the national average and between $3,000 to $4,000 less than neighboring states like Virginia and South Carolina. A significant goal of the plan is for North Carolina to excel in reading and math scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).
To ensure accountability, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) will provide regular updates to each district regarding their progress toward these statewide goals. Meanwhile, educational equity continues to be a pressing issue, illustrated by over 200 Union County teachers planning to demonstrate for higher pay, protesting against a proposed $1,000 supplement increase, which many believe to be inadequate.
Union County Public Schools currently ranks 37th in the state for teacher compensation, with the finance committee initially recommending a $2,000 supplement but later reducing it to the current proposal. Likewise, the Wake County School District is addressing issues of overcrowding with a new 2026-2027 School Enrollment Plan, set to be voted on by the Wake County School Board on November 18, as some schools, such as White Oak Elementary and Apex Friendship High, are experiencing significant enrollment caps.
FAQs
What are the main goals of Mo Green’s five-year plan for North Carolina public schools?
The plan has three main goals: high academic achievement, character development, and creating the best public schools in the country.
How many children currently attend public schools in North Carolina?
North Carolina’s public schools currently serve 84% of the state’s children, and the plan aims to increase this to 89%.
What is the target for North Carolina’s four-year high school graduation rate?
The statewide four-year high school graduation rate goal is set to rise from 87.7% to 92% by the end of the five years.
What is the current amount spent per student in North Carolina compared to the national average?
The state spends about $5,000 less per student than the national average and $3,000 to $4,000 less than neighboring Virginia and South Carolina.
Key Features of Mo Green’s Five-Year Plan
| Feature | Current Status | Target Status |
|---|---|---|
| Public School Attendance | 84% | 89% |
| High School Graduation Rate | 87.7% | 92% |
| Average ACT Score | 18.5 | 20 |
| Advanced Placement Participation (Grades 10-12) | 21.5% | 30% |
| CTE Participation | 36.1% | 41% |
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Additional Resources
- ABC11: Wake County Releases New Enrollment Plan
- Charlotte Observer: North Carolina’s Education Plan
- WSOC TV: Union County Teachers Rally for Higher Pay
- NC Newsline: Afterschool Programs Accessibility Report
- QC News: Union County School Leaders on Teacher Pay
- Google Search: North Carolina education system
Author: HERE Charlotte
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