Leaders in business, education, and government gathered in Raleigh today to discuss the future of student readiness. They were there as part of the "Many Voices, One Goal" Education Conference.
North Carolina leads the country in the number of innovative early college high schools and the number of national board certified teachers. But the state ranks near the bottom - 46th, to be exact - in per pupil funding. Governor Bev Perdue told the group of leaders today that that number is unlikely to improve anytime soon. She says Democrats and Republicans need to come together and make reasonable decisions on the future of education.
"Folks understand that I am very committed to good public schools, our university system, community colleges, and early childhood. I think the more people who speak out and speak up will help make good decisions. That’s how a democratic process works."
The state faces a $2.5 billion dollar budget gap. Education makes up about two-thirds of the state’s entire budget.
