A champion for public education: NC elects Mo Green as Superintendent of Public Instruction

Green’s platform on supporting public schools, teacher retention, and student wellbeing carries him to victory.

In a closely contested race against Republican Michele Morrow, Democrat Maurice “Mo” Green has emerged victorious as North Carolina’s new Superintendent of Public Instruction. 

NBC News and The Associated Press called the race for Green on Wednesday morning. Green had a lead difference of over 110,000 votes, with some precincts still counting.

This will be the first time in nearly a decade that the Tar Heel state has had a Democrat in office for the position.

“I am humbled and honored to be elected as North Carolina’s Superintendent of Public Instruction,” Green said on a X post Wednesday morning. “We met the moment, together as champions of public education. Thank you for this immense honor and privilege.”

Green has a background in public education, serving for more than seven years as superintendent of Guilford County Schools, one of the state’s largest public school systems. Supporters say Green’s win represents a commitment to policies that prioritize inclusivity, student well-being, and community engagement.

The North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction manages the Department of Public Instruction, leading the state’s 2,500+ public schools and overseeing nearly $12 billion in education funding. This role also serves as the chief officer for the State Board of Education, setting policies that impact the education of 1.4 million students across North Carolina.

Green said his vision for North Carolina’s public schools is built around the idea of “Achieving Educational Excellence,” which he defines as a successful combination of high academic achievement, character development, and striving for excellence. 

“Our children deserve nothing less than our very best,” he said in his campaign.

During the campaign, Green offered a stark contrast with Morrow, who homeschooled her children and was harshly critical of public schools, which she called a “failing system.” Green countered that when it comes to experience in public education, that “there’s one person who’s actually walked the walk, and a person who only can simply talk the talk.”

After he lost his father at a young age, Green’s mother used education to turn this “tragedy into triumph.” It’s why Green credits his mother, a special education teacher, for inspiring his passion for education. 

“She instilled in me the value of a strong public education,” he said during his campaign. “Public schools are essential because they accept everyone in the community; our system has the transformative power to educate every child.”

Throughout his campaign, Green shared his plans committed to addressing the underfunding of public schools and advocating for better compensation for teachers. However, the superintendent’s role is limited in that respect, as state lawmakers have the final say on K-12 funding and teacher pay. 

He emphasized the importance of mental health resources for students and the need to foster an inclusive environment that respects diverse perspectives. His plans also include restoring and enhancing programs that support student well-being and addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities. 

While NBC News and The Associated Press continues to update election results, trusted sources used by Courier Newsroom and Cardinal & Pine, Green’s victory could signal a new chapter for North Carolina’s education system, one focused on inclusion, equity, and collaboration.

“The work does not end here,” Green said in his statement Wednesday morning. “It’s now upon us to put forth and implement our bold vision, direction, and plan for NC public schools. Our children and the future of our state depend on it.”