Back to school boost: Gov. Cooper launches supply drive for NC classrooms

As the school year rapidly approaches, ensuring every child in North Carolina has the supplies they need is paramount. Recognizing this need, Governor Roy Cooper has launched the Governor’s School Supply Drive, encouraging residents statewide to contribute to public schools, students, and teachers. With North Carolina teachers spending up to $750 of their own money on classroom supplies each year, this initiative aims to alleviate that burden and support the learning environment.

Running from July 15 to August 9, 2024, the drive partners with the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU), Communities in Schools of North Carolina, the North Carolina PTA, the Boys and Girls Club of North Carolina, and the North Carolina Association of Public Charter Schools. Donation bins are available at all SECU locations, making it easy for North Carolinians to drop off much-needed supplies.

“We welcome everyone to stop by any of our branches to drop off their donated school supply items. Please join us in making this our best year yet,” said SECU President and CEO Leigh Brady.

The requested supplies include:

• Paper: All types, including copy paper
• Pens and pencils
• Crayons and markers
• Dry erase markers
• USB flash drives
• Spiral notebooks
• Sanitizing wipes
• Tissues

At the end of the drive, volunteers from Communities In Schools of North Carolina, the North Carolina PTA, VolunteerNC, the Boys and Girls Club of North Carolina, and other partners will distribute the supplies to classrooms across the state, ensuring students have the tools they need for a successful school year.

Governor Cooper’s proposed budget also highlights his commitment to education with an 8.5% increase in teacher pay and a $1 billion investment in public schools. This funding will help hire more educators and support staff, enhancing the overall educational environment.

Governor Cooper’s School Supply Drive is part of his ongoing dedication to public education (and what he has deemed the “year of public schools“), highlighting the crucial role well-funded schools play in the state’s economy and communities. For more information and to find a donation site near you, visit the Governor’s Office website.