Did you know the people of North Carolina have “a right to the privilege of education”?
In remarks during his Dec. 10 visit to Claxton Elementary School in Greensboro, Governor Roy Cooper cited that right, enshrined in the State Constitution. He noted that in the immediate aftermath of the Civil War, state leaders knew education was crucial to the rebuilding and progress of North Carolina.
The actual wording of the 1868 Constitution was, “Religion, morality, and knowledge being necessary to good government and happiness of mankind, schools, and the means of education, shall be forever encouraged.”
Our current Constitution preserves that right and privilege of education and notes “it is the duty of the State to guard and maintain that right.” Governor Cooper reminded us that “Strong public schools build strong communities and a strong North Carolina. Our state’s future depends on ensuring every child has the opportunity to receive a high-quality education in our public schools.”
State Superintendent-elect Mo Green, who accompanied the governor, added, “Public education unlocks the doors to the world. I know first-hand that our public schools have the ability to transform the lives of each and every student.”