WS Chronicle

RALEIGH – The North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) is proud to endorse Maurice “Mo” Green for Superintendent of Public Instruction. From his time as a district and deputy superintendent in two of North Carolina’s largest school districts, NCAE and its members know Mo Green’s willingness to listen to constituents, his creative problem solving, and his educator-and-student-centered approach to leadership. Mo’s commitment to excellence and equity in public education matches NCAE’s mission and vision for a North Carolina where every child, no matter their race, income, or zip code, should have a high-quality education, an excellent teacher, and a great local school. 

“Mo Green has been a champion for students and public schools for years and we are proud to give him our full endorsement,” said NCAE President Tamika Walker Kelly. “He has a sterling record in two of North Carolina’s largest school systems, and that is the kind of leadership we need in the Department of Public Instruction. NCAE and its members look forward to working alongside Superintendent Mo Green to restore the promise of North Carolina’s public schools.” 

From 2008 to 2016, Mo Green served as superintendent of the Guilford County Schools, where his achievements included the district’s first-ever strategic plan, notable increases in graduation rates and student achievement, a nationally recognized character education and service-learning program, a parent academy, and an arts institute. Mo has also served as general counsel, chief operating officer, and deputy superintendent in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Most recently, Mo served as the executive director of the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation where he helped lead and fund pro-public education initiatives across North Carolina.  

“It is both humbling and exciting to receive the NCAE endorsement. This is a critically important endorsement, as we have a shared vision of working diligently every day to lift the voices of public school educators from across North Carolina and of ensuring that every child receives a high-quality public education,” said Mo Green. “I am committed to working with the NCAE as we strive to have North Carolina invest fully in our teachers and other educators, our students, and our public education system.” 

The endorsement was announced following a vote by the NCAE Board of Directors. Mo Green met with many NCAE members last weekend during a statewide candidate meet-and-greet event in Greensboro. The reaction to his candidacy was glowing: 

“Mo Green fills me with hope and joy for the future of families and public education in North Carolina,” said Shana Richards, a school counselor at the A&T Four Middle College High School in Greensboro. “He leads with people in mind, and he will work to find innovative solutions that will prepare students for the world that awaits them.” 

“Mo Green’s experience with education has led to a profound respect among educators that will be a breath of fresh air when working with leaders in Raleigh,” said Jenny Easter, a kindergarten teacher and president of the Forsyth County Association of Educators (FCAE). “Under his leadership we can once again feel heard and valued as professionals in this state.” 

NCAE is the state’s largest education advocacy organization for public school employees representing active, retired and student members.