Hello Friends,

As your State Superintendent, I've traveled to all 115 school districts in every corner of North Carolina listening as educators, students, parents and citizens share hopes and dreams for public education. Together, we've made great strides. We've introduced innovative new schools and new approaches that have strengthened learning in the classroom. Our dropout rate is lower than it has ever been. Our graduation rate is at an all time high. We're doing more to prepare young people for the opportunities and challenges of the future.

I'm proud of what we've accomplished, but there is much more to do. That's why I ask you to re-elect me as North Carolina's Superintendent of Public Instruction. Together, we will improve our curriculum in every subject area, support our teachers with stronger staff development and make sure that translates into better classroom performance for all students. The goal is to make sure every student graduates from high school ready for work, further education and citizenship. With the help of our partners - the State Board of Education, elected officials, business people, professional educators and parents, we can make sure all of our children have the opportunity to reach their full potential, and North Carolina can reach its goal of being number one in public education.

Before you leave my website, please take the time to read my story. It's about a person who had an ordinary beginning and who wants every child to have an extraordinary future - a future where all children are prepared for their tomorrow.