NORTH CAROLINA — Governor Josh Stein visited W.A. Pattillo Middle School in Tarboro this week to deliver nine boxes of school supplies collected through the annual Governor’s School Supply Drive, while calling attention to the ongoing need for increased teacher funding as the state legislature has yet to pass a comprehensive budget.
Partnership Addresses Classroom Supply Shortage
The Governor’s Office has partnered with the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) for several years to organize the school supply drive, aimed at supporting both students and teachers with essential classroom materials. This year’s drive, which ran from June 30 through August 1, brought together multiple organizations including Communities in Schools of North Carolina, NCPTA, and the Boys and Girls Club of North Carolina.
“As teachers prepare for a new school year, they are reaching into their own pockets to ensure their classrooms are well-equipped,” said Governor Josh Stein during the supply delivery. “This school supply drive is a way we can all help to lighten their load. Thank you to everyone who has donated to this worthy cause.”
North Carolina Teachers Face Significant Out-of-Pocket Expenses
The supply drive comes at a critical time for North Carolina educators, who face some of the highest personal expenses for classroom materials in the nation. According to state data, North Carolina teachers pay the second-most out of pocket of any state in the country for classroom supplies.
Governor Stein emphasized the need for systemic change beyond charitable donations, calling on the General Assembly to address teacher compensation and classroom funding through the state budget process.
Governor Proposes Comprehensive Education Funding
The Governor’s 2025-2027 budget proposal includes several measures designed to support educators and reduce their financial burden:
- A $300 school supply stipend for teachers
- Teacher pay raises across the board
- Reinstatement of master’s pay for educators with advanced degrees
Legislative Action Needed
As the new school year begins, Governor Stein continues to pressure the General Assembly to pass a full state budget that prioritizes public education funding. The legislature’s failure to pass a comprehensive budget has left many education initiatives in limbo.
“We must continue to work together to support our teachers and students with meaningful investments and support,” Stein said, emphasizing that while community donations help, sustainable solutions require legislative action.
Community Partnership Model
The successful school supply drive demonstrates the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in addressing educational needs. SECU branches throughout the state placed donation boxes at their locations, encouraging customers to contribute supplies. The Governor’s Office and various cabinet agencies also participated in collection efforts.
The multi-organizational approach has proven successful over several years, providing immediate relief to teachers and students while highlighting broader systemic funding challenges facing North Carolina’s public education system.
