Public School Matters Thu, 01 Oct 2026 15:58:16 -0400 https://ncasapublicschoolmatters.buzzsprout.com en-us © 2026 Public School Matters yes bf5d32d0-41d7-57a0-815c-2a4384adbb1a NC Association of School Administrators episodic false Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) NC Association of School Administrators https://storage.buzzsprout.com/0hziuugmptj40361m4qi7cixh2e1?.jpg Public School Matters https://ncasapublicschoolmatters.buzzsprout.com Episode 47 - A Conversation With Dr. Shirley Prince, NC Principals & Assistant Principals' Association (NCPAPA) Executive Director Episode 47 - A Conversation With Dr. Shirley Prince, NC Principals & Assistant Principals' Association (NCPAPA) Executive Director In this episode, NCASA welcomes Dr. Shirley Prince, Executive Director of the NC Principals and Assistant Principals’ Association (NCPAPA), for a conversation about leadership, professional development, and advocacy. Dr. Prince shares lessons from the leaders who shaped her career, the challenges facing today’s school leaders, and why supporting principals matters. Tune in for an inspiring look at leadership and the future of North Carolina’s public schools!

]]> In this episode, NCASA welcomes Dr. Shirley Prince, Executive Director of the NC Principals and Assistant Principals’ Association (NCPAPA), for a conversation about leadership, professional development, and advocacy. Dr. Prince shares lessons from the leaders who shaped her career, the challenges facing today’s school leaders, and why supporting principals matters. Tune in for an inspiring look at leadership and the future of North Carolina’s public schools!

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-19895460 Thu, 01 Oct 2026 13:00:00 -0400 1598 5 47 full false Episode 46 - A Conversation With Mr. Jack Hoke, NC School Superintendents' Association (NCSSA) Executive Director Episode 46 - A Conversation With Mr. Jack Hoke, NC School Superintendents' Association (NCSSA) Executive Director This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team welcomes Jack Hoke, Executive Director of the North Carolina School Superintendents' Association (NCSSA), for a conversation about leadership, professional development, and the challenges facing public education. Mr. Hoke reflects on his career and the leaders who shaped his approach to building trust, developing leadership capacity, and working with school boards. As the 2026–27 school year begins, he also discusses funding, policy, planning, workforce needs, and the importance of stability and strong partnerships in supporting student success.

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team welcomes Jack Hoke, Executive Director of the North Carolina School Superintendents' Association (NCSSA), for a conversation about leadership, professional development, and the challenges facing public education. Mr. Hoke reflects on his career and the leaders who shaped his approach to building trust, developing leadership capacity, and working with school boards. As the 2026–27 school year begins, he also discusses funding, policy, planning, workforce needs, and the importance of stability and strong partnerships in supporting student success.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-19707879 Thu, 27 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400 1796 5 46 full false Episode 45 - A Conversation With Dr. Matthew Cheeseman, NCASA President And Superintendent, Craven County Schools Episode 45 - A Conversation With Dr. Matthew Cheeseman, NCASA President And Superintendent, Craven County Schools This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team welcomes Dr. Matthew Cheeseman, NCASA President and Superintendent of Craven County Schools. Drawing on more than 31 years in education, Dr. Cheeseman shares his vision for the future of North Carolina's public schools, and the importance of building strong relationships with policymakers and advancing advocacy efforts. Dr. Cheeseman also offers practical leadership insights on listening, collaboration, and effectively telling the story of public education, making this a must-listen episode for school leaders, educators, and public education advocates.

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team welcomes Dr. Matthew Cheeseman, NCASA President and Superintendent of Craven County Schools. Drawing on more than 31 years in education, Dr. Cheeseman shares his vision for the future of North Carolina's public schools, and the importance of building strong relationships with policymakers and advancing advocacy efforts. Dr. Cheeseman also offers practical leadership insights on listening, collaboration, and effectively telling the story of public education, making this a must-listen episode for school leaders, educators, and public education advocates.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-19502959 Thu, 16 Jul 2026 09:00:00 -0400 1701 5 45 full false Episode 44 - A Conversation With Jason Johnson, 2025 NC Principal Of The Year And 2026 National High School Principal Of The Year Episode 44 - A Conversation With Jason Johnson, 2025 NC Principal Of The Year And 2026 National High School Principal Of The Year This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks withJason Johnson, 2025 NC Principal of the Year and 2026 National High School Principal of the Year. Our hosts discuss the challenges that face Principals, Assistant Principals, and all school administrators. They also talk about advocating with state legislators to raise awareness on issues currently affecting NC Public Schools statewide.



]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks withJason Johnson, 2025 NC Principal of the Year and 2026 National High School Principal of the Year. Our hosts discuss the challenges that face Principals, Assistant Principals, and all school administrators. They also talk about advocating with state legislators to raise awareness on issues currently affecting NC Public Schools statewide.



]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-19173437 Thu, 14 May 2026 08:00:00 -0400 1348 5 44 full false Episode 43: A Conversation With Incoming NCASA Executive Director, Dr. Travis Reeves Episode 43: A Conversation With Incoming NCASA Executive Director, Dr. Travis Reeves This week our Advocacy Team sits down to have a conversation with NCASA’s Incoming Executive Director, Dr. Travis Reeves. Dr. Reeves, who currently serves as the Superintendent of Surry County Schools, will officially assume the duties of Executive Director on July 1, 2026. In this episode Dr. Reeves shares his thoughts on NCASA, his vision for the organization’s future in supporting school leaders across the state, and efforts to engage members in advocating for strong public schools.

]]> This week our Advocacy Team sits down to have a conversation with NCASA’s Incoming Executive Director, Dr. Travis Reeves. Dr. Reeves, who currently serves as the Superintendent of Surry County Schools, will officially assume the duties of Executive Director on July 1, 2026. In this episode Dr. Reeves shares his thoughts on NCASA, his vision for the organization’s future in supporting school leaders across the state, and efforts to engage members in advocating for strong public schools.

]]> Buzzsprout-19027063 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0400 1741 5 43 full false Episode 42 - 2026 Primary Election In North Carolina: Important Races For Education Episode 42 - 2026 Primary Election In North Carolina: Important Races For Education This week the NCASA Advocacy Team discusses the importance of the March 3rd Primary Election with Alex Baltzegar, Executive Director of the NC FreeEnterprise Foundation, also known as NCFree. NCFree’s mission is focused on promoting a free enterprise system through research, education, and political engagement, which includes informative analyses on key races and trends shaping North Carolina elections.

]]> This week the NCASA Advocacy Team discusses the importance of the March 3rd Primary Election with Alex Baltzegar, Executive Director of the NC FreeEnterprise Foundation, also known as NCFree. NCFree’s mission is focused on promoting a free enterprise system through research, education, and political engagement, which includes informative analyses on key races and trends shaping North Carolina elections.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-18699397 Wed, 18 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500 1282 5 42 full false Episode 41 - A Conversation With Dr. Rodney Peterson, Superintendent Of Person County Schools, and 2026 NC Superintendent Of The Year Episode 41 - A Conversation With Dr. Rodney Peterson, Superintendent Of Person County Schools, and 2026 NC Superintendent Of The Year This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Dr. Rodney Peterson, Superintendent of Person County Schools and the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund A. Craig Phillips North Carolina Superintendent of the Year, about challenges he and other superintendents are facing in leading public schools.



]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Dr. Rodney Peterson, Superintendent of Person County Schools and the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund A. Craig Phillips North Carolina Superintendent of the Year, about challenges he and other superintendents are facing in leading public schools.



]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-18138508 Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0500 1547 4 41 full false Episode 40 - One Year Later: Impact On Education in WNC After Hurricane Helene Episode 40 - One Year Later: Impact On Education in WNC After Hurricane Helene In this episode our NCASA Advocacy Team takes an important look back at the unprecedented devastation that Hurricane Helene caused in western and northwestern North Carolina in late September 2024, just over a year ago and how it impacted K-12 education in those areas. Special guests for this episode are: Dr. Rob Jackson, Superintendent of Buncombe County Schools; and Dr. Eisa Cox, Superintendent of Ashe County Schools. NCASA's team focuses on how schools and communities in these districts are progressing in recovery, and what additional assistance is needed now and for the future.  


CREDITS

Soundbites used in this episode are courtesy of:

]]> In this episode our NCASA Advocacy Team takes an important look back at the unprecedented devastation that Hurricane Helene caused in western and northwestern North Carolina in late September 2024, just over a year ago and how it impacted K-12 education in those areas. Special guests for this episode are: Dr. Rob Jackson, Superintendent of Buncombe County Schools; and Dr. Eisa Cox, Superintendent of Ashe County Schools. NCASA's team focuses on how schools and communities in these districts are progressing in recovery, and what additional assistance is needed now and for the future.  


CREDITS

Soundbites used in this episode are courtesy of:

]]> Buzzsprout-17972579 Wed, 08 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400 2770 4 40 full false Episode 39 - Analysis Of 2025-26 School Position Vacancy Report Episode 39 - Analysis Of 2025-26 School Position Vacancy Report The NCASA Advocacy Team talks with Jack Hoke, Executive Director of the North Carolina School Superintendents’ Association (NCSSA), about data NCSSA has collected early in the 2025-26 school year that shows vacancies statewide in teaching positions and other staff. They discuss how the vacancies compare to previous years, their impact on students, and strategies for addressing staffing shortages in the future.  

]]> The NCASA Advocacy Team talks with Jack Hoke, Executive Director of the North Carolina School Superintendents’ Association (NCSSA), about data NCSSA has collected early in the 2025-26 school year that shows vacancies statewide in teaching positions and other staff. They discuss how the vacancies compare to previous years, their impact on students, and strategies for addressing staffing shortages in the future.  

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-17862889 Wed, 17 Sep 2025 18:00:00 -0400 989 4 39 full false Episode 38 - Key Challenges and Opportunities Facing Leaders Ahead Of The New School Year Episode 38 - Key Challenges and Opportunities Facing Leaders Ahead Of The New School Year In this episode, the NCASA Advocacy Team welcomes Dr. Matthew Cheeseman, Superintendent of Beaufort County Schools and President-Elect of the NCASA Board of Directors; Beckie Spears, Principal of Wilkesboro Elementary School and the 2024 Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year; and Kimberly Jones, an English and Humanities teacher for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and the 2023 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year. Our three guests discuss the excitement of opening the new school year, the current challenges affecting public education from their unique perspectives, and the importance of being a champion for local public schools.

]]> In this episode, the NCASA Advocacy Team welcomes Dr. Matthew Cheeseman, Superintendent of Beaufort County Schools and President-Elect of the NCASA Board of Directors; Beckie Spears, Principal of Wilkesboro Elementary School and the 2024 Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year; and Kimberly Jones, an English and Humanities teacher for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and the 2023 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year. Our three guests discuss the excitement of opening the new school year, the current challenges affecting public education from their unique perspectives, and the importance of being a champion for local public schools.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-17701011 Wed, 20 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0400 2266 4 38 full false Episode 37 - North Carolina Public Schools’ Funding Crisis Episode 37 - North Carolina Public Schools’ Funding Crisis As state lawmakers take a brief break during the long, hot summer, lots of activity is happening in regard to K-12 public education legislation and funding. A recent decision from the U.S. Department of Education to withhold billions of dollars in education funding for states, including $165 million for North Carolina, has district and charter school leaders in crisis-management mode as they try to plan for opening the new year in just a few short weeks. In this episode, our Advocacy Team breaks down these state and federal funding concerns and what they mean for schools and students here in the Tar Heel state.

Additional Content Related To This Episode:


]]> As state lawmakers take a brief break during the long, hot summer, lots of activity is happening in regard to K-12 public education legislation and funding. A recent decision from the U.S. Department of Education to withhold billions of dollars in education funding for states, including $165 million for North Carolina, has district and charter school leaders in crisis-management mode as they try to plan for opening the new year in just a few short weeks. In this episode, our Advocacy Team breaks down these state and federal funding concerns and what they mean for schools and students here in the Tar Heel state.

Additional Content Related To This Episode:


]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-17516791 Wed, 16 Jul 2025 15:00:00 -0400 1355 4 37 full false Episode 36 - The Art of Education Advocacy Episode 36 - The Art of Education Advocacy This week, NCASA welcomes two guests to help us explain the “Art of Education Advocacy:" Dr. Stephen Fisher, Superintendent of Cleveland County Schools and President-Elect of NCASA’s Board of Directors; and Dr. John Lassiter, Principal of Hertford Grammar School in Perquimans County Schools and the 2025 Wells Fargo Northeast Regional Principal of the Year. Together, along with our host, Katherine Joyce, Executive Director of NCASA, they discuss the importance of education advocacy and how anyone can become a champion for local public schools.

]]> This week, NCASA welcomes two guests to help us explain the “Art of Education Advocacy:" Dr. Stephen Fisher, Superintendent of Cleveland County Schools and President-Elect of NCASA’s Board of Directors; and Dr. John Lassiter, Principal of Hertford Grammar School in Perquimans County Schools and the 2025 Wells Fargo Northeast Regional Principal of the Year. Together, along with our host, Katherine Joyce, Executive Director of NCASA, they discuss the importance of education advocacy and how anyone can become a champion for local public schools.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-16995801 Thu, 17 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0400 1688 4 36 full false Episode 35 - A New Way To Talk About NC’s Public Schools Episode 35 - A New Way To Talk About NC’s Public Schools This week our Executive Director, Katherine Joyce, focuses on the challenges our local public schools face as state funding for private school vouchers is at an all-time high. Katherine is joined by Tracy Zimmerman, Vice President for Policy and Strategy at the Neimand Collaborative, a nationally renowned social impact marketing firm, and Dr. Rhonda Schuhler, Superintendent of Franklin County Schools and NCASA’s Past President. Together they discuss 2024 research on how North Carolinians view public schools and NCASA’s "Champion Our Local Public Schools" campaign to help districts market their schools as a great choice for families. 

]]> This week our Executive Director, Katherine Joyce, focuses on the challenges our local public schools face as state funding for private school vouchers is at an all-time high. Katherine is joined by Tracy Zimmerman, Vice President for Policy and Strategy at the Neimand Collaborative, a nationally renowned social impact marketing firm, and Dr. Rhonda Schuhler, Superintendent of Franklin County Schools and NCASA’s Past President. Together they discuss 2024 research on how North Carolinians view public schools and NCASA’s "Champion Our Local Public Schools" campaign to help districts market their schools as a great choice for families. 

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-16807547 Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1723 4 35 full false Episode 34 - A Conversation With New State Superintendent Mo Green Episode 34 - A Conversation With New State Superintendent Mo Green This week NCASA is honored to speak with the NEW State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Maurice "Mo" Green. He talks about his first month in office and his vision and goals for K-12 education in North Carolina. 

]]> This week NCASA is honored to speak with the NEW State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Maurice "Mo" Green. He talks about his first month in office and his vision and goals for K-12 education in North Carolina. 

]]> Buzzsprout-16487838 Thu, 23 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -0500 1661 4 34 full false Episode 33 - Our Wish List For 2025: Legislative & Policy Priorities Episode 33 - Our Wish List For 2025: Legislative & Policy Priorities This week the NCASA Advocacy Team talks about the latest legislative activity affecting K-12 public schools in North Carolina and provides listeners with an overview of NCASA’s recently-approved legislative and policy priorities for 2025.

To see NCASA's 2025 Legislative Priorities, click HERE.

]]> This week the NCASA Advocacy Team talks about the latest legislative activity affecting K-12 public schools in North Carolina and provides listeners with an overview of NCASA’s recently-approved legislative and policy priorities for 2025.

To see NCASA's 2025 Legislative Priorities, click HERE.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-16227032 Thu, 05 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0500 1542 3 33 full false Episode 32 - Post-Election Wrap-Up Episode 32 - Post-Election Wrap-Up This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team goes over highlights of the 2024 election results and discusses what impact those results could have on the future of K-12 education in North Carolina. 

Resources:

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team goes over highlights of the 2024 election results and discusses what impact those results could have on the future of K-12 education in North Carolina. 

Resources:

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-16102346 Thu, 14 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0500 996 3 32 full false Episode 31 - What’s Going On With Private School Vouchers? Episode 31 - What’s Going On With Private School Vouchers? This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team provides an update on NC’s Opportunity Scholarship Program, or “private school vouchers.” For more on this important issue, NCASA members can visit the NCASA Advocacy Center that provides a wealth of information and news about this issue and may others affecting K-12 education in our state.

Reference these resources mentioned in this week's podcast:


]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team provides an update on NC’s Opportunity Scholarship Program, or “private school vouchers.” For more on this important issue, NCASA members can visit the NCASA Advocacy Center that provides a wealth of information and news about this issue and may others affecting K-12 education in our state.

Reference these resources mentioned in this week's podcast:


]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-16010746 Tue, 29 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0400 1213 3 31 full false Episode 30 – November Elections Preview Episode 30 – November Elections Preview This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks about the upcoming general election and what the results could mean for education in North Carolina. Join us in a few weeks for our episode covering key election results too! For more in-depth analysis from our NCASA Team, see the links below:

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks about the upcoming general election and what the results could mean for education in North Carolina. Join us in a few weeks for our episode covering key election results too! For more in-depth analysis from our NCASA Team, see the links below:

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-15976709 Wed, 23 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0400 1331 3 30 full false Episode 29 - 2024 Legislative Short Session Wrap Up Episode 29 - 2024 Legislative Short Session Wrap Up This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team discusses highlights from the final weeks of legislative activity at the North Carolina General Assembly. 

It’s the end of the 2024 short session! Or is it?

Bills discussed in this podcast:
NC Senate Bill 332 - 2023 Appropriations Act Changes
NC Senate Bill 357 - Adjustments to 2023 Appropriations Act
NC House Bill 1032 - Academic Transparency

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team discusses highlights from the final weeks of legislative activity at the North Carolina General Assembly. 

It’s the end of the 2024 short session! Or is it?

Bills discussed in this podcast:
NC Senate Bill 332 - 2023 Appropriations Act Changes
NC Senate Bill 357 - Adjustments to 2023 Appropriations Act
NC House Bill 1032 - Academic Transparency

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-15398426 Thu, 11 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400 1140 3 29 full false Episode 28 - What Keeps Your Superintendent Up at Night?: Featuring Dr. Rhonda Schuhler and Dr. Tony Jackson Episode 28 - What Keeps Your Superintendent Up at Night?: Featuring Dr. Rhonda Schuhler and Dr. Tony Jackson This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Dr. Rhonda Schuhler, Superintendent of Franklin County Schools and President of NCASA Board of Directors, and Dr. Tony Jackson, Superintendent of Chatham County School System and President of NCSSA Board of Directors, about what issues and challenges “keep them up at night.”

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Dr. Rhonda Schuhler, Superintendent of Franklin County Schools and President of NCASA Board of Directors, and Dr. Tony Jackson, Superintendent of Chatham County School System and President of NCSSA Board of Directors, about what issues and challenges “keep them up at night.”

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-15198807 Wed, 05 Jun 2024 12:00:00 -0400 2231 3 28 full false Episode 27: Revising the Principal Pay Plan: Featuring 2023 NC Principal of the Year Donna Bledsoe & 2022 NC Principal of the Year Patrick Greene Episode 27: Revising the Principal Pay Plan: Featuring 2023 NC Principal of the Year Donna Bledsoe & 2022 NC Principal of the Year Patrick Greene This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team takes a deeper dive into the principal pay plan proposal with Donna Bledsoe, the 2023 NC Principal of the Year, and Patrick Greene, the 2022 NC Principal of the Year.

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team takes a deeper dive into the principal pay plan proposal with Donna Bledsoe, the 2023 NC Principal of the Year, and Patrick Greene, the 2022 NC Principal of the Year.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-15116380 Wed, 22 May 2024 10:00:00 -0400 1290 3 27 full false Episode 26: Superintendents’ Advocacy Episode 26: Superintendents’ Advocacy In this episode, our Education Advocacy Team highlights comments from various school superintendents who visited the NC General Assembly to address needs in their respective districts. 

]]> In this episode, our Education Advocacy Team highlights comments from various school superintendents who visited the NC General Assembly to address needs in their respective districts. 

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-15074257 Wed, 15 May 2024 12:00:00 -0400 776 3 26 full false Episode 25 - Principals’ Appreciation & Advocacy Day Episode 25 - Principals’ Appreciation & Advocacy Day In this episode, our Education Advocacy Team recaps the events that took place at the NC General Assembly on May 1st as part of Principals’ Appreciation and Advocacy Day. The event, co-hosted by NCASA and the NC Principals and Assistant Principals’ Association (NCPAPA), provided an opportunity for principals from around the state to visit the state legislature and discuss issues affecting principals’ roles in K-12 public education.

]]> In this episode, our Education Advocacy Team recaps the events that took place at the NC General Assembly on May 1st as part of Principals’ Appreciation and Advocacy Day. The event, co-hosted by NCASA and the NC Principals and Assistant Principals’ Association (NCPAPA), provided an opportunity for principals from around the state to visit the state legislature and discuss issues affecting principals’ roles in K-12 public education.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-15033474 Wed, 08 May 2024 09:00:00 -0400 682 3 25 full false 2024 NC Legislative Short Session Preview 2024 NC Legislative Short Session Preview This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team discusses legislative priorities and expected hot topics in education for the 2024 North Carolina legislative short session beginning on April 24.

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team discusses legislative priorities and expected hot topics in education for the 2024 North Carolina legislative short session beginning on April 24.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-14908323 Wed, 17 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0400 920 3 24 full false Episode 23: Capitol Hill Update With AASA Episode 23: Capitol Hill Update With AASA This week, Elizabeth Yelverton, NCASA Legal Affairs & Policy Manager, is joined by Tara Thomas, Policy Analyst, AASA, for an update on the latest federal education news.

Follow Tara Thomas on X (formerly known as Twitter) @TaraEThomas1
 or get up to date information at the national level by reading The Leading Edge: Policy & Advocacy Blog. You can also listen to her on AASA’s PEP Talk (Public Education Policy) Podcast. 



]]> This week, Elizabeth Yelverton, NCASA Legal Affairs & Policy Manager, is joined by Tara Thomas, Policy Analyst, AASA, for an update on the latest federal education news.

Follow Tara Thomas on X (formerly known as Twitter) @TaraEThomas1
 or get up to date information at the national level by reading The Leading Edge: Policy & Advocacy Blog. You can also listen to her on AASA’s PEP Talk (Public Education Policy) Podcast. 



]]> Buzzsprout-14175953 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0500 1737 2 23 full false Episode 22: Education Hot Topics Episode 22: Education Hot Topics This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team discusses current legislative and policy hot topics in North Carolina’s education system.

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team discusses current legislative and policy hot topics in North Carolina’s education system.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-14055822 Wed, 29 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0500 1011 2 22 full false Episode 21: 2023 State Budget Highlights Featuring NC Rep. Jeffrey Elmore Episode 21: 2023 State Budget Highlights Featuring NC Rep. Jeffrey Elmore This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team shares highlights of the long-awaited 2023 state budget package and is joined by North Carolina arts educator and state Representative Jeffrey Elmore (R-Wilkes).

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team shares highlights of the long-awaited 2023 state budget package and is joined by North Carolina arts educator and state Representative Jeffrey Elmore (R-Wilkes).

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-13796386 Tue, 17 Oct 2023 14:00:00 -0400 1456 2 21 full false Episode 20 - Battle of the Budgets Episode 20 - Battle of the Budgets As the NC Legislative Long Session continues, there are plenty of K-12 Education Budget issues on the table! This week our NCASA Advocacy Team dives deep into the pages of the competing House and Senate budget proposals for 2023-2025 and their expected impact on K-12 education. We also touch on some of the budget priorities that NCASA is continuing to seek on behalf of public-school leaders, as summarized in the linked document below:

]]> As the NC Legislative Long Session continues, there are plenty of K-12 Education Budget issues on the table! This week our NCASA Advocacy Team dives deep into the pages of the competing House and Senate budget proposals for 2023-2025 and their expected impact on K-12 education. We also touch on some of the budget priorities that NCASA is continuing to seek on behalf of public-school leaders, as summarized in the linked document below:

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-12953485 Wed, 31 May 2023 10:00:00 -0400 1991 2 20 full false Episode 19 - School Leader Day At The Legislature Episode 19 - School Leader Day At The Legislature This week, NCASA’s Advocacy Team reflects on the impact of our recent School Leader Day at the Legislature that took place on April 18th. Our team provides analysis on priorities outlined by lawmakers in attendance: Sen. Amy Galey (R-Alamance); Rep. John Torbett (R-Gaston); and Rep. Ashton Wheeler Clemmons (D-Guilford). The podcast also includes insights from the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Catherine Truitt as well as key takeaways from members on what took place during their visit to the General Assembly.  

]]> This week, NCASA’s Advocacy Team reflects on the impact of our recent School Leader Day at the Legislature that took place on April 18th. Our team provides analysis on priorities outlined by lawmakers in attendance: Sen. Amy Galey (R-Alamance); Rep. John Torbett (R-Gaston); and Rep. Ashton Wheeler Clemmons (D-Guilford). The podcast also includes insights from the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Catherine Truitt as well as key takeaways from members on what took place during their visit to the General Assembly.  

]]> Buzzsprout-12734793 Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0400 1650 1 19 full false Episode 18 - Education Legislation Update Episode 18 - Education Legislation Update This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team goes over the highlights of the first month of session at the NC General Assembly, including an overview of key K-12 education legislation filed so far.



]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team goes over the highlights of the first month of session at the NC General Assembly, including an overview of key K-12 education legislation filed so far.



]]> Buzzsprout-12268120 Thu, 16 Feb 2023 13:00:00 -0500 906 1 18 full false Episode 17 - 2023 Legislative & Policy Priorities Episode 17 - 2023 Legislative & Policy Priorities This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team shares their 2023 Legislative & Policy Priorities after the NC General Assembly opened  on January 11, 2023. For more information on NCASA's 2023 Legislative Priorities, visit our website at: https://ncasa.net/ncasa-legislative-priorities/

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team shares their 2023 Legislative & Policy Priorities after the NC General Assembly opened  on January 11, 2023. For more information on NCASA's 2023 Legislative Priorities, visit our website at: https://ncasa.net/ncasa-legislative-priorities/

]]> Buzzsprout-12071261 Thu, 19 Jan 2023 11:00:00 -0500 829 1 17 full false Episode 16 - Supporting Special Education With NCCASE Episode 16 - Supporting Special Education With NCCASE This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team is on the case — NC CASE that is! The Team is joined by Christy Grant, President of the NC Council of Administrators of Special Education (NCCASE), an NCASA affiliate organization, and Executive Director of Special Education and Student Support Services in Nash County Public Schools, as well as Jill McKenna, Assistant Superintendent for Special Education Services in Wake County Public Schools, on ways to support our students with special needs in our public schools.



]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team is on the case — NC CASE that is! The Team is joined by Christy Grant, President of the NC Council of Administrators of Special Education (NCCASE), an NCASA affiliate organization, and Executive Director of Special Education and Student Support Services in Nash County Public Schools, as well as Jill McKenna, Assistant Superintendent for Special Education Services in Wake County Public Schools, on ways to support our students with special needs in our public schools.



]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-11784729 Tue, 29 Nov 2022 18:00:00 -0500 777 1 16 full false Episode 15 – 2022 Mid-Term Elections Results Episode 15 – 2022 Mid-Term Elections Results This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team goes over key take-aways from the 2022 mid-term elections and predicts what effect these results will have on public education in North Carolina.



]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team goes over key take-aways from the 2022 mid-term elections and predicts what effect these results will have on public education in North Carolina.



]]> Buzzsprout-11707268 Wed, 16 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0500 904 1 15 full false Episode 14 - NCSPRA: Communicating For Public School Success Episode 14 - NCSPRA: Communicating For Public School Success This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Ken Derksen, President of the NC School Public Relations Association (NCSPRA), an NCASA affiliate organization, on how NC public schools not only “talk the talk” but also “walk the walk.”



]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Ken Derksen, President of the NC School Public Relations Association (NCSPRA), an NCASA affiliate organization, on how NC public schools not only “talk the talk” but also “walk the walk.”



]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-11613750 Tue, 01 Nov 2022 21:00:00 -0400 1243 1 14 full false Episode 13 - November Elections Preview Episode 13 - November Elections Preview This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks about the upcoming mid-term elections and what the results could mean for education in North Carolina. In addition, read the recent article from EdNC, entitled “The Politics of North Carolina’s School Boards," which discusses the impact this election will have on school boards throughout our state. Join us in a few weeks for our episode covering key election results too! 

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks about the upcoming mid-term elections and what the results could mean for education in North Carolina. In addition, read the recent article from EdNC, entitled “The Politics of North Carolina’s School Boards," which discusses the impact this election will have on school boards throughout our state. Join us in a few weeks for our episode covering key election results too! 

]]> Buzzsprout-11567307 Tue, 25 Oct 2022 15:00:00 -0400 996 1 13 full false Episode 12 - NCPTA & School Transportation Issues Episode 12 - NCPTA & School Transportation Issues This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Marlon Watson, Transportation Director for Johnston County Public Schools and President of the NC Pupil Transportation Association (NCPTA); and Brian McClung, Transportation Director of Rutherford County Schools; about challenges school districts are facing in securing and retaining enough bus drivers, mechanics, and other personnel in this new school year.

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Marlon Watson, Transportation Director for Johnston County Public Schools and President of the NC Pupil Transportation Association (NCPTA); and Brian McClung, Transportation Director of Rutherford County Schools; about challenges school districts are facing in securing and retaining enough bus drivers, mechanics, and other personnel in this new school year.

]]> Buzzsprout-11373617 Fri, 23 Sep 2022 13:00:00 -0400 1412 1 12 full false Episode 11 - Principal Pay Issues And Solutions: Featuring Dr. Patrick Greene and Tabari Wallace Episode 11 - Principal Pay Issues And Solutions: Featuring Dr. Patrick Greene and Tabari Wallace This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Dr. Patrick Greene,  2022 Wells Fargo NC Principal of the Year, and Mr. Tabari Wallace, 2018 Principal of the Year and State Superintendent’s Special Advisor for Principal Engagement, about recent concerns on a scheduled pay cut for some principals in NC, solutions approved by the State Board of Education, and additional salary schedule changes needed to recruit and retain NC’s best school leaders.

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Dr. Patrick Greene,  2022 Wells Fargo NC Principal of the Year, and Mr. Tabari Wallace, 2018 Principal of the Year and State Superintendent’s Special Advisor for Principal Engagement, about recent concerns on a scheduled pay cut for some principals in NC, solutions approved by the State Board of Education, and additional salary schedule changes needed to recruit and retain NC’s best school leaders.

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-11277121 Wed, 07 Sep 2022 10:00:00 -0400 1742 1 11 full false Episode 10 - How Our Superintendents Are Doing? A Conversation With NCSSA Executive Director Jack Hoke Episode 10 - How Our Superintendents Are Doing? A Conversation With NCSSA Executive Director Jack Hoke This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Mr. Jack Hoke, Executive Director of the NC School Superintendents’ Association (NCSSA), on the new school year, school administrator turnover, and the importance of strong school leadership.

]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Mr. Jack Hoke, Executive Director of the NC School Superintendents’ Association (NCSSA), on the new school year, school administrator turnover, and the importance of strong school leadership.

]]> Buzzsprout-11117036 Wed, 10 Aug 2022 18:00:00 -0400 808 1 10 full false Episode 9 - The Future Of Teacher Pay & Licensure In NC? Episode 9 - The Future Of Teacher Pay & Licensure In NC? This week the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Dr. Patrick Miller, Chairman of NC’s Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission (PEPSC), and 2020 NC Teacher of the Year Maureen Stover about the proposed “Pathways to Excellence For Teaching Professionals” model that PEPSC is now developing. The model, if ultimately adopted, could hold major reforms for teacher compensation and licensure.

There is still time to have your concerns addressed about this valuable model. Email your feedback to: pathways.feedback@dpi.nc.gov. 

]]> This week the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Dr. Patrick Miller, Chairman of NC’s Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission (PEPSC), and 2020 NC Teacher of the Year Maureen Stover about the proposed “Pathways to Excellence For Teaching Professionals” model that PEPSC is now developing. The model, if ultimately adopted, could hold major reforms for teacher compensation and licensure.

There is still time to have your concerns addressed about this valuable model. Email your feedback to: pathways.feedback@dpi.nc.gov. 

]]> Dr. Patrick Miller, Chair, The Professional Educator Preparation & Standards Commission; and Maureen Stover, 2020 Burroughs Wellcome NC Teacher of the Year Buzzsprout-10949728 Tue, 12 Jul 2022 14:00:00 -0400 1226 new 1 9 full false Episode 8 - What The 2022 State Budget Proposes for Public Schools Episode 8 - What The 2022 State Budget Proposes for Public Schools State lawmakers have reached an agreement on a state budget package for 2022-2023. Join the NCASA Advocacy Team for highlights of what it holds for public schools and their personnel. Click below for references to this podcast:

  1.  NC House Bill 103
  2.  NCASA 2022 State Budget Summary 
]]> State lawmakers have reached an agreement on a state budget package for 2022-2023. Join the NCASA Advocacy Team for highlights of what it holds for public schools and their personnel. Click below for references to this podcast:

  1.  NC House Bill 103
  2.  NCASA 2022 State Budget Summary 
]]> Buzzsprout-10909802 Wed, 06 Jul 2022 12:00:00 -0400 848 new 1 8 full false Episode 7 - Conversation With NCPAPA Executive Director, Dr. Shirley Prince Episode 7 - Conversation With NCPAPA Executive Director, Dr. Shirley Prince This week the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Dr. Shirley Prince, Executive Director of the North Carolina Principals and Assistant Principals’ Association (NCPAPA), about principals’ reflections on the school year that just ended and priorities they have for 2022-23. 

]]> This week the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with Dr. Shirley Prince, Executive Director of the North Carolina Principals and Assistant Principals’ Association (NCPAPA), about principals’ reflections on the school year that just ended and priorities they have for 2022-23. 

]]> Dr. Shirley Prince, Executive Director of the North Carolina Principals and Assistant Principals’ Association (NCPAPA) Buzzsprout-10850516 Tue, 28 Jun 2022 12:00:00 -0400 1291 1 7 full false Episode 6 - A Conversation With The State Superintendent Of Public Instruction Episode 6 - A Conversation With The State Superintendent Of Public Instruction This week the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with North Carolina State Superintendent of Public Instruction Catherine Truitt on the school year that just ended, lessons learned, and what’s next for public education in North Carolina. 

]]> This week the NCASA Advocacy Team speaks with North Carolina State Superintendent of Public Instruction Catherine Truitt on the school year that just ended, lessons learned, and what’s next for public education in North Carolina. 

]]> North Carolina State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Catherine Truitt Buzzsprout-10831848 Tue, 21 Jun 2022 15:00:00 -0400 1259 new 1 6 full false Episode 5 - Virtual Learning, School Calendar & More Episode 5 - Virtual Learning, School Calendar & More Legislation rolled out the week of June 6th proposes new parameters for virtual academies operated by NC school districts and also addresses remote instruction days in the school calendar and other K-12 policy topics. Join NCASA’s Advocacy Team for a closer look at these bills and their next steps.

References:

]]> Legislation rolled out the week of June 6th proposes new parameters for virtual academies operated by NC school districts and also addresses remote instruction days in the school calendar and other K-12 policy topics. Join NCASA’s Advocacy Team for a closer look at these bills and their next steps.

References:

]]> Buzzsprout-10787631 Wed, 15 Jun 2022 14:00:00 -0400 966 1 5 full false Episode 4 - State Budget Preview Episode 4 - State Budget Preview State lawmakers are already busy drafting a state budget proposal for 2022-2023. Join NCASA’s Advocacy Team for a look at the likely path for this spending bill and the key funding priorities they are hoping the General Assembly will include in it for public schools.

]]> State lawmakers are already busy drafting a state budget proposal for 2022-2023. Join NCASA’s Advocacy Team for a look at the likely path for this spending bill and the key funding priorities they are hoping the General Assembly will include in it for public schools.

]]> Buzzsprout-10746836 Wed, 08 Jun 2022 08:00:00 -0400 796 1 4 full false Episode 3 - Parents' Bill of Rights Episode 3 - Parents' Bill of Rights This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team discusses House Bill 755: Parents’ Bill of Rights, which was introduced in the state legislature last week and passed in the Senate this week. Make sure to hit subscribe to stay in the loop!



]]> This week, the NCASA Advocacy Team discusses House Bill 755: Parents’ Bill of Rights, which was introduced in the state legislature last week and passed in the Senate this week. Make sure to hit subscribe to stay in the loop!



]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-10723614 Thu, 02 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0400 774 1 3 full false Episode 2 - Primary Elections Results Episode 2 - Primary Elections Results This week Katherine and Elizabeth look at North Carolina's recent primary elections and the impact they already hold for determining control of the 2023 General Assembly. 

]]> This week Katherine and Elizabeth look at North Carolina's recent primary elections and the impact they already hold for determining control of the 2023 General Assembly. 

]]> Buzzsprout-10666904 Wed, 25 May 2022 08:00:00 -0400 484 1 2 full false Episode 0 - North Carolina Association of School Administrators (NCASA) Public School Matters Podcast Episode 0 - North Carolina Association of School Administrators (NCASA) Public School Matters Podcast NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-10635487 Tue, 17 May 2022 16:00:00 -0400 108 trailer trailer false Episode 1 - Introduction to the Public School Matters Podcast Episode 1 - Introduction to the Public School Matters Podcast This initial podcast introduces you to our hosts, NCASA’s Executive Director Katherine Joyce and Elizabeth Yelverton, NCASA Legal Affairs & Policy Manager. Together, they make up NCASA's Advocacy Team and will update you on current education legislation and policy actions in North Carolina. We hope you will tune in weekly as they share timely information on Public School Matters. 

]]> This initial podcast introduces you to our hosts, NCASA’s Executive Director Katherine Joyce and Elizabeth Yelverton, NCASA Legal Affairs & Policy Manager. Together, they make up NCASA's Advocacy Team and will update you on current education legislation and policy actions in North Carolina. We hope you will tune in weekly as they share timely information on Public School Matters. 

]]> NC Association of School Administrators Buzzsprout-10635346 Tue, 17 May 2022 16:00:00 -0400 230 1 1 full false