Thank you for your interest in my ideas for the future and I hope you will join our effort to create opportunities for all citizens and to bring prosperity to all of North Carolina. Together, I know we can continue to move North Carolina forward!

I entered the State Senate ten years ago, leading efforts which resulted in reduced class size, increased teacher pay, and innovative learning in the classroom.  My sponsorship of the Innovative High Schools Act led to the Learn and Earn Early College Program which accelerated learning and led the nation in creative ways to prepare students for the new knowledge-based economy.

As a former Senate Chair of Education and as a member of the North Carolina Economic Development Board, I recognize the vital link between education and good jobs.  My vision to strengthen our schools will utilize more technology and innovative learning in our middle schools.  The effective transitioning of our students from middle to high school is essential to reducing the drop out rate. Providing college scholarships for those students who work hard and stay out of trouble will ensure that they have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

As we move North Carolina forward, it is critical that we work together.  Rather than state lines, regional lines, county lines, and societal differences being things which divide us - I see them as things that unite us. The diversity in our great state is an asset to join us together and make us stronger. 

For the last ten years, despite tough times caused by international trade policies, I have worked hard to make North Carolina a better place to live, work and to raise our families. I now want to serve you in a greater role, and I hope you will give me that opportunity.  Working together and concentrating on those things that unite us, we can build a better future.

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