We must invest in the next generation of North Carolinians by providing them with a strong education system. Don will support increasing teacher pay and address our state's high drop out rate. He will make sure that our schools' curriculum keeps North Carolina students ahead of the curve in math and science.

Every child in North Carolina deserves the best education possible. Studies show that students with the best teachers, classrooms and educational materials have the best shot at success, no matter what their background. There is no reason why all students shouldn't have a top-notch education. As a State Senator, Don will work to ensure our public schools get the support they need.

North Carolina 's high school dropout rate is too high. Don will address this problem by supporting intensive one-on-one instruction programs to identify at-risk students in elementary and middle schools—before it may be too late. We must make sure these students are scoring at grade level.

Don will support education as your Senator:

•  Increase teacher pay to recruit top professionals.

•  Retain high performing teachers.

•  Utilize high risk intervention teams to reduce high school drop outs and ensure classroom discipline, and provide team education programs that help at-risk students learn the skills they need to succeed.

•  Expand coordination between our high schools and community colleges.