West Wake News

Maurice "Mo" Green has officially taken office as North Carolina's Superintendent of Public Instruction. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Meredith Leigh Haynes-Bennie Lee Inman Education Center in Jamestown, where Green emphasized his commitment to enhancing the state's public school system.

“After more than 20 years of working in education, I am humbled and honored that North Carolinians have chosen me to lead our public schools,” Green stated. He expressed a vision for North Carolina's public schools focused on high academic achievement and strong character development, aiming for them to become the best in the country.

The ceremony was conducted by Senior United States District Judge N. Carlton Tilley, Jr., with whom Green had previously clerked after law school. Several notable figures spoke at the event, including State Board of Education Vice Chair Alan Duncan and NC Representative Amos Quick. A performance by students from Weaver Academy for Performing & Visual Arts and Advanced Technology added a special touch to the proceedings.

Green selected Haynes-Inman Education Center as the venue to honor his late mother, who was a special education teacher, and to recognize the school's recent accolade as a 2024 State School of Character by Character.org.

In his new role, Green will manage North Carolina’s public school system and lead the Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). His responsibilities include overseeing policy implementation across districts and charter schools, advocating for public education before the General Assembly, and serving as Secretary of the State Board of Education.

State Board of Education Chair Eric Davis extended congratulations: “Mo Green has long been a champion for public education in our state. I can’t wait to see what he will accomplish as our next superintendent.”

Green's career spans various roles in education administration. He served as general counsel for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) before becoming its chief operating officer and deputy superintendent. Later, he led Guilford County Schools (GCS) as superintendent, implementing significant educational reforms that earned both state and national recognition.

From 2016-2023, Green was executive director of the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, focusing on initiatives like strengthening democracy and advancing public education through strategic grantmaking frameworks such as All For NC.

Green holds degrees from Duke University in political science and economics along with a law degree. He is involved with several educational boards addressing issues like homelessness and community support. Married with two adult children who graduated from North Carolina public schools, Green continues his advocacy for educational excellence statewide.