At Durham Prayer Breakfast, Superintendent Green Warns of Dire Threats to Public Education

DURHAM, NC — At a time when education policy is making national headlines, North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice “Mo” Green delivered a timely and impassioned address at St. Joseph AME Church’s Community Connection Prayer Breakfast on March 23. Held in Durham, the event brought together faith leaders, educators, advocates, and concerned citizens to reflect, pray, and take action on current educational challenges.

How We Got Here

Green, a longtime advocate for public education, opened with a powerful reminder of the deep roots of learning in the Black community. Quoting Frederick Douglass, he said, “Education means emancipation. It means light and liberty.”

He traced the evolution of federal engagement in education, reminding attendees that national support has long played a role in protecting student rights and expanding access. He framed today’s political climate as one of uncertainty, where foundational principles of public education are being challenged.

What’s at Stake

Green detailed how current federal discussions—such as efforts to shut down the U.S. Department of Education and roll back funding—could have devastating impacts on schools, especially those serving underserved communities. He noted that eliminating the Department of Education would disrupt the flow of vital federal dollars that ensure rights and services for students across the country, from those with disabilities to those learning English.

He went on to highlight the thousands of employees who would be impacted and how this ripple effect would be felt across every state. He added that these kinds of proposals aren’t just administrative decisions but personal attacks on children’s futures.

Why Federal Funding Matters

Green emphasized that federal funds are returned to states to support critical programming. “These aren’t just bureaucratic decisions,” Green said. “They are personal. They are about our children.” He reminded the audience that this money supports Title I programs, resources for special needs students, and funding for school nutrition and mental health services.

He encouraged listeners to ask tough questions, challenge political rhetoric, and stay alert to policy proposals threatening equitable education access.

Four Key Points for the Public to Understand

In outlining his four main points, Green made it clear that public education stands at a crossroads:

1. Federal pronouncements and proposals matter. Green referenced recent policy statements and legislative efforts aiming to curtail funding for public education, eliminate federal oversight, or dismantle civil rights protections for students. These efforts include attempts to cut Title IX protections and proposals to reduce federal investment in under-resourced schools.
2. If the U.S. Department of Education closes, the consequences will be far-reaching. Green warned that closing the department would not only eliminate a central source of funding but also dissolve the national framework for upholding equity in education. Protections for students with disabilities under IDEA, for English language learners, and for schools receiving Title I funding would be in jeopardy.
3. People still expect the benefits. “Even if the department is dismantled,” Green said, “Americans will still expect the services it provides.” Families will continue to rely on school lunch programs, literacy support, and educational resources without understanding that these services are tied to federal agencies and funding.
4. Public education is diversity. Green cautioned that the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs is a broader ideological attack on public schools. “Our schools reflect the beauty and strength of our diverse nation,” he said. “To weaken that is to weaken the foundation of education itself.”

The Wonders of Education

He closed with a stirring reflection on “The Wonders of Education,” the theme of the keynote address, encouraging attendees to see education not just as a system but as a transformative force for freedom, justice, and opportunity.

“Don’t let anyone tell you these issues don’t affect you. They do. And we cannot take this sitting down,” he declared, urging action from parents, educators, faith leaders, and advocates.

What You Can Do

Green ended his remarks with a call to action. He urged attendees to contact their elected officials, participate in local school board meetings, and stay informed about state and national policy changes. He also emphasized the importance of voting in every election, not just for national leaders but for those shaping local and state education policies.

“Stand up for public education,” he said. “Let your voice be heard. Our children’s future depends on it.”

About the Event

The Community Connection Prayer Breakfast was hosted by St. Joseph AME Church at 2521 Fayetteville Street in Durham. Under the leadership of Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine and First Lady Sister Michelle Burks Augustine, the event highlighted how faith and community can be powerful forces in shaping public policy. Brother Reginald J. Johnson presided, with Brother Roger Bailey introducing the keynote speaker.

Prayers for the Moment

In addition to the powerful keynote, the Community Connection Prayer Breakfast included a series of heartfelt prayers led by community members. Brother Bennie Aiken delivered the Prayer of Invocation, while Brother Rieco Izzard, Brother Eugene Frazier, Brother Stephen J. Valentine, and Brother Rodney Meheux offered intercessory prayers for unity, the Department of Education, the NC Superintendent and State Board, and teachers and students, respectively. These prayers centered on strength, wisdom, and protection for those serving and learning within North Carolina’s education system. Worship in music was provided by The Black Angels.

Up Next: Community Prayer Summit with Bishop William J. Barber II

St. Joseph AME Church will continue its advocacy and community connection efforts with the Community Prayer Summit on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. This upcoming event, themed “A Strategic Plan for Perilous Times,” will feature renowned speaker Bishop William J. Barber II, president and senior lecturer of Repairers of the Breach.

Known for his fiery calls for justice, Bishop Barber is expected to deliver a rousing message aimed at confronting injustice through strategic faith-based action.

Registration is $25 and can be completed online at stjosephame.org.

Photos courtesy of St. Joseph AME Church/Photographer: Gregory Davenport