NCSC Hearing 2/22

The NC heard arguments from the state yet again while cries for justice and mercy from students and educators seem to fall on deaf ears. Despite 4 prevailing NCSC decisions for Leandro in Leandro v NC, The Court heard arguments from the General Assembly February 22nd regarding jurisdiction, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle for educational equity and paving the way towards a just and sustainable economic future in our state. The state's objective is clear: to overturn Leandro IV.

As I observed the hearing, I couldn't shake the feeling of déjà vu, reminiscent of the age-old "state's rights" argument. Despite the undeniable fact that countless children in our state lack access to a sound basic education, the state attempts to sidestep its constitutional obligation. They cannot refute that providing such education is a fundamental right, yet they persist in seeking ways to circumvent it. They invoke procedural law while they file late. They remind everyone that the constitution entitles them to hold the purse strings…while they violate the rights of children. to employ legal maneuvers, aiming to dismiss decades of legal precedent and evade accountability to the people, the courts, and the rule of law.

Their focus on jurisdictional minutiae serves only to delay much-needed interventions to rectify this constitutional violation affecting 1.5 million children statewide. This tactic epitomizes the proverbial straining out of a gnat while swallowing a camel.

One impactful action we can all take right now is to raise awareness. Please consider adding your voice by signing our petition and sharing it with your network on social media. If you are interested in learning more about this issue, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.