Stephanie Jones advocates for increased school funding in Craven County public hearing

During the Craven County Board of Education meeting on April 17, community members voiced strong support for increased funding for local schools, emphasizing the critical role public education plays in shaping the future of children in the area.

Stephanie Jones, a resident without children currently in the school system, passionately advocated for a robust budget that reflects the needs of all students. Drawing from her own experiences in a rural school district in Pennsylvania, she highlighted how essential public education was for her daughters' success, one of whom became a lawyer and the other earned an MBA. Jones urged the board to make a bold request for funding from county commissioners, stressing that investing in education is vital for the community's prosperity.

Her remarks resonated with the audience, as she pointed out that many families in Craven County rely on public schools to provide their children with opportunities for success. Jones argued that adequate funding is not just a matter of budgetary concern but a moral obligation to ensure that every child has access to quality education.

The meeting concluded with the public hearing segment wrapping up, and the board moving back into regular session. The discussions reflect a growing recognition among community members that strong educational support is crucial for the future of Craven County, underscoring the need for continued advocacy for school funding.