RALEIGH, N.C. ( WHKY) – The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction has received the Southern Regional Education Board’s 2026 State Leadership Award, recognizing the state’s efforts to improve educator training and strengthen college and career readiness.

The award was presented at the SREB Making Schools Work Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. It honors states that have created systems to improve classroom instruction, support lasting school improvement, and boost student achievement.

State Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green said the recognition reflects the work of educators across North Carolina and highlighted record-setting achievements, including the state’s highest-ever graduation rate, Advanced Placement participation and performance, industry-recognized credentials earned, and the percentage of students completing college-level courses while still in high school.

SREB also praised North Carolina for expanding professional learning opportunities for teachers, strengthening career and technical education, improving math instruction, increasing family engagement, and aligning curriculum with college- and career-ready standards.

The recognition supports the Department of Public Instruction’s goal of making North Carolina’s public schools the best in the nation by 2030.