Public schools are one of our most valuable public goods—institutions that return benefits to every person in our community. They welcome all students, meet diverse needs, and bring together students and families from diverse backgrounds. Strong public schools strengthen communities, advance equity, and support a healthy democracy. These are the reasons so many families, educators, and advocates believe public schools are worth standing up for.
“Democracy requires an educated citizenry, and an educated citizenry requires schools that are open to everyone. Public education is not a relic of the past to be disrupted and replaced. It is one of the most consequential commitments a society can make to its future – a promise that every child, regardless of circumstance, deserves a quality education in a safe and welcoming school.” – NPE, Public Schooling in America
North Carolina’s Department of Public Instruction has set an ambitious goal: for our state to have the best public schools in the nation by 2030. Yet public schools across NC continue to be underfunded and under‑resourced, making it difficult for them to reach their full potential. Thanks to the dedication of educators, there is much to celebrate—but fully funded schools would allow each child to access the high‑quality education they deserve.
As community members, these are our schools. We all have a role in shaping their future. PPS‑PC’s Parent Engagement Program (PEP) is one of the most transformative ways to get involved. PEP offers a free, hands-on learning experience that helps parents, caregivers, and community members become informed, confident advocates. At a time when public schools face unprecedented challenges, PEP provides something essential: a pathway to meaningful engagement.
PEP equips families with the tools to champion strong public schools and helps make the promise of a high‑quality education more of a reality. Students and educators across Pitt County and North Carolina are counting on individuals willing to stand up, speak out, and advocate for fully funded, fully resourced public schools. Will you be one of them and stand up in support of public schools by applying to be a part of the upcoming PEP cohort?
2026–2027 PEP Cohort
Application Deadline: Monday, July 20
Key Dates — English Cohort
- Meet & Greet: Aug 26, 2026 | 12–1 PM
- Monthly Sessions (8:30 AM–1 PM):
- 2026: 9/9, 10/14, 11/10, 12/9
- 2027: 1/13, 2/10, 3/10
- Advocacy Day in Raleigh: April 2027 | Date TBD
- PEP Celebration: May 13, 2027 | 9–11 AM
Topics Covered
- Introduction to Public Schools
- School Leadership
- School Culture
- Academics & Curriculum
- Exceptional Children, 504s & MTSS
- Supporting All Students
- School Funding & Governance
- Leadership & Advocacy
For information about the Spanish PEP Cohort, email ppspittcounty@gmail.com
Para más información: ppspittcounty@gmail.com
Apply for the 2026–2027 Cohort
Whether you are a parent, caregiver, educator, or community member, PEP offers a powerful opportunity to learn how public schools work—and how your voice can support meaningful change.
Click HERE to apply or scan the QR code.
PEP Participant Testimonials
“The knowledge I’ve gained about the public education system and my role as a parent has been invaluable. I now feel equipped to advocate not only for my children, but for others in public schools.” — Rosa Ruiz, PEP Graduate
“PEP gave me a clearer understanding of what happens behind the scenes in our school system. I appreciated the transparency, the chance to ask questions, and the opportunity to build relationships with other parents and school leaders.” — Colleen Sicley, PEP Graduate
**Photo AI Generated
