Democratic state Superintendent Mo Green expressed some frustration over the limitations in his power, especially as Republicans in the General Assembly sought to further restrict his authority following his election.
On Charlotte Talks Thursday, Green said his position has long existed to implement – not create – school policy, but that he lacks the authority to do so fully.
“You need to have the person who is elected to do that, have the freedom and authority to actually do that," Green said. "I don't need partners deciding, you know, whether I can have this or that person or position in order to effectively carry out the policies of the state board and the laws of the General Assembly.”
Green noted many limitations predate his election. The state superintendent has long lacked a vote on the state board of education, whose members are appointed by the governor, and its decisions are largely subject to the board’s approval.
In December, state Republicans passed a law stripping Green’s ability to appeal decisions made by the state charter school board, and took away his ability to administer school resource officer grants.
