On the episode of Education Matters we’re joined by 2024 North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching 2024 Empower NC Beginning Teacher of the Year Abigail Bentley finalists Samantha Shaw, Cassidy Upton and Sydney Smith. These educators have been recognized as outstanding new teachers and today they’re here to share their experiences entering the classroom and some insight on getting into education as a career field.

On this special episode we’re joined by student leaders from Hyde and Durham counties. These students have, and continue to advocate for themselves and their classmates, improving their school communities for everyone. They’re joining us on Education Matters for a conversation on the power of student voices to create positive change.