In China, 2024 is the year of the Dragon. In North Carolina, it's the year of the Public School. In that spirit, the Holler is hosting a series of conversations on the state of public education in the Tar Heel state. To kick things off, Quinn and Daniel speak with Dayson Pasión, an award-winning public educator and Teacher Advisor to Governor Roy Cooper. Dayson dishes insights from his experience in education policy, including the impact of vouchers on public education, the role of charter schools, the DRIVE task force for educator diversity, and the importance of supporting public education through policy and community involvement. Dyson also touches on the need for supporting educators and early childhood education, reflecting on his journey from classroom teacher to policy advisor.

"Here's the mail. It never fails. It makes me want to wag my tail. When it comes I want to wail... MAIL!!!!!"

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood as Quinn and Daniel sit down for a chat with Seneca Rogers. Since he began attending school board meetings as a concerned citizen back in pre-pandemic times, Seneca has distinguished himself as a tireless advocate for public education. Today he champions our public schools as a member of the ABSS School Board. In a wholesome and light-hearted interview, Seneca clarifies common myths about the role of the school board while shedding light on the importance of public education. Diving deeper, Seneca shares why he decided to run for office and explains how he balances the demands of public office with his day job and family life. Tune in and meet Mr. Rogers!

As the public school budget crisis deepens, GOP politicians in Raleigh are set to make our public schools a guinea pig for GovOps, a shadowy task force with broad authority and little oversight. This week on the Holler, Quinn and Daniel return to the kitchen table for a close look at this secretive group, examining its purpose, powers, and role in local and state politics. What they find should terrify every North Carolinian.

In this episode, Quinn & Daniel answer two existential questions: who are we and why are we here?

Quinn and Daniel take a field trip to Raleigh with former State Rep. Ricky Hurtado, a true Alamance County Hometown Hero and friend of the Holler. During his term as the first Latino Democrat elected to the General Assembly, Ricky distinguished himself as a champion of public education, healthcare access, and good governance. But surprise! He's not running for re-election. Stick around and find out why.