Education was a critical topic during this past long session of the General Assembly, capturing the attention of the public, legislators, and the executive branch. And if you were using the words education and Gov. Pat McCrory in the same sentence, then Eric Guckian’s name wouldn’t be far behind.
McCrory’s senior education advisor since 2013, Guckian helped steer the governor’s education policy during a divisive political era for North Carolina schools — one marked by the spread of opportunity scholarships (vouchers), the proliferation of charter schools, and criticism of public education’s ability to educate all students.
Guckian left in August to take an executive position with Leadership for Educational Equity, a non-partisan Washington D.C.-based group that builds leadership amongst the ranks of Teach for America members and alumni.
Now, McCrory has announced the new face of education in the state’s executive branch.
Catherine Truitt is coming on board from the International Center for Leadership in Education where she worked as a school district turnaround coach, according to a press release.
“Catherine Truitt’s passion and focus is in the classroom,” McCrory said in the press release. “The diversity of her teaching experience will help us to build on the progress we’ve made to ensure every North Carolina student is equipped with the skills they need to begin a career or further their education.”
Truitt’s career in education has included teaching high school English at West Johnson High School in Benson, and English Literature and Media Studies at Uxbridge College Academy in London, England. She was also curriculum director and co-founder for Chicago-based Ridge Academy private elementary school.
