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JUNE ATKINSON

Democrat

Current office: Superintendent of public instruction.

Birth date: Aug. 19, 1948.

Birthplace: Bedford County, Va.

Lives in: Raleigh.

Spouse: William Gurley.

Education: Bachelor of science in business education, Radford University, 1969; master's in vocational and technical education, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1974; doctorate in education leadership and policy, N.C. State University, 1996.

Occupation: Teacher.

Political career: Superintendent of public instruction, 2005-present.

Web site: www.juneatkinson.com

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Recognized for her work by the General Federation of Women's Clubs, N.C. State University College of Education, N.C. Association of Educators and Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Lists increased technology in classrooms and a focus on improving the drop-out rate as accomplishments in office.

ON THE ISSUES

Atkinson hopes to ensure that:

Every child is a high school graduate prepared for work, further education and citizenship.

Every child is an excellent reader.

Every child has access to engaging technology.

Every child has a teacher who is appreciated and paid well.

TRIVIA

Atkinson was elected superintendent of public instruction in 2004 but didn't take office until August 2005 because of a lawsuit filed by her Republican opponent. When she did take office, the state education board decided not to give her full authority, instead appointing J.B. Buxton as deputy superintendent. Buxton, who Atkinson defeated in the 2003 superintendent primary, receives a higher salary than Atkinson.

RICHARD MORGAN

Republican

Birth date: July 12, 1952.

Birthplace: Southern Pines.

Lives in: Eagle Springs.

Spouse: Cindy.

Education: Sandhills Community College; bachelor of arts in political science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Occupation: Insurance broker and real estate agent

Political career: N.C. House, 1991-2006; served as chairman of the rules committee, minority leader and co-speaker in 2003.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

As a state representative, Morgan helped pass legislation that expanded Smart Start and early childhood programs, funded the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center at UNC Hospitals and established the Clean Water Management Trust Fund.

ON THE ISSUES

Utilize the office's "bully pulpit" power. Morgan says the current superintendent has not been a sufficiently outspoken advocate.

Improve teacher salaries to make North Carolina more competitive in attracting competent teachers.

Retain effective teachers by improving administrative support in schools and hiring motivated principals.

Expand community involvement in schools.

TRIVIA

Morgan brokered a deal with Democrat Jim Black in 2003, allowing him to become the House's first Republican co-speaker.