2024 SMT Champion – Mebane Rash
May 01

2024 SMT Champion – Mebane Rash

For connecting and engaging with communities across the state to improve STEM education and expand opportunities for all students.

In the bustling education landscape, Mebane Rash stands out as a beacon of advocacy, tirelessly championing the voices of educators and students across North Carolina. As a the CEO and editor-in-chief at EdNC, an online news organization dedicated to balanced and fair reporting on education, Rash has become a vital conduit for disseminating accurate information amidst a sea of noise and misinformation.

Rash articulated her work’s core ethos: “This work is not about us. It’s about the educators and the students they serve.” With a fervent dedication to ensuring that every voice is heard and every story is seen, Rash exemplifies a commitment to amplifying the narratives that often go unheard, particularly in today’s polarized and politicized landscape.

Rash’s impact extends beyond mere reporting; she actively seeks out and celebrates the unique strengths of communities, such as Greene County, a small and rural district often overlooked in broader conversations. Through her efforts, Rash has shed light on the innovative approaches to STEM education in Greene County, where students are immersed in STEM from an early age, fostering a learning environment that defies traditional expectations.

Educators and administrators alike attest to Rash’s unwavering support and advocacy. One administrator from Greene County remarked, “EdNC and Mebane have done an amazing job of finding our uniqueness as a school district and then promoting that.”

Rash’s ability to convene diverse voices and foster collaboration has been instrumental in advancing education initiatives across North Carolina. As one colleague noted, “When Mebane talks, people listen. She is a convener. She brings people together.” Rash’s leadership and vision are a beacon of hope in a state grappling with complex educational challenges.

Looking ahead, Rash remains committed to her mission of documenting the diverse landscape of education in North Carolina. With a keen awareness of the disparities in resources and leadership across districts, Rash sees her work as crucial in ensuring that public schools remain a cornerstone of the state’s future.