Renee and Susan discuss the state budget that was 365 days late and countless dollars short.

The title says it all.

In this episode of Advocacy Bites, hosts Renée Sekel and Susan Book take a hard look at North Carolina's newly signed state budget, unpacking what made the process so controversial and why they believe the final product falls short for students, teachers, families, and communities. From delayed negotiations and last-minute legislative maneuvering to education funding, teacher pay, school vouchers, legal aid, child care, and public schools, they examine the budget's biggest wins, biggest losses, and the long-term consequences for North Carolina.

The conversation also explores what the budget means for public education, why one-time bonuses aren't a substitute for meaningful investment, and how policy changes tucked inside the spending bill could affect classrooms across the state. Renée and Susan also discuss Governor Josh Stein's decision to sign the budget, the ongoing Leandro school funding debate, concerns about voting rights and government accountability, and close the episode by honoring the life and legacy of education advocate Matt Ellinwood.

If you care about North Carolina politics, education policy, the state budget, teacher pay, school funding, public education, voting rights, or advocacy, this episode breaks down the headlines and explains why they matter—and what everyday advocates can do next.

(0:13) - Budget Passed in a Flash (1:24) - Conference Report Breakdown (2:18) - Late Budget Fallout (3:52) - Bonuses Not Backpay (7:31) - Teacher Pay Sleight of Hand (10:42) - Unfunded School Mandates (12:13) - Vouchers and Other Addons (14:06) - Childcare and PreK Gaps (15:28) - Religious Release Time Debate (16:22) - Governor Signs and Spins (20:11) - Elections Power Grab (21:07) - Remembering Matt Ellinwood

Matt Ellinwood obituary with link to support his family: https://obits.endswellfuneralhome.com/matthew-ellinwood. Stay connected at: http://saveourschoolsnc.org/