News-Record.com

Earlier today, the AP reported:

Gov. Beverly Perdue's choice to lead North Carolina's public school system has a second title after being elected chairman of the State Board of Education.

Former Cumberland County Schools Superintendent Bill Harrison was sworn into a seat on the board today. Within minutes he was elected chairman, replacing outgoing chairman Howard Lee.

Harrison also leads the state's public school system, which serves 1.5 million students.

Harrison's dual titles are part of Perdue's plan to consolidate power in public education and makes the governor ultimately responsible for public school performance.

Just before 5 p.m., State Superintendent of Public Instruction June Atkinson sent this along:

“I congratulate Dr. Bill Harrison for being elected as chair of the State Board of Education.

The State Board of Education also approved the establishment of a chief executive officer position with the authority to manage the day-to-day operations of the Department of Public Instruction and appointed Dr. Harrison to serve in that role. I believe this action violates the Constitution of North Carolina and usurps the will of the voters who granted me the privilege to serve as State Superintendent of Public Instruction. I do not believe that the governance issue will be resolved until it is challenged in the judicial system or the Constitution is changed. I will not abdicate my constitutional and statutory responsibilities.

I remain committed to the 2.2 million voters who elected me and to the children and educators in this state.”

For those trying to figure out whether we really have a pending constitutional crisis might want to take a gander at the state constitution.

If you play the home game, let me know what you think via the comment link below.