At that time he set up the primary reading program, reduced class size, created dropout prevention programs and established the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. Education was an issue he championed early in his career. When he served as Lieutenant Governor from 1973 until 1977, Hunt pushed to make kindergarten available to every North Carolina child. Under Hunt's leadership, North Carolina has made improving education a top priority, including early childhood education, holding students accountable, raising standards and pay for teachers, making schools safer and building strong community support. As a result of his efforts, North Carolina is recognized as the state making the most progress in improving its public schools.
Hunt is the son of a schoolteacher and grew up on a farm in North Carolina.
He earned a B.S. in agricultural education and M.S. in agricultural economics at North Carolina State University. In 1964 he earned his J.D. from the University of North Carolina School of Law. Governor Hunt helped establish and still chairs the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards that is working to boost excellence in teaching. Carnegie is focusing on reforming teacher education in the United States and it's clear that Governor Hunt can help us shape our work on this critical issue. Too many teachers are unprepared to walk into classrooms ready and able to lead the next generation.