The Public School Forum of North Carolina is honored to feature Dr. Alisa McLean in our Donor Spotlight series—an educator, leader, and unwavering advocate for public education across our state.
With a career spanning classrooms, school leadership, district transformation, and state-level work, Dr. McLean has dedicated her life to ensuring that every child in North Carolina has access to not only a sound basic education, but a high-quality one. Her leadership is grounded in experience, strengthened by community, and driven by a deep and enduring sense of purpose.
In this Q&A, Dr. McLean reflects on the journey that shaped her, the values that continue to guide her work, and why she remains committed to supporting the Forum’s mission.
Can you share a little about your journey to North Carolina? What has kept you rooted here?
“There’s no place like home” is a familiar phrase, and it captures exactly how I feel about North Carolina.
Born and raised in this state, my life and career have taken me across North Carolina and far beyond its borders. I have served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, transformation coach, assistant superintendent, and superintendent—earning my degrees along the way and working across communities and around the globe. Yet, nothing has been more meaningful than returning, again and again, to serve the state I have always called home.
What has kept me rooted here is its people and its purpose. I have had the privilege of working alongside educators, families, faith leaders, and community partners who share a deep commitment to ensuring every child receives a high-quality education. The work has been challenging and often required bold thinking, but it has always been grounded in hope and possibility.
Some of my most formative conversations began at home. Both of my parents were educators, and discussions about schools and students were constant. That foundation expanded through my extended family, church, and professional communities across the state. The belief has always been the same: we can and must make our best even better for North Carolina’s children.
Now, as a proud “boots on the ground, all-in Gigi,” that commitment is even deeper. Our students are being prepared for a future none of us have fully seen yet. What I know for certain is that we cannot take our foot off the gas. Our work must remain focused on transformation, equity, and opportunity for all.
Outside of your career, what brings you joy?
I find joy in the same places that have sustained my work—relationships, purpose, and community.
I have been fortunate to experience a career that has been both vast and fulfilling, but outside of that work, my greatest joy is my family. We are a family that chooses love, steadiness, and grace. Today, we span generations, from our elders to our youngest grandbaby, and through every stage of life, we remain committed to supporting one another and finding happiness together.
My kitchen is another place where joy lives. Cooking and baking are how I share love. Whether for family, church, or community, there is comfort in knowing there is always something prepared with care and meant to bring people together. That sense of connection, care, and fellowship is what grounds me.
What keeps you committed to this work, even in the face of challenges? What are you most proud of?
It has been a privilege to serve North Carolina in so many roles, and in every position, I have worked alongside people who believe deeply in ensuring every child has access to a high-quality education.
I am proud of the outcomes we have achieved together. At the same time, I have never been driven by complacency. There is always more to be done.
The challenges in education continue to grow, and that is exactly why the work matters. Across every community I have served, the context may differ, but the responsibility remains the same. We need strong, thoughtful policies that impact everyone, everywhere. We must build on what works, strengthen best practices, and resist repeating the past.
My commitment has never wavered. The work of the Public School Forum allows me to continue advocating for meaningful, systemic improvement alongside leaders who value partnership, innovation, and action.
What inspired you to invest in the Public School Forum?
The Public School Forum is an organization where you can clearly see the impact of your investment.
As a principal and superintendent, I relied heavily on the Forum’s data and research. That trust was built over time, and it continues today. The organization proves its value again and again through the strength of its work.
Because of that, I felt confident that my support would be used in ways that truly matter—and that confidence continues to guide my giving.
What outcomes do you hope your support helps make possible?
I hope that every investment leads to better outcomes for all children in North Carolina.
We know that some communities face greater challenges than others. That is why access to strong, reliable data matters. The Public School Forum has consistently provided the information needed to help local and state agencies make better decisions.
My hope is that more leaders continue to use these resources. When they do, the impact is clear.
What would you say to someone considering supporting the Forum?
I would say, “Just do it.” And I would add, “Please.”
People have choices about where they invest their resources. I strongly encourage them to support the Public School Forum because the organization has remained steady in its commitment to its vision. The research is invaluable, the insights are timely, and the work is focused on what truly matters.
The Forum is inclusive. It does not choose sides. It remains focused on public schools and the children of North Carolina. That level of commitment is worth supporting.
What gives you hope about the future of public education in North Carolina?
The Public School Forum has always been a forerunner in this work, and I believe it will continue to lead.
Strong leadership, a talented staff, a committed Board, and an engaged Advisory group all contribute to that future. Together, these voices give me confidence and hope for what lies ahead.
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