JOE JOHNSON

TRYON

What he says:

* Remove the negative image of vocational training and education.

* Continue to strengthen school-business partnerships, recruit teachers from technical sectors of the business community and fulfill our commitment with the necessary financial resources to ensure that each student can find success in North Carolina's high schools.

What he has done:

* Serves as a member of the Leadership Team for the United Agenda for Children of Henderson County.

* Worked as public information officer and chief political adviser for the Henderson County sheriff.

RICHARD MORGAN

EAGLE SPRINGS

What he says:

* Says experience as a state legislator means he can work with both parties to secure more money for education while still maintaining a balanced state budget.

* Direct more money to lower-performing schools and programs to help train people for the new high-tech jobs that are replacing the losses in the textile industry.

What he has done:

* Served 16 years in the General Assembly, including time on appropriations and education policy committees, and was House co-speaker.

* Helped get passage of $3.1 billion higher education bond issue in 2000.

ERIC SMITH

REIDSVILLE

What he says:

* Wants to improve the local economy as first step to competing in the global economy. Encourage more students to become mechanics, plumbers and welders.

* Start a joint internship program with Department of Agriculture so high school students can get credit for working with farmers.

What he has done:

* Says his experience in the airline industry and now as a farmer gives him a unique perspective he can share with students on the global economy.

Research and Information Compiled by Reporters Kinea White-Epps, T. Keung Hui, and Sam Wineka, and Researcher Becky Ogburn