Steven Gupton

Steven Gupton is a teacher and certified EMT who has been active in Franklin County’s education community and previously ran for the Franklin County Board of Education, District 3, in the May 17, 2022 general election [1]. The Board of Education is a nonpartisan elected body that governs the county’s public K‑12 schools, setting policy, approving budgets, and overseeing the superintendent [1].

Gupton grew up in a single‑parent home and is the son of an incarcerated father, experiences he says shape his approach to teaching and mentorship [12]. He earned his teaching credentials and returned to his alma mater, Louisburg High School, where he now teaches several career‑technical education (CTE) courses, including an EMT basics class [12]. His dual role as an active EMT allows him to bring real‑world emergency‑medical experience into the classroom, enriching student learning.

In recent interviews, Gupton highlighted the digital‑divide challenges facing rural students in Franklin County. He described how limited broadband access hampers students’ ability to engage in online learning and maintain communication with teachers, noting that many families lack the resources for reliable internet [12]. Gupton himself often relies on his cell phone as a hotspot for work, a situation that becomes strained when extended availability is required for remote instruction [12]. He also recounted personal anecdotes of connecting with students in community settings—grocery stores, ambulance runs—to ensure they receive support despite connectivity barriers.

Gupton’s community‑focused perspective and personal story have been central to his public outreach. In a podcast episode for EdNC’s “Hope Starts Here,” he discussed his decision to return to Louisburg High School as a teacher, emphasizing the importance of showing students that their circumstances do not have to limit their aspirations [12]. While he did not complete Ballotpedia’s 2022 Candidate Connection survey, his candidacy was officially listed on the ballot alongside Elizabeth S. Keith and April Lloyd [1].

Through his work as an educator, EMT, and former school‑board candidate, Gupton seeks to address equity gaps in education, particularly those stemming from technology access, and to serve as a relatable role model for students facing adversity.

Sources

• [1] Steven Gupton (Franklin County Board of Education District 3, North Carolina, candidate 2022) - Ballotpedia
• [11] Steven Gupton | On Hope Starts Here episode 4, hear from Steven Gupton -- a Franklin County teacher and EMT describe the rural challenges with broadband and his journey... | By Education NC | Facebook
• [12] 'It’s pretty much non-existent' — Franklin County teacher and EMT describes rural challenges with broadband - EdNC