Facts About Education in Georgia

• Georgia's Quality Basic Education (QBE) formula has not been updated since 1985.

• For nearly 20 years, the Georgia Assembly underfunded public schools according to the QBE standards by about $500 per student.

• Inflation-adjusted teacher base salaries have fallen by $8,000 since 2007.

• Georgia has the 6th largest teacher pay gap in the nation.  Teachers make 73 cents for every dollar earned by similar non-teaching professionals.

• The recently passed HR1 Federal Budget cuts billions of federal dollars for low-income schools and special-needs students.

Action on Education is Long Overdue

I believe every Georgia student deserves access to a high-quality education.  This is the only way to secure a strong economy for the future.  For too long, the state legislature has failed to adequately fund public education, and more recently, they are taking steps to divert public education funding to private schools.  That is a disservice to Georgians everywhere, and there is a much better way.

As with other policy areas, I am more than willing to work with anyone to make good ideas a reality. Here are a few of mine.

Modernize QBE

The 40-year-old Quality Basic Education formula is outdated and inadequate.  It needs to be updated to:

• Add an Opportunity/Poverty Weight so districts educating more low-income learners receive fair support.

• Update the Base Cost using today’s instructional realities: technology, counseling, transportation, school safety (School Resource Officers), and paraprofessionals.

• Fix Local Inequities:

  • Strengthen equalization grants so property‑poor areas aren’t perpetually behind.

  • Cap harmful swings in local share when digest values shift.

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Investing in Those Who Shape Our Future

As a former educator and leader in the classroom, I understand firsthand the challenges our teachers face every day. I’ve seen their dedication, their sacrifices, and their commitment to our students. If we are serious about building a stronger Georgia, we must start by supporting the educators who prepare the next generation.

Respect, Pay, and Retention

Georgia’s teachers deserve to be valued—not just in words, but in action.
I will work to:

• Increase teacher pay to remain competitive across the region

• Provide retention incentives to keep experienced educators in the classroom

• Expand loan forgiveness and financial support programs

Giving Teachers a Voice

The people closest to the classroom should help shape education policy.
I support:

• Establishing Teacher Advisory Councils at the state and local levels

• Ensuring teachers have a meaningful role in curriculum and policy decisions

• Promoting collaboration between educators and lawmakers

Improving Classroom Conditions

Strong learning environments benefit both teachers and students.
I will advocate for:

• Smaller class sizes, especially in early grades

• Protected planning time for teachers

• Increased funding for classroom resources and supplies

• Enhanced school safety and support staff

Strengthening the Teacher Pipeline

We must invest in the next generation of educators.
My priorities include:

• Expanding “Grow Your Own Teacher” programs

• Supporting paid student teaching opportunities

• Creating strong mentorship programs for new teachers

• Partnering with institutions like the University System of Georgia to build local talent

Supporting Teacher Well-Being

Our teachers cannot give their best if they are overwhelmed and unsupported.
I will work to:

• Expand access to mental health and wellness resources

• Reduce unnecessary administrative burdens

• Promote policies that support work-life balance

Recognizing Excellence and Growth

Great teachers should be supported and rewarded.
I support:

• Incentives for advanced certifications and continued education

• Career pathways such as mentor and lead teacher roles

• Ongoing professional development opportunities

A Commitment to Georgia’s Educators

I have stood in the classroom. I have led students. I have worked alongside teachers. I know their challenges—and I am committed to delivering real solutions.

When we support our teachers, we strengthen our schools, our communities, and the future of Georgia.

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