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This issue of PAGE One is the last of its kind. It is the final regular print edition of the award-winning magazine that has spanned the entirety of the association’s 50-year history. I have often marveled at the incredible foresight PAGE founders exhibited when, amid all the pressing work at the time, they launched a publication to serve as an important source of information for members. They were passionate visionaries and innovators who built an organization that continues to adapt and evolve in its service to Georgia educators. The transformation of PAGE One from a print magazine to a digital format is an example of the forward momentum that has become a hallmark of the association.
On pages 8 and 9 of this issue, PAGE Executive Director Craig Harper chronicles many of the factors that have brought the magazine to this moment of transition. In doing so, he also shares insight into what happens next – an online publication that will continue PAGE One’s tradition of excellence within the digital sphere. On pages 18 through 51, this issue’s cover story features a decade-by-decade retrospective of some of the top PAGE One articles from 50 years of service to members. Our team truly enjoyed the journey through time that bringing this cover story to fruition required. It is our hope that you enjoy it as well.
“This issue of PAGE One is the last of its kind. It is the final regular print edition of the award-winning magazine that has spanned the entirety of the association’s 50-year history.”
The Georgia Department of Education has named Rachel Kinsaul Georgia Teacher of the Year for 2026. Her term will begin in July. You’ll meet her on pages 14 through 16 of this issue.
Thank you to all who participated in this year’s online business meeting to cast your vote for the 2025-26 slate of officers and directors. In June, PAGE welcomed newly elected President Brecca Pope (page 5) and new board members Colt Brockington (page 56), Sherrie Hubbard (page 58) and Deborah Lucas (page 60). You can learn more about each of them in this issue.
Each year, the PAGE Foundation awards scholarships to dedicated applicants throughout the state. On pages 62 through 65, you’ll hear from each of the 2025 recipients.
We hope you enjoy all that you will discover in this final print edition of PAGE One. Our team looks forward to continuing to bring you excellent content as we launch our online presence next year. n
Ramona Mills
PAGE
Communications Director
PAGE One Executive Editor / Writer
“My greatest professional satisfaction comes from moments when I can help others accomplish goals and aspirations. I view my role on the PAGE Board of Directors in the same light.”
Surrounded by excellent teachers – including her mother and grandmother – from an early age, Dr. Brecca Pope always knew that “being an educator would be a great job to have.” Now celebrating 28 years in the profession, 16 of those on the PAGE Board of Directors, she gaveled in as president for the 2025 –2026 school year following election by PAGE members this spring.
“I have loved every job I’ve had as an educator,” says Pope, who has served in multiple roles including speech-language pathologist, assistant principal, and her present position as assistant superintendent for administrative services for Thomas County Schools.
“When I get to work each morning, I always think, ‘what can I do today to help someone reach their goals?,’” she shares. “That is what brings me joy. I aspire to work behind the scenes and help make other people’s jobs easier.”
This focus will continue during her presidency, says Pope as she highlights the many ways in which PAGE works behind the scenes for Georgia educators and school staff.
“The sole mission of PAGE is education and educators,” she observes. The association offers a robust suite of services, including legal protection, legislative advocacy, professional development, grants, and professional recognitions. In Georgia’s education landscape, PAGE plays a vital role in amplifying teachers’ voices and supporting the critical work of our profession.”
Pope’s vision for her year as president is to work closely with PAGE leadership to support the organization’s mission and programs, including the PAGE Coaching initiative.
“PAGE Coaching helps teachers throughout their journeys, whether new or veteran,” she says. “Districts don’t offer mentorship to veteran educators,” she continues, “PAGE does. We fill a void.” (One-toone PAGE Coaching is personalized, confidential, and free to all members. Learn more on pages 10 and 11 of this issue and at https://www.pageinc. org/coaching.)
“It is a great honor to be able to serve as President of the Board of Directors and stand alongside the visionaries and dedicated leadership within the PAGE organization,” says Pope. n
“I have loved every job I’ve had as an educator. When I get to work each morning, I always think, ‘what can I do today to help someone reach their goals?’”
“Mentors who tailor their support – whether through differentiated instruction, personalized check-ins, or scaffolded opportunities – make lasting impacts.”
In the ever-evolving realm of education, one truth remains constant: we are all mentors. Whether you’re a veteran teacher, a new educator, a student leader, or a support staff member, your experiences, actions, and words have vast potential to guide and inspire others. This responsibility embraces the idea that mentoring can – and should – be embedded in the culture of our schools and classrooms.
There is power in shared experiences. When we open up to one another by sharing our successes, challenges, and goals, we create opportunities for genuine connection. These moments of vulnerability build trust and engagement. Students, novice teachers, and even seasoned professionals often feel isolated in their struggles, but when we share openly, we validate their experiences and invite them into a supportive circle.
One of the most impactful ways to harness this power is by intentionally building communities within your school and classroom. Community is not exclusively about collaboration; it is also about fostering a sense of belonging. When students and educators feel seen, heard, and valued, they are more likely to engage with and support one another. Bonding activities are a great place to start. Whether a classroom tradition, a team-building game, or a collaborative project, these interactions create an inner circle where all members feel included. These moments of connection aren’t accidental; they’re the result of careful thought and paying attention to details.
It’s in the small things: noticing when a student is unusually quiet, taking the suggestion of an induction teacher, or remembering a colleague’s personal milestone. These small gestures go a long way toward making someone feel that they belong, and they help build a culture where community and understanding thrive. Recognizing that students and induction teachers have unique needs and learning styles is essential. A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. What helps one person thrive might leave another struggling. That’s why meticulous planning or simply going the extra mile can yield superior gains and rewards. Mentors who tailor their support – whether through differentiated instruction, personalized check-ins, or scaffolded opportunities – make lasting impacts.
As our society evolves, so too must our methods. The tools and strategies that may have worked when you were just beginning your career may not be relevant today. The pace of change, from technology to student demographics to learning modalities, demands flexibility, innovation, and constant reflection. This doesn’t mean discarding everything from the past. Instead, it’s about merging the wisdom of experience with a willingness to learn and grow. It’s about modeling what lifelong learning looks like for students, for colleagues, and for ourselves.
At its heart, this is about creating a culture that prioritizes community, empathy, and connection over competition or hierarchy, and within which everyone feels they belong, everyone has something to contribute, and everyone is both a learner and a teacher. Ultimately, we are all mentors, and in embracing this role, we not only support each other but we also transform our classrooms and schools into spaces where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
“Community is not exclusively about collaboration; it is also about fostering a sense of belonging.”
One of the many things I love about my service on the PAGE Board of Directors is seeing firsthand that the organization aligns with this same vision and purpose. From targeted legislative advocacy and hosting an annual Day on Capitol Hill for direct advocacy by educators, to professional learning, grants, scholarships, recognition programs, and one-to-one coaching available to all members, PAGE is continually providing community and mentorship to Georgia educators. If you’re not already taking advantage of all the benefits and services available to you as a PAGE member, I encourage you to do so.
In our classrooms and schools, during this year and beyond, let’s continue to share our stories, listen to others, and build communities that lift up everyone. The journey is ongoing, but the rewards are extraordinary. n
Dr. Brecca Pope
Passionate about fostering strong school communities and ensuring that students and educators have the support they need to thrive, Dr. Brecca Pope currently serves as assistant superintendent for administrative services with Thomas County Schools. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Valdosta State University, and an Education Specialist and Doctorate in Educational Leadership.
A
“Throughout each decade, PAGE staff, the Board of Directors, and many volunteers and partners have been proud of what we’ve built.”
What an exciting, milestone year PAGE is experiencing as we celebrate 50 years of excellent service to Georgia educators. In 1975, PAGE began as a big idea to found a Georgia-focused, non-partisan association emphasizing educators’ roles as experts working to improve the profession in the best interest of students. How far we’ve come since then! From initial meetings in Paul Copeland’s living room and only a few hundred members to more than 93,000 today. Extending and enhancing membership benefits in response to educators’ needs propelled PAGE’s phenomenal growth. Initial services that included liability insurance and legislative advocacy quickly grew with the addition of on-staff legal representation, professional learning, student programs, and scholarships. The most recent benefit enhancements provide oneon-one coaching and $100,000 in annual educator grants.
Throughout each decade, PAGE staff, the Board of Directors, and many volunteers and partners have been proud of what we’ve built. It has all happened because PAGE is an association created and sustained by educators for educators. Thank you for being central to our success and for trusting PAGE to serve you as you serve others. You can review some of our history at www.page50.org. Further, you can share your experiences with PAGE at www. page50.org/submit. I hope you’ll contribute your story to our history book.
This edition of PAGE One highlights just a tiny fraction of the quality content shared with members since 1975. Since its founding, PAGE One has been an excellent resource for Georgia educators, addressing legal, legislative, and policy issues and championing great educators who are leading the way in areas including instruction, technology, and relationship building.
As we consider our next 50 years, the leadership team continually thinks about how to serve you better while being good stewards of our resources. In keeping with that commitment, this issue of PAGE One is the final regular edition. It will be
followed by a Special Anniversary Edition later this year that will celebrate the association’s five decades of service. PAGE One is not going away. Rather, the delivery method of the award-winning publication will be changing. Early next calendar year, it will transform into a web-based digital magazine with the same level of quality content you’ve come to expect.
This decision has not been an easy one. It has been difficult and deliberate, especially for someone with more than 35 years’ experience writing, editing, and producing printed communications. The three most pressing reasons are resource-related: paper, postage, and production. Those three “Ps” add up to substantial cost. As we have all experienced in recent years, the cost of goods and services has increased significantly. While costs have gone up, so has the content volume over the past five years as the page count has increased from an average of 32 pages to 60 or more. That requires more staff time to research, write, edit, and produce. An interim step to address those costs was reducing the annual publishing schedule from five regular issues to three plus a New Member Special Edition.
With our 24/7 connectivity and the speed at which issues affecting education occur, a more dynamic mode of communication will keep you informed with greater timeliness than a traditional magazine which takes many weeks to produce, print, and mail. The recurring features readers are accustomed to from the PAGE Legal and Legislative staff will still be shared, along with stories about all our services from Membership, Coaching, Professional Learning, and the PAGE Foundation.
The PAGE Communications team and I look forward to this new iteration of PAGE One. We’re committed to enhancing the methods by which we inform you about critical issues for educators, highlight member accomplishments, and share PAGE services.
Thank you for choosing to contribute to the PAGE story and our success together. n
Craig Harper Executive Director
Executive Director Craig Harper joined PAGE in 2015 after more than 22 years in Georgia public school leadership positions, including experience with human resources, professional learning, school safety, student services, and policy. Harper holds a master’s in public administration from Valdosta State University.
A unique, personalized service by educators for educators, PAGE Coaching is an exclusive, membersonly benefit available to you throughout your career as a PAGE member. And, because PAGE Coaching is completely confidential, you’ll be able to address even the most difficult and sensitive topics.
All PAGE coaches are experienced educators skilled at mentoring, counseling, conflict resolution, relationship building, and educator best practices. Areas of expertise include regular education, special education, and leadership.
Experiencing burnout and in need of support, resources, and strategies?
Needing insight to help refine classroom management plans or effectively counter disruptive behavior?
Seeking proven strategies for dealing with parental complaints or concerns?
Looking for information and assistance as you address challenging situations with students, peers, or administrators?
Desiring insight and encouragement as you consider growth opportunities and next-level career development?
• PAGE Coaching supports and empowers you by providing the assistance you need when you need it.
• It’s available in all areas of the state.
• It’s completely confidential.
• And, most importantly, it works. Since its inception in fall 2023, PAGE Coaching has assisted more than 470 members in 118 school districts.
At your request, PAGE will pair you with a professional coach for one-on-one sessions dedicated to assisting with your specific challenges. You’ll meet virtually to identify foundational issues. Your coach will then work with you to determine next actions to effectively address those issues.
Accessing PAGE Coaching is simple. All you need to do is fill out a request form and we’ll take it from there.
Scan the QR code or visit www.bit.ly/3vVZo7F to sign up for PAGE Coaching.
Innovative supplies and resources to enhance an educator’s e ectiveness with students and help propel them to new heights of con dence and achievement are often beyond nancial reach.
In response, PAGE created a program designed to provide recipients with funds to support goals for students as well as further their individual goals as Georgia educators.
Available to all members who haven’t previously received an Educator Grant.
Up to $100,000 in cumulative funds will be awarded this school year! Funds to be disbursed as individual reimbursement grants of up to $500.
Applications open Sunday, Oct. 5, and close Sunday, Oct. 26.
For more details and to apply, visit www.pageinc.org/grants or scan the QR code below.
“If You’re Excited, Your Students Will Be Too.”
Morgan County High School’s Rachel Kinsaul, 2026 Georgia Teacher of the Year, is the kind of teacher students remember decades later. In her case, she’ll be the memory wearing floral overalls and muddy boots. And she’ll have a grin on her face like she just won the lottery – or, better yet, like one of her students just won a grand champion market hog rosette.
Her enthusiasm – joyful, experimental, and student-centered – isn’t accidental. It’s intentional. “If you’re excited, your students will be too,” she says.
Whether planting seeds in agricultural science class or coaching students through their first livestock show as FFA chapter advisor, Kinsaul strives to make her excitement contagious, even when the work is messy.
The nerve center of her curriculum is the school’s environmentally controlled livestock barn, a $2.7 million project completed under Kinsaul’s leadership. She spearheaded the fundraising effort to give all students the chance to raise and show animals regardless of where they live
“Most kids can’t keep a pig in their backyard,” Kinsaul notes. “We live in a rural area, but many of my kids live in subdivisions or in town. Students are able to house their animals here, which opens up the door to a lot more students.”
The barn also gives Kinsaul more one-on-one time with her students. The same is true of livestock shows, where she takes advantage of long stretches of downtime to teach and build relationships.
“Livestock shows are hurry up and wait,” she says. “You’ve got to get your pig checked in, then wait for showmanship class. Hurry up and get ready, then wait again. There are so many opportunities to teach the kids about the livestock industry and to get to know them.”
Kinsaul is Georgia’s Teacher of the Year for 2026.
“The biggest thing that helps me build relationships with students is all the time that I can spend just talking to them, not necessarily about school things, but about their interests, and what they’re doing this weekend.”
“We’re all career tech teachers; we’re all preparing students for a career in some way.”
That in-between time – whether at shows, in her classroom ecosystem, or on a bus – is where Kinsaul says she does some of her best work: listening, building trust, and connecting what students care about to what they’re learning. It’s also time that supports greater teacher clarity, making space for relationships that deepen understanding and keep students engaged.
“The biggest thing that helps me build relationships with students is all the time that I can spend just talking to them, not necessarily about school things, but about their interests, and what they’re doing this weekend,” Kinsaul says.
Kinsaul also credits much of her success to the creative freedom she’s been given over the years.
“I’ve had an administration that has let me run with my creativity, let me run with passion projects, and said, ‘wow,’ before they said ‘how,’” she adds.
She has turned that autonomy into a classroom culture where high expectations meet hands-on fun. From plant sales to quirky FFA fundraisers, there’s always something on the calendar to keep everyone motivated.
While working at a ranch camp in Wyoming while on summer break, she discovered how much she loved helping kids connect with animals, the land, and each other.
“I fell in love with the chaos of it,” she says. “The kids, the animals, the learning — it all came together. I knew then this was what I was supposed to do.”
As Georgia Teacher of the Year, Kinsaul plans to focus on issues where she currently has expertise: advocacy and career education.
Kinsaul didn’t always plan to become a teacher. Imagining a very different career path, she earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a master’s in agricultural leadership from the University of Georgia. But then one summer experience sparked her desire to teach – and she never looked back.
“I’ve been preparing for this role for my entire career, because a huge portion of what I do is work with the community, sitting on boards and advocating for different agricultural issues throughout our community and throughout the state,” Kinsaul explains. “I’m excited to get to advocate for education because now I’m able to throw those two things in the same ring.”
She also hopes to impress upon educators statewide that career readiness is taught in every classroom.
“All teachers are providing students with career skills,” Kinsaul asserts. “Kindergarten and first-grade teachers are teaching students how to interact with each other and resolve conflict, which is a huge career skill. Math teachers are giving students base knowledge that they’re going to be able to build upon and that they will use in their careers. We’re all career tech teachers; we’re all preparing students for a career in some way.”
Her work has earned recognition beyond the barn. In addition to being named Georgia Teacher of the Year, Kinsaul received the prestigious national 2025 Milken Educator Award, the Young Alumni Achievement Award from UGA’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, and, together with her husband Jason, the 2019 Georgia Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Award for Excellence in Agriculture, where they placed among the national top 10.
Still, it’s the students who matter most to Kinsaul.
“When I see a student who didn’t think they had anything to contribute transform into a leader, that’s everything to me,” she says. n
To read the full article, visit our website at www.pageinc.org As of this printing, Holmes, former President of the PAGE Board of Directors, is a current board member representing retirees throughout the state. She also serves as a PAGE membership consultant.
A strong mentorship program can positively impact new and veteran teachers alike in extraordinary and lasting ways. This impact extends to students, families, and school communities.
By Scotty Brewington
Teaching is highly rewarding — and highly challenging.
New teachers have a lot to overcome: There are lessons to plan, names to memorize, school and district procedures to navigate, classrooms to manage, and relationships to build. Some of this is referred to in college textbooks. In reality, most is learned on the job.
Veteran teachers face obstacles also: There is ever- evolving technology to master and a steady supply of new information to integrate into lesson plans. Established classroom routines and approaches can become stale, and the passion that originally brought
educators to the profession can wane, contributing to teacher burnout.
A strong mentorship program can positively impact new and veteran teachers alike in extraordinary and lasting ways. This impact extends to students, families, and school communities.
In mentor relationships, newer teachers rely on other teachers to bridge the gap both professionally and personally between what they learned in school and what they’re encountering in the classroom. These colleagues serve as a trustworthy, non-judgmental support system to get them through the learning curve of their first year teaching or first year in a new school system.
To read the full issue, visit our website at
How do educators maintain their passion and purpose despite burnout and all the factors that contribute to it? Why do they stay? Members from throughout the state dig deep to share their compelling stories.
By Ramona Mills and Michelle Matthews
Teaching has never been easy. As with any profession, it brings with it unique challenges and rewards. It’s work – hard work. The days start early. The hours can be long. There’s always something more to do. But, oh the many blessings and joys!
Those who love teaching, love it deeply. But, even the most passionate and dedicated educators know that the challenges have dramatically increased during the last several years. Many have left the profession. Many others have indicated that they plan to do so.
Three years ago, approximately 14 percent of PAGE 2021 survey respondents with 20 or fewer years of expe- rience said they planned to leave the profession within five years.¹ Just two years later, about 22 percent of PAGE 2023 survey respondents with 20 or fewer years of expe- rience said it was unlikely or very unlikely they would remain in the field another five years.²
A primary reason cited for this attrition is burnout. In 2022, the Georgia Department of Education commis- sioned an educator task force – led by PAGE member and then Georgia Teacher of the Year Cherie Bonder Goldman – to identify contributing factors and recommend action-
able solutions. In the report, Teacher Burnout in Georgia:
Voices from the Classroom, Goldman wrote:
“Georgia is losing talented teachers to burnout…The teachers I know don’t want to walk away. Their motivation for becoming a teacher, their aspiration to make that dream come true, their heartfelt passion for making a difference in the lives of students – none of those things have changed. But too many of our teachers are running on empty.³”
In the report, the task force suggested specific strate- gies and solutions for directly addressing burnout. PAGE has continually advocated for pay increases for educators, more robust mental health supports, lower class sizes, protected planning time, duty-free lunches, and more.⁴ Progress has been made, but much remains to be done.
Georgia educators are also innovating to address burnout. While acknowledging the undeniable realities, they are identifying and implementing skills and practic- es that enable them to continue doing the work they love.
How do they do it? What strategies do they employ? PAGE One set out to learn these answers and more. We spoke with amazing educators throughout the state, ask- ing them to share what enables them to counter burnout and be able to say, “this is why I stay.”
¹ PAGE 2021 Survey Report, Voices from Georgia Schools: Georgia Educators on Supporting Public Education During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic: https://bit.ly/44oUY68
² PAGE 2023 Survey Report, Views from the Schoolhouse: Georgia Educator Policy Insights: https://bit.ly/3w98oqa
³ Teacher Burnout in Georgia: Voices from the Classroom: https://bit.ly/3w0Znzr
⁴ 2024 PAGE Legislative Priorities: https://bit.ly/3Wgs068
To read the full issue, visit our website at www.pageinc.org
By Dr. Hayward Cordy, PAGE Foundation President and Director of Strategic Partnerships
One of my fondest memories is taking my two grandsons on weekend excursions, especially as toddlers. I learned nev- er to be surprised by the questions they asked or the things they focused on. My oldest grandson usually sat in his car seat on the left while the younger one sat in his car seat on the right – both in the second row of the car. Sitting on the right positioned the youngest for me to be able to see him and what he was doing in the rearview mirror. He was prone to turning around and sticking out his tongue at people in the cars behind us. It also positioned him to be able to see the car instrument cluster and gauges. Without fail, upon getting buckled in, he would look at the instrument cluster and ask, “Grandpa, do you need gas?” Knowing that he had an aversion to a lot of walking, I generally made sure that I had a full tank of fuel when I picked them up. On occasion, after my grandson asked if I needed gas, I would look at the gauge and realize I had been so busy that I was unaware I was running low.
As educators, whether you are just starting out or have been on your journey for many years, you will sometimes find yourself low on fuel – the resources needed to com- plete the trip. The journey begins excitedly on the first day of school and we endeavor to keep that excitement up for the next 180 days. Life happens. School happens. The challenges of life and school can zap us of our energy and fulfillment, leading us to realize that we are burned out, not sure how to handle a particular situation, in need of a listening ear, low on fuel.
As Georgia’s largest and most trusted educator associa- tion, PAGE provides many services that inform, protect, and empower members to teach, lead, and inspire Georgia’s chil- dren. And what of the fuel? That’s the role of PAGE Coaching. Now, in its second year, one-on-one professional coaching is a unique member benefit – exclusive to PAGE and available to all PAGE members – that provides the support necessary to refuel in order to reset, re-energize, and resolve dilemmas and problematic issues that encroach on the joy of teaching.
“One-on-one professional coaching is a unique member benefit that provides the support necessary to refuel in order to reset, re-energize, and resolve dilemmas and problematic issues that encroach on the joy of teaching.”
The program provides participants with one-on-one pro- fessional support as they hone the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively serve students and meet the expectations for their role. In so doing, PAGE Coaching provides the fuel members need to overcome challenges and remain in the profession.
To read the full issue, visit our website at www.pageinc.org
By the PAGE Legislative Team: Margaret Ciccarelli, Josh Stephens, and Robert Aycock
, with contributions by guest writers Charlotte Flores, Brannon Parks, and Melinda Pippen-Miller
In 2023, the Georgia General Assembly ap- proved the Safe Schools Act, a bill sponsored under the leadership of Gov. Brian P. Kemp. The bill, supported by PAGE, mandates the creation of a school safety and anti-gang endorsement for eligible certificated professional personnel. It also requires public schools in Georgia to submit school safety plans to the Georgia Emergency Manage- ment and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) and conduct intruder alert drills, allowing parents to opt their children out if desired.
Aspinwall and Cristina Irimie, and two students, Christian Angulo and Mason Schermerhorn, at Apalachee High School in Barrow County. On Sept. 26, 2024, Hurricane Helene drastically im- pacted teachers, students, and some school build- ings across Southern and Eastern Georgia.
Kemp and legislators provided $109 million in additional school safety funding and added it as a line item in the FY 2025 budget to ensure con- tinued funding in future years. Lawmakers previ- ously provided school safety funding in the form of one-time grants. PAGE advocated for annu- alized funding in partnership with the Georgia School Boards Association, the Georgia School Superintendents Association, and the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders. We encour- age PAGE members to thank legislators for their support to keep students and teachers safe.
School safety has been a pressing issue in Geor- gia for some time. It was a concern for policy- makers and advocates before Sept. 4, 2024, when a student took the lives of two teachers, Richard
The following set of articles (pages 28–51) highlight the importance of school safety plans in preventing and mitigating disasters, how schools should respond to incidents, how schools can recover after an event, and how individual edu- cators and staff can get involved in their school’s safety plan. You’ll hear from several Georgia educators and school employees – including an Apalachee High School teacher, a Barrow Coun- ty Schools administrator, school mental health professionals, and the first recipient of Geor- gia’s School Safety and Anti-Gang Endorsement. You’ll also learn about the Ready Georgia Seal of Preparedness, the HC Watch program, and more. In the closing segment, you’ll find school safety opinions from PAGE members who responded to the 2024 PAGE legislative survey.
Thank you for the great work you do every day in Georgia’s schools and communities to keep students safe. We hope you find these arti- cles helpful. To
Keeping pace with your needs, PAGE has streamlined the system for joining, renewing, and updating your member profile. Visit www.members.pageinc.org or scan the QR code below to create an account and access this new, easy-to-use portal.
ENSURE THAT YOUR MEMBERSHIP REMAINS CURRENT
If you transfer from a school system where you are on payroll deduction, you’ll need to provide PAGE with this new information in order to maintain membership and prevent a lapse in coverage and benefits.
STAY IN-THE-KNOW BY KEEPING YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION UPDATED
Review your contact information, updating if needed, to ensure accuracy. Providing a personal email rather than a work email address is preferred as some school system filters will prevent receipt of messages.
CHANGE FROM STUDENT MEMBERSHIP TO PROFESSIONAL
When transitioning from student to teacher, ensure continued coverage by also transitioning your membership to professional. And you’ll receive your first year at half price!
Visit www.members.pageinc.org or scan the QR code to access the portal.
• $1 million liability coverage*
• $10,000 coverage policy for legal defense of employment, criminal, and ethics cases with the Georgia Professional Standards Commission*
• All coverage is “win or lose” with no reimbursements, deductibles, or up-front costs
• Direct access to one-on-one, privileged, and confidential guidance from an expert legal team
• Interactive Code of Ethics presentations, FAQs, and informative resources
• Your voice at the Capitol — and with policymakers at the local, state, and national level
• PAGE engages lawmakers on a variety of issues that affect educators and students throughout the year and especially during each session of the Georgia General Assembly
• Advocacy focus areas include salary increases and pay supplements, school funding, teacher evaluation, assessment and accountability, the Teachers Retirement System, and preventing the expansion of private school vouchers
• One-on-one coaching enables you to overcome professional challenges
• Growth-focused professional learning opportunities throughout the state
• Grants to support your classroom and growth as a Georgia educator
• Scholarships to support your continuing education and career goals
• Teacher and student recognition programs and academic competitions: STAR, Academic Decathlon, and more
• Future Georgia Educators initiatives support Georgia’s teacher pipeline
• PAGE One magazine, educator resource materials, and more to keep you informed
• More benefits than any other Georgia educator association
• Your best value:
» Less than $15 monthly for certified personnel
» Less than $8 monthly for support staff
• Dues support you — not political action committees; local, state, or national candidates; national organizations; or non-education issues
• Dues stay in Georgia to work for you
Now celebrating 50 years of service, PAGE is the state’s largest and most trusted educator association and the best option for your professional future. Membership is available to all Georgia educators and school employees as well as college and high school students enrolled in education courses.
Scan the QR code or visit www.pageinc.org/membership to learn more.
*Coverages are subject to industry standard exclusions. For specifics of coverage and exclusions, visit the selfservice member portal at www.members.pageinc.org.
“I want to empower teachers and make sure every student, no matter their background, feels supported.”
When Colt Brockington set out from his hometown of Jesup for the College of Coastal Georgia, his goal was to become a pharmacist. Amid his plan to achieve that goal, however, he found that he had a very different calling.
“I knew what my plan was,” he says, “but I was getting bored with pharmacy tech. It was the same thing every day, and I couldn’t see myself doing it for 30 years.”
So, if not pharmacy, then what? He knew he had an interest in teaching. But could he see himself teaching for 30 years? The answer came during his first practicum at a middle school in Brunswick.
“It was a small group setting called a READ180 program, a class of nine kids,” Brockington explains. “They were in 8th grade but reading at a first or second-grade level. When I saw their faces light up, I started building on the relationships. They just needed somebody to believe in them.”
From that moment on, there was no question that he could teach for 30 years – and love doing so.
Brockington graduated from Coastal Georgia in 2017 with a Bachelor of Biological Sciences degree and a concentration in secondary education. He returned to Wayne County as a high school physics teacher and coach, establishing himself as a mentor and role model.
He later completed a Master of Education from Valdosta State University (2023) and acquired a specialist degree from Georgia Southwestern State University (2025).
As head softball coach, he led the Lady Jackets to three consecutive region titles, a state runner-up finish, and another trip to the elite eight.
For Brockington, academics have always come first. To ensure his players’ success off the field, he implemented study halls, monitored grades weekly, and built a culture of excellence that continues today.
Colt Brockington
“When I saw their faces light up, I started building on the relationships. They just needed somebody to believe in them.”
“I made it clear, ‘you’re a student first, then an athlete,’” he says. “One year, our entire roster had all A’s and B’s — no C’s — through the whole season. That made me prouder than any trophy. Winning on the field is great, but winning in the classroom — and in life — matters more.”
He’s been named Wayne County High’s Teacher of the Year, and the school’s PAGE STAR Teacher twice. He’s also the recipient of the Milken Educator Award, a prestigious national recognition.
This school year, he became assistant principal. As he shifts to administration, Brockington takes special pride in his replacement.
“The teacher who is going to replace me in physics was a student in my first physics class,” he says. “That’s a cool, full-circle moment.”
A PAGE member since college, Brockington joined the Board of Directors in July, just after he and his wife welcomed their first child, a boy. He credits former PAGE president and fellow Jesup native Amy Denty for encouraging him to apply.
He also recalls how a PAGE Code of Ethics presentation not only prompted him to enroll as a PAGE member but also shaped his understanding of how educators should conduct themselves.
“A representative came to Coastal Georgia and explained what PAGE was from the ethics and legal sides,” Brockington says. “I heard the examples, and it helped me understand that even though something might not legally be wrong, it might not be the best practice when working with kids every day. That intrigued me, and I immediately joined with no hesitation.”
Particularly looking ahead to PAGE Day on Capitol Hill, Brockington is eager to advocate for teachers and equitable education, and support policies like limiting unnecessary personal technology in classrooms.
“I want to empower teachers and make sure every student, no matter their background, feels supported,” he adds. n
“Winning on the field is great, but winning in the classroom — and in life — matters more.”
“The teacher who is going to replace me in physics was a student in my first physics class. That’s a cool, full-circle moment.”
“I want to make sure that we are present and accounted for in all areas, in all aspects.”
When Sherrie Hubbard took her seat at her first PAGE board meeting, she knew why she was there.
“My whole goal is to be the voice and ears for my district,” she says, “to make sure we’re heard, make sure we hear things, so we can then get the information to the schools and districts.” Hubbard, a native of Albany, Georgia, and the K-5 social studies coordinator for her district, was recently elected to her position on the board. With nearly two decades of service in education, she brings experience and a fierce loyalty to her region’s teachers and students.
“I love children and I love teachers,” she says. “As an educator, you go into your classroom and think everybody’s doing what you’re doing, but you’re secluded because you’re just in your room. In my current position, I’m able to see the amazing educators across the district. I get to meet some wonderful people throughout the state.”
Back in Dougherty County, her leadership hasn’t gone unnoticed.
“I am delighted to congratulate Mrs. Sherrie Hubbard on her election to the PAGE Board of Directors,” says Dougherty County School System Superintendent Kenneth Dyer. “Throughout her tenure as our social studies coordinator, Mrs. Hubbard has demonstrated exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to educational excellence. Her deep understanding of curriculum development, coupled with her passion for supporting students and educators, positions her perfectly as a strong voice for Georgia’s teachers and schools.”
“I am confident that her expertise and dedication will bring valuable insights to the board and help advance educational opportunities throughout our state,” Dyer continues. “This position is a well-deserved recognition of her outstanding contributions to public education.”
Hubbard’s journey to become an educator followed an atypical trajectory. After working for the Department of Family and
Hubbard brings to the PAGE Board of Directors a particular passion for ensuring that rural educators are not overlooked.
“I love children and I love teachers.”
Hubbard with her son, Juwuan, at the Georgia Center for Civic Engagement booth during the annual GCSS Conference in Athens
kindergarten
Children’s Services in Albany and Atlanta, she applied for a substitute teaching position at Pebblebrook High School in Cobb County. When the call came, she was ready.
After returning to Albany, a friend suggested she drop off her résumé at a local school.
“When I went that day, the principal was out of the building,” she recalls. “I left my résumé, and about an hour later, she called me and said, ‘Can you start tomorrow?’”
Hubbard immediately accepted and has enjoyed the journey since that day.
That was 19 years ago. Throughout her career, Hubbard has worked at all levels of education, serving as a substitute, paraprofessional, teacher, and instructional coach — and now works at the district level.
Along the way, Hubbard pursued her own education. A 1994 graduate of Albany’s Monroe Comprehensive High School, she earned her undergraduate degree in English from Albany State University, a master’s from Troy University, and her teaching certification at Albany State.
For Hubbard, joining PAGE was another turning point. “When I became a paraprofessional, I actually joined the other organization,” she shares.
A familiar face changed her mind.
After learning more about PAGE benefits from Barbara Collier, her high school English teacher and local PAGE representative, Hubbard recognized the value of being a PAGE member. She joined – and never looked back.
Hubbard brings to the PAGE Board of Directors a particular passion for ensuring that rural educators are not overlooked.
“Southwest Georgia … we are so rural and tucked away,” she says, “that our voices are not always heard. I want to make sure that we are present and accounted for in all areas, in all aspects. And I just said to myself, if not me, then who?”
Hubbard is married to James and they have three children — Juwuan, Jaden, and Joi — a daughter-in-law, Jenise, and a grandson, Malachi. n
“People with disabilities are often overlooked. I wanted to be someone who saw them and helped others see them too.”
When Deborah Lucas walks into her special education classroom each morning at Gwinnett County Public Schools’ Cedar Hill Elementary, she brings more than just lesson plans — she brings a calling. With multiple degrees and a personal story that reshapes purpose, Lucas is the kind of educator whose impact echoes far beyond the school bell’s ring.
Her greatest reward doesn’t come from a screen or syllabus—it comes from moments of connection like when she received an invitation to attend one of her former 5th-grader’s high school graduation.
“I was just so touched that she did that,” says Lucas. “I was blown away.”
Did she go?
“Of course, I went,” she says with a smile.
In her newly elected position on the PAGE board of directors, Lucas is extending her reach beyond the classroom.
She considers PAGE a necessary, comprehensive safety net and resource for educators and school staff, citing its legal services, legislative advocacy, professional development, and scholarships as examples of much-needed services.
“The great work of the PAGE legal team, the lobbyists, and all the people working behind the scenes to make sure educators are treated with dignity is very much needed” Lucas shares. “It means everything. Teachers need someone in their corner.”
She’s very enthusiastic about her role as a PAGE board member. “I was so excited when they contacted me,” she recalls. “Being able to be in the room where decisions are made means a lot to me.”
Deborah Lucas
“My job as an educator is to discover a student’s path for learning and walk that path with the student.”
“My belief is that God left me here for a reason. That reason is to work with His children.”
Lucas currently teaches 4th and 5th-grade students with learning disabilities. For 12 years, she taught younger students with severe / profound disabilities. Prior to Gwinnett, she worked for Clayton County Public Schools and DeKalb County School District.
“My job as an educator is to discover a student’s path for learning and walk that path with the student,” she says. “I knew I wanted to work with kids who are misunderstood.
People with disabilities are often overlooked. I wanted to be someone who saw them and helped others see them too.”
That clarity did not come easily. At 17, Lucas survived a devastating car accident — an event that forced her to confront intense physical recovery.
The memory of that pivotal moment is the foundation of her mission: to teach with empathy, expectation, and excellence.
“My belief is that God left me here for a reason,” Lucas shares, reflecting on her early brush with mortality. “That reason is to work with His children.”
To pursue her calling, she obtained a bachelor’s degree from Brenau University and a master’s of education in special education from Kaplan University. She added coursework for a specialist degree and a doctorate to enhance her skills in the classroom. Before studying education, Lucas earned a degree in information systems technology.
Endorsed in dyslexia education, Lucas is a proponent of using Orton-Gillingham-based strategies — a structured, multisensory approach to teaching reading — across all classrooms, not just in special education.
Many of her students struggle with reading, and she has become a passionate advocate for phonics instruction, especially for children with dyslexia.
This passion for literacy aligns with Georgia’s statewide initiative for improved reading outcomes, and Lucas takes pride in her students’ gains.
Outside the classroom, Lucas finds joy in simple things. She and her husband are empty nesters with two daughters living in California. They particularly enjoy watching movies together, both at the theater and at home. n
The PAGE Foundation provides opportunities that empower educators to further their careers, pursue advanced degrees, and achieve professional aspirations.
This year, the PAGE Foundation awarded 20 scholarships to dedicated applicants throughout Georgia. Since the program began, the PAGE Foundation has disbursed more than
Jodi Bailey
PAGE Professional Scholarship
$650,000 in scholarship funding. These awards benefit a diverse group of recipients – from first-year college students to doctoral candidates – enhancing their opportunities for growth. PAGE congratulates this year’s scholarship recipients and expresses gratitude for their dedication to serving the students and families of Georgia.
Reading Specialist and EIP Teacher, Morgan County Elementary School, Morgan County Schools | Scholarship applied at American College of Education | Pursuing Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction: Literacy
“Receiving the PAGE Foundation scholarship is deeply meaningful to me because it acknowledges my dedication to literacy education and my commitment to serving students in rural Georgia. This support eases the financial burden of earning a doctorate degree and allows me to stay focused on being an instructional leader.”
Paige Burns
PAGE Professional Scholarship
8th-grade ELA Teacher, Harris County Carver Middle School, Harris County School District | Scholarship applied at University of West Georgia | Pursuing Ed.S. in Secondary Education ELA
“I began this degree program to grow professionally and personally to become a better teacher. After just a few classes, I am inspired by my assignments, professors, and classmates in many ways that will benefit my students. This scholarship is a source of encouragement - a way of knowing that others believe in me also, and knowing this will motivate me to do my best.”
Haley Buxton
PAGE Support Personnel Scholarship
Kindergarten Paraprofessional, Johnson County Elementary School, Johnson County School District | Scholarship applied at Georgia Southwestern State University | Elementary Education Major
“I am a wife and mother of two. Going back to college this late in life has been very stressful for my family. This scholarship has helped relieve some of that stress. Thank you so much for this opportunity!”
Nikki Cantrell
PAGE Jack Christmas Scholarship
EIP Teacher, Mountain View Elementary School, Gilmer County Schools | Scholarship applied at Reinhardt University | Pursuing M.A.T. in Elementary Education
“Receiving a PAGE Foundation scholarship helps my family tremendously! The scholarship will help cover some of the expenses tied to returning to school and obtaining my MAT. I am so grateful for the support of PAGE as I work towards obtaining skills and expertise that I can bring back to my classroom.”
Abby Carlson
PAGE Charles “Coach” Cooper Scholarship
Computer Science Teacher, Needwood Middle School, Glynn County Schools | Scholarship applied at Brenau University| Pursuing M.A.T. in Middle Grades Math and Science
“Receiving the PAGE Foundation scholarship is an incredible honor that provides both financial support and encouragement as I continue my journey to become a stronger computer science teacher at Needwood Middle. This scholarship allows me to focus more deeply on developing engaging instruction that prepares students for the digital world. I am deeply grateful for the investment in my growth and future impact as an educator.”
Randall Cummings
PAGE Dr. Allene Magill Support Personnel Scholarship
Computer Lab Paraprofessional, Van Wert Elementary School, Polk County School District | Scholarship applied at Grand Canyon University | Early Childhood Education Major
“Working with students and making an impact in their lives means so much to me. Receiving this scholarship from PAGE is a vital part of helping me reach my goal of graduating with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. The children are our future, and we must do our best to give them the best education we can.”
Kayla Dutton
PAGE S. Marvin Griffin Scholarship
Student, Truett McConnell University | Scholarship applied at Truett McConnell University | Elementary Education Major
“Receiving the PAGE Foundation scholarship is important to me because it allows me to pursue my dream of being a teacher. Thoughtfully writing the essays and gathering recommendation letters prepares me for the interview process to get a teaching job in a few short months.”
Justin Harrison
PAGE Professional Scholarship
School Counselor, Colquitt County High School, Colquitt County Schools | Scholarship applied at Valdosta State University | Pursuing Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership and Educational Leadership
“Receiving a PAGE Foundation scholarship is important to me because it helps alleviate financial burdens as I continue advancing my education and leadership in Georgia public schools. This support directly contributes to my professional goal of becoming a more effective and impactful educational leader, better equipped to serve students, families, and educators across my community.”
Christian Johnson
PAGE Professional Scholarship
EIP Teacher, Ellijay Elementary School, Gilmer County Schools | Scholarship applied at Columbus State University | Pursuing Ed.S. in Elementary Education
“Receiving a PAGE Foundation scholarship allows me to continue my education to become the teacher my students need and deserve through improving my instructional practices. My goal as an educator is to provide a safe, comfortable, and academically challenging environment for all students in which all students are set up for success and gain confidence in themselves. As a recipient of a PAGE Professional scholarship, I have the opportunity to enhance my understanding of student learning processes and improve my instructional practices to better serve students of all backgrounds and abilities.”
Grace Kelly
PAGE Jack Christmas Scholarship
Teacher, Rockbridge Elementary School, Gwinnett County Public Schools | Scholarship applied at Georgia Southern University | Pursuing M.A.T. in Elementary Education
“The PAGE Foundation scholarship is important because it helps me focus on the work and my ‘why.’ Financial barriers affect many students, and I feel so fortunate to be a PAGE Foundation scholarship recipient. By alleviating some of the financial burden that comes with higher education, this scholarship will contribute to my professional goals by reducing my stress so that I can keep my eye on the prize!“
Kim King
PAGE Professional Scholarship
Kindergarten through 5th grade Math Instructional Coach and Professional Learning Coordinator, Lowndes County Schools | Scholarship applied at Valdosta State University | Pursuing Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership with a Tier 1 Certificate
“The PAGE Foundation scholarship is very important to me because paying for college while trying to raise small children is very difficult. My family has sacrificed a lot to help me afford to go back to school and accomplish my educational goals, so the scholarship will help alleviate the stress of paying for my tuition this fall to finish my degree.”
Elissa Lotter
PAGE Professional Scholarship
Kindergarten Teacher, Hazel Grove Elementary School, Habersham County Schools | Scholarship applied at Georgia College and State University | Pursuing M.Ed. in Elementary Education
“My passion for teaching is fulfilled through your generosity. This scholarship allows me to pursue my graduate degree to better serve children in my classroom and my broader community. There is no greater love than selfless giving to others, and I am so blessed to have a scholarship that allows me to give back, furthering my lifelong goals of learning and service.”
Blanca Molina Vazquez
PAGE Marcia T. Clanton Future Educator Scholarship
Putnam County High School graduate | Scholarship applied at Georgia Military College | Future Educator
“Receiving the PAGE scholarship is important to me because it will help me achieve my associate degree in early childhood education. With your support, I will have the opportunity to grow in my career and make a lasting impact in the lives of young children.”
Cam Neal
PAGE Professional Scholarship
5th-grade Teacher, Haw Creek Elementary School, Forsyth County Schools | Scholarship applied at University of North Georgia | Pursuing M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction
“Receiving this scholarship supports me in bettering myself within the field of curriculum and instruction. Long-term, I will be able to use my degree to reach my students more effectively with the latest instructional tools and practices. Ultimately, I hope to help create curriculum within my community.”
PAGE S. Marvin Griffin Scholarship
Student, Berry College | Scholarship applied at Berry College | Elementary Education Major
“Receiving a PAGE Foundation scholarship is important to me because it represents both recognition of my academic dedication and a vital support system in my pursuit of higher education. This scholarship will ease the financial burdens, allowing me to focus more on my studies and leadership development. By connecting me with a network of mentors and fellow scholars, it will also enhance my professional growth and prepare me to make a meaningful impact in my community.”
PAGE Professional Scholarship
ELA Teacher, North Gwinnett High School, Gwinnett County Public Schools | Scholarship applied at University of West Georgia | Pursuing Ed.S. in Secondary Education in English
“Receiving the PAGE Foundation scholarship is both an honor and an opportunity to grow as a teacher. This support will allow me to focus on my coursework as I achieve my goal toward becoming an instructional leader who advocates for multilingual learners. I’m excited to keep learning, growing, and helping create classrooms where all my students feel seen and supported.”
Abby Shoemake
PAGE Undergraduate Scholarship
Student, Berry College | Scholarship applied at Berry College | Elementary Education Major
“This scholarship is important to me because it promotes the success of future educators like myself. This scholarship allows me to pursue educational opportunities without financial worry for this upcoming semester. Studying to become a teacher has been a rewarding journey, and I am incredibly thankful to have PAGE by my side.”
Phyllis Silverio
PAGE Professional Scholarship
ESL Teacher, Alpharetta Elementary School, Fulton County Schools | Scholarship applied at Augusta University | Pursuing Ed.S. in Advanced Education Studies
“I feel honored to receive this scholarship. It provides financial assistance allowing me to focus on my studies while pursuing my Ed.S. With this support, I will be prepared to contribute to the success of my students and school community. Thank you to the PAGE Foundation Scholarship Program.”
PAGE Dr. Alton Crews Future Georgia Educators Scholarship
Sonoraville High School graduate | Scholarship applied at Dalton State University | Future Educator
“Receiving the PAGE Foundation scholarship is important to me because it will allow me to focus on my future career without the stress of financial expenses. I am excited to use this opportunity to grow as a student and future educator. I want to thank you for your generous support and for allowing me the opportunity to achieve my educational goals.”
Stacy Thompson
PAGE Professional Scholarship
7th-grade Science Teacher, Pepperell Middle School, Floyd County Schools | Scholarship applied at Augusta University | Pursuing Ed.S. in Middle Grades Education
“I am honored and grateful to receive a PAGE Professional Scholarship to further my education. Beyond the impact this advanced degree will have on my own classroom, I desire to coach, mentor, and guide new and future teachers to become experts and difference makers in the field of education. My experience coupled with the enhancement in my research, curriculum design, and innovation skills acquired through this degree will prepare me to be a leader in the future of Georgia’s education system.”
“Your cell phone is your personal phone and should be reserved for personal use at an acceptable time and place.”
“If an accident occurs during a time in which an educator was supposed to be monitoring children, a plaintiff’s attorney may use time stamp data to prove the educator was engaged in personal conduct and not appropriately supervising students.”
Modern smartphones place ever-expanding technological capabilities in the palm of your hand. But there are some pitfalls associated with the use of smartphones, particularly the use of personal cell phones in an educational setting. This article addresses the questions most frequently asked of PAGE attorneys regarding use of personal cell phones while on school property and includes suggestions on how to avoid the most common mistakes.
When on school grounds, it is highly recommended that you keep your cell phone with you or locked in a drawer or filing cabinet. Do not leave your phone on your desk where it may be taken or opened. Similarly, never allow students to have or use your phone. Numerous PSC cases and employment actions result from educators allowing students to use their personal cell phones. We’ve heard of students taking the opportunity to access teachers’ personal photos, personal messages, send messages from teachers’ social media apps, send emails from teachers’ personal and school emails, and gain access to numbers stored in teachers’ phones. There is no acceptable reason for your phone to be out of your possession, and it certainly should not be in the hands of a student.
Data sharing from your personal device to a computer or other software app makes the transition of information quick and easy, but it’s essential to keep in mind that there are often unintended consequences to these data transfers.
Teachers have inadvertently uploaded sensitive personal information, emails, documents, and photos to their school computers through their cell phones. You should never use a school computer as a charging station for your phone. If you must charge your phone, do it by plugging it into an electrical outlet that is always in view. Refrain from storing school documents, photos, or information anywhere on your personal device, other than your school email.
Your cell phone is your personal phone and should be reserved for personal use at an acceptable time and place. You should not use your cell phone while you are monitoring children. Remember, your cell phones are documenting your actions through a digital time stamp of calls, texts,
and social media posts. If an accident occurs during a time in which an educator was supposed to be monitoring children, a plaintiff’s attorney may use time stamp data to prove the educator was engaged in personal conduct and not appropriately supervising students.
The PAGE legal team is regularly asked about teachers’ abilities to make recordings with their cell phones. This usually takes the form of recording other employees or recording students. Many educators know that Georgia is a oneparty recording state.1 That means, in a conversation between two adults, as long as one of the adults knows the conversation is being recorded, the recording is legal. Numerous school districts have
policies that do not allow you to record another employee without their consent. In those districts, should you record someone without their knowledge, you would be in violation of district policy and subject to punishment.
Georgia law does not allow you to record a minor without a parent’s or judge’s permission.2 Likewise, the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the educational records of children and may also preclude you from recording a child on your personal device.3 PAGE attorneys answer numerous questions regarding audio and video recordings of children. You should never make a recording of a student without the written permission of your administration. If you have unruly students and want to video their behavior to show parents or administration, confirm by email with your administrator that you have permission to do so. Many teachers know their schools have parents sign photo release waivers. These waivers are for the district. They do not grant blanket permission to individuals to record students. You should never take a photo of a child in your classroom and post it on your personal social media. In most cases, districts have policies regarding recording and distribution of photos of students. These policies should be followed verbatim. If you are in doubt, before taking a photo
or making a recording, secure the written permission of your administration.
PAGE attorneys often answer the question, “If I have my school email on my personal device, does the district have the authority to search my phone?” The answer is no; the district does not automatically have the right to search your phone because you have your school email on your personal device. However, if you conduct school business on your phone, send text messages or personal emails about students or work-related matters, you may subject your personal device, in a limited capacity, to search and discovery under the Georgia Open Records Act.4 The Act states, “‘Public record’ means all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, tapes, photographs, computer based or generated information, data, data fields, or similar material prepared and maintained or received by an agency or by a private person or entity in the performance of a service or function for or on behalf of an agency or when such documents have been transferred to a private person or entity by an agency for storage or future governmental use.”5 It does not matter whether this information is on a public device, like a school computer, or a private device, like your personal cell phone or personal computer. All of the above data is subject to the Open Records Act. Should you ever
be asked to turn over a personal device for search, for matters related to the Open Records Act, or for any reason, you should call the PAGE legal department and speak with an attorney before handing over your device. Once you’ve provided your device to your district or law enforcement, there is a presumption that you consented to a search of your device.
As always, should you have questions about cell phone use in the workplace or any other questions about work-related rights and duties, PAGE attorneys are here to help. Contact the PAGE legal department by calling 770-216-8555 (and select option 1) or send an email to legal@pageinc.org. n
1 O.C.G.A. 16-11-66
2 O.C.G.A. 16-11-66
3 34 CFR Part 99
4 O.C.G.A. 50-18-70; O.C.G.A. 50-18-71
5 O.C.G.A. 50-18-70 (b)(2)
Sean DeVetter is a PAGE staff attorney and the son of educators. He graduated from Emory University and Georgia State University College of Law and has served PAGE members for 15 years.
YOU HAVE
Need help navigating your PAGE membership or benefits? Your PAGE Membership Services Representative (MSR) can help!
Not sure who your MSR is? To look up your MSR, visit the PAGE website at www.pageinc.org/membership-team.
There you will find a list of PAGE MSRs, the counties and districts they serve, and links to contact them. You can also use the PAGE MSR Locator. Simply click on the button at the top of the Membership Team page, enter your school district into the search bar, and your MSR will appear!
Scan the QR code for instant access to MSR contact information.
District 1
Colt Brockington
Serving members in Bryan, Bulloch, Candler, Chatham, Effingham, Emanuel, Evans, Glynn, Jenkins, Liberty, Long, McIntosh, Screven, Tattnall, Toombs, and Wayne counties
District 3
Deborah Lucas
Serving members in Fulton and Gwinnett counties
District 6
Ashley Beil
Serving members in Carroll, Coweta Douglas, Fayette, Heard, Lamar, Meriwether, Pike, Spalding, Troup, and Upson counties
District 9
Jennie Persinger
Serving members in Banks, Barrow, Dawson, Fannin, Forsyth, Franklin, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Jackson, Lumpkin, Madison, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, Union and White counties
Directors Representing Retired Members
District 2
Sherrie Hubbard
Serving members in Baker, Calhoun, Clay, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Quitman, Randolph, Seminole, Stewart, Sumter, Terrell, Thomas, Tift, Webster, and Worth counties
District 5
Dr. Shannon Watkins
Serving members in Cherokee, Cobb, Haralson, Paulding, and Polk counties
District 4
Serving members in DeKalb County and Atlanta and Decatur cities
District 7
Serving members in Bartow, Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Floyd, Gilmer, Gordon, Murray, Pickens, Walker, and Whitfield counties
District 10
Serving members in Clarke, Columbia, Burke, Elbert, Glascock, Greene, Hancock, Jefferson, Lincoln, McDuffie, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Richmond, Taliaferro, Warren, and Wilkes counties
District 11
District 8
Andrea Bridges
Serving members in Atkinson, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Camden, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Cook, Echols, Lanier, Lowndes, Pierce, and Ware counties
District 12
TaKera Harris
Serving members in Bibb, Chattahoochee, Crawford, Harris, Houston, Macon, Marion, Muscogee, Peach, Schley, Talbot, and Taylor counties
The PAGE Board of Directors is made up of five Officers (President, President-Elect, Secretary, Treasurer, and Past President), 13 District Directors and two retired Georgia educators. A District Director must be an active member of the association and have his/ her place of business and office in the district which such member represents.
Serving members in Baldwin, Butts, Clayton, Henry, Jasper, Jones, Morgan, Newton, Putnam, Rockdale, and Walton counties
District 13
Serving members in Appling, Bacon, Ben Hill, Bleckley, Crisp, Dodge, Dooly, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Johnson, Laurens, Montgomery, Pulaski, Telfair, Treutlen, Turner, Twiggs, Washington, Wheeler, Wilkinson, and Wilcox counties
Nominations for District Directors and Officers are made by a nominating committee at the February board meeting after an interview process of those who have been recommended or expressed interest in serving. District Directors and Officers are then elected for a three-year term via the annual online business meeting of the Association by a majority vote of the members. The two retired Georgia educators who serve on the Board are appointed by the President and approved by the Board for a threeyear term.
The Board of Directors meets four times a year in November, February, June, and August.
Each year, there are four or five District Directors with expiring terms that are up for election. To express interest or apply for a District Director position, please contact your MSR (information on page 69 of this issue and on our website at www.pageinc.org) or Dr. Hayward Cordy (hcordy@ pageinc.org).
The articles and advertisements published in PAGE One represent the views of the contributors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Professional Association of Georgia Educators, except where clearly stated.
Contributions/gifts to the PAGE Foundation are deductible as charitable contributions by federal law. Costs for PAGE advocacy on behalf of members are not deductible. PAGE estimates that seven percent of the nondeductible portion of dues is allocated to advocacy.
PAGE One (ISSN 1523-6188) ©copyright 2025 is mailed to all PAGE members, selected higher education units, and other school-related professionals. An annual subscription is included in PAGE membership dues.
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PAGE One is published quarterly by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators. ©Copyright 2025.
PAGE Communications Director; PAGE One Executive Editor / Writer
Passionate about clear, engaging communications, Ramona is an alumna of UCLA who honed her craft in the film industry before founding a Georgia-based creative agency. An education policy fellow and former district II chair of the Georgia School Public Relations Association, Ramona led DeKalb County School District’s stakeholder engagement initiative — launching a nationally lauded magazine, branding campaign, and crisis communications package. In 2019, Ramona joined PAGE staff as Communications Director. In 2022, she led the awardwinning redesign of PAGE One. In addition to her work, Ramona enjoys outdoor activities, creative arts, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Abbey Williams
PAGE Communications Specialist; PAGE One Production Coordinator
A recent graduate of Kennesaw State University, Abbey has been with PAGE since 2023. As Communications Specialist, Abbey contributes to multiple creative projects while also managing social media. In her work with PAGE One, she creates production schedules, tracks progress, and ensures timely delivery. Prior to joining PAGE staff, Abbey contracted with various clients, non-profits, and businesses, developing innovative initiatives and strategies to take their communications and marketing campaigns to the next level. In her spare time, Abbey’s interests include hiking, camping, seeking adventures, and crafting.
To contact the PAGE One team, email us at pageone@pageinc.org.
“My doctoral program at Mercer University has been a transformative experience, deepening my understanding of leadership, policies, and educational systems while equipping me to drive meaningful change. Through coursework, research, and collaboration with faculty and my wonderful cohort members, I am gaining the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make a lasting impact in education.
DANIELLE LEFEVERS
Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, ’27
Whether you are looking to step into a leadership role, or enhance your impact in the world of education, Mercer offers flexible Ph.D. programs designed for educators ready to lead. Gain hands-on experience, develop key leadership skills, and open doors to new opportunities.
• Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction
• Ph.D. in Educational Leadership
- Higher Education Leadership
- Independent School Leadership
- P-12 School Leadership
- P-12 School Leadership with Tier II