celebrating 50 years of service to Georgia educators and students, the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) is the state’s largest and most trusted educator association. PAGE exists to support our members who work in every Georgia public school. Through unparalleled legal
and more, PAGE helps members succeed in all
Welcome to PAGE! An association of educators for educators, PAGE exists for you. As a new member of Georgia’s largest and most trusted educator association, you now have access to all we have to offer.
While the peace of mind that comes with exceptional legal services for career protection is a primary benefit (pages 28 – 31), the many additional rewards of PAGE membership go much deeper. In this special edition of PAGE One magazine, you’ll learn about the full range of benefits, services, and financial awards available to you as a member.
Membership Services (pp 16 – 21):
You’re busy – every day – doing great work both inside and outside the classroom. Amid demanding schedules and competing priorities, the many benefits available to you as a PAGE member may not be immediately evident. Whether your goal is to learn more, participate more, or simply know who to speak with about issues as they arise, your team of Membership Services Representatives (MSRs) are here to assist. This group of PAGE experts – all former Georgia educators, and each specializing in a specific geographic region within the state – are dedicated to helping you receive the most from your membership. Turn to pages 16 – 23 to learn more about your membership team, meet each MSR, and access contact information.
(pp 32 – 33):
Strong, principled advocacy for Georgia educators and public education drives the work of your PAGE Legislative Services staff. This highly respected policy team provides influential representation of educator voices at the Georgia Capitol and with state agencies, including the Georgia Department of Education, the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia, and the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. PAGE representatives are present whenever and wherever decisions are made that affect Georgia public education and your career. Learn more and meet your advocacy team on pages 32 – 33.
As a member of PAGE, you have access to more benefits and services than any other Georgia educator association. One unique benefit is professional support through the association’s one-on-one coaching program. If, at any time in your career as a Georgia educator, you feel overwhelmed, discouraged, uncertain, and in need of professional support, PAGE Coaching is here to help by pairing you with a highly experienced veteran educator to assist in identifying solutions to professional challenges. And, because PAGE Coaching is completely confidential, you’ll be able to address even the most difficult and sensitive topics. On pages 26 – 27, you’ll meet the team, hear about a few members who’ve had great success with the program, and find the information you need to contact a PAGE coach and start benefiting from this service.
Great educators continue to learn throughout their careers. PAGE believes in the power of professional learning to enhance an educator’s capacity to lead in the classroom, school, district, and community. PAGE offers several in-person academies founded on the themes of engagement and equity. Participants love the learning and relationship building they experience in the PAGE Engage! series. Virtual learning opportunities are also available. There’s considerable value in these experiences, and no cost to PAGE members to participate. We encourage you to invest in yourself and your growth in the profession. Learn more about PAGE Professional Learning on pages 42 – 45.
Your PAGE membership also comes with financial opportunities available exclusively to members. When you’re seeking funding for innovative, enrichment activities or programs to propel your students to the next level, you’ll want to apply for a PAGE Educator Grant. Each year, PAGE awards up to $100,000 in individual $500 grants to fund these endeavors
(pages 8 – 11). And, when you’re ready to pursue additional academic credentials to boost your career, consider applying for a PAGE Foundation Scholarship (pages 12 – 15). To date, PAGE has invested more than $650,000 in financial assistance to help individual members further their education goals.
You can be a STAR with PAGE! The Student and Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program honors Georgia’s highest-achieving high school seniors and the educators most instrumental in their academic development. The STAR program has honored more than 30,000 students and their teachers since its inception (pages 38 – 39). PAGE also promotes education as a career to boost Georgia’s teacher pipeline through the Future Georgia Educators program. PAGE is a major sponsor of the Teach in the Peach state Department of Education educator recruitment initiative. PAGE provided 18 $500 scholarships on Educator Signing Day in May. Thousands of middle and high school students exploring education as a career participate in school-based clubs and attend special events on college campuses (pages 36 – 37). And, PAGE also administers annual academic competitions for students – and guidance for the educators sponsoring these rewarding experiences – throughout the state (pages 40 – 41).
Your PAGE membership delivers all this and more. This professional association of educators for educators supports you as an individual educator, your school or district as a significant force in your community, and the profession as a whole because teachers do work that truly matters.
Thank you for choosing PAGE. We look forward to serving you throughout your career. n
• $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 self-service member portal at www.members.pageinc.org
Educators are experts at helping students excel. At PAGE, we’re experts at helping members excel in the classroom and beyond.
The PAGE Educator Grant program awards up to $100,000 annually in cumulative funds to members throughout the state. As a new PAGE member, you’re now eligible to apply!
Many of the innovative supplies and resources to enhance an educator’s effectiveness with students and help propel them to new heights of confidence and achievement are often beyond financial 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 a Georgia educator.
“PAGE consistently listens to members and their needs,” says PAGE Executive Director Craig Harper. “When there is an ability to meet those needs in a meaningful way, PAGE does its best to follow through. PAGE Educator Grants help members in the classroom and with professional pursuits while also serving as a thank you for the incredible work PAGE members do every day.”
Each school year, the Educator Grant program will follow a fall semester application timeline. We encourage you to apply. On the following pages, you’ll see how a few previous winners have utilized their awards.
• Up to $100,000 in cumulative funds awarded each school year
• Funds issued as reimbursement grants of up to $500 per recipient
• Applications open each fall.
• Learn more about the program at www.pageinc.org/grants
“I used my PAGE Educator Grant to purchase a set of lab coats for my students to use when they perform labs and experiments in class. Their
the lab coats, they have never seen students more excited to come to science class. It has really enhanced the learning experience and paved the road for more success in my classroom. It has made them see that what they are doing is important.”
“The PAGE Educator Grant tremendously aided our band students as they performed at the large group performance evaluation this year. We were able to buy the supplies we needed like reeds, valve oil, tambourines, drumsticks and more. Our school had been participating in these evaluations for decades, but we had never earned a superior rating until these past two years. It was the first time in Hephzibah High School history that we received a superior rating and having these items really helped. The kids were thankful. It allowed us to get better quality supplies for them, so they were very excited.”
“We used our PAGE Educator Grant to buy nine foot peddlers for students to Read & Ride in the school media center. The peddlers give students the opportunity to be active while reading, which will help increase physical activity and decrease stress. A lot of kids need to be active during the school day and the peddlers allow them to be active while still learning. One of my third grade students said, ‘You can work out your legs while you work out your brain!’”
“As a Future Farmers of America advisor, we do different contests throughout the year. I used my PAGE Educator Grant to buy study materials to help with career development events. Having it all packaged together saves us a lot of time. Now, our kids don’t have to make their own flashcards, which took more time than it would to actually study. Now they can spend more time learning the material and less time researching it.”
“My students are deaf and hard of hearing and use American Sign Language. While making math videos, instead of turning around to write on the board, I purchased a clear glass board along with an easel stand to remove two obstacles: (1) I can write in front of me, and sign at the same time. (2) When using sign language for directional signs such as ‘move the decimal the left’, the viewpoint of the presenter and the viewer are opposite. When editing, I use the mirror format to flip the video and make the signing viewpoint correct for the viewer as well as the math work legible in the video!”
“My speech/language therapy materials that were purchased through the PAGE Educator Grant will be used to further enhance each student’s ability in meeting his/her communication goals and objectives. An SLP’s IEP companion book was also purchased that will allow me to explore and establish other goals and objectives addressed. It is my hope that these materials will be applicable to the student’s specific communication disorder. I also plan to use these materials to enrich school administrators’, teachers’, and parents’ knowledge in understanding ways to elicit the targeted communication responses. This opportunity will assist the students’ ability in maintaining and/or carrying over the concepts/skills addressed in meeting their communication needs. Thank you, PAGE, for awarding me this opportunity to purchase these materials.”
“The items purchased with the PAGE Grant are directly benefiting students who are struggling with social-emotional needs. We have created calmdown kits to use with students in Pre-K through 1st grade who need emotional support. The kits include tactile devices and weighted stuffed animals that help students better regulate their emotions. Our students are able to personalize their calm down kits so that the kits include the items that work best for each student.”
“I used my PAGE Educator Grant to purchase a digital microscope that hooks up to our Promethean board. In order for students to know what they are looking at, they need to be able to see the microorganisms and that’s hard with a traditional microscope. With this one, they can use it individually or they can hook it up to the board so that everyone can see.”
“Students love doing labs. Seeing chemical and physical changes helps students realize what is going on and the chemical reactions that are taking place. I used my PAGE Educator Grant to purchase chemicals for hands-on experiments. The grant allowed us to do more of these types of experiments.”
“With the wonderful support of the PAGE Educator Grant, I was able to purchase a set of Keva Planks — wooden blocks that can be used to design structural engineering projects and to solve STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) activities. Students are able to build marble coasters, structures, and complete design challenges that can be differentiated based on grade and learning level. The Keva Planks can be used in all 6th through 8th grade STEM classes at North Tattnall Middle School and are reusable as well!”
“The PAGE Educator Grant was very helpful with our paired unit on glaze chemistry – so much so that we are continuing with the study for the next school year. We went from having 12 colors to having 120 – a broad range of glazes and colors we can use – for very little money. Students learned that mixing just a little bit of clear or white would get them what they wanted. Rather than having to buy a pint of a new color, they can just make whatever color they want.” n
You Invest Your Time & Talent in the Great Work You Do. The Foundation Invests in You.
The PAGE Foundation provides opportunities that empower educators to further their careers, pursue advanced degrees, and achieve professional aspirations.
This year, the 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.”
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.”
Wouldn’t it be excellent if there were a PAGE expert who lives and works in your area and is available to help you maximize your membership by answering questions, highlighting benefits and services of which you may not be aware, and connecting you directly with PAGE staff throughout the association? Wouldn’t it also be wonderful if this expert had first-hand knowledge of the daily joys and challenges of work as a Georgia educator?
Great news! Your PAGE Membership Services Representative (MSR) is all this and more.
As part of Georgia’s largest educator association, you have a PAGE MSR dedicated specifically to serving you and the fellow members in your area of the state. All PAGE MSRs are former Georgia educators, knowledgeable about PAGE programs and initiatives and able to either directly provide what you need – or refer you to someone on staff who can.
Perhaps, for example, a situation arises in your classroom, school, or district that concerns you. You’re thinking it may be something to discuss with a PAGE attorney (pages 28 – 31), but you are hesitant about when or how to take that action. In such cases, your PAGE MSR is your first point of contact.
Maybe you would like to apply for a PAGE Educator Grant (pages 8 – 11) or PAGE Foundation Scholarship (pages 12 – 15) and you’re not sure how to initiate the process. Your PAGE MSR can provide you with information, point you to available resources, and connect you directly with program-specific staff members.
Or, maybe you’ve come to a crossroads in your career. You’re feeling stalled, stagnant, and unsure of what’s next on the horizon for you. You’re weighing options but aren’t quite sure which would serve you best. If you’re considering growing your experience and expanding your resume through PAGE professional learning (pages 42 – 45), your MSR can talk with you about available courses as well as the benefits of each and how to register. If you’re considering accessing professional support through PAGE Coaching (pages 26 – 27), your MSR can share details about the program and how to get started. If you’d like to become more involved in PAGE advocacy (pages 32 – 33) with policymakers on legislation impacting Georgia educators, your MSR can provide insight into the many ways you can do so.
These are just a few examples of the many personalized services that your PAGE MSR can provide. Additional helps include:
• Creating, verifying, or updating your information in the PAGE portal to ensure accuracy, currency, and coverage.
• Assisting you with navigating the self-service membership portal (page 25) to check these factors on your own.
• Scheduling a PAGE attorney to present the Code of Ethics at your school or district office.
• Presenting during faculty meetings, new teacher orientations, and professional development sessions.
• Providing information about FGE (Future Georgia Educators; pages 36 – 37), PAGE STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition; pages 38 – 39), and all PAGE programs and benefits.
• Presenting about PAGE, the teaching profession, and what to expect as a Georgia educator to high school education pathway and university students.
• Celebrating and recognizing PAGE Educator Grant and Scholarship recipients.
• Recommending individual members as subject matter experts for consideration of inclusion in topic-specific PAGE One magazine articles.
• Connecting you with your school’s PAGE Ambassador.
On the following pages, you’ll find everything you need to know about the PAGE MSR team and how to connect. We encourage you to get to know your district’s MSR and take advantage of the wealth of information and services that your dedicated PAGE expert can provide.
Kathy Arena karena@pageinc.org
Serving members in Burke, Clarke, Columbia, Elbert, Glascock, Greene, Hancock, Jefferson, Lincoln, McDuffie, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Richmond, Taliaferro, Warren, and Wilkes.
Kathy has served PAGE members since 2014, dedicating her time and talents to members within 16 school systems and the College of Education at Augusta University. She is a graduate of Evans High School and Augusta College where she earned her Education Specialist degree in Early Childhood Education. Kathy is married and has two children. She is a resident of Evans, Georgia in the Central Savannah River Area. She is an avid reader and animal lover. Kathy and her husband John enjoy traveling and being grandparents.
Jo Breedlove-Johnson jbreedlove@pageinc.org
Serving members in Cherokee and Fulton counties (with the exception of Atlanta Public Schools whose members are served by MSR Gina Tucker).
A Georgia educator for more than 30 years, two-time Teacher of the Year, and a career-long PAGE member, Jo is a graduate of Mercer University and thankful for the positive influences of her family of educators. Her desire to spread the word about the great value PAGE provides led her to become a consultant and then MSR beginning in 2011. Jo thrives on time spent sharing with educators and school personnel about the many benefits of PAGE membership. A resident of Cumming, Georgia, Jo is married, enjoys antiquing, travel to the mountains and beach, and most of all loves the special moments with her grandchildren.
Peggy Brown pbrown@pageinc.org
Serving members in Baldwin, Butts, Henry, Jasper, Jones, Newton, Monroe, Morgan, Putnam, Rockdale, Social Circle City, and Walton.
Peggy has served as a PAGE MSR since 2015. One of the things she loves most about her work is connecting members with experts at PAGE who can provide needed assistance. Peggy graduated from University of Georgia and taught for 17 years at Loganville Elementary and Youth Middle School in Walton County. Prior to her role with PAGE, she served as the school’s building contact for the association. Peggy is married with three children and three grandchildren. A resident of Monroe, Georgia, she enjoys time with family and trips to the mountains. She’s also an avid beekeeper.
Laura Clements lclements@pageinc.org
Serving members in Appling, Bacon, Ben Hill, Bleckley, Coffee, Crisp, Dodge, Dooly, Dublin City, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Johnson, Laurens, Montgomery, Pulaski, Telfair, Treutlen, Turner, Twiggs, Washington, Wheeler, Wilcox, and Wilkinson.
Laura is a Tift County, Georgia native. She is a graduate of Tift County High School, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, and Brewton Parker College. Laura’s career as PAGE MSR began in 2013. She loves traversing her 23-county district, meeting and assisting PAGE Members. She currently lives in Fitzgerald with her husband and two sons. Laura is an active Hurricanes Baseball Booster and past PTO President. She enjoys traveling, rooting for the Braves, and watching her children play sports.
Kerry Coursey kcoursey@pageinc.org
Serving members in Jenkins, Savannah-Chatham, and Screven.
Kerry joined PAGE in 2025 as an MSR to the educators of Savannah-Chatham County. Prior to this role, she served as teacher, assistant principal, and principal at the middle and high school levels in Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools. Kerry attended Armstrong State College and Georgia Southern University. She is very proud of being recognized in 2013 as the NAESP National Distinguished Middle School Principal from Georgia. She is passionate about ensuring that teachers and school leaders have the support they need to be successful which, in turn, provides students with a high-quality education. Kerry and her husband Jamie live in Savannah, Georgia. They have a daughter who specializes in Agriculture Communications.
Will Esters westers@pageinc.org
Serving members in Candler, Emanuel, Evans, Tattnall, Toombs, and Vidalia City.
As a PAGE MSR, Will serves Georgia educators in Candler, Emanuel, Evans, Tattnall, Toombs, and Vidalia City. He retired from Dalton Public Schools in 2024 with more than 30 years’ experience as a teacher, school leader, and district leader in learning management systems and curriculum. He has also worked for the designers of the Canvas learning management system. Will holds degrees from McNeese State University and the University of Alabama. He lives in Lyons, Georgia with his family. After more than three decades in education, he looks forward to continuing his support of teachers and school staff — now from outside the classroom.
Michele Dechman mdechman@pageinc.org
Serving members in Baker, Calhoun, Clay, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Pelham City, Quitman, Randolph, Seminole, Stewart, Sumter, Terrell, Thomas, Thomasville City, Webster, and Worth.
Michele has served as a PAGE MSR since 2022. Following a 30-year career in public schools, she continues to be an advocate for teachers. Michele loves visiting schools, making connections with educators, and sharing the many benefits of PAGE membership. Michele, who lives in Thomasville, Georgia received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Florida State University and her specialist degree from Valdosta State University. She is married to an educator and has one son attending Kennesaw State University. In her free time, Michele enjoys watching sports, reading fiction, and getting creative with canvas paintings.
Hayley Gilreath hgilreath@pageinc.org
Serving members in Bartow, Calhoun City, Cartersville City, Catoosa, Chattooga, Chickamauga City, Dade, Dalton City, Floyd, Gilmer, Gordon, Murray, Pickens, Polk, Rome City, Trion City, Walker, and Whitfield.
After more than 30 years as a Georgia educator, Hayley began serving northwest Georgia members as a PAGE MSR in 2021. She’s also a member of the PAGE Coaching team. Hayley is a graduate of Berry College, University of West Georgia, and Lincoln University where she earned her degrees in early childhood, special education, and leadership. Married with one son, Hayley lives in Calhoun, Georgia. She also works as an adjunct instructor at NWGA RESA supporting special education TAPP candidates. Hayley enjoys cross stitching, canning produce from her garden, and spending time on her back porch with family and friends.
Bob Heaberlin
bheaberlin@pageinc.org
Serving members in Bremen City, Carroll, Carrollton City, Coweta, Douglas, Fayette, Haralson, Heard, Lamar, Meriwether, Pike, Thomaston-Upson, and Troup.
Prior to becoming a PAGE MSR in 2022, Bob served in K-12 and Higher Education for 50 years as classroom teacher, principal, coach, graduate professor, and later, Chief Administrative Officer at UWG Newnan. He received his BS Ed. from Ohio University, an M. Ed from Francis Marion College, an Ed. S from West Georgia College, and a Doctorate of Education from UGA. In 2011, Bob was named NAESP National Distinguished Middle School Principal from Georgia and in 2012, he was selected as AMLE National Educator of the Year. Bob and his wife reside in Coweta County, Georgia where they’re active in the community. Their son Lee is athletic director and an assistant principal at East Coweta High School.
B.J. Jenkins bjjenkins@pageinc.org
Serving members in multiple districts throughout Georgia.
More than 20 years ago, BJ joined PAGE as a MSR serving 22 school systems. Traveling around the district afforded her opportunities to speak with educators from throughout the state. Though much information was shared, the recurring theme was the need for assistance. Believing everyone needs a support system, BJ strives to ensure that all educators have the tools necessary for success in the profession. A graduate of Emanuel County Institute and the University of West Georgia, BJ lives in the metro Atlanta area with her husband and daughter.
Felicia Mayfield fmayfield@pageinc.org
Mary Ruth Ray maryruth@pageinc.org
Serving members in DeKalb County and Decatur City.
Felicia, who has served Georgia educators for more than 50 years, became a PAGE Coach in 2024. In 2025, Felicia joined the PAGE MSR team to proudly serve the educators of DeKalb County, where she spent 36 years as teacher, assistant principal, principal, coordinator, director, chief of staff, assistant, and associate superintendent. She now serves PAGE members in both capacities. Felicia taught at Clark Atlanta University for 12 years and served as Field Director and Department Chairman while there. She is GPSC certified as a teacher and leader. She is also a certified life coach. Felicia is the mother of two educator adult children. Her hobbies include being a UGA Extension Service Master Gardener, a Senior Olympics medalist in swimming, and co-chair of the Deaconess Ministry at her church. She proudly serves on the Board of Directors for Georgia State University from where she has earned three degrees.
Serving members in Liberty, Long, McIntosh, and Wayne.
Mary Ruth Ray from Glennville, Georgia, has been with PAGE since 1998 and has more than 30 years of experience in education. She began her service as a PAGE MSR in 2025. Mary Ruth is passionate about growing the teacher pipeline, which fuels her work with PAGE Future Georgia Educators (FGE). A former Tattnall County Teacher of the Year, she has served on the Southeastern Technical College Foundation Board of Directors and the Phi Delta Kappa International Board of Directors. Currently, she chairs the Tattnall County Board of Education. Mary Ruth and her husband, Chuck, love spending time on the coastal Georgia waters with their four children and five grandchildren.
Joy Robinson jrobinson@pageinc.org
Serving members in Brooks, Camden, Charlton, Clinch, Cook, Echols, Glynn, Lanier, Lowndes, Pierce, Tift, Valdosta City, and Ware.
Following a 15-year career as a Georgia elementary school teacher, Joy joined PAGE staff in 2022 as an MSR serving educators in the southcentral and southwest areas of the state. Originally from New York, Joy moved to South Georgia after high school and graduated from Valdosta State University. A previous member of the PAGE Board of Directors, she has participated in several PAGE professional learning initiatives, and is currently a PAGE coach. Joy is committed to building relationships and supporting teachers throughout her region.
Gina Tucker gtucker@pageinc.org
Serving members in Atlanta Public Schools and Clayton County.
Since 2018, Gina has worked as PAGE MSR to educators in Atlanta Public Schools and Clayton County Schools. She is a native of Sandersville, Georgia and a graduate of Washington County High School, the University of West Georgia, and Walden University where she earned a BS and an M.Ed. in middle grades education. She spent 17 years instructing students in elementary and middle school settings. Gina has two lovely children and has been married 21 years. Gina is passionate about promoting an environment that values education and teamwork as well as helping individuals reach their full potential.
Craig Wilcox cwilcox@pageinc.org
Serving members in Paulding County.
Craig, a PAGE employee since 2025, proudly serves as the MSR to Paulding County educators. He graduated from Jeff Davis High School, Valdosta State University, and Jacksonville State University. He spent 30 years in the Paulding County School District in various roles. He served as a Teacher, Assistant Principal, Director of Alternative School, Director of Transportation, Middle School Principal, and High School Principal. Craig lives in Dallas, Georgia with his beautiful wife of 30 years and their children.
Wherever You Are in Georgia, Your PAGE MSR is Nearby.
Here’s a Glimpse of a Few MSRs Visiting with Members Throughout the State.
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.
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.
• Are you experiencing burnout and in need of support, resources, and strategies? PAGE Coaching can help.
• Do you need insight to help refine classroom management plans or effectively counter disruptive behavior? PAGE Coaching can help.
• Seeking proven strategies for dealing with parental complaints or concerns? PAGE Coaching can help.
• Would you like information and assistance as you address challenging situations with students, peers, or administrators? PAGE Coaching can help.
• Could you benefit from insight and encouragement as you consider growth opportunities and next-level career development? PAGE Coaching can help.
If you answered “yes” to one or more of these questions, you’ll want to take advantage of an exceptional benefit of PAGE membership – confidential one-on-one professional coaching.
A unique, personalized service by educators for educators, PAGE Coaching is an exclusive members-only benefit available to you for as long as you maintain your PAGE membership.
And, because PAGE Coaching is completely confidential, you’ll be able to address even the most difficult and sensitive topics.
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.
Coaches meet virtually with individual members to determine the foundational issues which need to be addressed, and then make informed, confidential recommendations for improvement.
PAGE coaches work with individual members to:
• Recognize strengths
• Endorse effort and growth
• Empower individuals to take appropriate actions
• Understand perspectives of both the educator and the organization
• Develop a healthy work/life balance
• Create sustainable results
PAGE coaches are trained to:
• Listen for contextual clues
• Help with discovering and removing barriers
• Assist in identifying / clarifying present realities in order to set attainable goals
• Help the educator align individual goals with school/district goals
• Ask questions to help individual educators discover his or her own resolutions
• Provide effective feedback and refinements
• Work with the educator to develop a plan of action
PAGE Coaching supports and empowers you by providing the assistance you need when you need it. It’s confidential, available throughout the state, and most importantly, it works! n
“I came to PAGE Coaching in complete turmoil. I left in complete peace. It changed my life!”
“The interaction with my coach was most useful. She asked questions to help me gain insight into how to better present my case to my principal. This yielded a good result.”
“The PAGE coaching experience has been a tremendous asset to me. The guidance and wisdom shared has benefited me regarding instruction, communication, and relationship skills, especially with coworkers and administration. I cannot thank my coach enough. Not only was she professional, but she was also supportive and uplifting during a time when I needed it most. I appreciate and recommend this service to anyone struggling in education.”
“Thank you for your support and help. I will stick with PAGE as you stuck with me. You kept me going!”
Ready to benefit from PAGE One-on-One Coaching? Get started today. It’s simple, confidential, and available to you for the entirety of your membership.
To get started, complete the request form at https://bit.ly/PAGECoachingRequestForm.
Throughout your career as a Georgia educator, you’ll experience great joy and satisfaction. Few professions have so much potential for positive impact and personal fulfillment. Yet, as with any profession, challenges will arise as well. As a PAGE member, you have access to excellent resources to assist with numerous types of challenges: PAGE professional development (pages 42-45) when you need to learn and grow as an educator; the PAGE advocacy team (pages 32-33) when you need help with matters of education-related legislation or state agency policy; PAGE Educator Grants (pages 8-11) when you
need additional funding for your classroom; and Foundation Scholarships (pages 12-15) when you need financial assistance for an advanced degree. Yet, your most valuable member benefit, should you ever encounter legal issues related to your duties as an educator, is the unparalleled legal coverage provided by PAGE.
Now, and for as long as you maintain your PAGE membership,† you’re covered by the best legal protection and professional liability insurance available. And, you have access to PAGE attorneys for legal guidance at all points along the way.
Situations requiring legal expertise have a tendency to escalate quickly, and failure to consult an attorney promptly could have a long-lasting negative impact on your current and future employment. That’s why calling PAGE as soon as possible is always your best option.
Each year, hundreds of members benefit from successful resolution of their legal situations†† by PAGE attorneys. PAGE works in a positive, professional, and confidential manner on
In the event you are ever:
• Uncertain of your rights as a contracted employee. Call PAGE.
• Approached by your employer about removing any of your contractually guaranteed rights. Call PAGE.
• Concerned about potential ethics violations. Call PAGE.
• Notified of an investigation by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Call PAGE.
• Subpoenaed to appear in court on a work-related issue. Call PAGE.
• Named in a lawsuit by a parent or student. Call PAGE.
• Contacted by police for questioning about an alleged work-related crime. Call PAGE.
• Unsure of how to proceed with any profession-related legal issues that arise. Call PAGE.
legal issues, and we do so without fanfare or publicity in order to avoid exposure that could damage an educator’s case and/ or reputation. PAGE is committed to keeping your legal issues confidential.
We encourage you to visit the PAGE website at www.pageinc. org/legal and choose the “PAGE Liability Insurance” tab at the base of the page to view details of coverage per membership type. You can also access the full PAGE liability and protection plan policies by logging in to the self-service member portal at https://members.pageinc.org.
On the following pages, you’ll meet the six in-house PAGE attorneys who serve members daily. With more than 75 years of combined education and employment law experience, these legal experts, together with dozens of PAGE network attorneys throughout the state, are committed to providing every PAGE member with the very best in legal guidance and representation. n
†It is essential to keep your membership current to ensure continued coverage. If you are enrolled via payroll deduction, always look at your paystubs to make sure your PAGE dues are being deducted. If you pay by recurring credit card charge, visit https://members.pageinc.org/ often to ensure that an accurate, unexpired card number is on file.
††Coverage is for activities performed in your professional capacity, i.e., those duties required of you as an employee of your school or school district. There is no coverage for activities outside your professional capacity, such as those performed on a volunteer basis or conducted in a private business or private professional endeavor. Find full details of PAGE liability and protection plan policies by logging in to the self-service member portal at https://members.pageinc.org.
Lauren Atkinson
Lauren has served as a PAGE in-house attorney since 2018. She is a graduate of Elon University, in Elon, North Carolina, and received her law degree from Mercer Law School in Macon, Georgia. Prior to attending law school, Lauren was a middle school educator in Atlanta Public Schools. Lauren is a native of Frederick, Maryland, and has lived in Georgia since 2012. She currently resides in Stockbridge, Georgia, with her husband, their daughter, and their standard poodle named Arthur. When she is not helping Georgia educators, she enjoys exercising, cooking, trying new restaurants with her husband and spending time with family.
Sean DeVetter joined PAGE as an in-house attorney in 2008. Born and raised in Georgia, Sean attended public school in Newton County. Sean comes from a family of educators who instilled a fundamental belief in the importance of education. Sean earned his undergrad and master’s degrees from Emory University and earned a law degree from Georgia State University College of Law. Sean resides in Coastal Georgia with his wife and two children.
Tina Folsom
Tina joined the PAGE in-house legal team in 2022 to further her commitment to helping Georgia educators with employment, certification, and criminal legal matters. She has worked in education law for 24 years, including 16 years as a PAGE network attorney. Tina received her bachelor’s and juris doctorate degrees from Mercer University. She also holds a master’s in higher education administration from Florida State University. Tina is married with two adult children. She is a leader in her Valdosta / Lowndes County community, serving on several boards of directors for various organizations. Tina is also active in her church, an avid reader, tennis player, and lover of the arts.
Matthew joined PAGE as a staff attorney in 2012. Prior to law school, he was a high school social studies teacher in North Carolina. Matthew grew up in a small town and is a proud product of its public schools. His favorite teachers were Mrs. Hazel Cox, his third-grade teacher who kept him from falling through the cracks, and Mrs. Jeanette Martin, his high school English teacher who instilled in him a passion for literature. He graduated with a degree in history from Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, where he was a North Carolina Teaching Fellow. He received his law degree from Emory University School of Law. In his spare time, he can be found running, swimming, exploring, and reading.
Jill was hired by PAGE in 1994 as the first staff attorney in the organization’s history. In addition to representing PAGE members, she is also PAGE General Counsel, and Director of Legal Services and Human Resources. She finds great satisfaction in helping educators through tough situations so that they can focus on teaching and learning and making a difference in the lives of students. Jill has been a part of enormous growth in the association, not only in the number of members (there were approximately 24,000 when she was hired) but also in the programs and benefits provided. Originally from Tallahassee, Florida, Jill obtained her law degree from Florida State University and a B.S. in Corporate Finance and Investment Management from the University of Alabama. She currently resides in Atlanta with her husband and has three grown children.
Leonard has been in-house counsel with PAGE since 2002. Leonard practiced bankruptcy law prior to joining the PAGE family. A native of Orlando, Florida, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University, a master’s from Florida State University, and a law degree from Georgia State University. When not assisting PAGE members, Leonard enjoys reading, traveling, classic cars, and is an avid sports fan. He has a long-time girlfriend and currently resides in Decatur, Georgia. Active in his community, Leonard is a member of several civic and social organizations in the metro-Atlanta area.
In your role as a Georgia educator, advocating for students is one of the important ways you look out for them. At PAGE, advocating for Georgia educators is one of the many important ways we look out for you.
As you consider the factors that impact your ability to effectively serve students while growing in your profession, caring for your family, cultivating work/life balance, and preparing for your future, there’s one critical aspect that may not immediately come to mind: state policy.
State policy greatly influences your work – from compensation and retirement benefits to testing, evaluation, curriculum, class size, rules of conduct, and so much more. Changes in one or more of these areas can dramatically alter your work both inside and outside the classroom. And, the lawmakers responsible for education budget and policy decisions often have little-to-no insight into your day-to-day realities as educators.
This is why you need a team of legislative and education policy experts advocating on the issues and topics that matter to you. As a PAGE member, this is exactly what you have.
Your PAGE Legislative team develops, communicates about, and advocates for policies at the state and federal levels that support Georgia educators and enable them to thrive professionally. Though their most visible work happens during each session of the Georgia General Assembly, the team advocates on behalf of members year-round.
Guided by direct member input, and in collaboration with the PAGE Legislative Advisory Committee (see page 34), your Legislative team:
n Attends each education-focused legislative and agency meeting
n Tracks and analyzes all education-focused bills
n Engages with lawmakers to
• Raise awareness of the issues members tell us matter most to them
• Express concerns or support of proposed legislation based on member-driven legislative priorities
• Recommend changes to benefit Georgia educators
n Testifies at hearings and speaks with the media
n Reports to members on all legislative and agency meetings and developments
n Provides members with policy resources and advocacy tools
n Hosts member events such as webinars and the annual PAGE Day on Capitol Hill advocacy opportunity (See page 35)
The 2025 legislative session yielded multiple PAGEsupported wins for public education, including new state financial investments in literacy, mental health, and targeted support to economically disadvantaged students. The General Assembly passed PAGE-supported legislation bolstering educator benefits and addressed many educational challenges with bills to strengthen school safety and student literacy. Use the QR Code, to download the PAGE 2025 Legislative Summary.
Margaret Ciccarelli
Director of Legislative Services mciccarelli@pageinc.org
Margaret Ciccarelli is a longtime PAGE employee who has served in various legal, legislative, advocacy, and communications roles. The daughter of a lifelong professional educator, Margaret grew up and attended public schools in Statesboro, Georgia, before attending the University of Georgia and later Mercer Law School. She, her husband, and their three children live in Decatur.
Josh Stephens
Legislative Services Specialist jstephens@pageinc.org
Josh Stephens has worked with the organization since 2012. He grew up in Madison, Georgia, where his mother served on the Morgan County Board of Education for many years. Josh earned his undergraduate degree from the former Augusta State University (now Augusta University) before moving to Atlanta to earn his Master of Public Policy degree from Georgia State University. He lives in Covington with his wife, Graci, and dog, Cerny. Josh and Graci welcomed their first child, Hattie, in December.
Legislative Communications Specialist raycock@pageinc.org
Robert Aycock joined the legislative team in 2023. He comes from a family of educators as both his mother and grandmother were teachers in Georgia schools. A graduate of Lassiter High School in Cobb County, Aycock holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Georgia College and State University and a Master of Public Administration degree from Georgia State University. Aycock lives in Mableton with his wife Leona, who he met while they were both interns at the Georgia Capitol.
Learn more about PAGE Advocacy, analysis, and resources at www. pagelegislative.org.
Claire Handley Suggs is an education policy expert who has worked with leading organizations throughout the state to improve public education and serve Georgia’s children. She currently serves as senior consultant to PAGE. She is leading a multi-year study on Georgia school districts’ use of federal pandemic relief funds for the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education. She provides strategic assistance, research, and analysis, and advocacy support to organizations, including nonprofits and school districts. Previously, Suggs was senior education policy analyst for PAGE, served with the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, and worked for the Clarke County School District.
Stay up-to-date on education policy and PAGE advocacy activity by subscribing to the PAGE Capitol Report. https://bit.ly/3XBKuvF
Your PAGE Legislative Advisory Committee (LAC) consists of members representing each of the association’s 15 membership districts (page 24). The LAC also includes legacy members who have consistently demonstrated a commitment to the work of the committee. The LAC meets annually at the PAGE office in early September to develop the association’s legislative priorities for the upcoming legislative session. Committee members also serve as subject-matter experts for the legislative department throughout the year – especially during the Georgia legislative session that typically runs from the second Monday in January to early/mid-April.
As part of a recent redesign of the committee, formerly known as the Legislative Task Force, members now have an opportunity for enhanced participation in the association’s interaction with policymakers. In addition to in-person engagement with legislators during the annual PAGE Day on Capitol Hill (facing page), LAC members now have the option to attend virtual meetings with lawmakers, state education agency representatives, and other special guests throughout the year.
We encourage LAC members and all PAGE members to develop relationships with their state House member and state Senator. These relationships are vital to the success of your association’s efforts at the Capitol as policymakers rely on educators – the experts – for information on education policies that shape Georgia public education.
Members interested in serving on the LAC and contributing to your association’s state legislative efforts should contact Josh Stephens at jstephens@pageinc.org to request an application. As seats on the committee become available, the PAGE legislative team will contact applicants to schedule a virtual interview. Those selected to join the committee serve at least one two-year term with an option to return for a second two-year term. All members of the committee attend the early September meeting at the PAGE office in Atlanta. It is during this meeting that the next legislative session’s priorities are developed. For those who must travel more than 60 miles to attend the meeting, PAGE will reimburse travel expenses and provide hotel rooms. n
Each February, you’re invited to join fellow members at the state Capitol for a day of education-focused advocacy on the issues that matter to you.
Following an on-site breakfast, attendees hear from legislators and policymakers as well as PAGE advocates and others during the morning session. All participants then have an opportunity to engage in individual advocacy and direct dialogue with legislators. The event culminates in a lunch buffet and keynote address.
Presenters in recent years have included Gov. Brian Kemp and members of House and Senate education committees.
The 2026 event takes place Feb. 17. Watch your PAGE email and social media platforms for additional details. Questions? Contact PAGE Legislative Specialist Josh Stephens: jstephens@ pageinc.org.
We’ll see you at the Capitol! n
The Future Georgia Educators (FGE) program is dedicated to helping identify, recruit, prepare, and retain the next generation of Georgia teachers. And, it’s your opportunity to give back to your profession, helping high school students as they begin their journey to becoming like you – a dedicated educator.
As an FGE chapter advisor at a high school or middle school, you will elevate the profile of the craft of teaching and help expand the teacher pipeline. Plus, your high school students who are enrolled in education pathway classes are eligible to join PAGE for $5 annually. This membership provides legal and liability insurance for their field experiences with younger students and a subscription to PAGE One magazine.
Once the chapter is up and running, it’s time to explore FGE Days, the flagship events PAGE hosts for students. PAGE partners with colleges of education to present the popular FGE Days on campuses throughout the state where students
participate in fun and informative professional learning, networking, and college fairs. Each FGE Day also features a Knowledge Bowl, and the winners are eligible to compete at the state competition in the spring. At the state competition, students are also invited to participate in other events like essay, impromptu speaking, prepared speech, and job application.
“We have been extraordinarily blessed to see so many high school students excited about being involved with FGE and thinking about education as a career path,” said Mary Ruth Ray, FGE’s state coordinator. “We are grateful to the state’s colleges of education for opening their doors to us and to these students.”
At the state competition held in the spring at Mercer, PAGE One asked three FGE advisors who represent high schools throughout the state why they choose to participate. They agree that FGE is key to encouraging and mentoring their students while providing them a unique opportunity to experience a world outside of their own, including exposure to the various colleges of education that host the events.
Jolynn Aubry of Jones County High School has been a PAGE member her entire career, and she said she loves celebrating the profession with her students who want to be educators. “They are our future,” she said, “and we receive so much support from PAGE, including these opportunities to learn and network.” Deana Crews from Carroll County College and Career Academy South agrees, adding that her students particularly benefit from the “inspirational speakers who spark a fire under the students.”
Andrea Bridges, a PAGE board of directors member, has also been active as the FGE advisor at Lowndes County High School. She considers FGE Days key for her students’ understanding of the wider world. “I want them to see the potential I see in them,” Bridges said, “and I want them to have the chance to expand their horizons … to get out of their comfort zone. With FGE, they get to see their options.”
Visit www.pageinc.org/fge to learn more about the program and how you can become an FGE advisor.
Mary Ruth Ray maryruth@pageinc.org
Mary Ruth is the Future Georgia Educators (FGE) Coordinator. In her role, she seeks innovative ways to expand the teacher pipeline in Georgia while maintaining a fun learning environment for students. A former Georgia educator, she has served PAGE members since 1998.
Earning designation as a PAGE STAR (Student and Teacher Achievement Recognition) Teacher is one of the most anticipated awards at Georgia high schools. STAR teachers come from all grade levels and content – including those who have retired since teaching the student. STAR Students choose their STAR Teachers – educators whom the students consider most instrumental in their academic development – annually as part of the program.
PAGE and the PAGE Foundation have overseen STAR, which began in 1958, since the mid-1990s. To date, more than 30,000 educators and students have been honored as STARs. Many educators receive STAR Teacher recognition several times during their careers.
Every accredited high school in Georgia is eligible to name its local winners. More than 170 civic organizations and businesses partner with PAGE to present the awards in this preeminent recognition program. To obtain a nomination,
students must have the highest score on any single SAT taken through November of their senior year and be in the top 10 percent or among the top 10 students of their class, based on grade point average.
Once selected, local STAR students choose STAR teachers from among the educators who taught them from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.
After the STARs at each school have been recognized, 12 region sponsors invite the system winners from their area to a celebration when each region’s STAR student and teacher are announced. In late April each year, these region winners gather in Atlanta where a panel of judges interview them – assessing their scholarship, extracurricular activities, academic ability, leadership, initiative, and more. The state winners and runners-up, as determined by the panel, are announced at a gala banquet – which all local winners are invited to attend – that evening.
Ronak Gautam Vyas, second from right, a senior at Alpharetta High School, is the 2025 State PAGE STAR Student. Ms. Ana Maria Gottlieb, second from left, a Spanish teacher at Alpharetta High School, is the State PAGE STAR Teacher. With them are PAGE Foundation President Hayward Cordy, left, and PAGE Executive Director Craig Harper.
In 2025, state and region winners garnered the following:
• State STAR Student: $7,500 scholarship from the PAGE Foundation and an engraved glass vase.
• State STAR Teacher: $7,500 cash award from the Frances Wood Wilson Foundation and an engraved glass vase.
• State runner-up STAR Student: $2,500 scholarship from SouthState Bank and an engraved glass bowl.
• State runner-up STAR Teacher: $2,500 cash award from SouthState Bank, a $500 cash award from the Mozelle Christian Endowment, and an engraved glass bowl.
• Region Winners: Hand-blown glass star
“STAR is one of the highlights of the year for me and for everyone at PAGE,” said Executive Director Craig Harper. “These students are the state’s brightest and best, and their STAR teachers are masters of their craft and leaders in their schools and communities.”
To learn more, visit www.pageinc.org, choose Student Programs, and select STAR. n
Fiona Peterson, second from left, a senior at Wheeler High School, is the 2025 State Runner-up PAGE STAR Student. Mr. Cameron Ward, a Latin teacher at Wheeler High School, is the 2025 State Runner-Up PAGE STAR Teacher. With them are SouthState Bank Senior Vice President Charity Brundage, second from right, with PAGE Foundation President Hayward Cordy, left, and PAGE Executive Director Craig Harper.
Veronica Sims star@pageinc.org
Veronica has been with PAGE since 1988. She is the association’s longest-serving staff member and is currently the primary liaison for the PAGE Foundation and coordinator of the Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program. A native of Decatur, Georgia, she is married, mother of one daughter and one son, and an avid gardener and seamstress.
For more than 40 years, PAGE Georgia Academic Decathlon (GAD) has focused on developing students to be well-rounded individuals.
GAD helps educators open the door to academic achievement for all students. In addition to individual competition, teams – composed of students at three levels of academic expertise based on grade point average and the school’s size – vie for titles and for the right to compete at the United States Academic Decathlon national finals with opportunities to advance to both in-person and online competition.
Each nine-member team consists of three Honor students (GPA 3.8 to 4.0), three Scholastic students (GPA 3.2 to 3.799), and three Varsity students (GPA 0.0 to 3.1999). Many coaches have reported that their students’ grade point averages improved following participation in the Georgia Academic Decathlon, and many teams witness their students moving into higher GPA categories.
The competition is centered annually around specific themes with students competing in 10 events. PAGE partners with Kennesaw State University to administer the program.
Some schools offer GAD as an academic course of study, and others offer the program as an extracurricular activity. Students in gifted programs may undertake the GAD curriculum as a directed study.
GAD competitors are evaluated through comprehensive tests in seven areas –economics, mathematics, literature, science, social science, music, and art – and their communication skills are measured in speech (prepared and impromptu),
interview, and essay. Competition also includes a Super Quiz – the only public Academic Decathlon event – in which students collaboratively answer questions based on the seven test areas.
The state competition for GAD takes place each February in partnership with Kennesaw State University’s Bagwell College of Education on its campus. This year, Muscogee County’s Columbus High School won its first GAD state championship, taking home the coveted Howard Stroud Championship Trophy and the chance to compete at the United States Academic Decathlon® (USAD) Nationals in Des Moines, Iowa.
Volunteers help make GAD a highlight of the academic year, and you are invited to join us! Look for a call for volunteers on the PAGE website and social media.
To learn more about Georgia Academic Decathlon, visit www.pageinc.org/gad n
PAGE Academic Bowl for Middle Grades gives educators and students an opportunity to shine and also improve skills and practices that are key to enabling success:
• Creating good work/study habits
• Broadening individual horizons of information
• Exhibiting poise and confidence
• Developing teamwork and good citizenship qualities
• Instilling an appreciation for the pursuit of knowledge
On an early Saturday morning each January, these skills are put to the test when all eyes in the Georgia quiz bowl circuit turn toward Georgia College. There, a theater full of middle schoolers await the moment when they will dazzle those gathered with their knowledge. On the table at the back of the stage sits a coveted piece of hardware: the PAGE Academic Bowl for Middle Grades state championship trophy.
To get a seat in that theater, teams of five and alternates qualify based on their performances in a series of regional events PAGE hosts throughout the state.
The competition is simple: Answer a toss-up question to get a chance at the bonus question and more points. Provide an incorrect answer and give opponents the chance to acquire those points.
On the other hand, the questions – from history, literature, math, geography, and a host of other academic disciplines – are not that simple. They test the limits of a middle school student’s depth of learning.
At the state competition at Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville this year, Forsyth County’s Riverwatch Middle School garnered the championship trophy. In second place was Atlanta Public Schools’ David T. Howard Middle School. Other top finishers included City of Decatur’s Beacon Hill Middle School (third), Fulton County’s River Trail Middle School (fourth), Muscogee County’s Richards Middle School (fifth), Gwinnett County’s North Gwinnett Middle School (sixth), Columbia County’s Stallings Island Middle School (seventh), and Cobb County’s Lost Mountain Middle School (eighth).
To learn more about PAGE Academic Bowl for Middle Grades, visit www.pageinc.org/academicbowl. n
Your PAGE State Academic Bowl Coordinator & PAGE Georgia Academic Decathlon State Director
Michelle Crawford academicbowl@pageinc.org
Michelle has served PAGE members since 1998. She has been PAGE State Academic Bowl Coordinator since 2001 and state director of PAGE Georgia Academic Decathlon since 2017. Michelle is a graduate of Douglas County High School and LaGrange College where she earned her degree in speech, communications, and theatre. Married with two adult children, she lives near Young Harris Georgia, where she and her husband are building a winery. She is also an avid fiber artist, plays in a community handbell choir, and is active in her parish.
When you excel, your students excel. PAGE Professional Learning is here to help you as you help others.
Your work impacts lives and, ultimately, changes the world. And when the world changes, students need teachers, coaches, administrators, and support staff to help them learn new information, understand how to use it, and transfer it to any situation
where solid thinking and wise decision making are required.
Although most people may not immediately think of teachers as students, teachers are indeed learners. In fact, the concept of lifelong learning may be more evident in great teachers’ practices than in any other sector or role. PAGE realizes this and has consistently designed professional
learning opportunities for educators that help teachers and others hone their craft and achieve career goals.
In recent years, delivery models for teaching and learning have shifted. PAGE is responding to your evolving needs as a Georgia educator through in-person and online learning experiences that address the issues that matter most to you.
All PAGE PL courses – both in-person and online – are included in the cost of your membership. No fee to register. All materials included.
• PAGE Engage! for Teachers: Strengthening the teacher pipeline and supporting prospective teachers, early career educators, veteran professionals, and others who make Georgia a great place to teach, learn, and work is one of the benefits of this course. PAGE Engage! for Teachers is open to teachers, academic and instructional coaches, college professors, and pre-service college of education students.
• PAGE Engage! for Leaders: Slated for upcoming semesters, PAGE is facilitating cohorts of PAGE Engage! for Leaders which serves as excellent preparation for a principalship. And, in line with one of PAGE’s longstanding principles – that we learn best together – participants are encouraged to attend along with a small team of teachers who want to enhance their capacity to lead through innovative approaches. The focus is on ways that leaders can transform schools into dynamic learning environments where students thrive alongside teachers who strive to excel.
The best recommendations come from those with direct knowledge of the benefits of PAGE Professional Learning. A college professor writes of PAGE Engage!:
“Our [teacher] candidates are truly better teachers because of the strategies [shared by the facilitators]. The sessions promote active engagement and are customized to meet the needs of the group. Furthermore, both presenters take time to get to know our candidates on a personal level and are willing to offer advice as they prepare for interviews and complete job applications. We appreciate the continued support of PAGE and the valuable professional learning and services provided by the organization. We are looking forward to many more successful PAGE Engage! cohorts.”
Similarly, PAGE continues to explore digital learning opportunities. This year, instead of using an external site to house courses, PAGE will shift to email delivery. This transition will be completed well before the end of the 2025-2026 school year. Likewise, content has been repackaged into modules, as the emphasis has moved toward the unique scheduling prefer-
ences of individual educators, pivoting away from an expectation of participant interactions and online community building. Yet, these adjustments do not eliminate the benefits of teachers hearing from other teachers. In fact, the Starting Strong module intentionally capitalizes on the experiences of veteran educators (details below).
The Uplift! module reinforces the important message that teachers matter. These sessions include no travel and
require no time away from home or school. Uplift! has been designed to highlight the tremendous value educators bring into the world. Register for Uplift! messages to be sent directly to your email and enjoy the inspiring and thought-provoking material, curated from quotations, blog posts, photographs, short audio segments, and video clips. A new Uplift! message will arrive in your inbox once each week, for a full year.
Impact 101 is a participant-driven PL course. Each educator uses a universal framework to focus on something that they want to make happen. One person might be working on how to change what happens in their departmental meetings, another might want to create a new way to structure parent night. Someone else might need to figure out how to best provide generous feedback to colleagues whose classes they visit. The possibilities are endless. What is the one thing you would do if you knew you couldn’t fail? Your answer will serve as the foundation for your work in Impact 101. This module outlines how to take your idea from conception to completion, to make things better for you, or for those you teach or lead.
(the name will be changing to Education as a Profession) is designed for the teachers of high school students who are considering a career in education. Along with their teacher, students can respond to any number of dozens of prompts that address pivotal issues in teaching and learning. Teachers who participate are welcome to adjust the module material in any way they wish, to best serve their students’ interests and needs.
PAGE’s first crowdsourced online course makes its debut this year. Starting Strong is filled with reflective, instructive, and inspirational pieces of writing, composed primarily by Georgia Teachers of the Year and finalists. These current and former practitioners share lessons they have learned, and their messages are focused on helping educators (and college education major seniors) flourish and succeed during their first few years as teachers. While geared toward early career educators, the wise guidance embedded in this module can benefit any education professional working with students or with teachers, so registration is open to all.
As with the in-person sessions, feedback from online participants has been very positive.
“The posts are a great encouragement.”
“I think this is an absolutely brilliant idea…it gave me an opportunity to reflect for myself, and reflection is something I often don’t take the time to do at the start of a new school year - even though it holds much value!”
“This…reminds us how important it is to take the time to get to know our students!”
“What a great reminder…[that we all learn differently]…As educators, we do have to make sure we are not stifling the learning process of others just because that is not the way we learn best. Thank you for including this video in Uplift!”
Regardless of your title or position – first year teacher, counselor, paraprofessional, coach, media specialist, resource teacher, support staff, administrator, or anyone filling any other vital role – you are welcome to enroll and there is no cost to do so. Remember, these offerings are called “courses” now and will soon be available as modules. These online opportunities will support your work as an educator as you continue to make a huge, positive impact in classrooms, the community, and for our profession. Teachers do work that truly matters. We are pleased that you are a PAGE member and we look forward to serving you throughout your career. n
Serving PAGE members since 2008, David previously worked in Clayton, Forsyth, and Dalton City school districts, beginning his career as an Industrial Arts teacher. David and his wife met in college and have been married since 1981. Their only child, now a physician, was a PAGE STAR student during his senior year of high school. David produces a podcast, Lead. Learn. Change., which is also the title of his first book. Available on Amazon, all proceeds from the book are designated to a PAGE Foundation scholarship fund that supports paraprofessionals who are on the path to becoming teachers.
As a PAGE member, you have access to grants, scholarships, coaching, legal services, legislative advocacy, an ever-evolving professional learning curriculum, and so much more. Beyond this, you have a fellow Georgia educator from your area of the state who volunteers his/her time to serve you: your Board District Director.
Your District Director is one of 13 elected representatives who, alongside five officers (President, PresidentElect, Secretary, Treasurer, and Past President) and two retired Georgia educators, together compose the PAGE Board of Directors. District Directors are active members of PAGE and work in the area they represent.
Each member of your Board of Directors:
n Serves as a voluntary, unpaid representative of the members in her/his Georgia district
n Is chief PAGE advocate at the local and regional level
n Articulates member needs and concerns, responds to member inquiries, and refers to appropriate PAGE staff
n Provides oversight, support, and feedback regarding PAGE efforts to foster exceptional levels of professionalism in the classroom and school/district leadership while keeping at the forefront the association’s mission and purpose to support educators and advocate for public education
n Takes action and makes decisions as a matter of consensus
n Contributes to PAGE advocacy work and events such as PAGE Day on Capitol Hill
n Participates in PAGE programs and events such as:
• PAGE Student/Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR)
• Future Georgia Educators (FGE)
• PAGE Academic Bowl for Middle Grades
• PAGE Georgia Academic Decathlon (GAD)
n Serves as representative in agency work groups/ task forces/study committees
n Attends and/or provides testimony to the Georgia General Assembly, State Board of Education, and public hearings
Your PAGE Board of Directors meets at least quarterly with additional meetings as needed as well as special sessions such as PAGE Day on Capitol Hill. 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 through an annual online business meeting of the association by a majority vote of members. The two retired Georgia educators who serve on the Board are appointed by the President and approved by the Board for a three-year term.
Each year, there are several District Directors with expiring terms that are up for election. To express interest, please contact your Membership Services Representative (pages 18 – 22) or Foundation President Dr. Hayward Cordy: hcordy@pageinc.org n
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, April, and June.
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 55 of this issue and on our website at www.pageinc.org) or Dr. Hayward Cordy (hcordy@ pageinc.org).
The Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) was established in May 1975 to offer all Georgia educators an independent, non-partisan association free of national affiliation, political endorsements, and positions on non-education issues. From its inception, the PAGE commitment has been to be a Georgia-focused association of educators for educators.
From a roster of just 432 diverse educators from many roles and backgrounds that first year, PAGE steadily grew from its metro Atlanta base to include membership from all over the state. At the end of its first decade, membership was about
9,500. Then, in response to expanded services, support, and recruitment, PAGE experienced rapid increases over the next 10 years to reach 32,500 members. Today, PAGE is overwhelmingly the state’s largest educator association providing the most comprehensive benefits. PAGE also is the largest independent educator association in the United States.
This year, PAGE celebrates 50 years of serving educators and advocating for teachers, students, and public education. The organization’s existence and growth weren’t assured when it welcomed its first members. Founding Member and President
Paul Copeland noted in a 20-year retrospective article in PAGE One magazine that starting a new association from nothing faced many challenges in recruiting members. Among the top issues were going against the status quo of the dominant nationally affiliated organization, a perception that an alternative association would lessen educators’ voice in Georgia, and that PAGE was a metro Atlanta organization. Through the determined effort of those early leaders and members, the association continued outreach throughout Georgia with its mission to support and advocate for teachers in a positive way to build professional capacity, support public education, and grow the profession.
PAGE services and staff increased with membership. An in-house Legal Department became an important resource for members to gain critical support for employment-related issues and professional guidance (pages 28-31). The association added a Legislative Department to more actively engage lawmakers and representatives of state agencies (pages 32-33). Membership Services Representatives were hired to provide regional support and build relationships with members and school districts in their area (pages 18-22).
As PAGE membership grew, the association sought ways to encourage learning, provide scholarships, and grow the teacher pipeline. The PAGE Foundation was founded and began awarding
scholarships (pages 12-15) to encourage educators to pursue advanced degrees. That focus also resulted in establishing or administering several student programs – Academic Bowl, Georgia Academic Decathlon, and STAR (Student Teacher Academic Recognition). College students were added to membership. Future Georgia Educators (FGE) was initiated to encourage high school students to join the ranks of educators as a career. Each of these initiatives continues as major parts of PAGE’s work (pages 36-41). Professional Learning began to assist educators in many areas, from certification test preparation and early career support to leadership development (pages 42-45).
PAGE continues to seek new ways to provide individual benefits to members. During the pandemic, PAGE began offering up to $100,000 each year in Educator Grants (pages 8-11). And, beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, PAGE Coaching offers confidential one-on-one guidance to members experiencing challenging career issues (pages 26-27).
From its inception and into its future, PAGE has and will continue to strive to represent and support educators and the profession in a positive and encouraging manner so that students, schools, and communities are learning focused. PAGE has always been an association of educators for educators – and it always will be. Welcome to PAGE! n
It’s essential to be aware of your legal rights and responsibilities as a Georgia educator. PAGE General Counsel Jill Hay shares this great information to know…
Educators must have a signed contract of employment to teach in a Georgia school system. Contracts are binding agreements between an educator and the state or local employer. A contract can be terminated by:
• Mutual agreement, which means by resignation of the employee and acceptance of the resignation by the employer; or
• Dismissal from employment for cause.
Resigning without the employer’s consent constitutes breach of contract and abandonment of position. In such cases, the Georgia Professional Standards Commission may sanction one’s teaching certificate and the school system may pursue legal action for breach of contract or seek liquidated damages — if permitted by the contract.
Contracts have a one-year term; there is no guarantee that you will be offered a new contract. That situation changes if the educator has signed four consecutive, full-year, full-time teaching contracts in the same school system; or if the employer has failed to notify the employee of nonrenewal of contract for the fourth year by May 15. Once the employee has signed a fourth, full-year, full-time consecutive contract by the same employer, he or she enjoys “tenure,” which means that the school system must renew your contract year after year, unless good cause for non-renewal can be shown.
If a tenured employee transfers to a different school system, the time needed
to become tenured in the new system is shortened to one year plus the acceptance of a second-consecutive contract; or if the employer failed to notify the employee of nonrenewal of contract for the second-consecutive year by May 15.
A school system can choose to non-renew the contract of a non-tenured teacher by sending written notification of non-renewal by May 15. Upon the request of a non-renewed employee, state law requires local systems give a written explanation for the reasons of non-renewal.
Charter and Strategic Waiver systems/ schools can be exempt from the state law that affords an educator tenure. If an educator teaches in one of these districts, he or she should consult their board policies to see if the district still retains the right to tenure.
An educator may have his or her contract terminated or suspended for the following reasons: incompetency; insubordination; willful neglect of duties; immorality; inciting, encouraging or counseling students to violate any valid state law, municipal ordinance or policy or rule of the local board of education; reducing staff due to loss of students or cancellation of programs; failure to secure and maintain necessary educational training; or any other good and sufficient cause. A suspension without pay must be preceded by formal charges and a hearing. A temporary relief from duties is always given with pay and occurs when the educator’s alleged conduct is of such a nature that his or her continued presence in the classroom or administrative office is indefensible. In the case of temporary relief from duties,
a hearing to adjudicate the charges must be made available to the educator within 10 working days after he or she has been relieved from duty.
Insubordination is the willful nonadherence to a reasonable direct order issued by a proper authority. More often than not, insubordination and willful neglect of duty go hand in hand.
Pursuant to the Georgia Open Records Law, all state, county, and municipal records (except exempted records) are open for inspection by any Georgia citizen. The person in charge of the records has up to three business days to determine whether a requested record is accessible under the law.
Records not subject to public disclosure include the following:
• Records that reveal a public school employee’s home address, home phone number, Social Security number, insurance, or medical information.
• Performance evaluation records. (Performance evaluations shall not be transferred to another employer or potential employer unless authorized in writing by the person who was evaluated.); and
• Confidential evaluations/references submitted in connection with the hiring of an employee. The right of privacy extends only to freedom from unnecessary public scrutiny. It does not protect a legitimate inquiry into the operation of a government and those employed by it. n
One of the most important areas of school law in Georgia is the Professional Standard Commission’s implementation and interpretation of the Code of Ethics for Educators. The Code of Ethics defines the required professional behavior of educators. All educators in Georgia, from paraprofessionals to superintendents, hold a license issued to them by the PSC. Failure to follow the Code of Ethics can result in the PSC issuing sanctions against an educator’s certificate. The following guidance, shared by PAGE staff attorney Matthew Pence, is great information to know…
The Code of Ethics consists of 10 standards of conduct. It is imperative for educators to maintain familiarity with all 10 standards. While some unethical conduct is very clear (i.e., don’t become romantically involved with a student), there are seemingly murkier areas where educators often have the right intentions, but those intentions lead to the wrong results. Two areas that pose potential minefields for educators are handling Individualized Education Program documents and mandated reporting of child abuse.
An IEP document is a federally mandated document for children with special needs and/or learning disabilities. Generally, an IEP document identifies the student and his/her disability, and it includes accommodations that the school must implement in order for the child to be successful. IEPs are governed by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
Failure to implement the IEP does not always constitute unethical conduct; however, it could result in the parent filing a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education. For example, if the IEP mandates that a student must have all assessments read aloud to him/her, then this must happen, even if the student indicates that he/she wishes to waive the right. While this may not be considered unethical conduct, it could result in adverse employment action, such as a reprimand, termination, or non-renewal.
There are several mistakes in the IEP process that may result in a sanction from the PSC. First, drafting, revising, updating, or amending an IEP requires an IEP meeting. This meeting involves the parent(s), student, special education teacher, regular education teacher, and administrator. At the end of the meeting, each person involved signs off on the IEP. Do not sign an IEP document without having an IEP meeting with everyone in the room at the same time. Sporadic contact, such as phone calls to parents regarding the IEP, emails among faculty members about the IEP, or discussing the case outside of the IEP meeting, does not constitute the actual IEP meeting. No educator should sign her/his name unless she/he was actually in the meeting with all of the others present. Such action, in the eyes of the PSC, constitutes dishonest conduct under Standard 4. Moreover — and this should come as no surprise — there is no reason to sign someone else’s name to an IEP. This also is considered unethical conduct under Standard 4.
Georgia law mandates that all school employees are required reporters of child abuse. Ethically, this is codified as Standard 8. If you suspect that a child has been abused, you must report your suspicions in writing within 24 hours. Most school systems in Georgia require that an educator submit this report to someone at the school, such as a school counselor or administrator. Some school systems require educators to report directly to the Department of Family and Children Services. Regardless, it is important for all educators to familiarize themselves with the reporting procedures of their respective district at the beginning of the school year.
Failure to report child abuse often results in the PSC issuing severe sanctions, particularly when a child has been harmed after the educator became aware of the abuse. Because of the criminal component of the reporting statute, several Georgia educators have been arrested for failure to report. Educators who file mandated reports should also keep thorough documentation regarding the report.
All PAGE members confronted with questions about ethics should contact the PAGE Legal Department for guidance. Call 770-216-8555 | 800-334-6861 (and select option 1). n
As the new school year begins, there is always a combination of excitement and apprehension. What if you get a student who occasionally exhibits violent behavior? What if a parent is overly protective of his or her child and would not hesitate to file a lawsuit against you for the slightest slip up on your part? Or, what if you have a new principal who scrutinizes and second-guesses everything you do? Below, PAGE General Counsel Jill Hay, shares great information to know…
To help you avoid legal problems, follow this advice:
• Report suspected child abuse in writing within 24 hours of the time you first have reason to believe that a student in your care has been abused. Keep a copy of that report for your records. In most Georgia school districts, you are to report the suspected abuse to a designated authority in your school. (However, some districts have you report directly to DFCS.) Check your school’s written policy. “Child abuse” means physical injury or death inflicted upon a child by a parent or caretaker by other than accidental means; neglect or exploitation of a child by a parent or caretaker; emotional or sexual abuse of a child; or sexual exploitation of a child.
• Report all incidents of bullying in writing as soon as possible: physical, mental, or cyber. Keep a copy of that report for your records.
• Do not permit a student to be alone with you in a closed area. Furthermore, do not drive a student home from an after-school event unless absolutely necessary, and even then, always have another person in the car with you. If at all possible, secure written permission from an administrator.
• Force against a student may not be used unless it is absolutely necessary to defend yourself or protect someone else from injury.
• Do not leave your class unattended, especially if a fight has started between students. In case of such emergencies, have a designated student in your class go to the front office for assistance. Teachers have a duty to exercise proper supervision over students
in their classes and reasonable care to prevent injury to them.
• Corporal punishment may only be administered by the principal or the principal’s designee and authorized by written policy adopted by the school board. Even if you are authorized to administer corporal punishment, strict guidelines must be followed.
• Do not search a student’s body (i.e., “strip search”) even if you believe you have probable cause that warrants a search. In almost every case, strip searches of students are found to be a violation of students’ Fourth Amendment rights.
• Do not change a young child’s underwear or diapers unless another adult is present.
• Follow the chain of command if you have a complaint. First, go to your immediate supervisor, and then move up the chain of command.
• Do not tutor one of your students for compensation or solicit parents or students to purchase goods or services from you.
• Keep accurate records and receipts in the collection and disbursement of school monies (for example, school clubs or athletic events).
• Always maintain a professional relationship with students, even if they may be close to your age. Do not have a relationship with a student outside of school or school activities. This includes contacting students over social media.
• Do not establish electronic relationships with students through email, text, or social media that do not relate directly to school. Any use of electronic communication with students should first be approved by your administrator. n
All professionals expect to be held accountable for the quality of their work, and teachers are no exception. The implementation of the Teacher Keys Effectiveness System (TKES) as Georgia’s evaluation system for classroom teachers has generated much hype and uncertainty around teacher evaluations, which can be nerve-wracking if not downright scary. In response to these concerns, the Georgia Department of Education is now piloting the Georgia Leadership and Educator Acceleration and Development System (GaLEADS) in seventeen school districts. The pilot features a comprehensive system that includes targeted feedback, shared ownership for professional growth, and clear pathways for career advancement. GaLEADS is being developed to eventually replace TKES and create a more supportive, development-oriented model rather than a compliance-focused one. Is your future in the hands of students’ decisions and abilities (or inabilities)? Will a single test score determine your pay? Below, PAGE Future Georgia Educators (FGE) Coordinator Mary Ruth Ray explores the topic, sharing great information to know…
• It’s rarely as bad as the hype. Humans can be excitable creatures. Rumors abound, truths get distorted and well, you know the rest. Do your best to tune out the gossip and distill the truths from the abundance of information floating around. TKES includes a mandatory orientation and familiarity component to introduce you to the process. Allow your supervisor and principal to set your mind at ease. They want you to succeed as much as you do. No administrator wants a “failing” teacher. They will eagerly spell out what they will be looking for and how to demonstrate it.
• New teachers, in coordination with their administration, establish a Professional Learning Plan as part of the evaluation process. The plan may include your individual professional goals, school improvement goals, district improvement goals, or any other school/district-identified need.
• View the evaluation as an opportunity for professional feedback, not a pass/fail exam. If you have a weak point (and who among us doesn’t?), you want that pointed out so that you can take steps to shore up that particular skill. After all, our students are the ultimate beneficiaries of our competencies. If your evaluator identifies an area for improvement, don’t panic. Discuss it and ask for advice on how to develop that skill. Ask your supervisor to recommend teachers who have expertise in that area with whom you can observe and confer.
• Be sure you get credit for everything you do. TKES allows for teachers to provide evidence of a skill not observed. If an evaluator identifies a “needs improvement” area because they did not see you meet a particular standard, you can provide artifacts after the observation that show that you met it.
• Keep calm and carry on. While we certainly must be cognizant of what is required of us and meet those requirements, those who have been in education for decades realize that seasons come and seasons go. Changes come and can be both challenging and rewarding. Seek the advice of quality mentors, do what is required, and enjoy the magic of teaching! n
Your career as an educator will likely span many years and several locations. Insight into documentation that’s important to keep is great information to know…
1. College transcripts from every college you attended: K-12 systems often require that universities send an official transcript directly to them, but a student copy can assist you in completing applications and employment-related papers.
2. GACE, Praxis or Graduate Record Examination scores: Obtaining copies of test scores later can be time consuming and expensive.
3. Letters of recommendation: Letters of recommendation document your on-the-job performance and are important in determining future career opportunities.
4. Teaching contracts: A copy of each signed contract is important because it verifies your employment with a school system and your length of service.
5. Payroll records: Pay stubs and tax documents issued by your school system record your salary, as well as your tax deductions, retirement plan, Social Security contributions and insurance costs.
6. Sick leave: These records show how much remaining sick leave you have available before deductions are taken from your salary. In Georgia schools, two years of sick leave may be accumulated and used toward retirement upon completion of 28 years of service.
7. Evaluations and professional development plans: Retain all documents pertaining to your performance evaluations, responsibilities, and employment status, including commendations or recommendations. If you have formally disagreed with any part of an evaluation or professional development plan, attach a copy of your written response to the file.
8. Major correspondence from district administrators: Letters of appointments to committees and positions of leadership or recognition help keep your résumé strong and current.
9. Copies (or at least computer screen shots) of conference or workshop programs listing you as a presenter/contributor: This résumé-boosting documentation will improve your accuracy and confidence in citing your participation.
10. Activities, accomplishments, and awards: Keep a running list of in-service training, subject specialization, classes/subjects taught, extracurricular responsibilities, special skills and honors/awards. It will make updating your résumé a breeze.
11. Records of severe student matters and suspected child abuse: These records concern any major student problem that involves hearings and/or court proceedings. Report suspected child abuse in writing within 24 hours of the time you first have reason to believe that a student in your care has been abused.
12. PAGE membership: A current PAGE membership provides you with liability coverage and immediate access to legal advice. n
Education vernacular is vast and ever-changing. This list of acronyms commonly used in education and education-related fields is great information to know…
AASA: American Association of School Administrators
ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act
ADD: Attention Deficit Disorder
ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
AP: Accommodation Plan (Section 504 Students)
AP: Advanced Placement
BEOG: Basic Education Opportunity Grant
BST: Basic Skills Test
CAP: Corrective Action Plan
CBA: Curriculum-Based Assessment
CCGPS: Common Core Georgia Performance Standards
CCRPI: College and Career Readiness Performance Index
CEC: Council for Exceptional Children
CEU: Continuing Education Unit
CIEA: Coalition of Independent Education Associations
CO: Central Office
COE: Code of Ethics or College of Education
CPI: Certified Personnel Information
CRT: Criterion-Referenced Test
CTAE: Career, Technical and Agricultural Education
DFCS: Department of Family and Children Services
DOE: Department of Education
DOL: Department of Labor
DPH: Department of Public Health
EAP: Education As a Profession
EBD: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders
ECE: Early Childhood Education
EIP: Early Intervention Program
ELL: English Language Learners
EOCT: End of Course Test
EOGT: End of Grade Test
ESL: English as a Second Language
ESOL: English to Speakers of Other Languages
ESSA: Every Student Succeeds Act
ESSER: Elementary & Secondary Emergency Education Relief (Funds)
F & RP: Free and Reduced Price
F2F: Face to Face (Learning)
FAPE: Free Appropriate Public Education
FBA: Functional Behavior Assessment
FERPA: Federal Education Rights and Privacy Act
FFCRA: Families First Coronavirus Response Act
FGE: Future Georgia Educators
FICA: Federal Insurance Contributions Act (Social Security Tax)
FIP: Formative Instructional Practices
FTE: Full Time Equivalent
FY: Fiscal Year
GACE: Georgia Advisory Council on Education
GACIS: Georgia Association of Curriculum and Instructional Supervisors
GACTE: Georgia Association for Career and Technical Education
GACTE: Georgia Association of Colleges for Teacher Education
GAEL: Georgia Association of Educational Leaders
GAESP: Georgia Association of Elementary School Principals
GAMSP: Georgia Association of Middle School Principals
GASCD: Georgia Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development
GASPA: Georgia Association of School Personnel Administrators
GASSP: Georgia Association of Secondary School Principals
GaTAPP: Georgia Teacher Academy for Preparation and Pedagogy
GBOE: Georgia Board of Education
GCASE: Georgia Council of Administrators of Special Education
GEER: Governor’s Emergency Educational Relief (Fund)
GKAP: Georgia Kindergarten Assessment Program
GMAS: Georgia Milestones Assessment System
GOSA: Governor’s Office of Student Achievement
GPEE: Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education
GPS: Georgia Performance Standards
GSSA: Georgia School Superintendents Association
GTAPP: Georgia Teacher Alternative Preparation Program
H/H: Hospital/Homebound
HI: Health Insurance
HIPAA: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
HOPE: Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally
IAP: Individualized Accommodation Plan
IDEA: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
IEP: Individualized Education Plan
ILT: Instructional Lead Teacher
ISS: In-School Suspension
IT: Instructional Teacher
ITV: Instructional Television
IU: Instructional Unit
LAPS: Leader Assessment Performance Standard
LBOE: Local Board of Education
LD: Learning Disability
LEP: Limited English Proficiency
LKES: Leader Keys Effectiveness System
LRE: Least Restrictive Environment
LUA: Local Unit of Administration
MEA: Migrant Education Agency
MID: Mildly Intellectually Disabled
MIMH: Mildly Mentally Handicapped
MOD: Modification
MoID: Moderately Intellectually Disabled
NBPTS: National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
NRT: Norm-referenced Test
NTE: National Teacher’s Examination
OCGA: Official Code of Georgia Annotated (state law)
ODD: Oppositional Defiant Disorder
OHI: Other Health Impaired
PAGE: Professional Association of Georgia Educators
PBIS: Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports
PDP: Professional Development Plan
PFP: Pay for Performance
PL: Public Law
PLU: Professional Learning Unit
PO: Purchase Order
PR: Percentile Rank
PSC: Professional Standards Commission
PSERS: Public School Employees
Retirement System
PSRS: Public School Recruitment Services
PTA: Parent-Teacher Association
PTO: Parent-Teacher Organization
PTSA: Parent-Teacher-Student Association
QBE: Quality Basic Education
REP: Remedial Education Program
RESA: Regional Educational Service Agency
RIF: Reduction in Force
RTI: Response to Intervention
SAAC: Student Assessment Advisory Committee
SBD: Severe Behavior Disorder
SDD: Significant Developmental Delay
SEBD: Severe Emotional Behavior Disorder
SED: Severely Emotionally Disturbed
SGM: Student Growth Model
SI: Speech/Language Impairment
SIA: Special Instructional Assistance
SID: Severe Intellectual Disability
SIP: School Improvement Plan
SIS: Student Information System
SLD: Specific Learning Disability
SLDS: Student Longitudinal Data System
SLO: Student Learning Objective
SLP: Speech/Language Pathologist
SOE: Schools of Excellence
SOP: Standard Operating Procedure
SPLOST: Special Local Option Sales Tax
SREB: Southern Regional Education Board
SSI: Supplemental Security Income (Social Security)
SST: Student Support Team
STAR: Student Teacher Achievement Recognition
STAR: Student Transition And Recovery
S-T-W: School to Work
SY: School Year
TAPS: Teacher Assessment Performance Standards
TESOL: Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages
TKES: Teacher Keys Effectiveness System
TOTY: Teacher of the Year
TRS: Teacher Retirement System
VAM: Value-Added Model
WFH: Work from Home
YAP: Youth Apprenticeship Program
YTD: Year to Date
Successfully educating Georgia’s children is a partnership between the school, home, community, and state. There are multiple partners at work at the forefront as well as behind the scenes to support your work. One such partner is the Regional Education Service Agency (RESA) network. PAGE Foundation President Dr. Hayward Cordy, former executive director of Oconee RESA, shares this great information to know…
The goal of each RESA is to help local educators, schools, and districts meet educational needs through the sharing of services across school system lines. RESAs partner with other state agencies, including the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE), the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement (GOSA), and the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC).
Service areas to member districts include research and planning, staff development, curriculum and instruction, assessment and evaluation, technology, health, and school improvement. Through a wide array of services and interventions, RESAs work to ensure that high levels of engagement and learning for all students are embedded within daily practice and routine.
Georgia’s RESA Network is a forward-thinking and knowledgeable partner governed by local Boards of Control that are established by the Georgia General Assembly. This governance system enables
local school systems and public colleges to determine, manage, evaluate, and partially fund the services they receive. Each system determines their needed services within the overall framework.
There’s great value in getting to know your local RESA partner. Georgia RESAs provide exceptional professional development and career enrichment for Georgia educators. Services include:
• Endorsements (Gifted, Reading, Math, Dyslexia, Science, Computer Science, STEM, MTSS, Coaching, Teacher Leader)
• TKES/LKES Evaluation Program support and training
• Special education support through Georgia Learning Resource Services Centers (GLRS)
• Mental health training through the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• Positive Behavioral Intervention Specialist (PBIS) support and training
• Whole-child wraparound support services
• Student Longitudinal Data System (SLDS) support and training
• GaDOE Teacher Resource Link (TRL) training and support
• Literacy support through providing literacy coaches to ensure an intensive focus on literacy in schools identified for additional support, as part of GaDOE’s broader tiered coaching model.
There are currently 16 RESAs that make up Georgia’s network:
• Central Savannah River RESA
• Chattahoochee-Flint RESA
• Coastal Plains RESA
• First District RESA
• Griffin RESA
• Heart of Georgia RESA
• Metro RESA
• Middle Georgia RESA
• North Georgia RESA
• Northeast Georgia RESA
• Northwest Georgia RESA
• Oconee RESA
• Okefenokee RESA
• Pioneer RESA
• Southwest Georgia RESA
• West Georgia RESA
PAGE encourages all Georgia educators to get to know your local RESA partner. Learn more at https://www.georgiastandards.org/learning/Pages/ETC-RESA/ RESA.aspx n
Provide a personal email address* and keep it current to ensure you receive the latest information on PAGE Educator Grants, Coaching and PL opportunities, events, and other announcements. Visit members.pageinc.org to verify and update your information.
Scan this QR code to update or verify your information.
Subscribe to the PAGE Capitol Report to stay up-to-date on PAGE advocacy, education-focused legislation, and state agency action.
Visit https://bit.ly/3XBKuvF to sign up.
Scan this QR code to subscribe to PAGE Capitol Report.
Need more information?
You can locate your representative on page 24 or at www.pageinc.org.
*PAGE recommends a personal email address because some school systems’ email filters reject external email.
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770-216-8555 (option 2) membership@pageinc.org
For more than 150 years, the University of North Georgia ™ has been developing educators who are highly sought after for their skills and experience. While our programs have longevity, they are also innovative in that we partner with districts on paid residencies, paraprofessional-toteacher programs, supports for veterans, co-teaching opportunities, and other exciting ways for students to earn their initial certification or to advance their education and careers. We invite you to join us and discover What Comes Next!
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