PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GEORGIA EDUCATORS
FALL 2023
Y T I N U T R O P P O s
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PLUS: Coaching & Scholarships | Post-Pandemic Realities | Georgia TOTY
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CONTENTS 8 IN THIS ISSUE 10 FROM THE PRESIDENT 12 FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 14 P AGE LAUNCHES ONE-ON-ONE PROFESSIONAL COACHING The Help You Need When You Need It
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GEORGIA EDUCATORS
FALL 2023
EDITORIAL STAFF Craig Harper Ramona Mills Executive Director
Executive Editor/Writer
Dolly Purvis Writer/Photographer
GUEST WRITER THIS ISSUE Scotty Brewington PAGE One Official Publication of the Professional Association of Georgia Educators
Vol. 44 No. 3
19 GRANTING OPPORTUNITY:
PAGE Grants at Work in Georgia Classrooms
As the largest independent educator association in the state and nation, the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) exists to support our members who serve in every Georgia public school. PAGE provides unparalleled legal coverage, legislative advocacy, professional learning, grants, and scholarships. PAGE honors and encourages educational excellence through student programs including Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR), Future Georgia Educators (FGE), Georgia Academic Decathlon (GAD), and PAGE Academic Bowl for Middle Grades.
42 POST-PANDEMIC REALITIES
32 P AGE FOUNDATION AWARDS 2023 SCHOLARSHIPS 38 P AGE MEMBER CHRISTY TODD IS GEORGIA TEACHER OF THE YEAR
50 A GRADUATION CEREMONY
DELAYED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN 52 PAGE LEGAL What Rules Apply?
54 SHIRLEY WRIGHT RETIRES Fall 2023
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In This Issue Ah, fall. The change of season from summer to autumn can be so refreshing. As the natural world around us transforms – temperatures cooling, leaves taking on new hues and textures, stars seemingly more brilliant in the night sky – our experiences adjust as well. From the sporting events we attend to the foods we eat and the songs we sing, newness abounds. You’ll find much that’s new in this issue of PAGE One as well.
couraged, uncertain, and in need of professional support, PAGE Coaching can help. At your request, PAGE will pair you with a professional coach to assist in identifying solutions to your specific challenges. And, because PAGE Coaching is completely confidential, you can address even the most difficult and sensitive topics. Turn to pages 14 through 17 to learn more about PAGE Coaching and how to get started.
Just launched: one-on-one professional coaching from PAGE! Your membership provides more benefits than any other Georgia educator association. And, new this fall, we’ve added an exclusive new state-wide service that’s available now and for as long as you maintain membership. Whenever you encounter a situation in your career that causes you to feel overwhelmed, dis-
Also new this season: PAGE welcomes a new president, and the Georgia Department of Education announces the 2024 teacher of the year: • Meet PAGE president Khrista Henry on pages 9 through 11. “I love PAGE because we are a powerful, positive voice for educators and the students we serve,” says Henry.
“PAGE works alongside legislators to bring educators to the table to be part of the conversation.” • Get to know Georgia’s newest Teacher of the Year, PAGE member Christy Todd, on pages 38 through 41. “My relationship with PAGE started when I was in high school,” shares Todd. “I was a member of the PAGE Future Georgia Educators club and, through that chapter, I was able to talk to people about education and learn about the career. When I started teaching, I immediately joined PAGE. I remembered how supportive they were to me in high school and knew they would continue supporting me as a teacher.” In this issue’s cover story, “Granting Opportunity,” several PAGE Educator Grant recipients share how they’ve utilized grant funds to provide students with new resources and experiences. Discover more on pages 19 through 29. And, make plans today to apply for a PAGE grant this school year. Applications open through Sunday, Oct. 22. Hear from fellow members about new and lasting innovations and concerns in the “Post-Pandemic Realities” article on pages 42 through 48. To meet the newest PAGE Foundation scholarship winners, turn to pages 32 through 35. Welcome to fall – and to your latest issue of PAGE One. In this season and always, thank you for the opportunity to provide the best in member services and legal protection. n
Ramona Mills Executive Editor 8 | PAGE One
Fall 2023
Meet the President Incoming Board President Khrista Henry has been a teacher for as long as she can remember. She taught her little sister to read in her family’s laundry room, which she converted into an imaginary classroom. “Playing school is just what we did,” said Henry, who teaches gifted and talented students at R.L. Norris Elementary School in McDuffie County. “I spent a lot of time in my mom’s classroom. I loved everything about it.” Henry comes from a long-line of educators. Her mother taught for 42 years, her sister is a reading specialist in Cherokee County, and her great aunt was once superintendent of McDuffie County Schools.
Henry, who has been teaching 27 years, earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and master’s degree in educational psychology with an emphasis in gifted education – both from the University of Georgia. In 2009, she received her education specialist degree from Augusta State University in curriculum and instruction. She began teaching in Athens as a paraprofessional while working on her master’s degree. From there, she taught one year in Columbia County before coming home to McDuffie County, where she and her children went to school. Henry served as a PAGE building representative and then a board member before being elected president. She was named her school’s Teacher of the Year in 2009, McDuffie County PAGE STAR Teacher in 2017, and regional Golden Apple Teacher in 2019. In 2020, she became a Project Lead the Way* Launch Teacher. Occasionally, students, staff, and community members may find her dressed as the school mascot, R.L. the Norris Ram. “I love PAGE because we are a powerful, positive voice for educators and the students we serve. PAGE surveys members about what is affecting us in our classrooms, and then advocates for us within the legislative process,” said Henry. “PAGE works alongside legislators to bring educators to the table to be part of the conversation.” The Norris Ram…or Maybe Mrs. Henry? Shhh…let’s keep that a secret!
Henry at home in McDuffie County.
“I love PAGE because we are a powerful, positive voice for educators and the students we serve.” – Khrista Henry Fall 2023
Henry said she is excited to serve her term as PAGE president.
“PAGE recognizes that it is important for teachers to have a platform to be heard. There are a lot of teachers in Georgia who have been in the trenches for many years. There is a wealth of knowledge and insight there,” said Henry. As president, I hope to encourage teachers to share their wisdom and experience, even if it takes them out of their comfort zone.” n *https://www.pltw.org/
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From the President
Dare to Say YES Roughly 8 years ago, I read an interview with Shonda Rhimes about her then-new–book, A Year of Yes — a year where she said yes to everything that scared her. As a person who is teased for being scared of everything, I said, no way to the yes idea but felt compelled to tear out the article, fold it neatly, and tuck it away. As the days, months, and years ticked by, the Year of Yes idea continued to marinate in my subconscious. While I never actively considered an official year of yes, any opportunity that arose reminded me of the article. The first yes came when my PAGE Membership Services Representative encouraged me to interview for my PAGE district’s Board of Directors position. I gave a hesitant yes that led to a position on the Board. Around that time, two former students asked me to coach a First Lego League robotics team. With no robotics experience, I accepted with an anxious yes. That yes was one of the most rewarding yes-es to date! Those early nods led to a lot more yes moments. I nervously agreed to speaking engagements. I said yes to a Georgia Agriculture Education STEM challenge that had me driving a colony of worms home for spring break, and yes to masquerading as R.L., our school mascot. When I was asked to consider the PAGE Board of Directors presidency, after many questions, I said yes. This summer, a yes landed me on a very small air-
First Lego League Robotics: “We all said yes!”
10 | PAGE One
plane, very far from home, and to my surprise it wasn’t terrifying –it was exhilarating! I’m learning that saying yes is an adventure all its own. While reflecting on these yes moments, I looked for the interview I had read featuring Shonda Rhimes. In that search, I stumbled upon her Ted Talk, My Year of Saying Yes to Everything. There, she mentions the hum that comes from doing what you love. Oh, how I could relate! I know the hum. I live for the “hum. I AM THE HUM! Truly, there is a special joy that comes from within when you are planning the perfect lesson, when your students have had a breakthrough, or when you’ve said yes to something new and exciting that takes you and your students in a new or unexpected direction! Sometimes, the unexpected direction is truly unexpected, and yes is the only option! During the pandemic, the hum was faint but quickly became a collective roar as we
Giving up some love for Frank the robot. (Short for Frankenstein. He was named on Halloween.)
Fall 2023
We said yes to the Georgia Agricultural Education Spring STEM Challenge which had worms riding shotgun home for spring break! Thankfully, they all remained in their seats! Mindful Morning activity which included Remembering 9/11. Students summarized the events of 9/11 and wrote letters to first responders.
We all become set in our routines. This is when the hum grows faint. It is the yes that shakes up our routine and presents a new challenge. It is the yes that can rekindle the hum.
threw ourselves into finding ways to teach from afar. Then, it became faint again as we settled into our “new normal.” Teaching from home when the hum was desperately faint, and journaling through Julia Cameron’s book The Artist’s Way, I was able to find a deep, meaningful, personal hum. When we were able to return to school, I carried this hum into my classroom where we began each morning reflecting on previous classroom events or anticipated events. Or, reflecting on a current headline or lesser important topic like, “Should disposable silverware be edible?” I was able to easily tie these Mindful Morning exercises into our ELA standards. My morning quiet time became an inspiration for our classroom quiet time. My own artistic and mindfulness pursuits became part of our classroom routine.
Our students need us to be there not only to deliver quality research-and-standards-based instruction, but also to model how to say yes and welcome new challenges with enthusiasm. Woven into our jobs as teachers is helping students find their hum. This year, I encourage you to be mindful of the hum and say yes when the opportunity arises. You never know where your yes could lead you! n
Henry received a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (1995) and a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Gifted Education (1996) from the University of Georgia. She completed her Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction at Augusta University (2009). Henry taught gifted students in Clarke and Columbia counties prior to her present role as 4th and 5th grade gifted and talented teacher at R.L. Norris Elementary in McDuffie County. Fall 2023
PAGE One | 11
From the Executive Director The Exceptional Value of Your PAGE Membership Just Got Better In the midst of challenging circumstances, a few insightful, caring words of guidance from someone you trust can make all the difference in pushing through to success. Likewise, holding on to detrimental thoughts or struggling without support most often leads to prolonged frustration or failure. These truths play out whether the situation involves something you love to do or merely need to get through,
12 | PAGE One
whether it falls within the personal or professional (or both). All of us face difficulties in doing our work. It’s how we handle those issues that can determine growth and success versus lack of progress. When it comes to our professional lives, we often don’t want to admit that we need help. However, there’s a way to
Fall 2023
Educators are facing more challenges today than at any time in the history of public schooling. reframe this perspective by considering athletes, musicians, or others engaged in public performance. After all, educators do our work before many audiences every day – in the classroom, the conference room, the auditorium, and the ballfield. Athletes are quick to seek help to boost or maintain performance. In some sports like golf, tennis, and track, individual athletes may travel with a coach or schedule regular sessions to ensure they are doing things correctly for peak performance. As a professional educator who realizes that you could benefit from the insights of a highly experienced, knowledgeable, and encouraging person, where would you find such a coach? PAGE wanted to make sure you had an easy answer to that question, especially if you aren’t fortunate enough to have a trusted mentor or leader among your professional circle. The PAGE Coaching benefit exists to provide one-on-one confidential, in-depth professional guidance for the challenges that you experience. For additional program details and access information, see pages 14 through 17 of this issue.
The PAGE Coaching benefit exists to provide one-onone confidential, in-depth professional guidance for the challenges that you experience.
Your PAGE coaches include former superintendents, special education directors, human resources administrators, professional learning leaders, instructional experts, classroom management specialists, federal program managers, counselors, extracurricular sponsors, and more. Whether your concerns involve peer or administrator relationships, student behavior, professional development directives, or parent communication, a PAGE coach can offer strategies and support to plan effective responses. We know from the coaching pilot implementation last year, as well as many years of survey responses and recent member research, that educators are facing more challenges today than at any time in the history of public schooling.
I’m proud that PAGE members now have this additional individual benefit because our staff understood a need and then designed a way to meet it. PAGE wants you to receive the support you need to thrive as a professional educator and continue to impact the lives of your students through a full career in Georgia’s schools. A PAGE coach can be an invaluable, personal resource to help you do that. I’m proud that PAGE members now have this additional individual benefit because our staff understood a need and then designed a way to meet it. The exceptional value of your PAGE membership just got better. n
Executive Director Craig Harper joined PAGE in 2015 after more than 22 years in Georgia public school leadership positions. A certified trainer for Crucial Conversations and host of the PAGE Talks podcast, Harper holds a master’s in public administration from Valdosta State University.
Fall 2023
PAGE One | 13
INTRODUCING PROFESSIONAL COACHING FROM PAGE:
The Help You Need When You Need It
Without question, education is one of the most rewarding professions one can dedicate their life to pursue. An educator will face some of the most challenging circumstances during that career with daily responsibility for instruction, supervision, and safety of many children. When you hit a roadblock and are unsure how to proceed, where do you go for help? Professional support and guidance through your school or district may not be available when needed. And, requesting help from coworkers or administration may be uncomfortable. Now, you can access the help you need through a new PAGE service available exclusively to members: One-on-One Professional Coaching. PAGE understands that guidance and support from a trusted professional educator can make a vast, positive difference in overcoming the challenges you face every day. To ensure all members have ready access to confidential oneon-one support to enhance knowledge, skills, and the ability to effectively serve students and meet expectations for their role, PAGE launched this new service – available to all PAGE members throughout the state – Sept. 5, 2023. “The primary mission of PAGE Coaching is to increase the likelihood that an educator remains in the profession by helping them achieve a successful resolution to an issue that’s causing them difficulty or frustration,” said Dr. Hay14 | PAGE One
ward Cordy, director of strategic partnerships and PAGE Foundation president. Cordy is the staff liaison for the initiative. He, along with Coaching Coordinator Geneva Braziel, lead a cohort of 21 coaches. The coaches are veteran, accomplished educators with subject-matter expertise, skilled at building relationships, knowledgeable in best practices, and experienced mentors. PAGE coaches possess in-depth experience in regular education, special education, instructional supervision, counseling, extracurriculars, and all levels of leadership. Braziel, like the majority of PAGE coaches, has extensive education experience in many different roles. She is a Fall 2023
PAGE Coaching supports and empowers you by providing the assistance you need when you need it. It’s available in all areas of the state. It’s completely confidential. And, most importantly, it works. former superintendent, assistant superintendent of human resources, CTAE director, federal programs coordinator, assistant principal, counselor, and teacher. The common thread among all PAGE coaches, including several who have worked as field experience supervisors for colleges of education, is a demonstrated passion for mentoring teachers. “The strength of the program is this wide range of knowledge and experience that our coaches have gained over many years in classrooms, schools, and district offices all over Georgia,” Braziel said. “Our PAGE coaches can respond to
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
Fall 2023
an educator’s challenges without needing to go read up on what to do. We’ve been there, too.” Members who received coaching during the program’s pilot period found the support both affirming and beneficial: From a participant member: “The PAGE coaching experience has been a tremendous asset to me. The guidance and wisdom shared has benefited me regarding instruction, communication, and relationship
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 that 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 One | 15
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.” From a few PAGE coaches: “After completing the sessions, a member (anonymous) indicated that, as a result of the support provided by PAGE Coaching, she will remain in the education profession rather than leave as she had been contemplating doing.” “While participating in PAGE Coaching, a member (anonymous) was able to prepare for upcoming job interviews. With support from the PAGE Coach, the member successfully interviewed and was offered a teaching position in the preferred grade level of choice.”
“I worked very closely with a member (anonymous) who was questioning whether teaching was a path for her after a dismal first year. She was very pleased with the PAGE coaching experience, conveying that the greatest benefit was the ‘realistic helpful guidance’ she received through participation in the program. How Did PAGE Coaching Come to Be? The need for one-on-one professional coaching became evident in recent years as more of the requests for assistance from PAGE attorneys were work-related challenges without a legal component. These issues involved peer or supervisor relationships, classroom management, instructional design, or communication issues. PAGE attorneys provide excellent support to members who call for guidance and representation and do so for
thousands of educators who call each month. Staff Attorney Lauren Atkinson, who also is a former educator, shared with Executive Director Craig Harper the attorneys’ discussions about the best way to help these educators who required guidance and direction in their daily work. She expressed their belief that a significant need existed for professional guidance to address the many issues that educators face. From that conversation a seed was sown. A review of the challenges made it evident that educators would benefit from coaching by qualified educators who had real-world experience addressing and resolving these issues. The idea blossomed from concept to implementation, and the PAGE Coaching initiative came to fruition. Harper, Cordy, and former PAGE President Amy Denty developed a prelim-
Coaching Request and Process Connecting with a PAGE coach is easy. • Submit a coaching request online by completing a simple form at https://bit.ly/PAGECoachingRequestForm. • Once the request has been reviewed, a coach with knowledge and experience who can best respond to your needs will be assigned. You will receive notification of the assignment along with some information about your PAGE coach, as well as instructions on how to setup the first coaching conversation. • You and your coach will work together at times convenient for you to meet virtually through video conference or by phone. The initial call establishes the essential details of the issue(s) to be addressed and goal for resolution. From that point, you and your PAGE coach will work together on steps to success. PAGE One-on-One Coaching is available to you for as long as you maintain your PAGE membership. Please reach out when you need us. 16 | PAGE One
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inary structure and design for the initiative. Director of Learning and Innovation David Reynolds created an online request form and coaching session portal. Then, the first cohort of 10 independent coaches was recruited. In fall 2022, the group met to design protocols for initial coaching interactions and review best coaching practices. During the pilot year, referrals were made by PAGE staff attorneys, as well as through self-referral following introduction of the initiative to PAGE members in several pilot regions throughout the state. Denty, who served as PAGE Coaching coordinator during the pilot, is a Georgia Teacher of the Year, a recipient of a Milken Teacher Award, and a National Board-certified teacher. She also served as chairperson of the board for the Georgia Professional Standards
Craig Harper PAGE Executive Director
Commission as an educator representative. Denty said of the PAGE Coaching program: “For my entire career in education, I have known that being a PAGE member is an added value to a great profession. I have had opportunities to engage in professional learning, establish a network of colleagues, and learn how to be a positive advocate for public education. Being part of the PAGE Coaching Pilot was a huge honor for me. Being an educator is hard, hard work, but also rewarding. I’m passionate about teacher support, especially at a time when teacher retention is such a vital need. Everyone needs a listening ear, a different perspective, and a bit of advice and coaching now and then. The PAGE Coaching initiative provides this to members in a very positive and confidential environment. It is also a fabulous opportunity for the coaches
Dr. Hayward Cordy Director of Strategic Partnerships; PAGE Foundation President
Geneva Braziel PAGE Coaching Coordinator
to give back to a profession they love. I’m so excited that the program is expanding. What an awesome benefit for PAGE members!” In May 2023, Denty was selected by State School Superintendent Richard Woods as the state Director of Literacy at the Georgia Department of Education and appointed to the Georgia Council on Literacy by Gov. Brian Kemp. Though instrumental in organizing the protocols and process for coaching support, Denty’s new state-level responsibilities necessitated a transition of PAGE Coaching leadership. Ready to benefit from PAGE Oneon-One Coaching? Get started today. The process is simple. The service is confidential. And, the benefit is available to you for as long as you maintain your PAGE membership. n
Amy Denty PAGE Coaching Coordinator during the program pilot
Lauren Atkinson PAGE Staff Attorney
Beyond Coaching In some cases, a situation may escalate beyond what coaching support can resolve. When legal resources are more appropriate, a PAGE attorney is always an additional option. And, if your situation is overwhelming and affecting mental well-being, confidential Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) are available through your school district or the State of Georgia: https://www.gadoe.org/External-Affairs-and-Policy/Educator-Support-Services/Pages/Employee-Assistance-Program. aspx
Fall 2023
Your Kepro EAP Toll Free: 866.279.5177 www.EAPHelplink.com Company Code: GaDOE
PAGE One | 17
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GRANTING OPPORTUNITY: PAGE Grants at Work in Georgia Classrooms By Scotty Brewington Georgia educators do amazing work – both inside and outside the classroom. When it comes to encouraging and inspiring students, great teachers possess extraordinary creativity and limitless vision. Accessing the funds and resources necessary to fulfill their vision, however, is sometimes a different story. PAGE awards $100,000 in grants each school year to members to help make their visions a reality. Throughout the state, recipients apply the funds in creative ways to provide students with opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. Last school year, PAGE Educator Grants provided more than 200 members with reimbursement grants of up to $500. These funds helped members purchase everything from ceramic glazes and music supplies to lab coats and hi-tech science equipment. Every dollar awarded enables teachers to enhance their curriculum and create meaningful memories for students.
• PAGE will award an additional $100,000 this school year. • Applications close Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023. • If you have an innovative idea that needs additional funding to make it a reality, we encourage you to apply. • Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/3PMFWBm. To date, PAGE has awarded more than $350,000 in grant funds to members. Individual grants of up to $500 each have assisted more than 800 recipients. PAGE One asked eight recent Educator Grant winners how they used the funds to better serve their students. This is what they said…
Fall 2023
PAGE One | 19
Dressing for Success in Carroll County
Cramer (left; second row from back) with her seventh grade science students in their grant-purchased lab coats.
L
auren Cramer, a seventh grade life sciences teacher at Bay Springs Middle School in Carroll County, knew just what her students needed to become more serious scientists in the classroom: lab coats.
that they might want to pursue careers in the scientific field one day,” said Cramer. “It helps give them the mindset that, ‘I could possibly be doing this in the future. Maybe I can even find a cure for cancer!’”
Cramer used her PAGE Educator Grant to purchase 30 white lab coats for her students to wear while performing a wide variety of labs and experiments in class. The coats arrived in April and her students began using them during the last two months of the 2022-23 school year. Instantly, they were a hit.
Cramer, who has been teaching at Bay Springs Middle School for five years, is also from Carroll County. A biology major at the University of West Georgia, Cramer went on to earn her master’s degree in biology from Georgia State University.
“Their faces lit up and some of the other teachers said that since we have had the lab coats, they have never seen students more excited to come to science class,” said Cramer. “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.” “I am very STEM-minded and I wanted my kids to envision themselves as scientists while wearing those lab coats so 20 | PAGE One
Cramer said she didn’t always know she wanted to be a teacher. Initially, she had planned to be a dentist. But while in graduate school, Cramer worked as a teaching assistant in the university’s lab and fell in love with both the lab and teaching in it. She knew then that teaching science was what she was called to do. “Obviously, I love science. I love the process of problem solving and I like to share the knowledge I have with my students so they will enjoy science like I do,” Cramer said. “Seeing Fall 2023
Left and bottom left: Student scientists at work. Bottom right: PAGE Membership Services Representative Bob Heaberlin visited Cramer at school to present the award.
“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.” my students want to learn more about science and understand how the world works around us is very rewarding.” Cramer teaches approximately 150 students across her six science classes. She keeps the new lab coats in designated storage containers and when a class needs to use them, students go through the containers to find their size. After class, she has them fold the coats before putting them away. Taking Fall 2023
pride in the care of the coats helps give students a sense of seriousness to the work they are doing in class, said Cramer. By wearing the lab coats, students look more like scientists. The intent is that they will also feel more like scientists and be inspired to take what they have learned with them beyond middle school. “In college, I wore a lab coat all the time. It was important for our safety procedures,” Cramer said. “I told my students – if you are ever working in a lab, you will be wearing this all the time, too.” Though this was Cramer’s first time applying for a PAGE Educator Grant, she is already planning to apply for another one in the future. As to how she would spend the next grant, Cramer said she’s not sure yet. “We’ll just have to see where the year takes me!” PAGE One | 21
A Superior Rating in Richmond County
With the help of supplies purchased by the PAGE Educator Grant, the Hephzibah High School band received a superior rating last school year.
A
t Hephzibah High School in Richmond County, band is a very popular student elective. But for many students, it can also be prohibitively expensive.
valve oil or reeds in Hephzibah. There is not a music store here. You would have to travel to Columbia County, and public transportation doesn’t come out to Hephzibah.”
While some students are able to purchase or rent their own instruments, many must use lower quality schoolowned instruments or even instruments from their band director’s personal collection. And having access to an instrument is just the beginning. Ongoing maintenance is required in order for instruments to perform at their optimum level.
Reeds don’t last too long, Andrews explained, and critical supplies like valve oil help instruments perform better and also help with ongoing maintenance. Though the school’s band department receives a set amount of money from the district to help offset costs each year, the finances supplied fall short of the need.
“We’re a Title 1 school and a lot of our kids cannot afford the basic essentials,” said Christopher Andrews, Hephzibah High School’s band director. “You can’t even buy things like
“Last year, we received $1,500 for the whole school year, which is just not enough for supplies to last us the entire year,” said Andrews.
“The kids were thankful for the grant. It allowed us to get better quality supplies for them, so they were very excited.”
Andrews used his PAGE Educator Grant to purchase supplies needed to improve the band’s overall performance. Those supplies included reeds, valve oil, drumsticks, and auxiliary percussion instruments such as triangles and tambourines that the school did not have. These added supplies contributed to the Hephzibah High School Band receiving a superior rating at the Georgia Music Education Association’s large group
22 | PAGE One
Fall 2023
“We were running very low on supplies,” said Andrews. Grant-funded supplies included reeds, valve oil, drumsticks, and auxiliary percussion instruments that the school did not have previously. “Our school had been participating in these evaluations for decades,” Andrews continued, “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.”
performance evaluation this year – the highest performance rating a band can receive at this state evaluation. “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. We were running very low on supplies,” said Andrews. “The kids were thankful for the grant. It allowed us to get better quality supplies for them, so they were very excited.” Andrews has been a band director for six years, three of which have been at Hephzibah. The high school has a marching band and concert band and plans to start a jazz band this school year. There are also various ensembles including a woodwind ensemble, brass quartet, and a choir at the school. As the popularity of the school’s music programs increases, so does the need for more instruments and supplies. “The band program is growing,” said Andrews. “When I first got here, we only had 18 kids and last year, we had 85. This year, we’re supposed to have 120 kids. We desperately need instruments.” Andrews, who plays trumpet and attended Tri-Cities High School in Fulton County, received the 2023 Richmond County School System’s Fine Arts Vision Award and was a quarterfinalist for the 2024 Music Educator Award, hosted Fall 2023
by the Recording Academy and GRAMMY Museum. The national award recognizes those who have made a significant contribution to the field of music. A graduate of South Carolina State University, Andrews has taken students to his alma mater to perform with the university’s marching band during halftime at a football game and alongside them in the stands. It is unique opportunities like these that make band such an important part of a student’s life, Andrews said. “Band gives students an outlet from all of the stresses they go through including peer pressure at school, the negative peer pressure around them in the community, and the basic pressures of just being kids,” Andrews said. “Band allows them to escape these pressures and just be themselves. They get to have different experiences and it shows them that the world is bigger than Augusta and Hephzibah. They are able to see what the world can offer and they can do that through music. It provides a creative and positive outlet for students.” PAGE One | 23
Reading and Riding in Fulton County
The peddlers – which cost around $40 each – arrived in March this past school year and are located throughout the school’s media center. They’re available for students to use during their group class time or while visiting the center individually. After checking out a book, students can select a peddler and start riding. The popular peddlers provide students with an opportunity to be active while reading, which also helps to increase their overall physical activity and decrease stress, Bisanti said. “I call it the Read & Ride,” said Bisanti. “A lot of kids need to be active during the school day and this allows 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!’” Bisanti flanked by two students reading and riding utilizing foot peddlers purchased with the PAGE Educator Grant.
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alena Bisanti, a media specialist at River Eves Elementary School in Fulton County, is always looking for new and creative ways to get students interested and excited about reading. Before applying for the PAGE Educator Grant, Bisanti did some research around how physical activity helps students academically. As a result, she decided to use her grant funds to purchase foot peddlers for the school’s media center. “I follow other media specialists on social media and had seen the larger stationary bikes in some of their libraries. I got the idea for smaller foot peddlers in the elementary school and was able to purchase nine of them,” said Bisanti. 24 | PAGE One
In just the first few months of using the peddlers, Bisanti said she has already seen how they help some students focus. “The kids really enjoy them. They like something to engage them while they are reading,” she said. “They like the physical activity part of it. For them, it’s just another fun activity.” The peddlers are flexible and lightweight and can be moved around the media center as needed. Bisanti said she is grateful for anything that encourages students to pick up a book and read. “Encouraging students to love reading is a great foundation for life!” “I call it the Read & Ride,” said Bisanti. “A lot of kids need to be active during the school day and this allows them to be active while still learning.”
Fall 2023
Dragons in Colquitt County
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hen Kimberly Yarbrough’s third, fourth, and fifth grade students were working on 2D dragon eyes as part of a unit on color, she had an idea of how to take their creativity to the next level. “As part of the project, each student was drawing a dragon eye using a certain color scheme,” said Yarbrough, who teaches art at GEAR (Gifted Education with Academic Rigor), the Colquitt County Students’ 3D dragon eye projects created using grant-funded supplies. Schools gifted program for grades three through five. “Then I thought, what if we could make a 3D dragon eye?” “I have a budget for my art class, but we had already orYarbrough started looking for unique ideas to bring her dered supplies for the school year. In order to get what we students’ dragon eyes to life in 3D. She used her PAGE Edu- needed for this project, I needed a grant,” she said. cator Grant to purchase Crayola Model Magic clay, stretched canvases, and glass “dragon eyes” for the project. Students Yarbrough, who has taught art for 15 years, finds inspiradesigned and built the dragon eyes tion in creating art in nature – somewith clay, painted them, and embedthing she wants her students to also ded a glass marble eye to give them experience. She plans to apply for an added dimension. another PAGE Educator Grant in the future to purchase materials like “They built them with the white legal size clipboards and tabletop clay and painted them with watereasels that students can use to draw color,” said Yarbrough. “They loved and paint outside to take their creit – it was their favorite project of the ativity to the next level. year!” “I would love some additionYarbrough said that because the al supplies so that we can take the school does not have a kiln, projects classroom outdoors!” can’t be constructed with regular clay Yarbrough flanked by PAGE and then fired. Instead, they have to Membership Services Representative use the special Crayola clay, which is Michele Dechman (left) and GEAR site expensive. director Kristyn Nelms (right)
Fall 2023
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Wild & Wonderful in Jasper County
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Students John Williams and Rep Morton identify points on a deer mount following a study session with flashcards purchased by the PAGE Educator Grant.
n Jasper County, wildlife is serious business.
Casey Elias, an agricultural education teacher and Future Farmers of America (FFA) advisor at Jasper County High School, teaches everything from agricultural animal production and management to plant science and biotechnology. As part of the popular FFA program at her school, Elias’ students compete in different contests throughout the year to test their knowledge.
said Elias. “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.” Elias was able to purchase sets of study materials for four different contest categories including wildlife management, agricultural technology and mechanics, floral design, and more.
She used her PAGE Educator Grant to purchase study materials to help her students study for contests and career development events organized by the U.S. National FFA Organization. “In the wildlife contest, for example, students have to be able to identify skulls and pelts from different animals. There’s a company that makes study materials that align with the contest, so we were able to buy some wildlife identification flash cards,” said Elias.
Elias with students Maegan Stanley (left) and Farrah Owensby (right) who, with the aid of grant-funded study supplies, garnered awards in equine science.
Having professional study aids was revolutionary for students’ competition preparation, Elias said. Prior to purchasing the new study materials, students would spend hours making their own. “Having it all packaged together saves us a lot of time,” 26 | PAGE One
In the wildlife contest that her students competed in during the 2022-23 school year, each team member is assigned a different specialization which could be anything from deer management to birds or aquatics. Students are then asked to identify different species in their category or even certain bird calls, skulls, or pelts.
“We had a four-person team competing this year and they placed sixth, which was better than last year,” said Elias. “I would definitely apply for another grant to buy more study materials for more contests. They’re great and we can use them in class as well – not just for competitions.” Fall 2023
Exploring Microorganisms in Ware County
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f there is one thing Ashley Wicker knows about elementary school science students, it’s that they need to see what they’re learning about up-close in order for it to make sense. When her students at Memorial Drive Elementary School couldn’t see the microorganisms being studied in class under a regular microscope, Wicker started looking for a solution. “We needed something easier to use,” said Wicker. “I even considered taking photos of the microorganisms and then looking at them up on the board, but then I found a digital microscope online.” Wicker knew it would help students tremendously and the PAGE Educator Grant made this goal a reality. Wicker used the funds to purchase a Tomlov DM402 digital microscope with 1200x zoom. Wicker uses the grant-funded digital microscope to show a student the difference
“In order to know what they’re between plant and animal cells. looking at, students need to be able to see the microorganisms and that’s hard with a traditional microscope,” Wicker said. “With this one, they can use it inThey even “swabbed” different surfaces in their school dividually or they can hook up to the board so that everyone building for samples to view under the microscope so they can see.” could see what kinds of microorganisms were living there. The microscope arrived in April of last school year, so Wicker’s students were able to use it for the final two months of school. In class, students used the new tool to observe the make-up of an onion slice, to see a cell wall and nucleus on a slide, and to identify differences between plant and animal cells. Fall 2023
“It really helped students to be able to see everything,” said Wicker. “Not just read about it but see it for themselves. Especially the plant and animal cells. We had looked at it in a drawing, but now they can zoom in to see the parts they have been studying. It makes science real for them.” PAGE One | 27
Big Reactions in Stephens County
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n Chad Sorrells’ eighth grade science class at Stephens County Middle School, lab days are the best days. “Seeing chemical and physical changes helps students realize what is going on and the chemical reactions that are taking place. It’s a visual aid,” said Sorrells. “It’s their favorite part. They love doing labs.” Sorrells, who is in his ninth year teaching science in Stephens County, teaches around 80 kids over four classes each day. With his PAGE Educator Grant, he was able to purchase chemicals including laboratory grade potassium iodide and hydrogen peroxide, as well various pieces of equipment needed for hands-on experiments in his unit on physical and chemical change like flame tests, equilateral prism sets and two Newtonian Demonstrators. “Chemicals are expensive these days,” said Sorrells. “The grant allowed us to do more of these types of experiments.”
Students in Sorrells’ science class conduct an experiment utilizing supplies purchased by the PAGE Educator Grant.
Other popular experiments include mixing vinegar and baking soda to see the reaction and “flame tests” to see the different reactions when potassium salt and calcium salt are burned. Students also conduct experiments with a Van de Graff generator to demonstrate electrostatic charges. Sorrells said he plans to apply for another PAGE grant someday to purchase another Van de Graaff machine or even a vacuum VEIL.
Sorrells said the ability for students to do hands-on experiments and see chemical reactions happening right in front “That would allow us to creof them is a great learning tool. It’s a hair-raising experience when one of Sorrells’ ate a vacuum in class,” said SorOne favorite is “elephant tooth- students connects with a grant-funded Van de Graaff rells. “It pulls all of the oxygen generator to demonstrate the transfer of electrons. paste,” made by mixing hydroout so there is no oxygen in the gen peroxide, potassium iodine, and dish detergent. The container at all. That allows you to show students that sound resulting chemical reaction creates a huge pile of steaming cannot travel in a vacuum. When you pull all of the oxygen foam. out, you couldn’t hear a phone ring, for example.” 28 | PAGE One
Fall 2023
Mixing Art and Chemistry in Henry County
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lazing high school student’s ceramics projects can be an expensive endeavor. “People don’t realize how expensive glazes are,” said Melissa Wood, a ceramics and sculpture teacher at the Academy for Advanced Studies in McDonough. “For us to just get a pint of a specific glaze color can be as much as $22.” Wood used her PAGE Edu- Advanced Ceramics and AP Chemistry students working together to create a broad range cator Grant to get creative. She of colored glazes using stains and glazes purchased with the PAGE Educator Grant. teamed-up with the school’s AP chemistry teacher for a paired unit Rather than having to buy a pint of a on glaze chemistry. Chemistry stunew color, they can just make whatdents worked with their teacher to ever color they want.” create the glaze calculations and then Wood’s art students mixed the mateThe colors created during the first rials. glaze chemistry unit are available to students this school year as well. “We were able to make a variety of When those new colors run out, stuglaze colors. It was cheaper and it also dents already have the recipes they’ll showed the kids how to create multineed to mix another batch. The unit ple colors of glaze,” said Wood. was so successful that Wood will continue it this year to create even more Wood purchased eight ounces of glaze colors. She said she would like 12 different stains as well as a galto apply for another grant so that she lon each of white and clear glaze. can help students experiment with Throughout the process, students not just glaze colors, but different were able to create as many as 10 diftechniques and textural glazes as well. ferent colors and shades from each of the 12 original colors. “It has made the kids more creative. They don’t feel limited anymore. Wood with her students’ sample test glazes “We went from having 12 colors to prepared with supplies purchased by the They like mixing it more than using having 120 – a broad range of glazes PAGE Educator Grant. the store bought stuff,” said Wood. and colors we can use – for very lit“Now, they are actually painting with tle money,” said Wood. “Students learned that mixing just a their glazes rather than just using one solid color. Being able little bit of clear or white would get them what they wanted. to blend the colors is a whole new category of creativity.” n
Fall 2023
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PAGE MSRs and CSRs: Who Are They and How Can They Help? • Wondering who to reach out to when you have questions about your PAGE membership? • Have an issue or concern that you need to bring to PAGE’s attention — but aren’t sure what department or staff member to contact? • Interested in scheduling a Code of Ethics presentation at your school or district office? • Looking for information about a Future Georgia Educators (FGE) program or event? • Need to know the name of your PAGE building contact or how to subscribe to PAGE Capitol Reports? For answers to these questions and more, call or email your PAGE Membership Services Representative (MSR) or College Services Representative (CSR). You’ll find MSR contact information on the map to your right and CSR contact information below. If preferred, send an email to membership@pageinc.org.
College Services Representatives Kimberly Foster kfoster@pageinc.org
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Mary Ruth Ray maryruth@pageinc.org
JOIN PAGE! Scan the QR code above or visit https://members.pageinc.org Fall 2023
Membership Services Representatives Jo Breedlove-Johnson District 3A jbreedlove@pageinc.org Hayley Gilreath District 7 hgilreath@pageinc.org
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Visit https://www.pageinc.org/membership to access additional details about PAGE membership — including this MSR / CSR map. Fall 2023
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PAGE Foundation Awards 2023 Scholarships In advance of the 2023-2024 academic year, the PAGE Foundation announced eighteen educators and college students as scholarship winners. These scholarships will help fund the academic pursuits of PAGE members from first-year college students through doctoral candidates. The PAGE Foundation is proud to have provided more than $600,000 in scholarship funds over the life of the program to assist students and educators in expanding their knowledge and opening doors for them to enhance their skills both inside and outside the classroom. PAGE congratulates this year’s winners and wishes each of them the best in all their future endeavors serving Georgia’s students and families!
Lydia Atubeh
PAGE DeKalb Scholarship Visual Arts Teacher, DeKalb Early College Academy, DeKalb County School District; Scholarship Applied at Indiana University – Bloomington “Obtaining the Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction (Art Education) from Indiana University – Bloomington smoothly aligns with my career goals. The PAGE Foundation scholarship is helping those goals become a reality. I am dedicated to adding value through my research in the program to the curriculum of Visual Arts education within my school district, state, and national levels of education. The doctoral program and scholarship support are equipping me with the knowledge and skills necessary to continue working towards those goals.”
Molly R. Bowden
PAGE Professional Scholarship Digital Learning Coach, Newton County School System; Scholarship Applied at Kennesaw State University “As a lifelong learner and educator, I believe I can stand as an example to teachers both veteran and just getting started. I am in my 28th year teaching and am looking forward to starting a brand-new position as a digital learning coach, fully utilizing all that my degree offers now, having completed many instructional technology classes, and in the future once my dissertation is finished. The PAGE Foundation scholarship allows me to finish strong, with a remarkable group of educators supporting me across the finish line!”
Skylar Bridges
PAGE S. Marvin Griffin Scholarship Scholarship Applied at University of North Georgia “PAGE has allowed me as a first-generation college student to attend school another year. With a single mom and no money for college, PAGE has now given me the opportunity to become closer to my dream of teaching elementary school. I feel supported and grateful for PAGE and its scholarship committee and donors.”
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Fall 2023
Danielle Cox
PAGE Support Personnel Scholarship Special Education Paraprofessional, Mulberry Elementary School, Gwinnett County Public Schools; Scholarship Applied at Georgia State University “Receiving this PAGE scholarship is important to me because graduating with minimal debt is ideal for me as a single mom to four children. This scholarship will contribute to my education as I finish my degree in May 2024. My professional goal is to get a special education teaching job in 2024. I have been a paraprofessional for 12 school years, and I am looking forward to year 13 to be my last year as a paraprofessional. I am ready to have my own classroom.”
Alison Dunaway
PAGE Professional Scholarship Sixth-grade ELA Teacher, Franklin County Middle School, Franklin County School System; Scholarship Applied at Brenau University “Receiving a PAGE Foundation scholarship is important as it will help me continue to grow as an educator for both my students and myself. Thank you for this opportunity to help further my education!”
Jennifer Foil
PAGE Professional Scholarship Seventh-grade Social Studies Teacher, Webb Bridge Middle School, Fulton County School System; Scholarship Applied at Georgia College “I am so grateful to receive scholarship money from PAGE to help pay some of my tuition for a specialist degree in Teacher Leadership. This degree is teaching me the skills I need to lead my school community in growing our service-learning and establishing a culture committed to creating responsible citizens.
Tamera Johnson
PAGE Undergraduate Scholarship Scholarship Applied at Kennesaw State University “This PAGE Foundation scholarship is important to me because it has given me the financial comfortability that I need. Because of this scholarship, I have less of a financial worry about my living situation and school expenses that will come within the semester. I believe it will contribute to my professional goals by allowing me to focus more on my academics. I’m so ecstatic to be receiving this award. Being a first-generation college student can be challenging, but hitting milestones like this make it all worthwhile.”
Joely Elizabeth Lord
PAGE S. Marvin Griffin Scholarship Scholarship Applied at University of Georgia “Receiving this scholarship is such a blessing! It allows me to further pursue my dream of becoming an educator! I have been blessed to attend the University of Georgia, and this scholarship will be a great help in pursuing my bachelor’s, master’s, and specialist degrees in education. I am forever grateful for the work PAGE does for all its educators and for the potential they have seen in me as a future educator!” Fall 2023
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Matthew Meeks
PAGE Betty J. Phillips Scholarship Scholarship Applied at Middle Georgia State University “This scholarship not only offers me financial support for my professional growth but also reaffirms that teaching is my calling. This scholarship also shows how the PAGE Foundation supports Georgia’s next generation of educators.”
Kelly Monroe
PAGE Professional Scholarship Reading Teacher, River Trail Middle School, Fulton County School System; Scholarship Applied at Brenau University “As a member of PAGE since I was a student at the University of North Georgia, I understand and appreciate the critical role PAGE has in supporting Georgia’s teachers. The scholarships PAGE offers are yet another value available to Georgia’s educators. This scholarship will be of great assistance to me as I am paying for the entirety of my doctorate out of pocket. As a recipient of the Professional Scholarship, I am even more committed to the good work PAGE delivers in support of our educators.”
Addison Orr
PAGE Dr. Alton Crews Future Georgia Educators Scholarship Scholarship Applied at Berry College “Receiving the Future Georgia Educators Scholarship has been such a blessing that will allow me to attend Berry College to become an elementary school teacher. This scholarship will help me gain classroom and professional experience that I will take with me in my future classroom.”
Kathleen Sneed Petka
PAGE Professional Scholarship Art Teacher, Walton High School, Cobb County School District; Scholarship Applied at Kennesaw State University “Being a recipient of this wonderful scholarship is beyond important to me as I have trusted PAGE with my needs for over 20 years. I am fortunate to have a supportive organization that appreciates lifelong learners and values education so highly. I am thrilled that I was selected and am extremely thankful for this opportunity.”
Armoray La’Shay Roberts
PAGE Dr. Allene Magill Support Personnel Scholarship Special Needs Paraprofessional, Seminole County Elementary School, Seminole County School District; Scholarship Applied at Thomas University “I really believe that teaching is the path that God has called me into at this time of my life. There is such a great need for teachers everywhere. I plan on teaching at the school in the community where I have taught as a special needs paraprofessional for eight years. I am so grateful to be a scholarship recipient because it will contribute to the completion of my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at Thomas University. Thanks so much to the PAGE Foundation!”
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Fall 2023
Cameron Smith
PAGE John Robert & Barbara Moore Lindsey Scholarship Scholarship Applied at Georgia Southern University “Receiving this scholarship greatly relieves some of the stress on my senior year. My HOPE money will run out in the fall, so this is such a blessing for my last semester, Spring 2024! I am truly honored.”
LaQuisha Mishae Smith
PAGE Charles “Coach” Cooper Scholarship Honors Biology Teacher, Elite Scholars Academy, Clayton County Schools; Scholarship Applied at University of West Georgia “This scholarship will help me further my education by assisting with college fees. I will use this degree to expand my teaching practices and better serve my students. Thank you again for this awesome award. I am appreciative!”
Anne Vickery Stocks
PAGE Professional Scholarship Teacher, State Bridge Crossing Elementary School, Fulton County School System; Scholarship Applied at University of West Georgia “The PAGE Scholarship greatly contributes to my goal of becoming a school library media specialist. This financial investment will allow me to become a positive influence on the education community. I enjoy sharing my knowledge with students, teachers, and other stakeholders.”
Ashley P. Watkins
PAGE Jack Christmas Scholarship Kindergarten Teacher, Double Churches Elementary School, Muscogee County Schools; Scholarship Applied at Valdosta State University “I am honored to be selected as a PAGE Foundation scholarship recipient. This takes away some of the financial burden that pursuing an advanced degree incurs. The scholarship will help me afford additional certificate endorsements.”
Michael Yeager
PAGE Professional Scholarship Teacher, East Forsyth High School, Forsyth County Schools; Scholarship Applied at University of West Georgia “I am proud to receive the PAGE Foundation Scholarship as it represents that my passion and energy for teaching are strong, and to continue to grow in my leadership to support other teachers and to adapt to current effective practices in the classroom to serve every student. As I always tell my students, it’s not what I teach, it’s what you carry forward that matters.”
Fall 2023
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Protection AdvocAcy Growth economy
We’ve Got You Covered.
PROTECTION
• $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
ADVOCACY
• 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. 36 | PAGE One
Fall 2023
GROWTH
• 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
ECONOMY • 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.
PAGE is the nation’s largest independent educator association — with members serving in every Georgia school district — 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. Learn more at www.pageinc.org. Fall 2023
Professional Association of Georgia Educators PAGE One | 37
From Imagination to Building a Recording Label – and Beyond A Conversation with Georgia’s 2024 Teacher of the Year: PAGE Member Christy Todd
“I build connections so my students can build their futures (and) I have built connections with colleagues across my career to grow as a better teacher. We must find ways to partner with the community to use our resources to support public school education.” – Christy Todd 38 | PAGE One
Fall 2023
“We are building a support system for students who want to create and share original products and ideas.”
PAGE member Christy Todd, a music technology teacher at Rising Starr Middle School in Fayette County and 2024 Georgia Teacher of the Year, never thought she would one day be running a recording label. Todd, a previous middle and high school chorus director and honor choir clinician, worked in the nonprofit consulting and business development industry before becoming a teacher 15 years ago in Fayette County. The county is home to a booming film and creative industry including Trilith Studios, one of the main studios that produces Marvel movies. Six years ago, Todd founded the Fayette County Public Schools Community for Creativity (CFC) initiative to give students a chance to connect with creative industries. Students learn to create songs, videos, podcasts, and audiobooks that they then release through the school’s recording label, Hall Pass Entertainment, which Todd also runs. The pilot program at Rising Starr was the first of three pilot programs currently running in public schools across the county. “We build opportunities for kids to create original products across different classes, clubs, and capstone projects. Some are writing and releasing original films and short songs while others are working in virtual reality,” said Todd. “We are building a support system for students who want to create and share original products and ideas.” In addition to spearheading the CFC initiative, Todd, who earned her Bachelor of Music Education degree from Shorter College and a Master of Music Education from Florida State University, also teaches music technology, working with students on how to use a digital audio workstation (DAW) to learn the basics of melody, harmony, and rhythm to create music electronically. “I help our middle school students produce content for our entertainment label, with the support of Career and Technical Education high school Work Based Learning students,” said Todd. “We have a weekly podcast and annual music albums that we release on Spotify. We also have a YouTube channel where we release content. We have students Fall 2023
now interested in becoming audio engineers and students writing, recording, and releasing their own music. It’s so much fun.” Todd, who took a music technology course in college, said she learned most of what she knows by partnering with industry experts in the area. She originally started using technology as a choral director in her inclusive choral ensembles. “I wanted to be able to teach all students,” Todd said. “I had students with special needs mainstreamed in our chorus, so we started using technology so that they could participate in the choir. Where it might be difficult for them to sing a particular note, they could play it on the iPad.” Todd is also a founding member of the Story Arts Collective, a group of education and industry leaders committed to growing Georgia’s creative workforce. “We were already doing the CFC initiative and had developed relationships with Trilith Studios and other creative partners in the area. We pulled together with other public, private, and charter schools to scale a program to make Georgia the place for artists and creators,” said Todd. “We created the Story Arts Collective to build opportunities for students to learn about creative industry careers.” One of the most impressive elements of the program is its master class series, which is free for all Georgia teachers to access. Students watch video lessons featuring a creative industry professional in Georgia who then challenges them to create a project of their own. Once the project has been completed, students can meet virtually with the professional for feedback.
“We pulled together with other public, private, and charter schools to scale a program to make Georgia the place for artists and creators.” PAGE One | 39
“When I started teaching, I immediately joined PAGE. I remembered how supportive they were to me in high school and knew they would continue supporting me as a teacher.” Christy Todd takes a moment to speak with her colleague, Bob Didier, who is the technology teacher at Rising Starr.
Classes can range from learning how to write song lyrics from a member of the Zac Brown Band to creating a short film with the CEO of Trilith Studios. Georgia Teachers can access the resources for free through http://storyarts.co or through the Georgia Department of Education’s Georgia Connects platform. “Students think it’s very cool to hear directly from creative industry professionals in Georgia. It is very inspiring,” said Todd. “Industry professionals are also excited to give back. A lot of people want to give back to education but don’t know how. This is one of the ways they can.” Todd says she always knew she loved teaching. She remembers growing up on a farm and converting a chicken coop into a school with her best friend, where they would pretend to teach their brothers. By the time she reached high
school, she knew she wanted to be a music teacher and chorus director. “I learned so much from my high school chorus director, Janice Folsom. I was always taking notes on what she was doing and then I would go home and practice conducting like I had watched her do,” said Todd. In addition to being a longtime proud PAGE member, Todd is also a former recipient of a PAGE Professional Scholarship, which she used to help pay for graduate school. “My relationship with PAGE started when I was in high school. I was a member of the PAGE Future Georgia Educators club and through that chapter, I was able to talk to people about education and learn about the career,” said Todd. “When I started teaching, I immediately joined PAGE. I remembered how supportive they were to me in high school and knew they would continue supporting me as a teacher.” In her role as Georgia Teacher of the Year, Todd hopes to serve as an advocate for public education and all the amazing work that is happening in classrooms throughout the state. “When I think back over my life and all of the people who have invested in me – this is my chance to give back to my colleagues,” said Todd. “It truly is an honor of a lifetime.”
Todd poses next to a Hall Pass Entertainment album release poster outside her school’s radio station.
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“I want to use the Georgia Teacher of the Year platform to advocate for the scaling and expansion of teacher leadership initiatives that retain teachers, like increased flexibility or compensation.” Fall 2023
for teachers to grow professionally and build connections to
“Connecting with FGE and other help solve issues they may be facing in the classroom. programs supporting high school “I want to use the Georgia Teacher of the Year platform to advocate for the scaling and expansion of teacher leaderand college students interested in ship initiatives that retain teachers, like increased flexibility or compensation,” said Todd. “I have built connections with this field is vital.” colleagues across my career to grow as a better teacher. We must find ways to partner with the community to use our resources to support public school education.”
Todd says she plans to continue partnering with the Georgia Department of Education and its work to help teachers who are experiencing burnout. She hopes to use her platform as Teacher of the Year to increase opportunities
The PAGE Future Georgia Educators (FGE) teacher-pipeline-focused program for high school and college students was a focus of 2023 Teacher of the Year, PAGE member Michael Kobito. Todd plans to continue this work, encouraging and preparing the next generation of Georgia teachers. “I am really excited about the program – it’s one of the things I am looking forward to most this year,” said Todd. “Connecting with FGE and other programs supporting high school and college students interested in this field is vital. As teachers, we are passionate about our work because at some point, someone invested in us, too. I am excited about investing in the future by supporting these programs.” Todd says she is thankful for the opportunity to serve her state this year and encourages her colleagues to reach out to her with their ideas and concerns.
Todd with PAGE Director of Membership BJ Jenkins (left) and PAGE Membership Services Representative Laura Clements (right) at the Georgia Teacher of the Year Program Banquet
Todd with 2023 Georgia Teacher of the Year, PAGE member Michael Kobito
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“I really want to be a voice for teachers. I wish everyone could see what I am getting to see – the sheer magnitude of people ready and willing to support our teachers in the classroom,” said Todd. “My dad actually builds schools for Fayette County. He built the school I worked in for 15 years. Just like my dad, I am a builder. I build connections so my students can build their futures.” n
Jeffrey Webb, a member of the facilities team at Rising Starr, shares a special moment with Todd that includes a selfie.
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POST-PANDEMIC REALITIES
Educators share innovative tools and practices adopted during the pandemic that they continue to use today, as well as lingering concerns for the future of teaching and learning. By Scotty Brewington As last school year drew to a close, scientists and politicians declared the COVID-19 pandemic officially over. The public health emergency, set in place three years prior, was lifted May 11, 2023. Yet, the staggering impact remains – for all of us. Many aspects of life have not returned to pre-pandemic realities. Schools and classrooms throughout the nation are no exception.
As we enter the first few months of the 2023-2024 school year, concerns linger. Many educators cite continued negative effects including student behavioral issues, heightened stress and anxiety, a decline in student literacy and other skills, and lasting teacher burnout. Despite a multitude of negatives, there have also been some positive outcomes. Determined to identify new and innovative ways to help students learn and thrive, many Georgia teachers found and adopted new tools and practices which rendered such excellent results that they decided to continue using them this school year and beyond. Some embraced new technologies that allowed them to better explain complex concepts. Others utilized apps to create interactive videos to keep students engaged both inside and outside the classroom. Still others returned to the basics, finding that the simple act of checking-in with coworkers on a regular basis proved to be an invaluable team-building tool. With the first official post-pandemic school year now underway, PAGE One sat down with members in districts large and small, urban and rural, to hear what they have to say about the positive outcomes and lingering concerns that remain…
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Fall 2023
PRODUCTIVITY & BURNOUT A
s the instructional technology director for Social Circle’s primary, elementary, middle, and high schools, Sallie Robinson saw firsthand how technology helped educators get through the pandemic. “During COVID, when everything shifted to virtual, we had lots of incoming information,” said Robinson. “Everyone had to get more organized. We had to be able to identify our top priority needs and manage multiple things at once. Teachers and administrators have always had to do that, but the added mental burden that COVID brought made it harder to manage.” Robinson worked with staff Robinson leads training for staff in Social Circle. to help them find ways to prioritize email inboxes and automate work- Classroom. A lot of people were alflows so that tasks could be streamlined. ready using it, but everyone had to get The first step was getting everyone on on board,” said Robinson. the same learning platform. Social Circle was already a Google “We held training sessions during district, but the pandemic forced them COVID and everyone in grades three to use the platform more efficiently and and up was required to use Google effectively, Robinson said. That’s a trend
that has continued post-pandemic and training is offered to teachers throughout the year. “We try to use anything we can that is Google-based. There are tools in Gmail that allow you to prioritize and schedule things and then it swings back with reminders. There’s also a major shift to start putting as many things as possible on Google Calendar so they are not lost in email,” Robinson said. “When we couldn’t meet face to face, we had to learn new ways to present and share information. We still use virtual meetings for some things today.” A major post-pandemic concern for Robison is teacher burnout.
Educators in Social Circle learn how to use AR/VR devices (zSpace) with students in the classroom.
Fall 2023
“The aftermath of the learning loss has just added to teachers’ plates,” Robinson said. “I worry that the burnout teachers felt as a result of the COVID stress and then the piling on of expectations of teachers will cause us to lose some quality people that we need. I don’t know if there will ever be a time when we take things away from teachers’ plates.” PAGE One | 43
MUCH-NEEDED WELLNESS SUPPORT Educators meet for a “Making Matters Matter MindSet” training session. Pictured: (Back Row) Rashad Fair, LaKeynna Barnett, Carlton Simmons, Alvin Williams, Dermaris Keeyon Battle, Kimbrell Pinkins, Dr. Tosha A. Middlebrooks, and Carey Molden. (Front Row) Vivian Sealy, Darlene Rucker, MindSet instructor Mrs. Jackie Holland, Theresa Rivers, Shebbie Williams, and Talae McCray.
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s director of special education in Randolph County, Dr. Tosha Middlebrooks works closely with teachers in her district. During the pandemic, her staff held Wellness Wednesdays as a way for teachers to check-in with students and parents each week – socially, emotionally, and academically. The practice was so effective that it was extended to also check-in with staff. Each staff member in the department had another staff member who served as their “partner” for the year.
cided to implement those practices on an ongoing basis.” Cultivating relationships in Randolph County was especially critical during the pandemic, as many students and staff lost loved ones. The weekly check-ins allowed staff members to support each other.
“If you were my partner, I would check-in with you on Wednesdays to see how you were doing,” said Middlebrooks. “We would also have faculty meetings and check-in there as well to discuss student disciplinary issues or share a positive motivational message.”
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In addition to emotional trauma, the pandemic also caused financial hardships. In an effort to help parents, the district has distributed free school supplies to all K-12 students at the beginning of the past two school years and plans to continue. “Our superintendent made sure our students had what they needed to be successful in school,” said Middlebrooks. “We wanted to give back to the children in our community so parents would be open and willing to bring their kids back to school.” Ultimately, the stresses of the pandemic strengthened the staff ’s ability to work as a team – a positive they continue to cultivate.
The practice has continued post-pandemic, but it is now embedded in the Wednesday faculty meeting. Weekly check-ins with parents have also continued. “In a small district like ours, relationships are important,” said Middlebrooks. “During COVID, we built a lot of strong relationships and de-
“If a staff member got COVID, for example, we couldn’t share that with the rest of the staff because of confidentiality,” Middlebrooks said. “This practice gave staff an opportunity to work together and cope with stress together.”
Randolph-Clay Middle School Principal Elizabeth Knighton and middle school student Allysia Coleman with a backpack of school supplies provided by the county.
“We stepped up as a team and made it work. It wasn’t comfortable, but we were able to handle the hits because everyone was on board,” said Middlebrooks. “It gave us hope in something that seemed hopeless.” Fall 2023
DIGITAL ADVANCES; PREPAREDNESS LAPSE
Somers’ videos aid her “YouTube generation” students.
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hough Cherokee County returned to in-person learning in August 2020, some students remained virtual by choice and others periodically missed school due to exposure and illness.
students. Now, post-pandemic, she regularly makes informal videos to supplement what is covered in class for all students to access online whether they have missed class due to illness or just need a little extra clarification or help.
Ann-Margaret Somers, an eighth grade science teacher at Mill Creek Middle School, took that opportunity to create a library of videos to help students with material being taught in class.
The videos are posted on Canvas, the school’s learning management platform.
“I wanted to make sure kids would know what was going on in class in case they had to miss,” said Somers, who was named 2022 Teacher of the Year for Middle Schools and a Georgia STEM Scholar. Somers, who is also the school’s science department chair, began making the videos as a tool for her virtual students during COVID, but quickly realized they also benefitted her face-to-face Fall 2023
“They see my goofy face explaining it and it makes it more personal. I’m sure I could find a video online of someone balancing chemical equations, but I am their teacher. I feel like they need their teacher to explain it,” said Somers. “This is the YouTube generation. You have to meet them technology-wise where they are.” Somers said she creates videos depending on the needs of each class. Sometimes, she’ll cover something they didn’t have time to discuss as a group.
Other times, if there is a concept that proves challenging, she’ll make a quick video that offers help with assigned homework. Since COVID, Somers said she has seen changes in students behaviorally with more acting out in class. Also, because students didn’t take standardized tests during the pandemic, they are less prepared – and less concerned – with their performance on those tests. The videos serve as another tool to help students keep up with the material. Somers, who creates the videos at night and on weekends, uses her kitchen table as her studio. She classifies her work as “low tech.” The important part, she said, is that the videos are current. “I make them fresh because a deficit I see in kids this year may be different than what I saw in kids last year,” said Somers. “Every group of kids is different.” PAGE One | 45
APPS & APATHY
Peace works with students in the science lab.
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hen Early County moved to virtual learning during the pandemic, the school system encouraged everyone to move to Google Classroom and supplied several apps – and training – to help teachers with digital learning. “It wasn’t hard for me. I already used Google Classroom pretty regularly, but some teachers didn’t, so it was a learning curve for them,” said Chris Peace, a science teacher and eSports coach at Early County High School. “But I did pick some things up. Our school system acquired the rights to some apps that I used then and am still using.”
thing that is public domain and put it in there, so I can use mine or videos that others have created.” Peace posts the lessons and videos in Google Classroom to supplement in-person instruction. Everything is
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“Some days, I assign the video and then go over the lesson in person. Other days, I might teach the lesson and then provide the video for students to look back on if they don’t understand,” Peace said. “The lessons are also available to them in case they miss class for some reason.” Peace said he has noticed a significant increase in apathy among students post-pandemic. Specifically, it has been hard to impress upon them the importance of meeting deadlines and turning in work on time, he said.
Two of Peace’s favorite apps that he still uses in his classroom are Screencastify – a screen recording app that allows him to record his voice and what is on his screen so that lessons can be posted online – and Edpuzzle, which allows him to upload a recording or video and embed questions for students to answer. “The video will play and then it stops and asks a question,” said Peace. “It helps to make sure students are paying attention. Also, you can grab any-
available online and can be accessed by students anytime.
Peace uses various apps to record and post lessons online for students to reference.
“During the pandemic, students were given a ‘bye’ on deadlines. Then, when we came back in 2021, we still had some students in-person and some virtual, so deadlines were hard to nail down,” said Peace. “Students across the board are still struggling with deadlines. We do projects in class and if we are waiting on one person or one group to turn their stuff in, it stalls everything. I’m trying to impress upon them that there are deadlines in real life.” Fall 2023
DIGITAL ENHANCEMENTS; ATTENDANCE CONCERNS D
uring the pandemic, Crista Rosser, the eighth grade science and Georgia Studies teacher at Echols County Elementary and Middle School, implemented several tools to help virtual students participate in class. Students joined her class through Google Teams and materials were posted online to be accessed by both students and parents as needed. Now that students are back in-person, she continues to maintain a strong online presence on her school’s teacher page. “I have all of our resources available online so students and parents have everything they need from me,” said Rosser. “I go over it in class and show it to them so they know it’s there and a resource they can use.”
Students in Rosser’s eighth grade science class test their catapults with two different masses as part of a STEM challenge.
As part of her online library, Rosser posts all PowerPoints and documents used in class, as well as homework assignments. A digital textbook is also available along with videos and games that accompany units. Students can access materials when they have missed class or if they just need extra practice. “One of the things we’ve had a hard time with in our county is that a lot of students don’t have internet at home. During COVID, that was a real problem, but now, a lot of them have phones so they can at least look at the material online,” Rosser said. One concern Rosser has about post-pandemic education in her community is an ongoing struggle with attendance. Fall 2023
“When we were out of school for a certain amount of time and kids were out all over the country, I think it sent a message almost subconsciously to some that they didn’t have to be there,” said Rosser. “Being out has become a habit for some students and parents – even those with the best intentions.” Rosser said she even heard students question why they needed to come to school when they could look up anything on Google. “I explained to them that school is not just about learning – it’s about becoming a productive citizen and contributing,” said Rosser. “That piece is just missing when they stay at home. We are seeing behavior issues and learning gaps, but the apathy is something I hear teachers talking about a lot.”
Rosser’s students have access to schoolwide applications like Microsoft Teams, class PowerPoints, and other study materials.
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PAPERLESS POSITIVES; SOCIAL CHALLENGES
Gordy with student Lukah Smith and his HART (Honorable Accountable Respectful Teachable) Way award which recognizes students who exemplify the HART standard.
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ortunately, most teachers at Hart County High School were already using Google Classroom when the pandemic closed the school in the spring of 2020. When they reopened in the fall of that year, some students chose to remain virtual, so teachers used Google Meets to reach their remote students. “It was very effective because students felt like they got one-on-one instruction,” said Ana Gordy, a Spanish teacher at Hart County High School. “I used Google Slides to post all of my instruction and links, and students at home could use them to follow along. If students needed extra instruction, they also had online access to my slideshow.” Gordy said she still posts her slideshows online in her Google Classroom for students to access if they are absent or need extra help. If students are home sick, they can also use Google Meets to join her class virtually and catch up on instruction. Gordy also uses some of the library of extra materials she created during the pandemic in her classroom today. 48 | PAGE One
“I’m not completely paperless, but when COVID hit, we kind of had to go paperless. Now, when students are home, everything is digital in Google Forms so they can still do their work,” Gordy said. “I still have all of those assignments from when we were remote, and I still share them with students sometimes as extra work or practice.” During the pandemic, it was especially difficult to teach a foreign language because students need to be able to see their teacher’s face, Gordy said. She wore a plastic shield instead of a mask so students could better understand her, but it was difficult for those students at home. Gordy said she is still concerned about students who chose to stay virtual during the 2020-21 school year. “When they did come back, I felt that they were less social,” she said. “They suffered socially and to this day, I still have some students wearing masks. Some have told me they wear a mask because they are used to it and don’t want to show their face.” n Fall 2023
KEEP YOUR INFORMATION CURRENT WITH PAGE
Keeping pace with your needs, PAGE has streamlined the system for joining, renewing, and updating your member profile. Visit https://members.pageinc.org or scan the QR code below to create an account and access this new, easy-to-use portal.
It’s Now Simpler Than Ever To: ENSURE THAT YOUR MEMBERSHIP REMAINS CURRENT
STAY IN-THE-KNOW BY KEEPING YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION UPDATED
CHANGE FROM STUDENT MEMBERSHIP TO PROFESSIONAL
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.
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.
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 https://members.pageinc.org or scan the QR code below to access the platform.
Fall 2023
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Delayed But Not Forgotten:
A Graduation Ceremony for Katie Wages Katie Wages and her seventh grade teaching team at Loganville Middle School were reminiscing about their college graduation ceremonies during lunch one day when there was a startling revelation at the table: Wages never had one. “The social studies teacher on my team had a student teacher and she was talking about her upcoming graduation and how nervous she was that she might trip up the stairs,” said Wages. “Everyone started sharing about their own college graduation experiences – how it feels different than a high school graduation. I was being quiet and someone asked, ‘What’s wrong, Katie? Did you not have one?’ No, I didn’t!” Wages, a second-year seventh grade math teacher during the 2022-23 school year, graduated from the University of Georgia in 2021 with a degree in middle grades education. Due to COVID, Mary Frances Early College of Education’s ceremony had been cancelled. For Wages, it was a disappointing end to a year of classes that were mostly taught online. “I didn’t get my name called or get to walk across the stage,” Wages said. “When my team found out, they said, ‘Oh, no – we’re going to change that!’”
A Cap & Gown for Wages — and a Ceremony Too!
“When my team found out, they said, ‘Oh, no – we’re going to change that!’”
Wages’ teaching team, including Cheyenne Kelly (Science), Julie Gomez (ELA) Bryan Shepard (Social Studies) and his student teacher, Morgan Green, worked with the seventh grade students in their pod to recreate her missed college graduation ceremony.
Three days before the final day of school – just before the outdoor seventh grade awards ceremony for the 120 students in her pod – Wages was surprised with a cap and gown of her own. “I had no idea they were doing it! They put a cap and gown 50 | PAGE One
on me, played the music, and I walked across the patch of concrete in front of the kids,” said Wages. “The kids got hyped-up. They made posters and one student actually wrote a speech for me that he read to the whole pod. He gave me a copy of it as I walked across the stage and he shook my hand.”
Wages, who grew up in the area and attended another middle school in Walton County, has kept in touch with many of her former teachers. PAGE Membership Services Representative Peggy Brown had been her eighth grade science teacher. It has been connections like these that helped her through the first two years in the classroom, she said. “I think my team and the people I work with have made these last two years manageable because it has been really hard,” Wages said. “My student teacher experience was comFall 2023
“I had no idea they were doing it! They put a cap and gown on me, played the music, and I walked across the patch of concrete in front of the kids.”
PAGE Membership Services Representative Peggy Brown (Wages’ former teacher) and Wages celebrate the big event!
Even a graduation cake!
“My team has been amazing,” Wages said. “They have come alongside me saying, ‘We believe in you! You’ve got this. Even though you didn’t have the student teaching experience you had hoped for, this is your experience now and the mistakes you make will push you to become a better teacher – and you are a good teacher to begin with!’” With student — and speechwriter extraordinaire -- Quanaell W.
pletely online except for two weeks and when we were in person, I only had 12 kids in my class because the rest decided to start online. I didn’t feel prepared at all.” As a new teacher, Wages said she was nervous. It was her team that helped her learn the ropes and become more comfortable in the classroom. Fall 2023
Most importantly, Wages said, her team has shown her the importance of creating meaningful relationships with her students. “I think that’s why the kids were so excited about the graduation. They know me and they have a great relationship with me,” said Wages. “I honestly could not make it without my team.” n PAGE One | 51
Legal
What Rules Apply?
By Sean DeVetter Teachers call the PAGE legal department seeking legal advice on complex matters. Many times, they’ve done some research on their own but aren’t sure where to look for comprehensive information. There are myriad laws, policies, and procedures governing the education field. Teachers must comply with state and federal statutes, state and federal case law, Georgia State Board of Education rules and case law, teacher contracts (please read your contract and keep a copy at home), local board policy, and the Professional Standards Commission’s Code of Ethics for Educators. The process to determine which laws apply to teachers became more difficult in 2015 when the state of Georgia asked 52 | PAGE One
all districts to declare whether they intended to become a Strategic Waiver School System (SWSS), Charter District, or remain a No Waiver System. The districts’ choices have significant implications for educators. For each charter district, most state laws governing education are automatically waived. This means many of the laws you have heard of and relied on may not be in effect in your district. In a charter district, the district policy, not state law, determines the rules. Charter districts cannot waive federal law. SWSS districts must submit an application to the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) detailing all the state laws they want waived. The GaDOE keeps a list of the Fall 2023
approved waivers on their website. When researching what laws apply in a SWSS district, you must first locate the Georgia code section you’re interested in, then cross reference this with your district’s strategic waiver. If the district has waived a law, they may still follow the law in practice, or they may have a local policy that outlines how they respond to a specific issue. SWSS districts cannot waive federal law. A common example is found in the Fair Dismissal Act (FDA) O.C.G.A. § 20-2-940-942,944. Teachers often call wanting to know if they have the right to a hearing before they can be terminated by their district or if their district allows tenure. If they are in a charter district, the laws are automatically waived. Tenure does not exist through Georgia law in a charter district. However, charter districts may still maintain some version of tenure and termination rights through local policy. In a SWSS district, the FDA is still intact unless specifically waived by the district’s strategic waiver with GaDOE. Even if the district has waived the FDA under their strategic waiver, they may still have a local policy or practice that allows the FDA to continue. Most school districts publish their board policies online which can be located and searched through a link on the school board page of the district’s website. If you are unsure how to find the appropriate policy, you may ask for assistance from the central office department responsible for policy. Links to SWSS districts and charter districts are found on the GaDOE website.1 The Decision Tree First, determine whether your district is a charter, SWSS, or non-waiver district by going to the GaDOE website.1 Then, locate the corresponding Georgia code.2 If your district is a charter district, locate the law in Georgia code that you are looking for. Compare that law to local policies to determine whether an equivalent local policy exists. If a charter district does not have a local policy equivalent to the state, the law does not apply in your district. If your district is a SWSS district, locate the law you are looking for and then compare the code section with the strategic waiver your district filed with the state. If your district waived the law in question, it is not in effect in your district. If the district has not waived the law in question, the law is still in effect and expected to be followed by the district.
Please remember it is not uncommon for districts to follow laws, in practice, even if they were waived as part of the charter or SWSS waiver. In these situations, the district cannot be legally compelled to follow the laws unless they are compelled through another legal vehicle like your contract. If you have questions or need additional information on this or any legal topic related to your work as a Georgia educator, PAGE attorneys are here to help. Contact the PAGE legal department at 770-216-8555 (and select option 1) or email us at legal@pageinc.org. n
Sean DeVetter is a PAGE staff attorney and the son of educators. He graduated from Emory University and Georgia State University College of Law and has served PAGE members for 15 years.
1 Charter Districts: https://www.gadoe.org/External-Affairs-and- Policy/Charter-Schools/Pages/Approved-Charter-Systems.aspx Strategic Waiver Districts: https://www.gadoe.org/External-Affairs-and-Policy/Policy/Pages/IE2.aspx Note: Webster County and Buford City remain non-waiver districts. 2 Georgia code: https://advance.lexis.com/container?config=00JAAzZDgzNzU2ZC05MDA0LTRmMDItYjkzMS0xOGY3MjE3OWNlO DIKAFBvZENhdGFsb2fcIFfJnJ2IC8XZi1AYM4Ne&crid=56b53f5e-d5ea-4c46-93d0-16c0a925977c&prid=4a273a85-08f6-4a54-98e6833fe776fb29 Fall 2023
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Shirley Wright Retires from PAGE and Opens New Chapter in Life of Service PAGE Membership Services Representative Shirley Wright’s life has always been dedicated to service. Since 2006, her professional service focused on PAGE members. At the time of her retirement in June 2023, her 17 years of experience as a PAGE staff member included service to educators in many school districts, including Atlanta Public Schools, DeKalb County School District, City Schools of Decatur, Cobb County School District, Paulding County School District, and Marietta City Schools. As the child of a U.S. Air Force veteran, Wright learned early on the value of service. She prepared to give back to others through her studies as an undergraduate student at Morgan State University and while completing a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction at Delaware State University.
teachers every couple of months to make sure they were supported.” As part of the initiative, Wright spoke with new educators about the importance of being a member of a professional organization, set up Code of Ethics training for them, and (of course) brought along plenty of snacks. “We saw a need and fulfilled it,” Wright said. “That’s what PAGE does best.” After all the years of new teacher orientations and countless faculty meetings and presentations, Wright said she encourages all educators, paraprofessionals, and support staff – not just new teachers – to remember:
Retired PAGE Membership Services Representative Shirley Wright.
Prior to joining PAGE staff, Wright was an educational trainer for 18 years with various leading-edge technology companies, teaching educators how to integrate technology in the classroom. Ultimately, she created her own consulting firm, The Wright Train. Looking back over the years, Wright said she is very proud of the work PAGE does every day supporting educators and education in Georgia. PAGE and its work with new teacher orientations is one of the many examples of the organization in action. “We did it in response to Dr. Leigh Turner’s of DeKalb County Schools dissertation,” Wright said. “It is a new teacher orientation process, and PAGE was one of the first organizations to support it. We engaged with these new 54 | PAGE One
Wright, who served as chair of the PAGE Social Committee, gets everyone ready for the Staff Meeting.
Fall 2023
• “It’s not just about us. It’s about all the people we touch in life.” • “Everyone needs to have work-life balance.” • “There is no greater gift that you can give or receive than to honor your calling. It’s why you were born. And how you become most truly alive.” Oprah Winfrey Wright has also been extremely dedicated to her PAGE co-workers. As chair of the PAGE Social Committee, Wright led the group responsible for helping bring together staff members, who live in areas throughout the state, for semi-annual meetings. Wright also led the committee’s work to celebrate with individual staff members in times of joy and to provide comfort during times of struggle and loss. In her retirement, Wright plans to continue her life of service as a member at Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and Words of Faith AME church where she serves as a steward and Christian education director. n
Wright’s contribution to the PAGE 2023 Teacher Appreciation Week video.
Wright helps an educator at a Cobb County event.
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PAGE One | 55
NEED TO CONTACT
PAGE? HERE’S HOW.
GENERAL INQUIRIES 770-216-8555 (option 3) 800-334-6861 (option 3) info@pageinc.org PAGE ATTORNEYS / LEGAL SERVICES 770-216-8555 (option 1) legal@pageinc.org PROFESSIONAL LEARNING 334-734-0430 pl@pageinc.org LEGISLATIVE SERVICES 770-216-8555 legislative@pageinc.org MEMBER SERVICES 770-216-8555 (option 2) membership@pageinc.org
For your Membership Services Representative’s contact information, turn to page 31 of this issue or visit www.pageinc.org/membership.
56 | PAGE One
Fall 2023
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! WHAT’S COMING UP AT PAGE OCT
22 2023
JAN
12 2024
JAN
20 2024
FEB
23 2024
MAR
29 2024
MAY
30 2024
Fall 2023
Deadline to Apply for PAGE Educator Grant. Would $500 make a positive difference for you and your students? PAGE Educator Grants enable members to acquire resources for students, classrooms, and digital learning needs. https://bit.ly/3PMFWBm Exceptional Assistant Principal Begins. Provides assistant principals the opportunity to improve leadership skills and add to their repertoire of strategies and tools. More at https://bit. ly/3jWEDzm. PAGE Academic Bowl for Middle Grades State Competition. Join us or volunteer at Georgia College for this annual competition to see which school will take home the coveted trophy. More at https://bit.ly/3ExfcOW. Georgia Academic Decathlon State Competition. Looking for a great volunteer opportunity? Meet us at Kennesaw State University to help with this unique competition, testing participant knowledge in 10 academic disciplines. More at https://bit.ly/3TOj9oA. Deadline to Submit Future Georgia Educator Scholarship Applications. For high school students who will be majoring in education in college. More at https://bit.ly/3EBTjhy.
JAN
11
2024
JAN
18 2024
FEB
20 2024
MAR
14 2024
APR
29 2024
PAGE Engage! Begins. With this professional learning series, acquire vital skills and practical knowledge to transform teaching and learning in classrooms, schools, and beyond. More at https:// bit.ly/3jWEDzm. Transformational Principal Institute Begins. Empowering principals to transform schools into equity-focused environments where students thrive and teachers excel. More at https://bit.ly/3jWEDzm. PAGE Day on Capitol Hill. You won’t want to miss this annual day of learning and advocacy with lawmakers at the state Capitol. More at https://bit. ly/3d4NTkO.
Future Georgia Educators (FGE) State Competition. At Mercer University in Macon, FGE state competition brings together the next generation of educators. More at https://bit.ly/48bPQn5.
Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) State Banquet. We will be in Duluth to crown the PAGE State STAR Teacher and Student from among the elite STAR region winners. More at https://bit.ly/45L1rIn.
PAGE Foundation Scholarship Application Deadline. Are you working on a new degree? A PAGE Foundation Scholarship can help you earn that credential. More at https://bit.ly/3EBTjhy. PAGE One | 57
The PAGE One Team PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GEORGIA EDUCATORS
PAGE OFFICERS President Khrista Henry President-Elect Daerzio Harris
Past President Dr. Oatanisha Dawson
Treasurer Lamar Scott
Secretary Dr. Susan Mullins
Ramona Mills Communications Director Executive Editor/Writer
PAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS District 1 Bivins Miller
Passionate about clear, engaging communications, Ramona is an alumna of UCLA who honed her craft in the film industry before founding a Georgia-based creative agency. An education policy fellow and former district II chair of the Georgia School Public Relations Association, Ramona led DeKalb County School District’s stakeholder engagement initiative – launching an awardwinning magazine and branding campaign. Ramona joined the PAGE Communications team in 2019. Dolly brings to PAGE experience in the Atlanta news media, in higher education, and at several non-profits. An Agnes Scott College alumna and Leadership DeKalb graduate, she has garnered top awards for writing and photography from Georgia Press Association, Suburban Newspapers of America, Georgia PTA, and others. She is NW Metro Atlanta Habitat for Humanity’s photographer in her spare time.
District 2 Dr. Brecca Pope
District 8 Andrea Bridges
District 3 Mary Case
District 9 Jennie Persinger
District 4 Rochelle Lofstrand
District 10 To Be Filled
District 5 Dr. Shannon Watkins
District 11 Amy Carter
District 6 To Be Filled
District 12 TaKera Harris
Cover Design by Dolly Purvis
District 7 Lance James
District 13 To Be Filled
The articles and advertisements published in PAGE One represent the views of the contributors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Professional Association of Georgia Educators, except where clearly stated.
DIRECTORS REPRESENTING RETIRED PAGE MEMBERS Vickie Hammond Dr. Sheryl Holmes The PAGE Board of Directors is made up of five Officers (President, PresidentElect, 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. Nominations for District Directors and Officers are made by a nominating committee 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 three-year term. To express interest or apply for a District Director position, please contact your MSR (info. on page 31 of this issue and at https://www. pageinc.org/contact-us-3/) or Dr. Hayward Cordy (hcordy@pageinc.org). Each year, there are four or five District Directors with expiring terms that are up for election. 58 | PAGE One
Dolly Purvis
Communications Specialist Writer/Photographer
To contact the PAGE One Team, email us at info@pageinc.org.
To submit a topic for consideration, visit https://bit.ly/3oh86DM For advertising rates and opportunities, contact Sherry Gasaway of New South Publishing: 678-689-8303 or sherry@newsouthpublishing.net Contributions/gifts to the PAGE Foundation are deductible as charitable contributions by federal law. Costs for PAGE advocacy on behalf of members are not deductible. PAGE estimates that seven percent of the nondeductible portion of dues is allocated to advocacy. PAGE One (ISSN 1523-6188) ©copyright 2023 is mailed to all PAGE members, selected higher education units, and other school-related professionals. An annual subscription is included in PAGE membership dues. A subscription for others is $10 annually. Periodicals class nonprofit postage paid at Atlanta, GA, and additional mailing offices. (USPS 017-347) Postmaster: Send address changes to PAGE One, P.O. Box 942270, Atlanta, GA 31141–2270. PAGE One is published quarterly by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators. ©Copyright 2023.
Fall 2023
Education leaders choose UNG. For more than 140 years, the University of North Georgia has been developing education leaders who are highly sought after for their skills and experience. Our innovative graduate degrees and endorsement programs help educators advance their education and their careers.
Melissa Silva ‘19 UNG graduate and Fulbright scholar now teaching in Hall County Schools.
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English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement Gifted Education Endorsement Reading Endorsement International Baccalaureate Certificate Diversity Certificate
Tier I Educational Leadership Certification Program
Post Master’s Certificate in Transfer Leadership and Practice
Tier II Educational Leadership Educational Specialist Degree Program or Certification-Only Program
Teaching English as a Foreign Language Certificate
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