The Georgia Department of Education has released its 2026 legislative priorities, outlining key goals that will shape State School Superintendent Richard Woods’ discussions with lawmakers during the upcoming legislative session and guide the agency’s work in the years ahead.

A major focus of the priorities is strengthening and supporting Georgia’s educator workforce. Superintendent Woods is recommending an additional $10,000 in raises for teachers and staff over the next five years, the creation of a competitive state salary schedule for classified employees, an expansion of the teacher salary schedule to cover more than 21 years of service, and the restoration of funding that increases pay for educators who earn a leadership degree.

Woods said the updated priorities are grounded in the state’s Student Bill of Rights and emphasize preparing every Georgia student for life.

“From supporting the whole child and strengthening our educator workforce to modernizing school funding and expanding opportunities from classroom to career, these priorities reflect our continued commitment to students, educators, and local communities,” Woods stated. “I look forward to working alongside Governor Kemp and the General Assembly to build on Georgia’s strong foundation and advance our shared vision of making Georgia the Top State for Talent.”

The full list of 2026 legislative priorities is available at the Georgia Department of Education’s website: https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/b84a6adb-45c0-4077-a229-42ddbb787c9a/1/2026%20Legislative%20Priorities%20Two%20Pager.pdf.