State Rep. Eddie Lumsden of Armuchee says education remains the largest area of state spending in the Georgia House’s proposed FY 2027 budget, with major investments focused on early literacy, student screenings, pre-K expansion, and additional support for economically disadvantaged students.

A major part of the House budget includes more than $60 million for a statewide literacy initiative aimed at improving reading outcomes for students in kindergarten through third grade. That funding includes support for elementary-based literacy coaches, repurposed RESA literacy coaches, teacher training, literacy materials, and other resources tied to the Georgia Early Literacy Act of 2026. Lawmakers are also proposing $2.7 million for vision and hearing screening equipment for local school systems, along with additional funding for literacy support through the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement and the Professional Standards Commission.

The budget proposal also includes significant investments in early childhood education, including funding to expand extended day services for pre-K students, add rising pre-K classes, and provide leave for pre-K teachers. Supporters say those measures are designed to help more children enter kindergarten prepared to learn and give working families added flexibility.

Beyond literacy and early learning, the House budget includes funding aimed at helping economically disadvantaged students through school nutrition programs, transportation, social worker grants, mental health support, and expanded after-school and summer opportunities. Lumsden says the overall goal is to make sure every school system receives meaningful support while helping more Georgia students build a strong foundation for long-term academic success.