Below are your weekly updates and reminders from the Georgia Department of Education. Click here for the District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard.
Updated FAQ: Parent ProTech Partnership
We have updated the FAQ regarding our partnership with Parent ProTech, established to support SB 351. This initiative empowers communities to raise safe, smart digital citizens through expert-backed tools and resources that promote responsible technology use. Please review the updated FAQ at the link below.
- Additional Information:
- Contact: sb351@parentprotech.com
Clean Water for Georgia Kids™: Free Testing Available
Lead exposure can impact learning and development, but testing your school’s water is free with GaDOE’s Clean Water for Georgia Kids program. Let’s work together to ensure safe drinking water for every student.
- Additional Information: Clean Water for Georgia Kids
- Contact: Click Here
Georgia Composite Board Ruling on AED Statute
The Georgia Composite Board (GCB) has authorized nonphysicians to serve as authorized persons to meet the requirements of O.C.G.A. § 20-2-775(c)(4-5) regarding the oversight of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in schools. This provides greater flexibility as long as the authorized persons are CPR- and AED-trained.
- Additional Information: GCB Letter on AED Statute
- Contact: Kim Conley, kim.conley@doe.k12.ga.us
Discover GaLEADS: Empowering Educators Through Growth
GaLEADS offers a differentiated, flexible model designed to develop strong teachers and leaders. With personalized resources and support, it fosters continuous growth by meeting educators where they are and helping them move forward.
Upcoming Events:
- GaLEADS Informational Session – October 21 at 11 a.m. – Learn how GaLEADS can support your professional journey and strengthen instructional leadership across your school or district.
- GaLEADS Q&A Session – November 20 at 9 a.m. – Bring your questions and join us for an open conversation focused on implementation and support.
Explore mindset shifts and implementation strategies in our GaLEADS newsletter, designed to support leaders and teachers throughout their growth.
- Additional Information: October 8 Registration | November 20 Registration | Newsletter
Student Mental/Behavioral Health Services Grant
Championed by the Georgia General Assembly, Governor Brian Kemp signed the FY26 state budget which established $19.6 million annually for student mental health services and supports. At its August 20 meeting, the State Board of Education approved the Student Mental/Behavioral Health Services Grant funding, allocating $20,000 to each middle school and high school in the state. Funds will be distributed monthly to districts starting in August.
- Additional Information: Grant Overview
- Contact: Dr. Tabathia Baldy, tabathia.baldy@doe.k12.ga.us
Reminder: Remedial Education Program (REP) Assurances Form
For the 2025-2026 school year, superintendents of all LEAs are required to submit an annual REP assurance form on or before September 1, 2025 through the MyGaDOE Portal.
- Additional Information: 2025-26 Remedial Education Program Guidance
- Deadline: September 1, 2025
- Contact: Felicia Purdy, felicia.purdy@doe.k12.ga.us
Reminder: Early Intervention Program (EIP) Assurances Form
For the 2025-2026 school year, superintendents of all LEAs are required to submit an annual Early Intervention Program assurance form on or before September 1, 2025 through the MyGaDOE Portal.
- Additional Information: 2025-2026 Early Intervention Program Guidance
- Deadline: September 1, 2025
- Contact: Felicia Purdy, felicia.purdy@doe.k12.ga.us