New legislation could see more retirees, veterans, and black teachers in Georgia classrooms in the coming months and years.
Governor Brian Kemp unveiled his Teacher Pipeline Package during a media conference Tuesday afternoon.
"To help recruit more teachers, we will strengthen an armed force veteran pathway to teacher certification. This legislative package will also lean on prior experience to fill classroom positions as well-equipped professionals. By allowing our retired teachers to come back to the classroom full time to teach in high-need areas."
Kemp said he gathered information leading to the changes after spending time on listening tours, conference calls, and meetings.
In addition to veterans and retirees, the governor also said representation matters.
"Our historically black colleges and universities play a significant role in teacher preparation and they should play a major role in teacher placement. Building on our teacher recruitment efforts, we're putting in law that our professional standards commission must work with our historically black colleges and universities to create innovative programs that get more minority teachers into the field."
During that media conference, Kemp also listed efforts to strengthen state schools. This year's budget includes $647 million in restored funding, fund enrollment growth, and no penalties for loss of enrollment. $573 million for next year’s budget.