Specific 2012 Legislative Priorities

 I. STUDENT LEARNING & ACHIEVEMENT

Through the state funding formula, provide the following:

• Lower pupil-teacher ratio K-12
• The Early Intervention Program
• Paraprofessionals in grades 1-8 
• Lower ratio for art, music, and PE K-8

II. ATTENDANCE & STUDENT SERVICES

Through the state funding formula, provide the following:

• One full-time school nurse at every school
• Alternative Education Program, including grades K-5
• Lower ratio for school counselors, social workers, and school psychologists 

III. ATTRACTING & RETAINING QUALITY EDUCATORS

• Restore salaries for educators
• Provide educators the option of retirement with full benefits after 25 years
• Add steps to the State Salary Schedule
• Increase the Georgia Teacher Retirement System Multiplier
• Improve the State Health Benefit Plan and allow educator input in the development and operation of the plan
• Enhance salaries and retirement benefits of educational support personnel

IV. PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

Through the state funding formula, provide the following:

• Professional learning and leadership opportunities for educators
• Induction, support, and mentor teacher programs 

PAGE POSITIONS

Support…

• Mandatory annual 3% cost of living adjustments for members of the Teachers Retirement System
• National Board Teacher Certification salary supplements
• Restoration and enhancement of the pre-kindergarten program
• Alternative sources of funding for public education
• State salary scale for certified personnel
• Fair Dismissal Act for all educators
• Transfer of full experience between school systems for all personnel
• Adequate funding for technology and classroom supplies 

Oppose…

• Diversion of K-12 public school tax dollars to private schools
• Merger of the Teachers Retirement System with the Employees’ Retirement System