A Message from the President: When the Plan Shifts, the Goal Stands Strong

Daniel Hurst’s words, “If the plan doesn’t work, change the plan but never the goal,” could have been written for Georgia educators. No group understands better that the pathway to success is rarely straight. Every school year brings surprises, challenges, and opportunities, and teachers are constantly adjusting, rethinking, and reimagining how to help students thrive. Yet, despite the shifting plans, one goal has remained constant: supporting every child and creating safe, welcoming, and successful schools. And, that unwavering goal is exactly where Georgia educators shine.

Teachers know the art of pivoting better than anyone. A lesson falls flat? You try a new approach. A student is struggling? You look for another way to reach them. A classroom dynamic changes? You rebuild your strategy. Educators are natural innovators, always refining the plan, but never losing sight of the students at the center.

This same spirit is guiding the statewide conversation on school safety, student well-being, and academic success. As needs evolve, so must the approaches we take to support students. But the goal of safe learning environments for all Georgia children remains as strong as ever.

Educators have been clear about what’s needed. In a recent PAGE Legislative Survey, teachers overwhelmingly identified expanding school-based support staff – including counselors, social workers, and psychologists – as one of the most powerful steps state and district leaders can take to improve school safety, attendance, parent support, and overall student outcomes.

Georgia’s dedicated mental health professionals do incredible work, but there simply aren’t enough of them to meet students’ needs. Improving these ratios is one of the most achievable and impactful ways to support not only students, but also teachers who are often asked to manage far more than instruction alone. By strengthening mental health services, schools are better equipped to address specific student needs, connect families to resources, and help students overcome barriers.

Reducing absenteeism is another growing priority, and educators know it requires a shared commitment. Improving parental awareness about the importance of consistent attendance is essential, especially when families are navigating academic, social, and mental health challenges. When students are present, supported, and engaged, learning can truly take place.

Educators have also emphasized the need for learning environments that minimize distractions and maximize focus. Expanding mobile device restrictions to include grades nine through 12 reflects a growing understanding that students benefit from clear boundaries that support attention, engagement, and healthy social development throughout the school day.

At the same time, none of these goals can be fully realized without a strong, stable educator workforce. Teacher recruitment and retention remain central to the success of every school initiative. When teachers feel supported, respected, and able to focus on teaching rather than crisis management, students thrive. Expanding support staff, improving working conditions, and addressing workload challenges all contribute to keeping great educators in Georgia classrooms.

The momentum behind these priorities is building because educators spoke up. You completed surveys, joined conversations, advocated with legislators, and shared what you see every day in your schools. Your experiences are shaping statewide priorities, and your voices are making a real difference.

Incremental improvements may not seem revolutionary at first glance, but every small step forward brings us closer to our shared goal. Every policy refinement, every funding adjustment, and every new support position reflects the evolving plan—and the leadership of educators helping to refine it.

Georgia educators are a constant in every student’s life, steadfast even as plans shift and landscapes change. You continue to champion student success with creativity, compassion, and resilience. You remind students, families, and policymakers alike that goals don’t disappear when challenges arise.  They simply require new routes.

This is a moment of hopeful progress. Conversations about school safety, mental health, attendance, focus, and workforce stability are resulting in positive action. Legislative priorities are aligning with educator experience. And with each improvement, no matter how incremental, we are building a brighter future for schools throughout Georgia.

So, as you plan lessons, inspire students, and navigate the ever-changing world of education, hold Hurst’s reminder close: “If the plan doesn’t work, change the plan but never the goal.”

Georgia students need your vision, your adaptability, and your unwavering commitment. And, as statewide plans continue to evolve in support of you and your students, one thing is certain: The goal is strong, the progress is real, and the future is bright because Georgia educators are lighting the way!

Dr. Brecca Pope

PAGE President