Focus Story: The Birth of PAGE

The Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) began in 1975 as a bold idea. More than 50 years later, it’s the largest independent educator association in the nation.

The story of PAGE begins with the story of its founders Paul Copeland and Lillian Cantrell who, together with a few fellow Georgia educators, forged a truly independent, non-partisan association.

Copeland, then personnel director for DeKalb County Schools, recognized a growing concern among educators that the predominate national educator organization was pressing for mandatory dues and collective bargaining measures that left teachers with little choice and threatened to disrupt classroom instruction. Copeland believed Georgia educators needed something different: a professional association that strongly advocated for teachers’ rights, elevated the profession, and placed students first.

Standing alongside him was Lillian Cantrell, an elementary school principal in the same school district. A respected educator and leader, Cantrell saw firsthand how teachers longed for an organization that provided essential protection, professional development, and advocacy without compromising independence or pushing non-education-related political issues. Building a new association required extraordinary effort. She rallied many educators to volunteer evenings and weekends. Her school effectively became the association’s headquarters.

Together, Copeland and Cantrell presented PAGE as a new model for educators, not just an alternative. They organized statewide outreach, hosted the first meetings, and defined the principles that would set PAGE apart: educators must be free to choose their affiliations, teachers must have opportunity to advocate for their professional needs and professional learning, and students must never face interrupted learning because of labor disputes.

In May 1975, PAGE was officially incorporated. Before the end of the decade, membership had grown to 1,000—evidence that the PAGE message of professionalism and independence resonated with Georgia educators.

PAGE honors the courage and leadership of its founders and charter members. Their vision continues to light the way forward, reminding educators throughout Georgia that professionalism, advocacy, independence, and commitment to student learning remain the bedrock of PAGE.

Learn more about PAGE history and view timelines and photos HERE.