ATLANTA () — As Georgia gears up for the 2026 legislative session, lawmakers are placing a renewed emphasis on tackling the pressing issues of teacher retention and educational advancement throughout the state.

State Senator Sonya Halpern (D–Atlanta) has noted an escalating concern over the increasing number of educators leaving the profession. Factors such as burnout, burgeoning class sizes, and heightened classroom demands are driving this exodus.

“Each year, we introduce more requirements for teachers, like incorporating financial literacy into the high school curriculum,” Halpern commented. “These added responsibilities are piling up and causing significant stress.”

With approximately 120,000 public school teachers currently serving in Georgia, lawmakers have identified the recruitment of new educators and the retention of existing ones as a primary objective for the 2026 agenda.

“The expectations placed on our teachers continue to rise,” Halpern remarked. “The increase in standardized tests and additional requirements is, unfortunately, diminishing the joy that once characterized this noble profession.”

Earlier this year, lawmakers passed a resolution asking the Professional Standards Commission to collaborate with several state agencies — including the Governor’s Office of Student Success, the Department of Education, and the Teacher Retirement System of Georgia — to explore solutions for improving student outcomes and reducing teacher burnout.

Proposals under discussion include raising teacher pay, reducing class sizes, and allowing retired teachers to return to the classroom while continuing to receive their pensions.

“Teaching is in crisis — and it’s not just in Georgia,” Halpern said. “Every year, districts across the state open with many positions unfilled.”

According to the National Education Association, Georgia ranks 23rd in the nation for average teacher salary, but falls within the bottom 15 states for starting pay.

Lawmakers are expected to review the study committee’s findings and recommendations before the 2026 session begins in January. Because it’s the second year of a two-year cycle, any education-related bills that did not pass in 2025 remain eligible for consideration next year.