The State Board of Education (SBOE) held its standard meetings Sept. 25 and 26. It also met on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 for the annual SBOE retreat.
During the September meeting, the board approved a dual enrollment rule change related to the Accelerated Career Diploma program and a hardship waiver to assist the students of Apalachee High School by lowering the impact of Georgia Milestones End of Course scores on the students' final grades.
Featured Action During the SBOE retreat, 2025 Teacher of the Year, Holly Witcher gave a presentation entitled "Retaining Teachers Matters," in which she shared several firsthand accounts from Georgia teachers along with strategies to help retain quality teachers. |  |
Accelerated Career Diploma Rule Change
SB 440, which modifies graduation requirements for students earning high school diplomas through the Accelerated Career Diploma program, was recently passed in the 2024 Legislative Session.
Amendments to SBOE Rule 160-4-2-.34 were proposed to incorporate the provisions of SB 440. The amendments include the definition of “state-funded core course,” changing the list of courses required for students pursuing high school diplomas through the Accelerated Career Diploma program, and restructuring the SBOE rule to provide clarity on dual enrollment requirements for students pursuing a Traditional High School Diploma versus an Accelerated Career Diploma.
While the board approved the rule, several members voiced concerns that this program could potentially limit students' postsecondary options. Board Member Scott Sweeney also called for additional funding for more school counselors to help students make informed academic decisions.
Guest Presentations
Jennifer Stevens and Stefanie Turner of the Tucker Project spoke to the board and presented a short video. Named in memory of Turner's son, the Tucker Project seeks to provide education curriculum on the dangers of fentanyl.
A portion of Board Chair Stan DeJarnett's report was devoted to a presentation by three Barrow County School System representatives: Chief of Staff Matt Thompson, Director of Data, Assessment and Accountability Jennie Persinger, and Testing & Data Coordinator Beth Mitchem. During their presentation, the Barrow County representatives expressed gratitude to the SBOE and Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) staff for their assistance following the tragedy at Apalachee High School.
DeJarnett thanked the Barrow County representatives and stated that the SBOE would continue to support the district.
Representatives from Curriculum Associates recognized LaTanya Arias of Kingsland Elementary School and Thomas J. Bussey of Hapeville Elementary School as their 2024 Extraordinary Educator selections from Georgia. This award is granted to recognize exemplary teachers and principals who make use of i-Ready or related programs.
Other Board Actions
In response to the tragic events at Apalachee High School, the board approved a requested system hardship waiver from Barrow County Schools. This waiver drastically reduces the weighting of the Georgia Milestones End of Course scores on final student grades at Apalachee High School.
The board also approved changes to CTAE standards:
SBOE Retreat
Board members, GaDOE staff, and others met at Brasstown Valley Resort Sept. 30 and Oct. 1.
During the two-day retreat, attendees heard presentations on various subjects, such as school safety and literacy initiatives. 2025 Teacher of the Year and PAGE member Holly Witcher presented on protecting the teacher workforce.
Additionally, as Sept. 30 was Georgia Reads Day, the board took a moment to view part of the event via live stream. The recording of the event can be found viewed here.
 | Next MeetingTThe next board meeting will be held Nov. 6 and Nov 7. The full calendar of 2024 SBOE meetings can be found HERE. |