State School SuperintendentStatewide · 2 candidates
In their own words
Richard Woods
WebsiteBallotpedia- Academics
Getting back to basics in reading & math
CampaignCampaign website - Teacher pay
Raising teacher pay & expand salary step raises for teachers beyond 21 years
CampaignCampaign website - Screen time
Reducing screen time and protect planning time
CampaignCampaign website - Safety / AI
Increase safety funding & protect students from AI overreach & misuse
CampaignCampaign website - Funding / property tax
Provide property tax relief while protecting & modernizing school funding
CampaignCampaign website - School funding (debate)
“We are constitutionally obligated to make sure that all of our public education schools are funded by the state of Georgia.
Lydia Powell
WebsiteBallotpedia- Pre-K
I want to ensure every child in Georgia begins their education on solid ground through universal access to preschool education. Early investment in learning creates lifelong success especially when every child, regardless of zip code, has the same start.”
- Testing / teachers
I believe in accountability, however I we need to reduce the over reliance on standardized tests and replace it with professional respect and smart assessment practices. Teachers deserve trust, support, and training that helps them focus on real learning not just test preparation. …
- Rural schools
I want to expand connectivity and access to advanced coursework for rural communities, ensuring opportunity reaches every corner of Georgia. In addition to strengthening partnerships with social services, DFACS, and school resource officers to address whole-child needs keeping students connected, supported, and safe.
- Literacy / vouchers
Areas of public policy that I am personally passionate about is the implementation of evidence-based literacy instruction. School Choice & Vouchers (SB 233) which can potentially defund public schools, and budget crisis which impacts funding and resources to local school districts.