Making Back-to-School Better
This week, students and teachers stepped back into the classroom with more opportunities for success, greater access to resources, and stronger support than ever before. Thanks to the dedicated work of Georgia House Republicans, schools in House District 159 and across our state are beginning the school year with historic investments in literacy, school safety, teacher recruitment and retention, and classroom guidance that will strengthen every student’s educational experience.
Here are some highlights of what’s new this school year:
Historic Investment in Early Literacy
Georgia House Republicans delivered nearly $100 million to place a literacy coach in every K-3 elementary school across Georgia. This investment will help strengthen reading instruction and ensure students are reading on grade level by the end of third grade, allowing them to transition from learning to read to reading to learn.
Distraction-Free Classrooms
This year, students will learn in distraction-free classrooms with no cell phones during instructional time, allowing them to spend less time on screens and more time focused on learning.
Greater Emphasis on Math Instruction
Georgia’s new Math Matters Act places a strong emphasis on math instruction and gives young learners additional support to master the foundational skills they need to succeed.
Teachers Prepared for Student Success
The Georgia Early Literacy Act of 2026 doesn't just support teachers already in the classroom. It strengthens teacher preparation by working with Georgia's higher education institutions to ensure new educators are ready to teach literacy using science-backed methods from day one in the classroom.
By giving students and teachers the tools they need to succeed, we're building a brighter future for our great state. I’m wishing every parent, teacher, and student across the district a wonderful school year ahead.
Remembering the Late Speaker Tom Murphy
Last week, I had the honor of accompanying Congressman Brian Jack at the University of West Georgia for an event commemorating the life and legacy of former Speaker of the House Tom Murphy.
Joining his family, colleagues, and friends to discuss the many contributions he made during his tenure in the House was an incredible reminder of the profound mark he left on our state. Speaker Murphy dedicated his life to strengthening Georgia and expanding opportunities for future generations, and his unwavering commitment to moving our state forward continues to shape Georgia to this day.
Touring Speaker Murphy’s Replica Office at the University of West Georgia with Congressman Brian Jack
House study committee meetings are now underway, and members are hard at work examining the issues and opportunities facing our state. I look forward to hearing from you as we continue working together to keep Georgia moving forward.
Speaker Jon Burns