“Georgia has built a strong reputation as one of the best states in which to do business. I believe we should bring that same level of commitment to making Georgia the best place to raise a family.

First, we must invest in our youngest learners by increasing compensation for early-childhood educators and expanding access to quality pre-K to include three-year-olds. We should also explore housing, transportation, and other support incentives for early-childhood teachers so that we can attract and retain the best educators in the state. Our children also need to be prepared for the future. That means strengthening the curriculum with age-appropriate exposure to artificial intelligence, technology, career pathways, and skilled trades, while ensuring that every child has opportunities to discover their strengths and interests.

Finally, we must support the whole family—not just the classroom. That includes expanding access to prevention-focused mental health resources for children and parents, strengthening family support services, and ensuring that schools and communities have the resources they need to help children thrive. If Georgia is going to be the best state to do business, it should also be the best state to build a family, raise healthy and successful children, and give every young person the opportunity to reach their full potential.”