Quality Education in a Safe Community.

Young people are the future of our State and Pat works hard to give them all a fair shake.

Voters in District 57 have stressed the importance of education over and over, and Pat has listened.

As often as any other issue, the public schools come up when we talk. As a mother and former teacher myself, I understand the importance of every child's having an opportunity to blossom intellectually and grow under the tutelage of caring, well-trained, and capable teachers. The huge teacher shortages and incredible demands on teachers require salaries that are competitive with other professionals. We must retain new teachers through mentoring, providing opportunities for advancement as classroom teachers and other supports. Parents must be welcomed and active in the school environment.

We expect the best from our public schools and we must continue to raise standards. The legislature can ensure small class size in the early years and reduce paper work. Too many children in Georgia fall though the cracks. Accountability for educational progress is important. We must also take responsibility for keeping children safe from abuse and neglect.