Georgia's educational landscape is set for a transformation following Governor Brian P. Kemp's signing of the "Georgia Promise Scholarship Act" on Tuesday. The legislation, shepherd through the state Senate by Chairman Greg Dolezal (R–Cumming), establishes the Georgia Education Savings Authority. This new body will oversee the Promise Scholarship Program that allocates $6,500 scholarship accounts for students, with adjusted amounts to follow in successive years. The bill aims to bolster school choice and extend educational opportunities across socioeconomic divides.
In a statement obtained by the Senate Press, Sen. Dolezal shared his elation over the act's passage, saying, "As we celebrate the signage of SB 233, the ‘Georgia Promise Scholarship Act,’ we are affirming a commitment to the future of our state’s students and families." He further stated that this law would empower parents to selectively choose educational paths suited for their children, aiming to lay the groundwork for academic success across diverse backgrounds. The senator also thanked the many collaborators whose persistent efforts were key to bringing the bill to fruition.
Chiming in on the importance of this educational reform, Rep. Todd Jones (R–South Forsyth), a vocal supporter of school choice, expressed his pride in the legislation's promulgation. He told the Senate Press, "The signing of the ‘Georgia Promise Scholarship Act’ marks a significant victory for Georgia's students and families, underscoring our commitment to putting children at the heart of education policy." Jones's remarks highlight a collective ambition within the state government to tailor education more closely to individual student needs.
Governor Kemp, too, conveyed his stance on the critical nature of education in maintaining Georgia's vitality and progress. "There is nothing more important to the continued success of our state than safeguarding and strengthening the lives, education and future of our students," the governor stated, according to the Senate Press release. Kemp touted an "all-of-the-above approach to K-12 education" which would surely give more choice to families regarding their children's schooling while also reinforcing public education, supporting teachers, and ensuring safe learning environments.
Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones heralded what he described as the most substantive educational initiative in decades. "As a longtime proponent of school choice, I applaud Sen. Dolezal's leadership in the passage of the ‘Georgia Promise Scholarship Act,’" he said. The lieutenant governor recognized Governor Kemp's support for the movement towards educational freedom and affirmed his ongoing commitment to enhancing the educational choices and resources available to address the unique requirements of every child. For the finer points of the legislation, interested readers can view the full text of SB 233 at the Senate Press site.
