MACON & ATLANTA, GA – The Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program held two regional meetings, gathering over 250 private school leaders to discuss the impact of the education expense credit in Georgia. The events, held in Macon on September 10th at Stratford Academy and in Atlanta on September 17th at The Westminster Schools, reviewed past achievements, current challenges, and future opportunities for school choice.

In Macon, Dr. Rachel Adams, Head of School at Stratford, opened the event, followed by Senate President Pro Tempore John F. Kennedy, who emphasized the importance of school choice.  “GOAL and the state’s student scholarship program are the original pioneers in giving Georgia families more options for our kids’ education,” said Senator Kennedy. “Students across the state benefit from having choices to meet their educational needs. We must continue to support the GOAL program and ensure that this program continues for future generations.”

A panel of school leaders featuring Kelly Campbell of Brookwood School, Morgan Conner of Bulloch Academy, Paul McCracken of Strong Rock Christian School, and Julie Tollison of Heritage Academy, discussed the importance of establishing GOAL as a main fundraising initiative. “GOAL is just as important as any other fundraising initiative at your school, because it is life-changing for students,” said Campbell.

In Atlanta, Westminster President Keith Evans welcomed attendees, followed by Senate Majority Caucus Chair Jason Anavitarte, who reinforced the critical role of GOAL in supporting the next generation in Georgia. “Through this program, you all are fighting to give more kids the opportunity to succeed,” Anavitarte remarked.

A panel, including Colin Creel of Cornerstone Christian Academy, Melissa Dickinson of The Stonehaven School, David Roberts of Lanier Christian Academy, and Missy Terjung of Perimeter School, discussed the challenge of high demand for tax credits. “Due to the popularity and oversubscription of this program, it’s important to help people understand proration from both how it will affect their individual contribution as well as the available scholarship funding for the school overall,” said Terjung.

As the 2024 regional meetings concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of commitment to ensuring educational opportunities for Georgia’s students through the GOAL program. 

For more information on the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program, visit www.goalscholarship.org.

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