Georgia Professional Standards Commission Meeting Report - August & September 2026

23 hours ago

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The Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) met virtually Aug. 12 and 13 for its August meeting, and in person Sept. 10 after holding virtual committee meetings Sept. 9.

Executive Secretary Update

During his remarks at the commission's August meeting GaPSC Executive Secretary Jody Barrow noted that all schools were back in session. He reported that GaPSC continues to unpack legislation passed during the 2026 session, including a new retired educator return-to-work (RtW) law. Barrow mentioned a recent question about whether a retired teacher who meets all other RtW program qualifications can return to the classroom as a literacy coach under the program. He indicated these employees can return as literacy coaches and that Pearson, the agency’s testing vendor, is working to create an assessment for literacy certification. Barrow also shared a Teachers Retirement System of Georgia RtW status report indicating that, as of August, 310 teachers were serving students as part of the program. Over 80% of those teachers returned to the classroom in special education, math, and science

Barrow also reported that work on leadership certification recommendations is ongoing. Once completed, commissioners will have the opportunity to review and vote on them.

In September, Barrow began the commission's in-person meeting with a moment of silence to mark the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. He spoke about the professional development retreat commissioners had recently completed, during which each GaPSC division presented on its work.

Barrow recognized Melissa Driver, assistant professor and associate dean for curriculum catalyst and innovations at Kennesaw State University, as the newest GaPSC commissioner and said several more commissioners would join the board over the next few months.