Senators Isakson and Perdue:
As a veteran educator and former classroom teacher, I often
spent my own money to purchase and provide classroom resources for my students.
This is not atypical in our schools and classrooms across the state of
Georgia.
Educators go into the profession because they feel a calling
to support students. Regrettably, to fulfill that calling teachers have to use
money from their own pockets to buy resources and materials.
I was very disappointed with the House's proposal to remove
the teacher tax credit, but was encouraged by the Senate's approach, which
would expand the credit. I am encouraged to hear this language survives in the
compromise bill. I’m writing to urge you both to support this language in
the Senate’s measure and, if possible, to expand the tax credit further in the
future.
No doubt, Georgia's educators do not go into the profession
for the money. They feel a responsibility to meet the needs of their students,
and they do with tireless passion and dedication. But we have a responsibility
and obligation in return. I strongly support the teacher tax credit and its
expansion.
I deeply appreciate our partnership and the work you both do
to represent Georgia.
Sincerely,
Richard Woods
State School Superintendent, Georgia