Fine Arts

CTAE Directors

Teacher of Students who are Blind, Visually Impaired, or Deafblind (TVI)

Teacher of the Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH)

DHH/BVI Early Intervention Specialist

DHH Professionals

Audiologists

Vocational Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT)

Orientation &amp; Mobility Specialist (COMS)

Assistive Technology Specialist (AT)

Braille Transcriptionist (CBT)

State Schools Residential Assistant (RA)

Low Vision Therapist (CLVT)

Occupational Therapist (OT)

Physical Therapist (PT)

Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

BVI/DB Professionals

CTAE CTI Coordinators

PBIS Coordinators

Librarians/Media Specialists

Teacher Leaders

RESA Mentors

Community Stakeholders

Special Student Services Staff

Special Education Teachers

Paraprofessionals

CTAE teachers 6-8

CTAE teachers 9-12

Assessment Staff

Blended Teachers

Counseling Staff

Data Collections Staff

Early Learning Teachers (Birth-5 yrs)

ESOL Teachers

Finance Staff

GaDOE Staff (non-contractor)

GaDOE Staff ALL

Gifted and Talented Teachers

High School Teachers

Instructional Coaches/Coordinators

Mental Health and Wellbeing Specialists

Middle School Teachers

MTSS Coordinators

Online Teachers

Pupil Transportation Staff

School Leaders

School Nutrition Staff (school and system level)

School Nutrition State Staff (state level)

Social Workers

State Schools

Technology

Afterschool Providers

School Nurses

Federal Programs Staff (Title I)

Federal Programs Staff (Title II)

Federal Programs Staff (Title III)

Federal Programs Staff (Title IV)

Federal Programs Staff (General)

Elementary Teachers

Sign Language Interpreter

School Safety Staff

RESA Staff

District Leaders

CTAE

Braille Literacy

Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC)

Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI)

Orientation &amp; Mobility (O&amp;M)

Multiple Disabilities (VI)

DHH/BVI Early Intervention

Assistive Technology

Accessible Materials (DHH/BVI)

Whole Child Supports

Science

Assessment

Teacher and Leader Support and Development

World Languages

Social Studies

Mathematics

English Language Arts

Computer Science

Accountability

After School Programs

Blended Learning

Co-Teaching

Data Collections

Digital Credentials

District Effectiveness

District Level Support

ESOL

Family Engagement

Federal Programs

Finance

GaMTSS

Induction Leaders

Induction Teachers

Mentors and Coaches

Online Learning

PE/Health

Personalized Learning

Policy/Legal

Private School

Pupil Transportation

Reading/Literacy

School Effectiveness

School Nutrition

SLDS

Special Education

Special Student Services

Staff Wellness

STEM/STEAM

School Safety

School Nursing

English Learners (ELs)

Human Resources

Educator Support and Development

ASL/Deaf Culture

Sign Language Interpreting

School-Based Health Centers

Attendance

Behavior

School Climate

Fine Arts: Dance

Fine Arts: Dramatic Arts/Theatre

Fine Arts: Music

Fine Arts: Visual Art

Mental Health

Wellbeing

PBIS

Technology Services

Assessment &amp; Accountability

Policy, Flexibility &amp; External Affairs

Finance and Business Operations

School Improvement

Rural Education and Innovation

Teaching &amp; Learning

The Georgia Department of Education, Office of Federal Programs provides technical assistance, program monitoring, and resources to local educational agencies (LEA) implementing federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) grants and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) grants. Additionally, this office provides the necessary infrastructure to support local school districts in their efforts to provide special education-related services for students with disabilities and services and supports for English learners.​​

Office of Federal Programs


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA and IDEA Events and Due Dates</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Events  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Nov. 16 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-georgia-parent-mentor-partnership-gapmp-power-hour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Georgia Parent Mentor Partnership (GaPMP) Power Hour</a> </li>



<li><strong>Nov. 17 (ESSA and IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-federal-programs-essa-and-idea-timely-talks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Federal Programs (ESSA and IDEA) Timely Talks</a> </li>



<li><strong>Nov. 17 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/title-iv-part-b-summer-learning-institute-summer-by-design-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">21st CCLC Summer Learning by Design Series</a> </li>



<li><strong>Nov. 17-18 (IDEA)</strong> — GLRS Director Meeting at GCASE Conference </li>



<li><strong>Nov. 18-20 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://gael.ps.membersuite.com/events/ViewEvent.aspx?contextID=e386dc0a-0078-c296-3a91-0b49f67c7564" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GCASE Conference</a> </li>



<li><strong>Nov. 18 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/special-education-leadership-academy-selda" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Special Education Leadership Academy (SELDA)</a> </li>



<li><strong>Nov</strong>.<strong> 18 (ESSA and ESOL)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/using-english-learner-el-data-to-improve-outcomes-for-students" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Using English Learner (EL) Data to Improve Student Outcomes</a> </li>



<li><strong>Nov. 18 (ESOL)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/2026-27-esol-program-leaders-munch-learn-webinar-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ESOL Directors Munch and Learn</a> </li>



<li><strong>Nov. 19 (IDEA)</strong> — SESAA Coaching Session </li>



<li><strong>Nov. 19 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/mckinney-vento-professional-development-9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">McKinney-Vento Meet and Much Third Thursdays</a> </li>



<li><strong>Nov. 19 (ESSA and ESOL)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/cfm-indicator-15-1-open-office-hours" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CFM Indicator 15.1 Open Office Hours</a> </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Please visit the <a href="https://apps.gadoe.org/district-deadlines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard</a> and filter by either Federal Programs or Federal Programs – Special Education.       </li>



<li>Visit <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events.       </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Planting Seeds, Growing Partnerships: A Showcase of Success! </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Our second annual Family and Community Engagement Showcase was a tremendous success! Held on November 10 to celebrate Family Engagement Month, the event highlighted innovative practices and partnerships helping Georgia students thrive. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Thank you to our outstanding presenters for sharing their inspiring work, and to all attendees for joining us! Together, we are planting seeds of engagement and growing partnerships that support student success. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Opportunity for Public Comment </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Georgia Department of Education invites stakeholders to review proposed updates to State Board of Education Rules and <a href="https://gadoe.org/public-comment/proposed-rulemaking/" data-type="link" data-id="https://gadoe.org/public-comment/proposed-rulemaking/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">provide public comment</a> during the open comment period, ending December 7.  </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>English Learners: 160-4-5-.02 Language Instruction Program for English Learners  </li>



<li>Special Education: 160-4-7-.12 Dispute Resolution </li>
</ul>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-612650" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division of ESSA Programs Highlights </h2><div id="ac-612650" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA Equitable Services – 2025-2026 Form B is Now Available in ES4PS  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">It’s time to wrap up the 2025-2026 school year. Please complete Form B for the 2025-2026 school year in ES4PS for each private school that participated in equitable services last year. Create and send this form to private school officials for review and sign-off. Please complete and submit the 2025-2026 Form B by <strong>November 20, 2026</strong>. The <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/038fd028-ccb4-4b99-824a-1e02b5e6fc72/1/ES4PS%20-%20Form%20B%20User%20Guide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ES4PS – Form B User Guide</a> is available to assist you in completing this process. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Indicator Recordings Available </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Indicator recordings are now available in the <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events" data-type="link" data-id="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events">GaDOE Community PL Catalog</a>. These on-demand webinars provide guidance for LEAs participating in FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring and are a valuable resource for reviewing indicator requirements and monitoring expectations. You can access a list of the <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/59d1adc8-8abc-4142-a701-589ee0dc9dec/1/FY27%20CFM%20Recordings.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Indicator</a> recordings on GaDOE Focus.</p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-612651" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">ESOL Program Highlights   </h2><div id="ac-612651" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">WIDA-Facilitated Virtual Webinars for Teachers of English Learners with Disabilities </h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">When Language and Disability Meet </h4>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This workshop explores instructional planning practices for English learners (ELs) with disabilities. Participants will learn how to apply <strong>Universal Design for Learning (UDL)</strong> and the <strong>WIDA English Language Development (ELD) Standards Framework</strong> to support both language development and accessibility. The workshop also examines strategies for collaborative discussions about students’ language and disability needs to inform effective instructional planning and decision-making. </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Dates:</strong> February 17 and 25, 2027 </li>



<li><strong>Time:</strong> 3:30 – 5 p.m.</li>



<li><strong>Participants:</strong> District and school leaders, ESOL and special education teachers </li>



<li><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-when-language-and-disability-meet" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Register in GaDOE Community</a> <strong>by December 11</strong> </li>



<li>For more information, contact <a href="mailto:Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us</a>.  </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Providing Feedback on WIDA Professional Learning Workshops and Resources </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">WIDA wants to hear from you to help its professional learning team decide which resources and learning opportunities your teachers would like. Your responses to WIDA’s Professional Learning Survey will help the WIDA team prioritize your preferences. Please complete the <a href="https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.explore.wisc.edu%2Fe%2Fer%3Fs%3D1427524768%26lid%3D195078%26elqTrackId%3DF5CC7B6B0EF70879E6F7273DA1F2BE94%26elq%3D35e333f834a344c8870cd98e806a5d9e%26elqaid%3D91155%26elqat%3D1%26elqak%3D8AF5740D8BB747A20AEAFA176782097D0220A5F561CA57BE94BD4C3F73D61FE82158&data=05%7C02%7Cmbaker%40doe.k12.ga.us%7Cdebae387d895432318df08df401dab7e%7C1aa55c8303434ecbbd39bd7f43876bd7%7C0%7C0%7C639300168337182498%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=pMqJfbzMwhJ2KGxTrxaFcQBIJDaCEU8YWSN14Wycpes%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WIDA Professional Learning Feedback Survey</a>; participation takes 5-10 minutes. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Supporting Long-Term English Learners (LTELs) </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In WIDA’s article, <a href="https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.explore.wisc.edu%2Fe%2Fer%3Fs%3D1427524768%26lid%3D195079%26elqTrackId%3DCA9EDAE5E7FED8F83741556430B09807%26elq%3D35e333f834a344c8870cd98e806a5d9e%26elqaid%3D91155%26elqat%3D1%26elqak%3D8AF56EA81E02F0A88247616E3B2C17C0986BA5F561CA57BE94BD4C3F73D61FE82158&data=05%7C02%7Cmbaker%40doe.k12.ga.us%7Cdebae387d895432318df08df401dab7e%7C1aa55c8303434ecbbd39bd7f43876bd7%7C0%7C0%7C639300168337204719%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=vwU6q9JP27IPVeGedfZu7mJHXqHPCAUAA21nG3cskZk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reframing How We Think About Our Long-Term English Learners</a>, Lauren Bartholomae explores how educators can move beyond labels to better understand students’ individual experiences, integrate language and content learning, and create rigorous, supportive opportunities for LTELs. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Proposal Season Opens for the 2027 WIDA Annual Conference  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Proposals Accepted:</strong> November 16 – January 20, 2027 </li>



<li>Link in Monday Mail, November 16  </li>



<li><a href="https://conferences.wida.wisc.edu/event/9661a5f4-849d-49b4-842b-7401b7a44315/about?utm_source=CR-WW111126&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=WIDAWednesday&utm_content=2027AnnualConference" data-type="link" data-id="https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.explore.wisc.edu%2Fe%2Fer%3Fs%3D1427524768%26lid%3D195076%26elqTrackId%3D18BEA940E218E475CD56A8AE305E526F%26elq%3D35e333f834a344c8870cd98e806a5d9e%26elqaid%3D91155%26elqat%3D1%26elqak%3D8AF5BF68D463BC0BAFBF6F45843026AF6FF2A5F561CA57BE94BD4C3F73D61FE82158&data=05%7C02%7Cmbaker%40doe.k12.ga.us%7Cdebae387d895432318df08df401dab7e%7C1aa55c8303434ecbbd39bd7f43876bd7%7C0%7C0%7C639300168337156224%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Dpne06syiefICjZMMBKXpi%2F5oXYBaMd6wkk%2BEBEoaTU%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Conference Information</a></li>
</ul>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-612652" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division for Exceptional Children Highlights </h2><div id="ac-612652" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Special Education Events & Due Dates  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please review the information below and the <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/1x965" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Due Dates Calendar</a> for deadlines and key dates. </p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders: Timely and Accurate Submission<strong>   </strong> </h4>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>November 20</strong> — Timelines Prong 2 Due (for LEAs not at 100%) </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Language Domain Preclusion Requests for 2027 WIDA ACCESS Assessments </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Due Date:</strong> Received on an ongoing basis through November 30 </li>



<li><strong>More Information:</strong> <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/ydyo6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Language Domain Preclusion Request Toolkit</a> </li>



<li><strong>Request Form:</strong> <a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Hyfnh3VH47" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Language Domain Preclusion Request form</a> </li>



<li><strong>Contact</strong>: <a href="mailto:Amy.Haynes@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amy.Haynes@doe.k12.ga.us</a> or your district liaison </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Visit <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE professional learning events. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Let’s Talk Literacy: Specially Designed Instruction for Students with Disabilities</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Let’s Talk Literacy: Specially Designed Instruction for Students with Disabilities (K-12) events, held across Georgia from October 21 through November 2, 2026, brought together special education directors for statewide discussions led by Dr. Charity Roberts of the Georgia Department of Education’s Division for Exceptional Children. Participants reviewed literacy data, including a 27-point gap in reading proficiency between students with disabilities and the statewide average, and examined the implications for providing free appropriate public education (FAPE) and high-quality specially designed instruction.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The sessions focused on strengthening literacy outcomes through evidence-based instructional practices, diagnostic assessment, coherent scope and sequence, and IDEA-aligned implementation of specially designed instruction. Leaders also reflected on how literacy practices affect students and families while exploring strategies to build educator capacity, improve compliance, and ensure students with disabilities receive the instruction needed to become proficient readers. These conversations furthered statewide literacy initiatives through collaboration among GaDOE, local districts, and special education leaders. </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/SDI-1024x576.png" alt="Let&apos;s Talk Literacy: Specially Designed Instruction for Students with Disabilities (K-12) events" class="wp-image-61268" style="width:756px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/SDI-1024x576.png 1024w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/SDI-300x169.png 300w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/SDI-768x432.png 768w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/SDI-1536x864.png 1536w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/SDI-624x351.png 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/SDI.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</div></div></div>


Federal Programs Newsletter (11.13.2026)

In collaborative group discussions, Tech News group members actively engage in sharing successful strategies and techniques for utilizing My Georgia Insights (formerly SLDS) to inform and improve teacher practice and to positively impact student growth and achievement.

Tech News

Tech News November-December 2026

Teaching & Learning

Gifted District Coordinators will work collaboratively to provide leadership in the area of gifted
and talented education by implementing innovative techniques and methods for teaching gifted students; providing leadership in the development, articulation, and implementation of exemplary gifted and talented programs, improving the programs through evaluation; and working with teachers to differentiate curriculum for gifted students.

District Gifted Coordinators


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Season of Celebrations</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">FY 27 is off and running. We invited gifted educators around the state to share how the year is unfolding in their districts, and they graciously provided celebrations and reflections. We are especially excited that the stories featured in this edition extend beyond gifted service delivery models and highlight the many ways districts support advanced learning for students.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">One theme that emerged was the importance of talent development. While talent development may not typically count toward gifted service, it plays a vital role in identifying students who would benefit from advanced learning opportunities, often in a gifted classroom. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Another highlight is the success of our high school students, many of whom maximize the gifted and advanced learning opportunities available to them. The foundations forged through years of gifted and advanced academic classes prepare them for experiences beyond their school walls.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Finally, this edition reinforces the value of student voice. As we explored student voice as an important source of data, Dr. Keena Ryals-Jenkins shared reflections from her district that underscored the power of listening to students’ perspectives. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As you read through this edition, we hope these celebrations inspire new ideas and remind us all of the many pathways that support student success. </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="731" height="1024" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/3-731x1024.png" alt="Kimberly Onyeri, Gifted Educator, Tift County Schools" class="wp-image-61158" style="aspect-ratio:0.7138628213931487;width:146px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/3-731x1024.png 731w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/3-214x300.png 214w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/3-624x874.png 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/3.png 750w" sizes="(max-width: 731px) 100vw, 731px" /></figure>
</div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Kimberly Onyeri, Gifted Educator, Tift County Schools</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"> “One exciting thing that has bubbled up in our gifted program is a focus on expanding access to advanced learning opportunities. Through Talent Development, we are creating opportunities for students beyond those already identified as gifted to experience enrichment, higher-level thinking, and academic challenge. At the same time, Tift County Schools celebrated the inaugural cohort of its Gifted Endorsement Program, offered in partnership with Coastal Plains RESA, which I had the opportunity to lead. Together, these efforts are helping us grow gifted education by developing student potential while building the capacity of teachers to recognize and nurture it.”</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignleft size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="731" height="1024" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/1-731x1024.png" alt="Dr. Dione Maxwell, AP Mathematics Teacher, Walton County School District" class="wp-image-61159" style="aspect-ratio:0.7138628213931487;width:104px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/1-731x1024.png 731w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/1-214x300.png 214w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/1-624x874.png 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/1.png 750w" sizes="(max-width: 731px) 100vw, 731px" /></figure>
</div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Dr. Dione Maxwell, AP Mathematics Teacher, Walton County School District</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“This year, our school has seven students who were accepted into the Georgia Tech dual enrollment program. This is the most we’ve ever had from my high school! They are taking math and physics classes through Georgia Tech, a testament to the teachers they have had along the way who have pushed them beyond the scope of the traditional curriculum.”</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="731" height="1024" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/2-731x1024.png" alt="Dr. Keena Ryals-Jenkins, Director of Accelerated Programs & Gifted, Gwinnett County Public Schools" class="wp-image-61160" style="aspect-ratio:0.7138628213931487;width:139px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/2-731x1024.png 731w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/2-214x300.png 214w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/2-624x874.png 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/2.png 750w" sizes="(max-width: 731px) 100vw, 731px" /></figure>
</div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Dr. Keena Ryals-Jenkins, Director of Accelerated Programs & Gifted, Gwinnett County Public Schools</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“One thing that has continued to rise to the surface in our work in the Office of Accelerated Programs & Gifted is the power of student voice. Through our partnership with Equal Opportunity Schools and our ongoing analysis of Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment participation data, we have learned that many capable students do not pursue advanced learning opportunities because they are unsure they belong, are unaware of the pathways available to them, or lack a trusted adult who encourages and supports them along the way.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This realization has challenged us to think beyond access alone and focus more intentionally on belonging, advocacy, and opportunity. It has been encouraging to see schools use data, student feedback, and intentional outreach to uncover talent, expand participation, and help more students see what is possible for their futures. When students feel they belong, understand their options, and have a trusted adult in their corner, they are more likely to pursue opportunities that can transform their trajectories.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Reflection on Talent Development</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Many districts are focusing on talent development. Talent development can happen at any grade level and in any content area, and you can launch a talent development program however you like. If you would like to learn more, we have several resources on talent development in Inspire and the District Gifted Coordinators Community Group. A few are listed below.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/items/165ab3fd-9a1c-4740-b416-46fbba7b227b/1/?.vi=file&attachment.uuid=5eeda2d2-2396-4f17-a11e-3558dd5669b4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Talent Development, An Overview</a></li>



<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/items/10eda2e7-ba18-4b83-858d-8e481c0dfc36/1/?.vi=file&attachment.uuid=0e06d68c-6480-4914-937b-2695a7c132c1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Implementation Models for Talent Development</a></li>



<li><a href="https://url.gadoe.org/8yet2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gifted Education and Advanced Academics Talent Development Resources</a></li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Is your LEA Data Rich?</h2>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture2-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60633" style="aspect-ratio:1.7778483885610532;width:287px;height:auto" role="none" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture2-624x351.jpg 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture2.jpg 1430w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As educators, we collect a wealth of data, but frankly, that data doesn’t help us meet students’ needs unless we use it. Take a moment to list the data you collect and consider what treasures are buried inside the reports. Below are three examples of data you can use to impact students and their educational experience.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">PSAT</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We are fortunate in Georgia that our General Assembly allocates funding to pay for every student in grade 10 to take the PSAT. This data can be used for a wide variety of purposes. Often, it is seen as a warm-up for postsecondary test requirements, but the data goes much deeper. This assessment is not considered high-stakes, which removes much of the stress associated with high-stakes testing, and it provides valuable insights into individual student strengths and weaknesses at a point in their education when this information can be used with focused purpose. The data can also help students make informed decisions about their remaining years in high school and their postsecondary options as they move toward their future. The College Board is offering a free webinar on November 12 to help you understand your <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/understanding-your-psat-nmsqt-data" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PSAT/NMSQT data</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Student Voice</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">While many teachers take time to consider student voice, we suggest making it part of a larger conversation. Take time to ask questions and listen to responses. Student insights can help us better understand their experience and inform decisions to strengthen opportunities. You can collect student voice in many ways, but the key element is listening.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Gifted Probation</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Gifted probation data is more than a performance measure. The probation process provides valuable insights that can help strengthen and refine gifted and advanced services. By examining student grades, supports identified through improvement plans, student and parent feedback, and teacher reflections, teams can gain a more complete view of gifted services. This data dive allows teams to identify trends, celebrate successes, address barriers, and make informed decisions. When used thoughtfully, probation data can be a powerful tool for continuous program improvement while supporting gifted and advanced learners.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture1-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60653" style="aspect-ratio:1.4992888417882142;width:245px;height:auto" role="none" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture1-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture1-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture1-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture1-1-624x416.jpg 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Picture1-1.jpg 1430w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</div>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mid-Year Pulse Check</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We often don’t pause long enough to reflect. Mid-year is the perfect time to pause and reflect on your journey through the first half of the school year. What is working well? What would you like to tweak? What would you like to change for next year? We would love to be your thought partners. Our contact information is listed at the end of this newsletter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Grant Opportunities</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We are excited to announce that we can offer two exam fee initiative grants this year. One grant is for IB exams, and the other grant is for Cambridge exams. Please reference the <a href="https://gadoe.org/grants-awards-diploma-seals/grant-opportunities/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE Grant Opportunities webpage</a> for more information.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="562" height="718" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screenshot-2026-10-13-120133.png" alt="" class="wp-image-60715" style="width:202px;height:auto" role="none" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screenshot-2026-10-13-120133.png 562w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screenshot-2026-10-13-120133-235x300.png 235w" sizes="(max-width: 562px) 100vw, 562px" /></figure>
</div>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Resource Spotlight</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We are excited to announce a new series. Conversations for Today’s Classrooms will spotlight gifted education teachers around the state who will share some of their best practices and tricks of the trade. Check out our Mark Your Calendar document below for dates and links. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As districts prepare to implement the Mathematics Matters Act (House Bill 1030, 2026), this <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/documents/math-matters-act-guidance" target="_blank" rel="noopener">guidance document</a> may be helpful.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Thriving gifted education programs begin with strong leadership. Our <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/10odm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">leadership bundle</a> offers resources and tools to help you reflect, grow, and support ongoing program improvement.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Our Gifted Advisory Council/Task Force Identification and Testing Working Group created a suggested <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/io8xr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pacing guide for gifted coordinators.</a> This tool may help as you plan the rest of your school year and look ahead to FY 28.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><a href="https://url.gadoe.org/2y13c" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="791" height="1024" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mark-Your-Calendar-1-791x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-61171" style="aspect-ratio:0.772472044920094;width:392px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mark-Your-Calendar-1-791x1024.jpg 791w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mark-Your-Calendar-1-232x300.jpg 232w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mark-Your-Calendar-1-768x994.jpg 768w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mark-Your-Calendar-1-1187x1536.jpg 1187w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mark-Your-Calendar-1-624x808.jpg 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mark-Your-Calendar-1.jpg 1545w" sizes="(max-width: 791px) 100vw, 791px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Click on the image above to open the Mark Your Calendar document and access the event hyperlinks.</em></figcaption></figure>
</div>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mark Your Calendar</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We have several upcoming professional learning opportunities you can add to your <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/2y13c" target="_blank" rel="noopener">calendar</a>. Check out this document and mark your calendars. Share Fairs are for new gifted coordinators (five years or less), and we’ll email invitations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Points to Ponder</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Leadership: “Certainty feels efficient because it creates clarity. But it often closes off the very conversations that generate breakthrough thinking. Leaders who become overly attached to being right risk leaving valuable perspectives—and valuable solutions—on the table.” <em>From 4 Hidden Traps of Team Dynamics</em> by Susan MacKenty Brady, Stuart D. Kliman, and Leslie C. Smith</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” — Albert Einstein</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“At every moment, we always have a choice, even if it feels as if we don’t. Sometimes that choice may simply be to think a more positive thought.” — Tina Turner</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Contact Us</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Mary Jean Banter, <a href="mailto:MaryJean.Banter@doe.k12.ga.us">MaryJean.Banter@doe.k12.ga.us</a><br>Martha Smith, <a href="mailto:masmith@doe.k12.ga.us">MaSmith@doe.k12.ga.us</a><br>Lisa Hackney, <a href="mailto:lisa.hackney@doe.k12.ga.us">Lisa.Hackney@doe.k12.ga.us</a></p>


Gifted Education and Advanced Academics Updates Winter 2027


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA and IDEA Events and Due Dates</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Events  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Nov. 9 (ESSA, IDEA, ESOL)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/elp-screener-simplified-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ELP Screener Simplified</a> </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 10 (IDEA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-special-education-school-administrators-academy-sesaa" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Special Education School Administrators Academy (SESAA)</a> </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 10 (ESSA and IDEA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/2026-family-engagement-showcase" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2026-2027 Family & Community Engagement Showcase</a> </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 10 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/special-education-leadership-academy-selda-power-hour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SELDA Power Hour</a> </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 10 (IDEA)</strong> — Check and Connect Trainer Workshop </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 11</strong> — GaDOE Offices Closed – State Holiday </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 12 (IDEA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-idea-budget-grants-fiscal-open-office-hours" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 IDEA Budget & Grants Fiscal Open Office Hours</a>  </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 12 (IDEA)</strong> — School Psychologists Leads Chat </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 12 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/title-i-part-c-new-lea-student-services-provider-ssp-data-training" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Title I, Part C: New Staff Reports Training</a> </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 12 (IDEA)</strong> — SLP Consortium Lead Meeting </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 12 (ESOL)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-actionable-practices-for-newcomers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WIDA-Facilitated PL</a> </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 12 (IDEA)</strong> — Beyond the Basics Training – South Central GLRS </li>



<li><strong><strong>Nov.</strong> 14 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/mapping-meaning-map-the-classroom-map-the-discourse" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mapping Meaning: Map the Classroom, Map the Discourse</a> </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Please visit the <a href="https://apps.gadoe.org/district-deadlines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard</a> and filter by either Federal Programs or Federal Programs – Special Education.       </li>



<li>Visit <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events.       </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Staff Update </h2>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="641" height="1024" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mandy-Harper-HeadShot-641x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-61166" style="aspect-ratio:0.6259805345729227;width:217px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mandy-Harper-HeadShot-641x1024.jpeg 641w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mandy-Harper-HeadShot-188x300.jpeg 188w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mandy-Harper-HeadShot-768x1227.jpeg 768w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mandy-Harper-HeadShot-961x1536.jpeg 961w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mandy-Harper-HeadShot-624x997.jpeg 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Mandy-Harper-HeadShot.jpeg 1260w" sizes="(max-width: 641px) 100vw, 641px" /></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Mandy Harper recently joined the Georgia Department of Education’s Office of Federal Programs as assistant state director within the Division for Exceptional Children.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Harper brings 30 years of public education experience, including 18 years as a district-level director of student services and special education director. Most recently, she served as executive director of student services and director of special education for the Ware County Board of Education, where she led districtwide special education, Section 504, Title IX, multi-tiered systems of support, and positive behavioral interventions and supports programming. She also managed compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, due process, and federal monitoring efforts.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Her background includes additional leadership roles as district Section 504 services coordinator, multi-tiered systems of support coordinator, district positive behavioral interventions and supports coordinator, and civil rights/Title IX officer.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Beyond her district work, Harper has served as president of the Student Support Team Association for Georgia Educators, an executive board member of the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders, and a presenter for the Special Education Leadership Development Academy.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We are excited to welcome Harper and look forward to the expertise, leadership, and commitment to students and educators that she will bring to our work!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Documentation Folders Available </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The updated Cross-Functional Monitoring Documentation Platform is now open, and LEAs participating in the FY27 monitoring cycle can begin uploading required documentation. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Important:</strong> The platform opens in a new browser window. If your browser’s pop-up blocker is enabled, the platform may not open, and you may be unable to access the system. Please disable pop-up blockers before launching the platform. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To help you get started, please check out the <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-cfm-using-the-cross-functional-monitoring-folder-system-platform" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 CFM: Using the Cross-Functional Monitoring Folder System Platform</a> for a brief navigation and overview. We encourage all LEAs to review the video prior to accessing the platform to become familiar with system navigation and document submission procedures. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Message to Georgia Families from Superintendent Woods </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In celebration of November as Family Engagement Month in Georgia, <a href="https://gadoe.org/press-releases/november-is-family-engagement-month-2/" data-type="link" data-id="https://url.gadoe.org/u65jc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">State School Superintendent Richard Woods shared his annual letter to Georgia families</a>, emphasizing the importance of strong home-school partnerships. His message reminds us that meaningful family engagement begins with trust, open communication, and everyday connections that support student success. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">LEAs are encouraged to share this letter with families through district and school websites, newsletters, social media, and other communication channels. Together, we can ensure every family feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to play an active role in their child’s education. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Opportunity for Public Comment </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Georgia Department of Education invites stakeholders to review proposed updates to State Board of Education Rules and <a href="https://gadoe.org/public-comment/proposed-rulemaking/" data-type="link" data-id="https://gadoe.org/press-releases/november-is-family-engagement-month-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">provide public comment</a> during the open comment period, ending December 7.  </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>English Learners: 160-4-5.02 Language Instruction Program for English Learners  </li>



<li>Special Education: 160-4-7-.12 Dispute Resolution </li>
</ul>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-611620" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">ESOL Program Highlights   </h2><div id="ac-611620" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Office of School Improvement Virtual Workshop Series, Part 2 </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Nov. 18 | From Data to Impact: How LEAs Use EL Data to Improve Outcomes, 9 – 10 a.m.  </strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In session two, discover how two Georgia LEAs translated English learner (EL) data into meaningful action through goal setting, program evaluation, and continuous improvement practices that support student success. Explore how these teams used specific EL data sources, interpreted and analyzed results, and made decisions that supported improved outcomes for EL students. <em>Presenters: LEAs and Moderator: Dr. Meg Baker</em>  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/using-english-learner-el-data-to-improve-outcomes-for-students" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Register</a> in GaDOE Community.  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For more information, contact: <a href="mailto:Marcie.Singletary@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marcie.Singletary@doe.k12.ga.us</a>   </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">WIDA-Facilitated Virtual Webinars for Teachers of English Learners with Disabilities </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>When Language & Disability Meet </strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This workshop explores instructional planning practices for English learners (ELs) with disabilities. Participants will learn how to apply <strong>Universal Design for Learning (UDL)</strong> and the <strong>WIDA English Language Development (ELD) Standards Framework</strong> to support both language development and accessibility. The workshop also examines strategies for collaborative discussions about students’ language and disability needs to inform effective instructional planning and decision-making. </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Dates:</strong> February 17 and 25, 2027 </li>



<li><strong>Time:</strong> 3:30–5 p.m. </li>



<li><strong>Participants:</strong> District & School Leaders, ESOL and Special Education Teachers </li>



<li><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-when-language-and-disability-meet" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Register in GaDOE Community</a> </li>



<li>For more information, contact: <a href="mailto:Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us</a>  </li>
</ul>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-611621" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division for Exceptional Children Highlights </h2><div id="ac-611621" class="c-accordion__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Reminder</strong>: Due November 20 Timelines Prong 2 (for LEAs not at 100%) </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Language Domain Preclusion Requests for 2027 WIDA ACCESS Assessments </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Due Date:</strong> Received on an ongoing basis through November 30 </li>



<li><strong>More Information:</strong> <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/ydyo6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Language Domain Preclusion Request Toolkit</a> </li>



<li><strong>Request Form:</strong> <a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Hyfnh3VH47" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Language Domain Preclusion Request form</a> </li>



<li><strong>Contact</strong>: Amy Haynes, <a href="mailto:Amy.Haynes@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amy.Haynes@doe.k12.ga.us</a>, or your district liaison </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Georgia Parent Mentor Partnership Kickoff Meeting </h3>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="834" height="438" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Picture1.png" alt="Collage of photos from the Georgia Parent Mentor Partnership Kickoff Meeting " class="wp-image-61167" style="width:666px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Picture1.png 834w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Picture1-300x158.png 300w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Picture1-768x403.png 768w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Picture1-624x328.png 624w" sizes="(max-width: 834px) 100vw, 834px" /></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Georgia Parent Mentor Partnership Kickoff Meeting was held October 28–29 at Middle Georgia State University in Macon, bringing together parent mentors, GaDOE staff, and agency partners for two days of professional learning, collaboration, and shared ideas focused on strengthening family engagement and improving outcomes for students with disabilities. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The meeting opened with an inspiring presentation from Justin Old, who encouraged attendees to embrace new perspectives and recognize the impact of working together to support families and students. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We were also excited to announce the 2026 Phil Pickens Award recipients! This annual award honors a parent mentor and special education director who exemplify the Georgia Parent Mentor Partnership’s leadership, vision, and collaborative spirit. Congratulations to:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Teresa Bruce</strong> – Parent Mentor, Franklin County Schools</li>



<li><strong>Cindy Felkins</strong> – Special Education Director, Bleckley County School District</li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Congratulations again, Teresa and Cindy! Thank you for your outstanding leadership and dedication to strengthening family engagement and improving outcomes for students with disabilities. </p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-611622" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division of ESSA Programs Highlights </h2><div id="ac-611622" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA Equitable Services – 2025-2026 Form B is Now Available in ES4PS  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">It’s time to wrap up the 2025-2026 school year. Please complete Form B for the 2025-2026 school year in ES4PS for each private school that participated in equitable services last year. Create and send this form to private school officials for review and sign-off. Please complete and submit the 2025-2026 Form B by <strong>November 20, 2026</strong>. The <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/038fd028-ccb4-4b99-824a-1e02b5e6fc72/1/ES4PS%20-%20Form%20B%20User%20Guide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ES4PS – Form B User Guide</a> is available to assist you in completing this process. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Indicator Recordings Available </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Indicator Recordings are now available in the GaDOE Community PL Catalog. These on-demand webinars provide guidance for LEAs participating in FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring and are a valuable resource for reviewing indicator requirements and monitoring expectations. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Access a list of the <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/59d1adc8-8abc-4142-a701-589ee0dc9dec/1/FY27%20CFM%20Recordings.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Indicator</a> recordings on GaDOE Focus.</p>
</div></div>


Federal Programs Newsletter (11.06.2026)

Federal Programs Newsletter (10.30.2026)

Welcome to Educator Wellbeing, a GaDOE Community Group hosted by GaDOE’s Educator Support & Development division. This space provides practical tools, resources, and strategies to promote educator wellbeing—highlighting proactive wellness practices, school-based initiatives, leadership approaches, and system-level solutions that help educators thrive and sustain their work.

Welcome to Educator Wellbeing, a GaDOE Community Group hosted by GaDOE’s Educator Support &amp; Development division. This space provides practical tools, resources, and strategies to promote educator wellbeing—highlighting proactive wellness practices, school-based initiatives, leadership approaches, and system-level solutions that help educators thrive and sustain their work.

Educator Wellbeing

Peachful Practices — November 2026, Worth Noticing


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA and IDEA Events and Due Dates</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Events  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Oct. 27 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-academy-of-new-federal-programs-leaders-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Academy of New Federal Programs Leaders Series</a>  </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 28–29 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/gapmp-2026-kickoff-meeting-together-we-can-25-years-strong" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaPMP 2026 Kickoff Meeting</a> </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 28 (IDEA)</strong> — Dispute Resolution Workshop – Limited Space Remains (email Charity Roberts, <a href="mailto:charity.roberts@doe.k12.ga.us">charity.roberts@doe.k12.ga.us</a>)</li>



<li><strong>Oct. 28-29 (IDEA)</strong> — GLRS Statewide Meeting (email Jennifer Brendle, <a href="mailto:jennifer.brendle@doe.k12.ga.us">jennifer.brendle@doe.k12.ga.us</a>)</li>



<li><strong>Oct. 28 (ESSA, IDEA, ESOL)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/using-english-learner-el-data-to-improve-outcomes-for-students" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Using English Learner (EL) Data to Improve Outcomes for Students</a> </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 29 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/science-of-reading-series-for-teachers-of-students-with-visual-impairments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Science of Reading Series for Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments</a>  </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 30 (IDEA)</strong> — GLRS Regional Literacy Talks (Metro South, Middle GA, West, West Central) </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 30 (IDEA)</strong> — GLRS Collaborative Communities: Coastal, Southeast, East Central, Southwest) </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 30-Nov. 3 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://naehcy.org/annual-conference/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth Annual Conference</a> </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Please visit the <a href="https://apps.gadoe.org/district-deadlines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard</a> and filter by either Federal Programs or Federal Programs – Special Education.       </li>



<li>Visit <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events.       </li>



<li>FY26 ESSA and IDEA Completion Reports — <strong>Due Oct. 30  </strong> </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Save the Date for the Federal Programs Conference! </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Save the date for the 2027 Federal Programs Conference, <strong>June 9-10, 2027</strong>, at the Georgia International Convention Center. Join us as we focus on “Leading with Impact” through partnerships, listening, and strengthening our work together; registration details are coming soon. </p>


<div class="wp-block-image is-style-black-border">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Option-3-STD-FP-CONF-FY27-1-2-683x1024.png" alt="Save the date for the 2027 Federal Programs Conference, June 9-10, 2027, at the Georgia International Convention Center flyer" class="wp-image-60781" style="aspect-ratio:0.6669941750298266;width:496px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Option-3-STD-FP-CONF-FY27-1-2-683x1024.png 683w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Option-3-STD-FP-CONF-FY27-1-2-200x300.png 200w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Option-3-STD-FP-CONF-FY27-1-2-768x1152.png 768w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Option-3-STD-FP-CONF-FY27-1-2-1024x1536.png 1024w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Option-3-STD-FP-CONF-FY27-1-2-1365x2048.png 1365w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Option-3-STD-FP-CONF-FY27-1-2-624x936.png 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Option-3-STD-FP-CONF-FY27-1-2-scaled.png 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>
</div>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Documentation Folders Available </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The updated Cross-Functional Monitoring Documentation Platform is now open, and LEAs participating in the FY27 monitoring cycle can begin uploading required documentation. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Important: The platform opens in a new browser window. If your browser’s pop-up blocker is enabled, the platform may not open, and you may be unable to access the system. Please disable pop-up blockers before launching the platform. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To help you get started, check out our <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-cfm-using-the-cross-functional-monitoring-folder-system-platform" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>FY27 CFM: Using the Cross-Functional Monitoring Folder System Platform</strong></a> brief navigation and overview video.  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We encourage all LEAs to review the video before accessing the platform to become familiar with system navigation and document submission procedures. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">November is National Family Literacy Month </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Family literacy creates meaningful opportunities for children and adults to learn, grow, and connect. When families read and learn together, they build the foundation for academic success and a lifelong love of learning. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As we celebrate National Family Literacy Month in November, districts and schools are encouraged to promote simple, meaningful ways families can support literacy at home and in their communities. Reading together, sharing family stories, visiting the local library, participating in literacy events, and discussing books are just a few ways to make literacy part of everyday life. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Let’s celebrate the power of family literacy! Consider highlighting family literacy activities, sharing resources with parents and caregivers, and creating opportunities that bring schools, families, and communities together. Small moments of learning can make a lasting impact on student success! </p>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-609210" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">ESOL Program Highlights</h2><div id="ac-609210" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Professional Learning (PL) Opportunities for Teachers and Leaders of English Learners (ELs)  </h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Office of School Improvement Virtual Workshops: Using EL Data to Improve Outcomes for Students  </h4>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Oct. 28 | Understanding WIDA ACCESS Assessment Data, 9-10 a.m</strong>.<em> </em> 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>In session one, participants will learn how to interpret WIDA ACCESS data, identify meaningful trends, and use key reports better to understand English learner progress and language development needs. <em>Presenters: Dr. Meg Baker & Noel Wilkinson</em>  </li>
</ul>
</li>



<li><strong>Nov. 18 | From Data to Impact: How LEAs Use EL Data to Improve Outcomes, 9-10 a.m. </strong> 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>In session two, discover how two Georgia LEAs translated English learner (EL) data into meaningful action through goal setting, program evaluation, and continuous improvement practices that support student success. Explore how these teams used specific EL data sources, interpreted and analyzed results, and made decisions that supported improved outcomes for EL students. <em>Presenters: LEAs and Moderator: Dr. Meg Baker</em>  </li>
</ul>
</li>



<li><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/using-english-learner-el-data-to-improve-outcomes-for-students" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Register</strong></a> in GaDOE Community.  </li>



<li><strong>Contact:</strong> Marcie Singletary, <a href="mailto:Marcie.Singletary@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marcie.Singletary@doe.k12.ga.us</a> </li>
</ul>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">WIDA Virtual Workshop: Actionable Approaches for Centering Newcomers  </h4>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Nov. 5 & 12, 3:30-5 p.m. </strong> 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>This <strong>two-part</strong> virtual workshop and <strong>one self-paced module</strong> equip K-12 educators with practical strategies for supporting newly arrived English learners (ELs) or students with lower levels of English language proficiency (ELP).  </li>
</ul>
</li>



<li><strong>Seats still available</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-actionable-practices-for-newcomers" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Register</strong></a> in GaDOE Community.  </li>



<li><strong>Contact:</strong> Noel Wilkinson, <a href="mailto:Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us</a>   </li>
</ul>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">WIDA In-Person Workshop: Scaffolding Learning Through Language  </h4>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>2-day in-person workshop — <strong>Dec. 8-9, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. </strong> </li>



<li><strong>Location:</strong> GaDOE, East Tower, 15th Floor, Room 1566, 205 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive SE, Atlanta, GA 30334  </li>



<li><strong>Participants:</strong> Teachers with English learners in their classrooms, instructional coaches, ESOL coordinators  </li>



<li><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-in-person-workshop-scaffolding-learning-through-language" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Register</strong></a> in the GaDOE Community Professional Learning Events Catalog. Search WIDA for in-person events.  </li>



<li>See our <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/fe700e90-6757-4668-8cdb-bf378fa5caf4/1/Flyer_Scaffolding%20Learning%20Through%20Language.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>flyer</strong></a> for more information.  </li>



<li><strong>Contact:</strong> Noel Wilkinson, <a href="mailto:Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us</a> </li>
</ul>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">WIDA Hybrid Workshop: Teacher Leaders: Planning with the ELD Standards  </h4>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Live virtual webinar — <strong>Dec. 3, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.</strong>  </li>



<li>In-person workshop — <strong>Dec. 10, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.</strong>, at the GaDOE offices, East Tower, 15th Floor, Room 1566, 205 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive SE, Atlanta, GA 30334  </li>



<li><strong>Participants:</strong> Teacher leaders who provide professional learning on the WIDA ELD Standards Framework, co-plan with content teachers, have experience designing and evaluating content lessons, and have a strong background in the WIDA ELD Standards Framework and in working with English learners.  </li>



<li><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-hybrid-workshop-teacher-leaders-planning-with-the-eld-standards" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Register</strong></a> in the GaDOE Community Professional Learning Events Catalog. Search WIDA for in-person events.  </li>



<li>See our <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/de8cb9da-8469-4c3b-b9d0-0c61c0a205ea/1/Flyer_Teacher%20Leaders_%20Planning%20With%20the%20WIDA%20ELD%20Standards%20Framework.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>flyer</strong></a> for more information.  </li>



<li><strong>Contact:</strong> Noel Wilkinson, <a href="mailto:Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us</a>   </li>
</ul>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-609211" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division for Exceptional Children Highlights</h2><div id="ac-609211" class="c-accordion__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please review the information below and the <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/1x965" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Due Dates Calendar</strong></a> for deadlines and key dates. </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Reminder:</strong> <strong>Oct. 27</strong> — Superintendent’s sign-off deadline and closing date for FTE-1, CPI-1, Student Class-1. </li>
</ul>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-609212" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division of ESSA Program Highlights</h2><div id="ac-609212" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA Equitable Services – 2025-2026 Form B is Now Available in ES4PS  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">It’s time to wrap up the 2025-2026 school year. Please complete Form B for the 2025-2026 school year in ES4PS for each private school that participated in equitable services last year. You must create and send this form to private school officials for their review and sign-off. Please complete and submit the 2025-2026 Form B by Nov. 20<strong>, 2026</strong>. The <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/038fd028-ccb4-4b99-824a-1e02b5e6fc72/1/ES4PS%20-%20Form%20B%20User%20Guide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>ES4PS – Form B User Guide</strong></a> is available to assist you in completing this process. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Indicator Recordings Available </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Indicator Recordings are now available in the GaDOE Community PL Catalog. These on-demand webinars guide LEAs participating in FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring and are a valuable resource for reviewing indicator requirements and monitoring expectations. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A list of the <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/59d1adc8-8abc-4142-a701-589ee0dc9dec/1/FY27%20CFM%20Recordings.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Indicator recordings</strong></a> is available on the GaDOE Focus platform.</p>
</div></div>


Federal Programs Newsletter (10.23.2026)

Welcome to the Georgia Department of Education Science Community. Here we will discuss topics related to science education.

GaDOE Science Updates October 2026

Federal Programs Newsletter (10.16.2026)

Federal Programs Newsletter (10.09.2026)

Tech News October 2026

Welcome to GaDOE Fine Arts! We're glad you've joined us. This group was created with you in mind as we seek to provide the best content-specific professional development as possible--specifically for Georgia's Fine Arts Teachers! 

This is the main Fine Arts group. In this group, you'll find subgroups of the five most common Fine Arts content areas that are taught in our schools in Georgia: Dance, Music, Theatre, and Visual/Media Arts. You can join these Subgroups by clicking on the Subgroups tab on the Navigation Menu. 

In our Fine Arts Subgroups, you'll find even more content-specific groups for each of the main Fine Arts content areas. Tou can join those subgroups for highly content-specific professional development webinars and discussions on topics that are specific to what YOU are teaching! 

We hope that these discussions, webinars, and instructional supports aid you in providing ALL students in Georgia an excellent Fine Arts education.

Fine Arts Newsletter // Fall 2026

Federal Programs Newsletter (10.02.2026)

Welcome to the Georgia Department of Education's Certified Teacher Induction Program Community! We are excited to share ideas and resources across the state as we work to improve induction programs in Georgia school districts.

Georgia Department of Education's Certified Teacher Induction Program

GaDOE Certified Teacher Induction Program — October 2026

Peachful Practices — October 2026, Face Your Fears


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA and IDEA Events and Due Dates</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Events  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>September</strong>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Sept. 28 (IDEA)</strong> — Collaborative Communities – SW GLRS </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 28 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/annual-neglected-and-delinquent-nd-survey-support" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Title I, Part D Training – N&D Survey</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 29 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/21st-cclc-high-quality-implementation-rubric-pilot-and-capacity-building" target="_blank" rel="noopener">21<sup>st</sup> CCLC High-Quality Implementation Rubric Training</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 29 (ESOL)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-bringing-language-into-focus" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WIDA Workshop: Bringing Language Into Focus</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 30 (IDEA)</strong> — GLRS Director Virtual Meeting </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 30</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/rei-summits" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE REI Summit</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 30 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/open-office-hours-for-21st-cclc-program-readiness-assessment-tool" target="_blank" rel="noopener">21<sup>st</sup> CCLC Program Readiness Assessment Tool</a> </li>
</ul>
</li>



<li><strong>Ocotober</strong>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Oct. 1 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/title-iv-part-b-fy27-monitoring-overview" target="_blank" rel="noopener">21<sup>st</sup> CCLC Monitoring Overview</a> </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 1 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/preschool-numeracy-training-numbers-are-everywhere" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Preschool Numeracy Training</a> </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 1 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-special-education-school-administrators-academy-sesaa" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Special Education School Administrators Academy (SESAA)</a>   </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 1 (IDEA and ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/data-collection-and-validation-transmission-dates-and-documentation" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE Data Collection and Validation Open Office Hours</a>  </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 1 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-transition-postschool-outcomes-webinar-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Transition Postschool Outcomes Webinar Series</a> </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 2 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/exceptional-leader-reading-certification" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ESSA Prof. Qualifications: Updates on Literacy and Special Ed</a> </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 2 (ESSA)</strong> — Title I Part C State Parent Advisory Council Meeting </li>



<li><strong>Oct. 2 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/cfm-indicator-15-1-open-office-hours" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CFM Indicator 15.1 Open Office Hours</a>  </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Please visit the <a href="https://apps.gadoe.org/district-deadlines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard</a> and filter by either Federal Programs or Federal Programs – Special Education.      </li>



<li>Visit <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events.      </li>



<li>Annual Prayer Certification – Due October 1   </li>



<li>Annual GEPA Certification Statement – Due October 1  </li>



<li>FY27 ESSA and IDEA Budgets – Due October 1  </li>



<li>FY26 ESSA and IDEA Completion Reports – Due October 30  </li>
</ul>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-603900" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division of ESSA Program Highlights</h2><div id="ac-603900" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">School Improvement Plan (SIP) Tech Tip: <em>Paste as Plain Text</em> </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For LEAs using the School Improvement Plan (SIP) template in My Georgia Insights, you must paste content as plain text when copying information from Word documents, websites, PDFs, or other external sources. These sources often contain hidden formatting, HTML code, or special characters that are not visible in the source. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">When content with embedded formatting is pasted directly into the SIP, unwanted code or special characters can be introduced into the plan. This may affect how information displays within the platform, create formatting inconsistencies, or cause unexpected issues when generating and printing SIP reports. In some cases, hidden characters may appear in printed documents, affecting readability and the plan’s professional appearance. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To avoid these issues, users are encouraged first to paste copied content into a plain text editor, such as Notepad, before copying it into the SIP. Removing hidden formatting helps ensure that plans display correctly within the platform and print cleanly. Taking this simple step can prevent formatting problems and improve the overall quality and readability of your School Improvement Plan. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">21<sup>st</sup> CCLC Program Readiness Assessment Tools and On-Demand Video Series </h3>


<div class="wp-block-image is-style-black-border">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><a href="https://url.gadoe.org/2syy2" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Picture1-2-683x1024.png" alt="Georgia 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Program Readiness Series infographic" class="wp-image-60391" style="aspect-ratio:0.6669951997663764;width:181px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Picture1-2-683x1024.png 683w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Picture1-2-200x300.png 200w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Picture1-2-624x936.png 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Picture1-2.png 736w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></a></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Georgia 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Program Readiness Series is a practical self-assessment designed to help organizations and school districts prepare to launch or expand a high-quality out-of-school-time program. Developed and facilitated by SERVE, the series helps teams assess their readiness, identify strengths and capacity gaps, prioritize next steps, and strengthen the people, partnerships, practices, and systems that support program quality. Participants will examine four key areas—program planning and launch, program implementation, continuous improvement, and fiscal compliance—and use a companion scoring workbook and how-to video to build a focused action plan.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Access the <strong><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/bf8ecbc2-e5b2-4973-a65e-075655b389f0/1/21st%20CCLC%20Readiness%20Series.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">21st CCLC Program Readiness Series</a></strong> tools and the on-demand video series to learn more.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA Prof. Qualifications: Updates on Literacy and Special Ed </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Join us Friday, <strong>October 2</strong>, at <strong>9 a.m</strong>. for information on the impact of recently legislated literacy requirements on the certification and professional qualifications for special education teachers within the current professional qualifications and in-field certification framework. <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/exceptional-leader-reading-certification" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Register</strong></a> in GaDOE Community.</p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-603901" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">ESOL Program Highlights </h2><div id="ac-603901" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">WIDA Virtual Workshop for Teachers of English Learners </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Actionable Approaches for Centering Newcomers, November 5 & 12, at 3:30 p.m. </strong>— This two-part virtual workshop and one self-paced module equip K-12 educators with practical strategies for supporting newly arrived English learners (ELs) or students with lower levels of English language proficiency. Through interactive activities and discussion, participants will explore ways to collaborate with colleagues, honor newcomers’ unique experiences, and provide meaningful access to grade-level content. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Seats are still available. <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-actionable-practices-for-newcomers" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Register</strong></a> today in GaDOE Community. Contact Noel Wilkinson via email at <a href="mailto:Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us">Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us</a> with questions.   </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Office of School Improvement Virtual Workshops for School Leaders & Staff </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Join the two-part webinar series: Using English Learner (EL) Data to Improve Outcomes for Students. <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/using-english-learner-el-data-to-improve-outcomes-for-students" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Register</strong></a> today in GaDOE Community. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>October 28 | Understanding WIDA ACCESS Assessment Data, 9-10 a.m.</strong> <br>In session one, participants will learn how to interpret WIDA ACCESS data, identify meaningful trends, and use key reports to better understand English learner progress and language development needs. <em>Presenters: Dr. Meg Baker & Noel Wilkinson</em> </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>November 18 | From Data to Impact: How LEAs Use EL Data to Improve Outcomes, 9-10 a.m.</strong> <br>In session two, discover how four Georgia LEAs translated English learner data into meaningful action through goal setting, program evaluation, and continuous improvement practices that support student success. Explore how these teams used specific EL data sources, interpreted and analyzed results, and made decisions that supported improved outcomes for English learners. <em>Presenters: LEAs and Moderators: Dr. Meg Baker & SDI personnel</em> </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cross-Functional Monitoring (CFM) Indicator 15.1 Open Office Hour </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Join us on Friday, <strong>October 2</strong>, at <strong>11 a.m</strong>. with any questions you may have about the CFM process for Indicator 15.1 – English Learner Entrance & Exit Procedures. <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/cfm-indicator-15-1-open-office-hours" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Register</strong></a> in GaDOE Community </p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-603902" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division for Exceptional Children </h2><div id="ac-603902" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>September 28</strong> — Child Find Repository Closes: Update now </li>



<li><strong>September 30</strong> — Continuation of Services: Upload documentation now </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Visit <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>GaDOE Community</strong></a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cell Phone Ban Reminder </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As a reminder, House Bill 1009, codified in O.C.G.A. § 20-2-324.8, required local school systems and public schools to adopt and maintain policies governing student access to personal electronic devices during the school day by July 2027. Districts should review their local policies to ensure they are aligned with the requirements of the law. When implementing these policies, districts should remember that the law requires students to be permitted access to personal electronic devices when such access is explicitly required by an: </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Individualized Education Program (IEP) </li>



<li>Section 504 Plan </li>



<li>Medical Plan for medical or educational purposes </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Additionally, the policies shall establish clear procedures for off-site events or activities, including all school-sponsored events and field trips, daily transportation, athletic and extracurricular events, and other instructional opportunities that do not occur on school grounds, including, but not limited to, participation in the dual enrollment program, work-based learning programs, and apprenticeship programs. See the <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/documents/guidance-to-support-the-distraction-free-education-act-august-2025"><strong>Guidance to Support the Distraction-Free Education Act</strong></a> for additional information. Contact the GaDOE Policy Team, <a href="mailto:policy@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">policy@doe.k12.ga.us</a>, with questions. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA Prof. Qualifications: Updates on Literacy and Special Ed </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Join us Friday, <strong>October 2</strong>, at <strong>9 a.m</strong>. for information on the impact of recently legislated literacy requirements on the certification and professional qualifications for special education teachers within the current professional qualifications and in-field certification framework. <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/exceptional-leader-reading-certification" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Register</strong></a> in GaDOE Community.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Special Education State Data Collections Open Office Hours — October 6 </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Division for Exceptional Children Data and GO-IEP Team offers open office hours and webinars to support districts in submitting required state reporting applications. District staff are encouraged to join these sessions, which provide special education data resources to support a successful reporting year. <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/special-education-state-data-collections-open-office-hours-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Register</strong></a> in the GaDOE Community. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Exceptional Leader Relevant Resources Now Live</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We’re excited to share a new GaDOE Focus resource page for leaders from the GaDOE Division of Exceptional Children: <strong>Exceptional Leader Relevant Resources!</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This page is a <strong>one-stop shop</strong> for the resources you may need throughout the school year, including helpful documents, trainings, and contact information. <strong>Please access this new resource via GaConnects Staff</strong>: open GaDOE Focus > Federal Programs > Special Education > Exceptional Leader Relevant Resources. We hope this makes it easier to find the information and support you need, all in one convenient place!</p>
</div></div>


Federal Programs Newsletter (09.25.2026)


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA and IDEA Events and Due Dates</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Events  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Sept. 21-22 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-right-tools-right-outcomes-special-education-finance-budget-data" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Special Education Budget and Data: Filling your Toolbox with the Right Tools for the Job</a>   </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 22–23 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/special-education-leadership-academy-selda" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Special Education Leadership Academy (SELDA)</a> – UPDATE: Now Virtual! </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 22 (IDEA and ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-federal-programs-essa-and-idea-timely-talks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Federal Programs (ESSA and IDEA) Timely Talks</a>  </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 22 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/educational-team-collaboration-roles-responsibilities-and-the-iep" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Collaboration Between Teachers of the Deaf and Educational Interpreters: Roles, Responsibilities, and the IEP</a>  </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 23-25 (ESSA, IDEA, ESOL)</strong> — <a href="https://www.gael.org/events/2026-fall-gacis-conference/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE C&I Conference and Annual GACIS Conference</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 24 (ESSA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-academy-of-new-federal-programs-leaders-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Academy of New Federal Program Leaders Series</a>  </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 24 (IDEA)</strong> — GLRS Collaborative Communities – Northwest GA  </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 24 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/data-collection-and-validation-transmission-dates-and-documentation" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Data Collection and Validation Open Office Hours</a>  </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 24 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/writing-compliant-transition-plans-webinar-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Writing Compliant Transition Plans</a>  </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 25 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/statewide-consortia-for-teachers-of-the-visually-impaired-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Statewide Consortia for Teachers of the Visually Impaired</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 25 (ESSA)</strong> — Title I, Part C Regional Parent Advisory Councils   </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Please visit the <a href="https://apps.gadoe.org/district-deadlines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard</a> and filter by either Federal Programs or Federal Programs – Special Education.      </li>



<li>Visit <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events.      </li>



<li>Annual Prayer Certification — Due October 1   </li>



<li>Annual GEPA Certification Statement — Due October 1  </li>



<li>FY27 ESSA and IDEA Budgets — Due October 1  </li>



<li>FY26 ESSA and IDEA Completion Reports — Due October 30  </li>
</ul>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-601840" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division for Exceptional Children Highlights </h2><div id="ac-601840" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders<strong>    </strong> </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Sept. 28</strong> — Child Find Repository Closes: Update now </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 30</strong> — Continuation of Services: Upload documentation now </li>
</ul>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-601841" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">ESOL Language Program Highlights </h2><div id="ac-601841" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reporting English Learner Status & ESOL Services </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please ensure your district’s ESOL and SIS coordinators review locally available ad hoc reports on English learner (EL) status and ESOL services. This collaborative review helps verify data accuracy and supports accurate <strong>FTE-1 reporting in October.</strong> </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Training </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/esol-munch-learn-consistency-in-el-and-esol-data-reporting" data-type="link" data-id="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/esol-munch-learn-consistency-in-el-and-esol-data-reporting">Sept. 9 ESOL Directors’ Munch & Learn Webinar: Ensuring Consistency in EL and ESOL Data Reporting</a> </li>



<li><strong>Resource</strong> — <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/9d14be28-0424-409e-ae7a-d2087fb16176/1/Guide%20to%20Reporting%20Data%20for%20the%20State%20ESOL%20Program.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Guide to Reporting Data for the State ESOL Program</a> </li>



<li><strong>Questions</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/data-collection-and-validation-transmission-dates-and-documentation" data-type="link" data-id="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/data-collection-and-validation-transmission-dates-and-documentation">Register for the Sept. 24, 1 p.m., Data Collection and Validation Open Office Hour</a> </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FTE-1 EL and ESOL Data Elements </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>EL Status </strong> 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Student Primary Language </li>



<li>Date of ELP Screener </li>



<li>EL = Y or N </li>



<li>EL Exit Date </li>



<li>Exit Reason Values: 1, 3, or 4 </li>



<li>Post Exit Year Status  </li>



<li>EL = 1, 2, 3, 4, or F </li>
</ul>
</li>



<li><strong>ESOL Services </strong>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>ESOL = Y or N </li>



<li>Non-ESOL Reason Values: 1, 2, 3, or 5 </li>



<li>Number of ESOL Segments </li>



<li>ESOL Delivery Model = 1, 2, 4, 5, A, 6, 8, B, or 9 </li>



<li>Course Number (content or ESOL, as required by the delivery model) </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ELP Screener Application in My Georgia Insights </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">GaDOE Technology Services has scheduled four repeated sessions for ESOL program leaders to learn about the ELP screener application in My Georgia Insights. Learners will explore this efficient method for recording, submitting, and documenting student’s English learner eligibility. The session also provides insights into accessing immediate information regarding transfer students’ EL status, date of ELP screener, name of ELP screener, and screener scores, which supports accurate and timely identification of ELs for ESOL program services. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Dates:</strong> September 24, October 19, November 9, and May 13 </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/elp-screener-simplified-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Register online.</a>  </p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-601842" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division of ESSA Programs Highlights </h2><div id="ac-601842" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">State-Level Equitable Services Opportunity for Private School Educators  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Just as LEAs provide equitable services for educators in participating private schools through federal programs, GaDOE also provides equitable services through state-level activities that address identified needs. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Earlier this week, private school officials were notified of an opportunity for mathematics educators and instructional leaders to participate in the <strong>2026 Georgia Mathematics Conference (GMC)</strong>, October 14-16, at the Rock Eagle 4-H Center in Eatonton. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">LEA federal programs directors may receive questions from private school officials regarding this opportunity. Questions may be forwarded to <a href="mailto:ombudsman@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ombudsman@doe.k12.ga.us</a>. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Annual Survey of Local Institutions for Neglected and Delinquent Children </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">GaDOE has an annual requirement to collect the number of students enrolled in residential facilities for neglected or delinquent (N&D) children located in local educational agencies (LEAs). The annual survey is required by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the information is used to determine Title I funding. This year’s survey generates funding for the 2027-2028 school year. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The submission of this survey is critical in supporting the educational needs of children and youth residing in local and state residential facilities. We encourage LEAs to engage in meaningful consultations with their local neglected and delinquent facilities to ensure that the children and youth who reside in them are provided with the same access to education and opportunities as their peers. </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/a6d3f99c-966d-4b0a-9d70-2e5b70bf351e/1/Directions%20-%20Fall%202026%20LEA%20ND%20Survey.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Additional Information and Directions</a></li>



<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/items/2159fe63-9aa9-4094-bf39-7a4f2fd79739/1/?.vi=file&attachment.uuid=0728bd13-57e7-4e3f-88d1-07d278c37f68" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facility Form Template</a></li>



<li><a href="https://url.gadoe.org/9eov" target="_blank" rel="noopener">N&D Survey Webinar Recording</a></li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">GaDOE staff will host the N&D Survey Nibble and Discuss session on September 28 at 11 am. This session will provide an opportunity for LEAs to ask questions and receive answers about the process, required documentation, and submission of the N&D survey. <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/annual-neglected-and-delinquent-nd-survey-support" data-type="link" data-id="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/annual-neglected-and-delinquent-nd-survey-support"><strong>Register</strong></a> today for the N&D Survey Nibble and Discuss session. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Submission Period: <strong>Oct. 1</strong>–<strong>Dec. 4, 2026.</strong>   </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you need further technical assistance, please feel free to contact Grants Program Consultant, Whittney Mitchell, via email at <a href="mailto:wmitchell@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wmitchell@doe.k12.ga.us</a> or at 678-621-3611. </p>
</div></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Interested in Employment Opportunities with GaDOE?   </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please review the current <a href="https://www.gadoe.org/Finance-and-Business-Operations/Human-Resources/Pages/JobOpenings.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE job openings</a>. Filter by agency name: “Education, Department of.” Current vacancies include: IDEA Program Specialist and ESSA Coordinated Program Manager. </p>


Federal Programs Newsletter (09.18.2026)

Tech News September 2026

Federal Programs Newsletter (09.11.2026)

Welcome to the Office of School and District Improvement Community! This group is recommended for all district and school leaders who have a passion for the work of school improvement. Here we will discuss common problems of practice, share resources among colleagues across the state, and provide essential information to support district and school improvement efforts.

Office of School and District Improvement

SDI Updates Fall 2026


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA and IDEA Events and Due Dates</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Events  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Sept. 7 </strong>— State Holiday GaDOE Closed </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 9-10 (IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-right-tools-right-outcomes-special-education-finance-budget-data" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FY27 Special Education Finance, Budget and Data Training</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 9 (IDEA) </strong>—<strong> </strong>Great IDEAs Webinar Series, <a href="https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Foconeeresa.ascriptica.com%2Fcourse%2Fcourseviewdetails%3Fclass_id%3D2162&data=05%7C02%7CCatherine.Gossett%40doe.k12.ga.us%7Cd06cd4898d5c472705f208deecd7e39d%7C1aa55c8303434ecbbd39bd7f43876bd7%7C0%7C0%7C639208609239971869%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2FlBMsCITtAJAB2rSOyWVqPjHo0lkqn2ZCAFvKmUDPuc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Register through GLRS</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 9 (ESOL) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/2026-27-esol-program-leaders-munch-learn-webinar-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ESOL Directors Munch and Learn</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 10 (IDEA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-georgia-parent-mentor-partnership-gapmp-power-hour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Parent Mentor Power Hour Webinar</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 10 (IDEA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-school-psychologist-regional-lead-meeting" target="_blank" rel="noopener">School Psychologist Regional Lead Meeting</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 11 (ESSA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/title-i-part-c-new-lea-student-services-provider-ssp-data-training" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Title I, Part C – New Staff Reports Training</a> </li>



<li><strong>Sept. 11 (ESSA and ESOL) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/cfm-indicator-15-1-open-office-hours" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CFM Indicator 15.1 Open Office Hours</a> </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Please visit the <a href="https://apps.gadoe.org/district-deadlines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard</a> and filter by either Federal Programs or Federal Programs – Special Education.     </li>



<li>Visit <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events.     </li>



<li>Final FY26 ESSA and IDEA Budget amendments – Due August 31 </li>



<li>FY26 Financial Submission (DE46) for actual expenditures – Due September 18 </li>



<li>FY27 Title I, Part A Program Types – Due September 15 </li>



<li>Annual Prayer Certification – Due October 1  </li>



<li>Annual GEPA Certification Statement – Due October 1 </li>



<li>FY27 ESSA and IDEA Budgets – Due October 1 </li>



<li>FY26 ESSA and IDEA Completion Reports – Due October 30 </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Seeking Nominations for the 2026-2028 State School Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council (PAC) </h2>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="512" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/PAC-Banner-Newsletter-1-1024x512.png" alt="" class="wp-image-59728" style="width:712px;height:auto" role="none" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/PAC-Banner-Newsletter-1-1024x512.png 1024w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/PAC-Banner-Newsletter-1-300x150.png 300w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/PAC-Banner-Newsletter-1-768x384.png 768w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/PAC-Banner-Newsletter-1-1536x768.png 1536w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/PAC-Banner-Newsletter-1-2048x1024.png 2048w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/PAC-Banner-Newsletter-1-624x312.png 624w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">State School Superintendent Richard Woods seeks nominations for parents to serve on the 2026-2028 State School Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council (PAC).  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The State School Superintendent’s PAC is a group of parents from across the state that provides input on new policies, projects, and materials that impact students and their families. Advisory Council members are particularly focused on increasing parent and family engagement to ensure student academic success. Members serve as advisors and meet with the State School Superintendent several times throughout their two-year term.  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please complete the <a href="https://gadoesa.jotform.com/261824474530053" target="_blank" rel="noopener">State School Superintendent’s 2026-2028 Parent Advisory Council Nomination Form</a> to nominate a parent.  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Nominations are due by Friday, September 11, 2026.</strong> </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you have any questions, please contact Mandi Griffin at <a href="mailto:mgriffin@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mgriffin@doe.k12.ga.us</a>. </p>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-598490" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division for Exceptional Children Highlights  </h2><div id="ac-598490" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>September 11</strong> — Review 2024-2025 Annual Report </li>



<li><strong>September 18 </strong>— Timeline Prong 1 Due (LEAs not 100%) & Timelines: Names Verification Due (LEAs at 100%)  </li>



<li><strong>September 28 </strong>— Child Find Repository Closes: Update Now </li>



<li><strong>September 30</strong> — Continuation of Services (upload documentation now) </li>
</ul>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-598491" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division of ESSA Programs Highlights </h2><div id="ac-598491" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Title IX, Part A McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth Survey  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">GaDOE has an annual requirement to collect the number of homeless students enrolled and the educational support services provided by LEAs. All LEAs, regardless of whether they receive McKinney-Vento Program (MVP) funds, are required to submit this report. The LEA, typically the homeless liaison, will collect the required data, verify that the information is correct, and complete the survey. Each LEA superintendent ensures the accuracy of this data by submitting the final data to GaDOE through the consolidated application approval process. Records supporting the requested data submitted in this survey must be maintained at the local level for five years, or until any pending program audits are resolved after that period. The MVP Survey data collection form is available online via the FY27 consolidated application.  </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Additional Information:</strong> <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/xpmv3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Annual MVP Survey Instructions</a>  </li>



<li><strong>Deadline:</strong> September 30 at 11:59 p.m.  </li>



<li><strong>Contact:</strong> Whittney Mitchell, <a href="mailto:wmitchell@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wmitchell@doe.k12.ga.us</a>  </li>
</ul>
</div></div>


Federal Programs Newsletter (09.04.2026)

GaDOE Certified Teacher Induction Program — September 2026

Peachful Practices — September 2026, Fall into Balance

Federal Programs Newsletter (08.28.2026)


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA and IDEA Events and Due Dates</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Events  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>August</strong>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>24-25</strong> (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-federal-programs-cross-functional-monitoring-in-person-workshop" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Workshop</a> </li>



<li><strong>25</strong> (IDEA) — SELDA New Mentor Orientation – Save the Date! </li>



<li><strong>26</strong> (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/supporting-swds-with-georgias-k-12-mathematics-standards-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Supporting SWDs with Georgia’s K-12 Mathematics Standards</a> </li>



<li><strong>26-28</strong> (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/2026-27-georgia-data-conference" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Data Collections Conference</a> </li>



<li><strong>26-27</strong> — <a href="https://georgiaasyd.org/conference/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Afterschool Youth and Development Conference</a> </li>



<li><strong>31</strong> (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/go-iep-open-office-hours-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GO-IEP Open Office Hours</a>  </li>



<li><strong>31</strong> (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/go-504-open-office-hours-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GO-504 Open Office Hours</a>   </li>



<li><strong>31</strong> (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/special-education-state-data-collections-open-office-hours-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Special Education State Data Collection Open Office Hours</a>  </li>



<li><strong>31</strong> (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-coaching-plc-for-special-education-literacy-cohort-coaches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Coaching PLC for Special Education Literacy Cohort Coaches</a> </li>
</ul>
</li>



<li><strong>September</strong> 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>1-2</strong> (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-right-tools-right-outcomes-special-education-finance-budget-data" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Right Tools, Right Outcomes: Special Education Finance, Budget & Data</a>   </li>



<li><strong>1</strong> (ESSA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-academy-of-new-federal-programs-leaders-series" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Academy of New Federal Programs Leaders Series</a>  </li>



<li><strong>2</strong> (IDEA) — GLRS Directors Open Office Hours </li>



<li><strong>3-4</strong> (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-federal-programs-cross-functional-monitoring-in-person-workshop" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Federal Programs Cross-Functional Monitoring In-Person Workshop</a>  </li>



<li><strong>3</strong> (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-special-education-school-administrators-academy-sesaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Special Education School Administrators Academy (SESAA)</a>  </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Please visit the <a href="https://apps.gadoe.org/district-deadlines" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard</a> and filter by either Federal Programs or Federal Programs – Special Education.   </li>



<li>Visit <a href="https://community.gadoe.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events.   </li>



<li>Annual Prayer Certification – Due October 1 </li>



<li>Annual GEPA Certification Statement – Due October 1  </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FY26 Federal Grant Cycle Closeout (ESSA and IDEA) </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please note the following FY26 Federal Grant Cycle closeout deadlines for all federal grants: </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Final FY26 ConApp budget amendments: Due August 31 </li>



<li>FY26 Financial Submission (DE46) for actual expenditures: Due September 18 </li>



<li>FY26 Completion Reports: Due October 30 </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">These three submissions should be consistent and aligned. Final budget amendments, reported expenditures, and completion report data should accurately reflect the same use of funds. </p>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-595090" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division for Exceptional Children Highlights </h2><div id="ac-595090" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Reminders</strong> </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>August 31 Deadline for Prior Fiscal Year IDEA Budget Amendments </li>



<li>September 18 Timeline Prong 1 Due (LEAs not 100%) & Timelines: Names Verification Due (LEAs at 100%)  </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">GTID Reactivation Requests </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">GTID Reactivation requests for all students who were reported as graduated with a General Education Diploma (GED) in error must be received by GaDOE no later than September 30 of the fiscal year. The LEA should send a request to reactivate the GTID using the GUIDE application in the MyGaDOE Portal as soon as possible. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">GUIDE will notify special education of this request for students with disabilities. The assigned GaDOE Program Specialist, Lisa Jenkins (<a href="mailto:lisa.jenkins@doe.k12.ga.us">lisa.jenkins@doe.k12.ga.us</a>), will contact the LEA with additional information regarding students with disabilities. LEAs will need to send additional documentation to her through portal email. LEAs that submitted Student Record (SR) on time will lose 0.5 point for reporting inaccurate information on the SR line of the Timely and Accurate Report.</p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-595091" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division of ESSA Programs Highlights </h2><div id="ac-595091" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Title I, Part A Program Types Due September 15 </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">LEAs must complete the FY27 Title I, Part A Program Types in the ConApp by September 15. To complete this requirement, first finalize the Eligible Attendance Area tab. Then, navigate to the School Allocations tab and, in the Type column, select the appropriate program type for each school: </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>SWP — Schoolwide Program </li>



<li>TA — Targeted Assistance Program </li>



<li>Neglected — Neglected Program </li>



<li>None — School does not operate a Title I, Part A program </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Accurately identifying each school’s program type is a required data-reporting element for the FY27 grant cycle.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Georgia McKinney-Vento Program Self-Assessment Tool </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As you kick off the new school year, we’re excited to share a new resource to support your McKinney-Vento Program (MVP) self-assessment and monitoring efforts. This new resource is posted on GaDOE Focus > Title Programs > Program Resources and Guidance. The Georgia McKinney-Vento Program Self-Assessment Tool is designed to help Local Education Agencies (LEAs) assess program implementation, strengthen practices, and ensure compliance with federal requirements. The tool outlines monitoring requirements, examples of acceptable documentation, and guiding questions to help LEAs evaluate their current practices and identify opportunities for improvement. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We hope you’ll use this resource throughout the year to strengthen your program, support your team, and continue providing high-quality services to students and families experiencing homelessness. Check it out and let us know how it supports your work.  </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Resource: <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/fb929153-3790-419d-b453-62b229ea8881/1/GaDOE%20MVP%20Self-Assessment%20Tool.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia McKinney-Vento Program Self-Assessment Tool</a> </li>



<li>Additional information: <a href="https://www.cognitoforms.com/UNCG4/mvptarequest" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SERVE/MVP Partners Technical Assistance Request</a>  </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Information Shared with Private School Officials  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">On August 17, an email was sent to private school officials with important information about federal programs. The message included information regarding the following topics:  </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>GaDOE DE Form 1111 Private School Report of Students Enrolled </li>



<li>GaDOE Advisory Committee for State-Level Equitable Services & Invitation to Participate </li>



<li>Equitable Services Training Opportunity </li>



<li>Equitable Services Reservation </li>



<li>ESSA Ombudsman  </li>



<li>Laws and Guidance </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">You can review the <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/y3ryk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">email sent to private school officials on August 17, 2026, online.</a> </p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-595092" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">ESOL Program Highlights </h2><div id="ac-595092" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Grow Your Impact for English Learners this Fall!  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Join two engaging virtual professional learning opportunities from WIDA designed to help educators of English learners (ELs) strengthen language development and instruction.  </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Bringing Language into Focus: Expectations, Functions, and Features </strong>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>September 29 & October 6, 3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.  </li>



<li><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-bringing-language-into-focus" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Community Registration</a></li>
</ul>
</li>



<li><strong>Information Actionable Practices for Centering Newcomers  </strong>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>November 5 & 12, 3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.  </li>



<li><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-actionable-practices-for-newcomers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Community Registration</a> </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Registration</strong> is open until <strong>August 28, 2026</strong>. There is a <strong>registration limit</strong> of <strong>60 participants</strong>. Preference will be given to teams of two educators from the same school system, encouraging collaborative learning and implementation of new practices at the local level.   </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Contact:</strong> Noel Wilkinson, ESOL Program Specialist, <a href="mailto:noel.wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">noel.wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us</a>, 470-421-9976  </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Launching September 1: New WIDA Core Learning Collection </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The new WIDA Core Learning Collection combines self-paced workshops, on-demand videos, and practical resources to support educators in applying their learning directly in classroom instruction for ELs. To explore the resources included in this new WIDA professional learning collection, read the <a href="https://wida.wisc.edu/news/what-know-wida-core-learning-collection?utm_source=CR-MM081726&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=MondayMail&utm_content=WhatToKnowCoreLearningCollection" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">What to Know: WIDA Core Learning Collection</a> article. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Important:</strong> To preserve resources and completion status for last year’s courses, complete any ongoing self-paced workshops and download certificates<strong> </strong>by <strong>August 31.</strong> </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Student Assessment Handbook Update and Clarification Regarding ELTPCs </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>For English learners with disabilities (EL/SWD), the IEP team, in consultation with ESOL educators, determines and documents appropriate accommodations. </li>



<li>A separate ELTPC is not required for EL/SWD students whose accommodations are documented through the IEP process. </li>



<li>This update supports a whole-child approach by promoting collaborative planning across programs and ensuring accommodation decisions reflect the student’s comprehensive educational needs. </li>



<li><strong>Clarification:</strong> For EL students receiving services under Section 504, disability-related accommodations are documented in the Section 504 Plan, while accommodations related to English language proficiency are documented in the ELTPC. </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For more information, register for the <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/assessment-training-for-stcs-part-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Assessment Training for STCs, Part 2</a> webinar on September 8, from 10 a.m. to noon. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Contact: </strong>Dr. Mary Nesbit-McBride, Assessment Specialist, <a href="mailto:mnesbit@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mnesbit@doe.k12.ga.us</a>  </p>
</div></div>


Federal Programs Newsletter (08.21.2026)

Peachful Practices — August 2026, Intentional Beginnings


<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-left">Let’s Look at FY27</h2>


<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Boy-with-one-leaf-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-58629" style="aspect-ratio:1.4987454697518818;width:259px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Boy-with-one-leaf-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Boy-with-one-leaf-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Boy-with-one-leaf-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Boy-with-one-leaf-1-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Boy-with-one-leaf-1-2048x1367.jpg 2048w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Boy-with-one-leaf-1-624x416.jpg 624w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Are you ready to look at Fall 2026?</figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Welcome to FY27! As we begin a new school year, this edition highlights resources, updates, and upcoming opportunities to support gifted education and advanced academics across Georgia. Read on for back-to-school reflections from Georgia educators, resources for starting the year strong, important reminders and upcoming events, and the latest information on PSAT/NMSQT and AP support.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Back to School</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As you prepare for the 2026-2027 school year, take a moment to hear what three Georgia gifted educators are celebrating and looking forward to in the year ahead.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="640" height="800" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Mowery.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-58715" style="aspect-ratio:0.7999850288195224;width:133px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Mowery.jpg 640w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Mowery-240x300.jpg 240w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Mowery-624x780.jpg 624w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></figure>
</div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Emily Adams Mowery, AP Teacher at Armuchee High School in Floyd County</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“Teaching gifted and honors students for 25 years, I never tire from their analytical curiosity. I am excited by the questions: Why? Why not? What if? In these moments, I hope to facilitate their inquiries and make my classroom a safe space for the respectful exchange of ideas.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Eric Rovie, AP Teacher at Brookwood High School and Gifted Endorsement Instructor for Gwinnett County</h3>


<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default">
<figure class="alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="722" height="902" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Eric-Rovie.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-58716" style="aspect-ratio:0.80046902481923;width:128px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Eric-Rovie.jpg 722w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Eric-Rovie-240x300.jpg 240w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Eric-Rovie-624x780.jpg 624w" sizes="(max-width: 722px) 100vw, 722px" /></figure>
</div>


<p class="has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph">“I’m really excited for this upcoming 26-27 school year and a new set of students in AP Language and Composition. One of the joys of teaching accelerated and gifted classes is seeing students flourish while working on challenging, advanced lessons, and I have a whole new set of ideas for this year! I’m also looking forward to another year in Gwinnett County’s Gifted Endorsement Program, leading a whole new flock of educators to their Gifted Endorsement!”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Dr. Olethia Calhoun, Director of Gifted Education for Houston County Schools</h3>


<div class="wp-block-image is-style-default">
<figure class="alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="175" height="239" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Dr.-Olethia-Calhoun-e1786543200596.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-58644" style="aspect-ratio:0.7322654462242563;width:146px;height:auto" /></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“Our theme in the Houston County School District this year, Together We Will, perfectly reflects what excites me most about the year ahead. Together, we will continue expanding access and opportunities for gifted and advanced learners while strengthening rigorous, engaging learning experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and innovation. I look forward to partnering with our students, educators, and families as we continue building a culture where every learner is challenged to reach their fullest potential. I believe just one opportunity can change a student’s life.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“Our commitment was evident once again through the success of Summer Enhancement 2026. For more than 50 years, Summer Enhancement has provided gifted and advanced learners with authentic, interest-based learning experiences where students and teachers explore, create, and discover together. This summer, more than 400 students participated in over 30 engaging courses, led by 40 dedicated educators and staff members whose passion and expertise brought learning to life each day. The impact of Summer Enhancement extends well beyond the summer, as teachers carry new ideas, instructional strategies, and authentic learning experiences into their classrooms, creating meaningful opportunities for students throughout the school year. Access creates opportunity. Opportunity changes lives.”</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-full is-resized"><a href="https://url.gadoe.org/10odm" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="387" height="497" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Leadership-Bundle.jpg" alt="Leadership Bundle Flyer" class="wp-image-58761" style="aspect-ratio:0.7787072243346007;width:331px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Leadership-Bundle.jpg 387w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Leadership-Bundle-234x300.jpg 234w" sizes="(max-width: 387px) 100vw, 387px" /></a></figure>
</div>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Thoughts for Starting Strong in FY27</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Gifted Eligibility Teams</strong> can be an important and powerful part of your gifted and advanced academics program. The <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/r4yzk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gifted Eligibility Team Information</a> and the <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/kgkme" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gifted Eligibility Team Phases of the Work</a> resources may be helpful as you begin working with your FY27 team. Additional resources are located in the District Gifted Coordinators Community Group.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In all of the busyness of starting a new school year, it is easy to put yourself at the bottom of your ever-growing list of things that need to be done. Take a few minutes to think about what you need to begin the year strong. Our new <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/10odm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Leadership Bundle</a><strong> </strong>has a few tools that may help, including the following resources: </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://url.gadoe.org/1jwzk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Leadership Reflection Tool</a></li>



<li><a href="https://url.gadoe.org/3kytq" data-type="link" data-id="https://url.gadoe.org/3kytq" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Leadership Tips for Gifted Coordinators</a></li>



<li><a href="https://url.gadoe.org/xj5z9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Adaptive Leadership</a></li>



<li><a href="https://url.gadoe.org/2qt7a" data-type="link" data-id="https://url.gadoe.org/2qt7a" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Look Fors in the 9-12 Gifted Classroom</a></li>



<li><a href="https://url.gadoe.org/hl4v" data-type="link" data-id="https://url.gadoe.org/hl4v" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">History of Gifted Education in Georgia</a></li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The beginning of the school year is often when <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/7lok4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">field trip</a> planning begins. Our Gifted Advisory Council Task Force created a list of suggestions arranged by RESA regions that may be helpful.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>District Gifted Manuals are due by <strong>September 1</strong>.</li>



<li>Superintendents must sign off on the Gifted Assurances Form in the portal by <strong>September 1</strong>.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mark Your Calendar</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Check out these upcoming opportunities:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Wednesday, August 19</strong>, <strong>1 p.m.</strong> — Share Fair for New Gifted Coordinators*<br></li>



<li><strong>Thursday, August 20, 9:30 a.m.</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/back-to-school-for-ap-coordinators" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Back-to-School for AP Coordinators</a><br></li>



<li><strong>Wednesday, August 26</strong>, <strong>9:30 a.m.</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/psat-nmsqt-overview-with-college-board-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PSAT/NMSQT Overview with College Board</a><br></li>



<li><strong>Wednesday, August 26</strong> — <a href="https://mresa.geniussis.com/PublicStudentSignUp.aspx?aid=2040" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fall Summit Virtual, Metro RESA</a><br></li>



<li><strong>Tuesday, September 1</strong> — <a href="https://westgaresa.ascriptica.com/course/courseviewdetails?class_id=3469" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">West GA/Northwest GA Summit</a><br></li>



<li><strong>Wednesday, September 16</strong> — Share Fair for New Gifted Coordinators*<br></li>



<li><strong>Wednesday, September 23</strong> — <a href="https://gael.ps.membersuite.com/events/ViewEvent.aspx?contextID=e386dc0a-0078-c726-b233-0b49ba820d56" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Fall Curriculum Leaders Conference</a><br></li>



<li><strong>Wednesday, October 7</strong> — <a href="https://register.hgresa.org/index.php/virtual-f2f-classes/virtual-f2f-classes-2/classes/face-to-face/7719-7047-f-f-gdoe-2026-2027-teaching-and-learning-summit" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heart of Georgia/Middle Georgia Summit</a></li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>*Share Fairs are intended for new gifted coordinators. We will send access links via email to eligible attendees.</em></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Advanced Academics</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Thanks to the generosity of the General Assembly, GaDOE can pay for every 10th-grade public school student to take the PSAT. College Board has expanded the testing window for this valuable resource to the entire month of October. This flexible testing window, coupled with the online platform, provides schools greater flexibility in scheduling and administration. Check out the <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/1qze7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Benefits of the PSAT/NMSQT</a> on our one-pager and join us on August 26 for our <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/psat-nmsqt-overview-with-college-board-2" data-type="link" data-id="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/psat-nmsqt-overview-with-college-board-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PSAT/NMSQT Overview with College Board</a>.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For information on funding for AP Exams and the PSAT/NMSQT, along with information about Senate Bill 63, review the <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/6519z" data-type="link" data-id="https://url.gadoe.org/6519z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 funding guidance</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Resources</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We are committed to supporting your work by providing both administrative and instructional resources through Inspire and Community. In addition, we can partner with you through targeted professional learning sessions. Explore our <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/gifted-and-advanced-academics-workshops-for-resas-and-districts" data-type="link" data-id="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/gifted-and-advanced-academics-workshops-for-resas-and-districts">FY27 offerings</a>, and remember that personalized support is available. If you have questions or concerns specific to your LEA, we are happy to meet with you one-on-one.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Points to Ponder</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“Giftedness is not a guarantee of success; it is a potential for it. When we recognize giftedness in our children, it is our responsibility to nurture and cultivate it.”<em> —Linda Silverman</em></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“Genius without education is like silver in the mine.” <em>—Benjamin Franklin</em></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“If you can dream it, you can do it. Always remember that this whole thing started with a dream and a mouse.” <em>—Walt Disney</em></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Contact Us</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Mary Jean Banter, <a href="mailto:MaryJean.banter@doe.k12.ga.us">MaryJean.Banter@doe.k12.ga.us</a><br>Martha Smith, <a href="mailto:Masmith@doe.k12.ga.us">MaSmith@doe.k12.ga.us</a><br>Lisa Hackney, <a href="mailto:lisa.hackney@doe.k12.ga.us">Lisa.Hackney@doe.k12.ga.us</a></p>


Gifted Education and Advanced Academics Updates Fall 2026


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA and IDEA Events and Due Dates</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Events  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>August</strong>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>August 17 (IDEA) — GLRS Literacy Coaches Training – Save the Date! </li>



<li>August 18 (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/special-education-leadership-academy-selda" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Special Education Leadership Development Academy (SELDA)</a>  </li>



<li>August 18 (IDEA) – <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-georgia-parent-mentor-partnership-gapmp-power-hour" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia Parent Mentor Partnership Power Hour</a> </li>



<li>August 18 (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-federal-programs-essa-and-idea-timely-talks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Federal Programs Timely Talks</a> </li>



<li>August 18 (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/special-education-state-data-collections-open-office-hours-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Special Education Data Collections Open Office Hours</a> </li>



<li>August 21 (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-charter-chats-series" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Charter Chats Series</a> </li>



<li>August 24-25 (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-federal-programs-cross-functional-monitoring-in-person-workshop" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Workshop</a> </li>



<li>August 25 (IDEA) — SELDA New Mentor Orientation – Save the Date! </li>



<li>August 26 (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/supporting-swds-with-georgias-k-12-mathematics-standards-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Supporting SWDs with Georgia’s K-12 Mathematics Standards</a> </li>



<li>August 26-28 (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/2026-27-georgia-data-conference" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Data Collection Conference</a> </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Please visit the <a href="https://apps.gadoe.org/district-deadlines" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard</a> and filter by either Federal Programs or Federal Programs – Special Education.   </li>



<li>Visit <a href="https://community.gadoe.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events.   </li>



<li>Annual Prayer Certification – Due October 1 </li>



<li>Annual GEPA Certification Statement – Due October 1  </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Seeking Nominations for the 2026-2028 State School Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council (PAC) </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">State School Superintendent Richard Woods seeks nominations for parents to serve on the 2026-2028 State School Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council (PAC).  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The State School Superintendent’s PAC is a group of parents from across the state that provides input on new policies, projects, and materials that impact students and their families. Advisory Council members are particularly focused on increasing parent and family engagement to ensure student academic success. Members serve as advisors and meet with the State School Superintendent several times throughout their two-year term.  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please complete the <a href="https://gadoesa.jotform.com/261824474530053" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">State School Superintendent’s 2026-2028 Parent Advisory Council Nomination Form</a> to nominate a parent.  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Nominations are due by Friday, September 11, 2026.</strong> </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you have any questions, please get in touch with Mandi Griffin at <a href="mailto:mgriffin@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mgriffin@doe.k12.ga.us</a>. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FY26 Federal Grant Cycle Closeout (ESSA and IDEA) </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Please note the following FY26 Federal Grant Cycle closeout deadlines for all federal grants: </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Final FY26 ConApp budget amendments: Due August 31 </li>



<li>FY26 Financial Submission (DE46) for actual expenditures: Due September 18 </li>



<li>FY26 Completion Reports: Due October 30 </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">These three submissions should be consistent and aligned. Final budget amendments, reported expenditures, and completion report data should accurately reflect the same use of funds. </p>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-593380" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division for Exceptional Children Highlights</h2><div id="ac-593380" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders<strong>:    </strong> </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>August 31 Deadline for Prior Fiscal Year IDEA Budget Amendments </li>



<li>September 18 Timeline Prong 1 Due (LEAs not 100%) and Timelines Verification Due (LEAs at 100%)  </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Future Trainings </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Join GaDOE for an intensive, interactive training designed for Special Education and Finance Directors. This collaborative session will provide essential guidance, tools, and updates to help you navigate IDEA fiscal, data, and financial requirements efficiently. Topics include Maintenance of Effort (MOE), Equitable Services, Allowability, FTE, Student Class, Student Record, and Funding. Gain the knowledge you need to support effective operations and compliance for students with disabilities.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Register for any of the three <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-right-tools-right-outcomes-special-education-finance-budget-data" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Right Tools, Right Outcomes: Special Education Finance, Budget & Data Roadshow</a> sessions. Dates and locations are listed below. </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>September 1 & 2</strong> (in-person in Hall County at Lanier College and Career Academy)  </li>



<li><strong>September 9 & 10</strong> (in-person in Richmond County at National Hills Learning Center)  </li>



<li><strong>September 21 & 22</strong> (in-person in Colquitt County at Georgia Southern Regional Technical College)</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2027 WIDA ACCESS and WIDA Alternate ACCESS Language Domain Preclusion Request  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Required for English learners with disabilities to receive a WIDA-generated “Less Than Four Domains” (LT4D) assessment score:  </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/415583f2-a7f8-48f1-a5cb-49735fc81b52/1/GaDOE%20Language%20Domain%20Preclusion%20Request%20Toolkit%2C%20Updated%208-5-2026.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Language Domain Preclusion Request Toolkit</a> </li>



<li><a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Hyfnh3VH47" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Language Domain Preclusion Request Form</a>  </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Due:</strong> Continuously through November 30  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Contact: </strong>Dr. Amy Haynes, <a href="mailto:amy_haynes@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amy.haynes@doe.k12.ga.us</a>, 404-883-5148, or Michelle Pyrlik, <a href="mailto:michelle_pyrlik@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">michelle_pyrlik@doe.k12.ga.us</a>, or your District Liaison </p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-593381" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division of ESSA Program Highlights</h2><div id="ac-593381" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Title I, Part A Program Types Due September 15 </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">LEAs must complete the FY27 Title I, Part A Program Types in the ConApp by September 15. To complete this requirement, first finalize the Eligible Attendance Area tab. Then, navigate to the School Allocations tab and, in the “Type” column, select the appropriate program type for each school: </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>SWP — Schoolwide Program </li>



<li>TA — Targeted Assistance Program </li>



<li>Neglected — Neglected Program </li>



<li>None — School does not operate a Title I, Part A program </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Accurately identifying each school’s program type is a required data-reporting element for the FY27 grant cycle. </p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-593382" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">ESOL Program Highlights</h2><div id="ac-593382" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Professional Learning Opportunities for Teachers of English Learners  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Grow your impact for English learners this fall.   </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Choose from two WIDA facilitated virtual professional learning opportunities designed for educators of English learners (ELs) to build their capacity to develop students’ English language proficiency within the context of academic content instruction.  </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Bringing Language into Focus: Expectations, Functions, and Features – </strong>September 29 & October 6, 3:30-5 p.m.  <br><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-bringing-language-into-focus" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Community Registration and Information</a>  </li>



<li><strong>Actionable Practices for Centering Newcomers</strong>  – November 5 & 12, 3:30-5 p.m.  <br><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-actionable-practices-for-newcomers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Community Registration and Information</a>  </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Registration</strong> is open until <strong>August 28, 2026</strong>. There is a <strong>registration limit</strong> of <strong>60 participants</strong>. Preference will be given to teams of two educators from the same school system, encouraging collaborative learning and implementation of new practices at the local level.   </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Contact:</strong> Noel Wilkinson, ESOL Program Specialist, <a href="mailto:noel.wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">noel.wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us</a>, 470-421-9976  </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2027 WIDA ACCESS and WIDA Alternate ACCESS Language Domain Preclusion Request  </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Required for English learners with disabilities to receive a WIDA-generated “Less Than Four Domains” (LT4D) assessment score:  </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/415583f2-a7f8-48f1-a5cb-49735fc81b52/1/GaDOE%20Language%20Domain%20Preclusion%20Request%20Toolkit%2C%20Updated%208-5-2026.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Language Domain Preclusion Request Toolkit</a> </li>



<li><a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Hyfnh3VH47" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Language Domain Preclusion Request Form</a>  </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Due:</strong> Continuously through November 30  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Contact: </strong>Dr. Amy Haynes, <a href="mailto:amy_haynes@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amy.haynes@doe.k12.ga.us</a>, 404-883-5148, or Michelle Pyrlik, <a href="mailto:michelle_pyrlik@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">michelle_pyrlik@doe.k12.ga.us</a>, or your District Liaison </p>
</div></div>


Federal Programs Newsletter (08.14.2026)

Tech News August 2026


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA and IDEA Events and Due Dates</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Events  </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>August</strong>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>August 10 (ESSA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/idr-data-and-service-delivery-support-training-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Title I Part C ID&R, Data, and Service Delivery Training</a> </li>



<li>August 11 (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-idea-budget-grants-fiscal-open-office-hours">IDEA Budget Open Office Hours</a></li>



<li>August 12 (ESSA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/idr-data-and-service-delivery-support-training-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Title I Part C ID&R, Data, and Service Delivery Training</a> </li>



<li>August 12 (ESOL) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/2026-27-esol-program-leaders-munch-learn-webinar-series" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESOL Program Leaders’ Munch and Learn</a> </li>



<li>August 12 (IDEA) — GLRS Virtual Meeting with Directors – Save the Date! </li>



<li>August 13 (ESSA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/mckinney-vento-professional-development-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McKinney-Vento Professional Development</a> </li>



<li>August 13 (IDEA) — August SESAA Coaching Training – Save the Date!  </li>



<li>August 17 (IDEA) — GLRS Literacy Coaches Training – Save the Date! </li>



<li>August 18 (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/special-education-leadership-academy-selda" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Special Education Leadership Development Academy (SELDA)</a>  </li>



<li>August 18 (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-federal-programs-essa-and-idea-timely-talks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Federal Programs Timely Talks</a> </li>



<li>August 18 (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/special-education-state-data-collections-open-office-hours-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Special Education Data Collections Open Office Hours</a> </li>



<li>August 21 (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-charter-chats-series" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Charter Chats Series</a> </li>



<li>August 24-25 (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-federal-programs-cross-functional-monitoring-in-person-workshop" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Workshop</a> </li>



<li>August 25 (IDEA) — SELDA New Mentor Orientation – Save the Date! </li>



<li>August 26 (IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/supporting-swds-with-georgias-k-12-mathematics-standards-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Supporting SWDs with Georgia’s K-12 Mathematics Standards</a> </li>



<li>August 26-28 (ESSA and IDEA) — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/2026-27-georgia-data-conference" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Data Collection Conference</a> </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Please visit the <a href="https://apps.gadoe.org/district-deadlines" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard</a> and filter by either Federal Programs or Federal Programs – Special Education.   </li>



<li>Visit <a href="https://community.gadoe.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events.   </li>



<li>Annual Prayer Certification – Due October 1 </li>



<li>Annual GEPA Certification Statement – Due October 1  </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Resources Updated on GaDOE Focus </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The following resources were recently updated on GaDOE Focus: </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/items/c3950f94-75dc-4ae8-929e-ec2aeab2770c/1/?.vi=file&attachment.uuid=ed407d0d-48c5-4f9a-b021-e43ec3522c11" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Overarching Federal Programs Handbook</a> </li>



<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/items/8834fee5-eab7-414b-b058-1195d09c3386/1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Specialist Assignments by LEA</a> </li>



<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/items/1b237356-1ca2-4f2e-8f2d-57aba307d788/1/?.vi=file&attachment.uuid=05f7d0c0-4a88-454f-8cee-edeaea6306f0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Cross-Functional Monitoring Indicators</a> </li>
</ul>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-592340" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division for Exceptional Children Highlights</h2><div id="ac-592340" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>August 31 Deadline for Prior Fiscal Year IDEA Budget Amendments </li>



<li>September 18 Timeline Prong 1 Due (LEAs not 100%) & Timelines Verification Due (LEAs at 100%)  </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Save the Dates! </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Join GaDOE for an intensive, interactive training designed for Special Education and Finance Directors. This collaborative session will provide essential guidance, tools, and updates to help you navigate IDEA fiscal, data, and financial requirements efficiently. Topics include Maintenance of Effort (MOE), Equitable Services, Allowability, FTE, Student Class, Student Record, and Funding. Gain the knowledge you need to support effective operations and compliance for students with disabilities.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Register for any of the three <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-right-tools-right-outcomes-special-education-finance-budget-data" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Right Tools, Right Outcomes: Special Education Finance, Budget & Data Roadshow</a> sessions. Dates and locations are listed below. </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>September 1 & 2</strong> (in-person in Hall County at Lanier College and Career Academy)  </li>



<li><strong>September 9 & 10</strong> (in-person in Richmond County at National Hills Learning Center)  </li>



<li><strong>September 21 & 22</strong> (in-person in Colquitt County at Georgia Southern Regional Technical College)</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2026 WIDA ACCESS and WIDA Alternate ACCESS DCPL Score Information </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">LEAs’ 2026 WIDA ACCESS and WIDA Alternate ACCESS Designated Overall Composite Proficiency Level (DCPL) score files are posted in the District Assessment Portal. Please contact your <strong>System Testing Coordinator</strong> to obtain access to these files. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The GaDOE ESOL Team emailed LEAs’ Special Education Directors their individual DCPL Score Information Reports, available in English and, where applicable, Spanish. Please maintain these reports in each student’s permanent record. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As a reminder, LEAs were required to submit a <em>Language Domain Preclusion Request</em> this year for students seeking a DCPL score consideration during the 2026 test administration. DCPL scores can be generated only when all required procedures have been completed, including applying the appropriate <strong>SPD code</strong> during testing or within one of the designated validation windows.   </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If your LEA received approval for a <em>Language Domain Preclusion Request </em>and an expected DCPL score is not included in the posted score file or on an individual student report, please contact the <strong>Assessment and Accountability Division</strong>. Assessment staff will review the specific circumstances and provide information regarding why a DCPL score was not generated. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Contact:</strong> <a href="mailto:mnesbit@doe.k12.ga.us">Mary Nesbit-McBride, Ph.D.</a>, Office of Assessment & Accountability, Assessment Specialist, (470) 579-6345 </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2027 WIDA ACCESS and WIDA Alternate ACCESS Language Domain Preclusion Request </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Required for English learners with disabilities to receive a WIDA-generated “Less Than Four Domains” (LT4D) assessment score: </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/415583f2-a7f8-48f1-a5cb-49735fc81b52/1/GaDOE%20Language%20Domain%20Preclusion%20Request%20Toolkit%20%281%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Language Domain Preclusion Request Toolkit</em></a><em> </em> </li>



<li><a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Hyfnh3VH47" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Language Domain Preclusion Request form</em></a> </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Due:</strong> November 30 </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Contact: </strong><a href="mailto:amy.haynes@doe.k12.ga.us">Dr. Amy Haynes</a>, (404) 883-5148, or <a href="mailto:michelle_pyrlik@doe.k12.ga.us">Michelle Pyrlik</a>, or your district liaison </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 GaPMP Power Hour </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The GaPMP Power Hour is a monthly session designed to keep parent mentors informed and supported. Each meeting includes important updates, targeted training, and opportunities to ask questions, clarify information, and share ideas. While attendance is not mandatory, it is strongly encouraged to help mentors feel confident and equipped to make an impact. All sessions will be from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Register for the <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-georgia-parent-mentor-partnership-gapmp-power-hour">FY27 Georgia Parent Mentor Partnership (GaPMP) Power Hour</a> session today.</p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-592341" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">ESOL Language Program Highlights</h2><div id="ac-592341" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2026 WIDA ACCESS and WIDA Alternate ACCESS DCPL Score Information </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">LEAs’ 2026 WIDA ACCESS and WIDA Alternate ACCESS Designated Overall Composite Proficiency Level (DCPL) score files are posted in the District Assessment Portal. Please contact your <strong>System Testing Coordinator</strong> to obtain access to these files. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The GaDOE ESOL Team emailed LEAs’ Special Education Directors their individual DCPL Score Information Reports, available in English and, where applicable, Spanish. Please maintain these reports in each student’s permanent record. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As a reminder, LEAs were required to submit a <em>Language Domain Preclusion Request</em> this year for students seeking a DCPL score consideration during the 2026 test administration. DCPL scores can be generated only when all required procedures have been completed, including applying the appropriate <strong>SPD code</strong> during testing or within one of the designated validation windows.   </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If your LEA received approval for a <em>Language Domain Preclusion Request </em>and an expected DCPL score is not included in the posted score file or on an individual student report, please contact the <strong>Assessment and Accountability Division</strong>. Assessment staff will review the specific circumstances and provide information regarding why a DCPL score was not generated. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Contact:</strong> <a href="mailto:mnesbit@doe.k12.ga.us">Mary Nesbit-McBride, Ph.D.</a>, Office of Assessment & Accountability, Assessment Specialist, (470) 579-6345 </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2027 WIDA ACCESS and WIDA Alternate ACCESS Language Domain Preclusion Request </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Required for English learners with disabilities to receive a WIDA-generated “Less Than Four Domains” (LT4D) assessment score: </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/415583f2-a7f8-48f1-a5cb-49735fc81b52/1/GaDOE%20Language%20Domain%20Preclusion%20Request%20Toolkit%20%281%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Language Domain Preclusion Request Toolkit</em></a><em> </em> </li>



<li><a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Hyfnh3VH47" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Language Domain Preclusion Request form</em></a> </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Due:</strong> November 30 </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Contact: </strong><a href="mailto:amy.haynes@doe.k12.ga.us">Dr. Amy Haynes</a>, (404) 883-5148, or <a href="mailto:michelle_pyrlik@doe.k12.ga.us">Michelle Pyrlik</a>, or your district liasion</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2026 WIDA ACCESS Student Growth Percentiles (SGP) </h3>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Already Here and Coming Soon! </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The <strong>2026 WIDA ACCESS SGP </strong>system data files and individual Student Reports (ISRs) have been posted to the District Assessment folders. Please contact your System Testing Coordinator (STC) to obtain access to these files. This year’s files include three years of SGP data, and the ISRs include two years. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The SGP data visualization will be available in the <strong>Georgia Insights ELP Growth Model</strong> application by the end of August. At that same time, students’ individual SGP ISRs will be posted on their SLDS profile page. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Note: </strong>The 2027 SGP Growth targets are not reported this year because the assessment achievement standards used to calculate them will be reviewed and updated later this year. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">More Information: <a href="https://inspire.gadoe.org/collection/C00002/10329" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia Student Growth Model for English Language Proficiency</a> </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Professional Learning Opportunities for Teachers of English Learners </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Grow Your Impact for English Learners this Fall! </strong> </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Choose from two WIDA-facilitated virtual professional learning opportunities designed for educators of English learners (ELs) to build their capacity to develop students’ English language proficiency within the context of academic content instruction. </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Bringing Language into Focus: Expectations, Functions, and Features</strong> – September 29 & October 6, 3:30-5 p.m. <br><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-bringing-language-into-focus" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Community Registration and Information</a> </li>



<li><strong>Actionable Practices for Centering Newcomers</strong> – November 5 & 12<strong>,</strong> 3:30-5 p.m. <br><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/wida-facilitated-virtual-workshop-actionable-practices-for-newcomers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Community Registration and Information</a> </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Registration Open Until 8/28 – Limit 60 participants</strong> </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Preference will be given to teams of two educators from the same school system, encouraging collaborative learning and implementation of new practices at the local level.  </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Contact: <a href="mailto:noel.wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us">Noel Wilkinson</a>, ESOL Program Specialist, 470-421-9976 </p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-592342" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division of ESSA Program Highlights</h2><div id="ac-592342" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Title I Committee of Practitioners (COP) Nominations Requested </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Georgia Department of Education is seeking nominations to fill several vacancies on the Title I Committee of Practitioners (COP). Your recommendations are valuable in ensuring broad representation and diverse perspectives. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We are currently seeking representatives for the following roles: </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Other School Leaders (e.g., an assistant principal or other individual responsible for the daily instructional leadership and managerial operations of a school) </li>



<li>Parents </li>



<li>Local School Board Member </li>



<li>Specialized Instructional Support Personnel (e.g., school counselors, school social workers, school psychologists, school nurses, speech-language pathologists, and school media specialists) </li>



<li>Representative of a Public Chartering Agency </li>



<li>Charter School Leader </li>



<li>CTAE Teacher </li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you or members of your team would like to recommend a qualified individual, please complete the <a href="https://gadoesa.jotform.com/261804231774052" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Committee of Practitioners Nomination Form</a> by August 14. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">HB 1123 Georgia’s Pre-K Program and After-School Programs </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">HB1123 was passed by the legislature to “require certain schools that offer after-school programs to make such programs available to pre-kindergarten students on the same basis as the school’s other students.” Schools that offer after-school programs and Georgia’s Pre-K program should review this bill to determine applicability. Additional information about HB1123 and the waiver process, if applicable, is available by contacting the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning at <a href="mailto:prekbusiness.support@decal.ga.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prekbusiness.support@decal.ga.gov</a>. </p>
</div></div>


Federal Programs Newsletter (08.07.2026)

Federal Programs Newsletter (07.31.2026)

Federal Programs Newsletter (07.24.2026)

World Languages and Global Workforce Initiatives


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Welcome Back! Let’s Build Connections Through Language Learning</h2>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="632" height="599" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mark-Linsky-TL-CI-Cropped.png" alt="Picture of Mark Linsky, GaDOE World Languages Program Specialist" class="wp-image-46864" style="aspect-ratio:1.055110692416392;width:230px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mark-Linsky-TL-CI-Cropped.png 632w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mark-Linsky-TL-CI-Cropped-300x284.png 300w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mark-Linsky-TL-CI-Cropped-624x591.png 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mark-Linsky-TL-CI-Cropped-50x47.png 50w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mark-Linsky-TL-CI-Cropped-100x95.png 100w" sizes="(max-width: 632px) 100vw, 632px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Linsky, GaDOE World Languages Program Specialist</figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As we begin a new school year, we are excited to welcome you to SY26-27 and look forward to another year of inspiring students through language learning. Across Georgia, world language educators create classrooms where students do more than acquire vocabulary and grammar; they build connections with one another, explore diverse cultures, and develop the communication skills needed to thrive in an interconnected world.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The start of the school year offers a fresh opportunity to establish meaningful routines, foster curiosity, and create learning environments where every student feels confident taking risks and using language to communicate. Whether students are greeting a classmate in a new language, collaborating to solve a problem, or discovering a new cultural perspective, they are developing skills that extend far beyond the classroom.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This year, we encourage you to continue building connections through language learning by connecting students with new ideas, with people from different backgrounds, and with opportunities that prepare them for college, careers, and global citizenship. We are grateful for your dedication and look forward to supporting you throughout the year with resources, professional learning, and opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across the state.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We wish you a successful and rewarding school year and thank you for all you do to help Georgia students become confident communicators and engaged global citizens.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">World Languages Calendar of Events</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">You can access the <a href="https://url.gadoe.org/cb7ft" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Languages Calendar of Events</a> online.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We will continue to update the calendar during the year and post updates in the quarterly newsletter. To submit an event or activity for addition to the calendar, please complete the <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/zFeBkXNgfr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WL Calendar Entry</a> form.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Recognizing Student Achievement: Georgia’s Graduation Seals</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Did you know that Georgia offers two state-recognized graduation seals that celebrate students’ language skills and global competencies? Students can earn both seals! The Georgia Seal of Biliteracy and the International Skills Diploma Seal (ISDS) provide meaningful recognition for students who demonstrate exceptional achievement and prepare them for success in college, careers, and an increasingly interconnected world.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Georgia Seal of Biliteracy recognizes graduating high school students who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English and at least one additional language. Established by state law, the seal highlights students’ multilingual abilities, encourages continued language study, and provides a valuable credential for future academic and professional opportunities.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The International Skills Diploma Seal (ISDS) recognizes students who complete a rigorous academic program that includes world language study, globally focused coursework, international experiences, and career-related learning. The ISDS is designed to encourage the development of global competencies and workforce-ready skills that prepare students to thrive in today’s economy.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Teachers, counselors, and administrators play an important role in identifying students who may qualify for one or both of these distinctions and helping them understand the requirements early in their high school experience.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To support schools and districts, the Georgia Department of Education will host two virtual information sessions this fall to provide an overview of the graduation seals, eligibility requirements, reporting procedures, and available resources.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Graduation Seals Information Webinars</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Wednesday, August 19, 2026, 4 p.m<strong>. — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/world-language-graduation-seals">Register Here</a></strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Wednesday, August 26, 2026, 4 p.m<strong>. — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/world-language-graduation-seals">Register Here</a></strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We encourage school leaders, counselors, graduation coaches, and world language educators to attend and learn more about how these programs can recognize student achievement and expand opportunities for Georgia graduates.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For information about the seals, visit: <a href="https://www.gadoe.org/Curriculum-Instruction-and-Assessment/Curriculum-and-Instruction/Pages/World-Languages-and-International-Education.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE World Languages</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Georgia Students Earn Graduation Seals in World Languages</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">GaDOE World Languages is proud to announce that 1,788 students earned the International Skills Diploma Seal last year. Based on the spring reporting window, 1,601 students earned the Georgia Seal of Biliteracy.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Year</strong></td><td><strong>International Skills Diploma Seal</strong></td><td><strong>Georgia Seal of Biliteracy</strong></td></tr><tr><td>2016</td><td>498</td><td>—</td></tr><tr><td>2017</td><td>645</td><td>926</td></tr><tr><td>2018</td><td>713</td><td>1,336</td></tr><tr><td>2019</td><td>959</td><td>1,418</td></tr><tr><td>2020</td><td>504</td><td>1,118</td></tr><tr><td>2021</td><td>949</td><td>1,483</td></tr><tr><td>2022</td><td>1,214</td><td>1,176</td></tr><tr><td>2023</td><td>1,079</td><td>960</td></tr><tr><td>2024</td><td>1,201</td><td>1,911</td></tr><tr><td>2025</td><td>1,597</td><td>2,211</td></tr><tr><td>2026</td><td>1,788</td><td>1,601* (spring only)</td></tr><tr><td><strong>TOTAL</strong></td><td><strong>11,147</strong></td><td><strong>14,140</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Schools can request retroactive Georgia Seals of Biliteracy for recent graduates. These seals are earned by students who took their AP or IB exams in the spring and received results over the summer. Schools can request retroactive seals from August 1 until September 1 using the <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/1px6WHtUwK" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Submit Requests for Biliteracy Seals</a> form. Seals will be mailed to schools in early September.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If your school would like to award the Georgia Seal of Biliteracy or the International Skills Diploma Seal, please visit the <a href="https://www.gadoe.org/Curriculum-Instruction-and-Assessment/Curriculum-and-Instruction/Pages/World-Languages-and-International-Education.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GaDOE World Languages</a> page for more information about the seals, the process, and the requirements for high school seniors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bring GaDOE World Languages Professional Learning to Your Region</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Georgia Department of Education World Languages Program offers a variety of free professional learning opportunities designed to support world language educators, school leaders, and districts across the state. Sessions focus on practical, classroom-ready strategies and current topics aligned with proficiency-based instruction and program development.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Professional learning can be arranged through:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Regional Educational Service Agencies (RESAs)</li>



<li>Local school districts</li>



<li>Professional organizations and associations</li>



<li>Other educational partners</li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Current workshop topics include:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The Keys to Getting Started: Unlocking the World Language Classroom</li>



<li>The Keys to Measuring What Matters: Unlocking Proficiency and Performance</li>



<li>The Keys to Making Input Comprehensible: Unlocking Language Growth for All Learners</li>



<li>The Keys to Building Pathways: Unlocking Long-Term Language Success</li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A minimum of 10 participants is required for a workshop. If your district, RESA, or organization is interested in hosting a session, we encourage you to submit a workshop request via the online <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/ayfr2z8Xbv" target="_blank" rel="noopener">workshop request form</a>, and work with GaDOE to schedule a date that meets your needs.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We look forward to partnering with educators across Georgia to strengthen world language programs and support student success.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Professional Learning Opportunities for August, September, and October</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">GADII — Georgia Dual Immersion Institute</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Saturday, August 22 (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)</li>



<li>GADII is a free event for Dual Language Immersion educators and administrators, to be held at North Atlanta High School.</li>



<li>Participant <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf-sjaC9j1F26xU2NO8BfbbgEokphTDbSss2Ip5sEgKkhDcow/viewform" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">registration</a> is open through August 7.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">STaRLT — Small Town and Rural Language Teachers</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>One-day seminar: Thursday, September 10 (9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.)</li>



<li>The STaRLT seminar is a free event for World Language and ESOL teachers, to be held at the Butts Performing Arts Center.</li>



<li>Visit the <a href="https://www.starlt.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">STaRLT website</a> to learn more.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ILC Symposium — International Languages and Cultures Symposium</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>One-day symposium: Saturday, September 26, at the University of West Georgia</li>



<li>The ILC Symposium is a one-day event of talks, panel discussions, and workshops centered on world languages and cultures. The $35 registration fee covers the symposium and lunch. Discounts available for new teachers.</li>



<li>Participant registration is open through September 11</li>



<li>Visit the <a href="https://sites.google.com/westga.edu/uwgilcsymposium/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ILC Symposium webpage</a> to learn more and register for this event.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">AATSP-GA Conference — American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>One-day conference: Saturday, October 3, at Emory University</li>



<li>Spend the day exploring culture, creativity, and research-based strategies designed to engage today’s language learners.</li>



<li>Participant registration is open through September 20. The registration fee is $65 for non-AATSP members, with discounts for AATSP members and students.</li>



<li>Visit the <a href="https://www.aatsp-ga.org/fallconference/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AATSP Fall Conference webpage</a> to learn more and register for the conference. </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Classroom Strategy Spotlight: Find someone who…</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Are you looking for a simple way to get students moving, talking, and building connections during the first weeks of school? Try a “Find someone who…” activity. This is a low-prep activity that promotes interpersonal communication while helping students get to know one another. This activity can help students to get to know one another while honing their interpersonal skills.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Teachers create a list of statements or questions related to the current unit and/or students’ interests. Students circulate the room and find classmates who can answer “yes” to each prompt, recording names or brief responses in the target language (depending on proficiency level). Students at higher proficiency levels might add follow-up questions to extend the conversation. A class set of clipboards helps with the activity.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Novice Learners (new learners or students in need of some warm-up practice after the summer):</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Find someone who has a dog.</li>



<li>Find someone who has a cat.</li>



<li>Find someone who likes pizza.</li>



<li>Find someone who has visited another state.</li>



<li>Find someone who plays a sport.</li>



<li>Find someone who likes a particular performer.</li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Novice learners will require support to succeed in the activity, and teachers might include a series of questions and sentence starters, along with vocabulary related to the questions.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Teachers may ask that students report back after the activity. Instead of collecting names, ask students to share one interesting thing that they learned about a classmate. The activity can work as a formative assessment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Intermediate Learners:</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As students become more proficient, prompts can become increasingly open-ended.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Find someone who has traveled outside the Unite States and ask some follow-up questions.</li>



<li>Find someone who prefers the mountains or the beach and ask them to explain why.</li>



<li>Find someone who has an interesting hobby and ask questions to learn more.</li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Why it Works:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Every student participates.</li>



<li>Students practice listening and speaking in a low-stakes environment.</li>



<li>The activity lowers the affective filter by encouraging repeated, short conversations.</li>



<li>Students build relationships while using the target language for authentic communication.</li>



<li>The teacher can circulate, observe, and provide support without interrupting conversations.</li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">By establishing interactive routines from the first day of school, teachers help to create classrooms where communication is expected, collaboration is valued, and students feel more confident in taking risks in the target language.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Closing Remarks</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Thank you for taking the time to read this edition of our newsletter. Your dedication to world language education is what makes our community thrive. We always welcome your insights and contributions to make our future editions even more valuable. Please don’t hesitate to send your ideas, stories, or feedback to <a href="mailto:mark.linsky@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Linksy</a>. Together, let’s continue to shape an inspiring and supportive environment for all our language educators.</p>


World Languages Newsletter — Summer 2026

Federal Programs Newsletter (07.17.2026)


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESSA and IDEA Events and Due Dates</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Upcoming Events:</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>July 16 (ESOL)</strong> — ESOL Statewide Convening (registration closed)  </li>



<li><strong>July 21 (ESSA and IDEA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-federal-programs-essa-and-idea-timely-talks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Federal Programs (ESSA & IDEA) Timely Talks</a>  </li>



<li><strong>July 21 (IDEA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/special-education-state-data-collections-open-office-hours-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Special Education State Data Collections Open Office Hours</a> </li>



<li><strong>July 22 (IDEA) </strong>— Literacy Cohort Coaches Training </li>



<li><strong>July 27 (ESSA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-migrant-education-program-annual-re-sign-training" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Title I, Part C Annual Re-sign Training</a> </li>



<li><strong>July 28 (ESSA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-academy-of-new-federal-programs-leaders-series" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Academy of New Federal Programs Leaders</a>  </li>



<li><strong>July 29 (IDEA) </strong>— <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/supporting-swds-with-georgias-k-12-mathematics-standards-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Supporting SWDs with Georgia’s K-12 Mathematics Standards</a> </li>



<li><strong>Aug 26-28</strong> <strong>(ESSA and IDEA)</strong> — <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/2026-27-georgia-data-conference" data-type="link" data-id="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/2026-27-georgia-data-conference" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Data Collection Conference</a> </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders: </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Please visit the <a href="https://apps.gadoe.org/district-deadlines" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">District Deadlines and To-Dos Dashboard</a> and filter by either Federal Programs or Federal Programs – Special Education.   </li>



<li>Visit <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE Community</a> for a complete listing of GaDOE Professional Learning Events.    </li>



<li>ESSA Consolidation of Administrative Funds notification deadline — August 1
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>To notify GaDOE, email federalprograms@doe.k12.ga.us.   </li>



<li>For requirements and procedures, see page 63 of the  Federal Programs Handbook.   </li>



<li>The required Consolidation of Administrative Funds Form is available on GaDOE Focus. </li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Recordings from the 2026 Federal Programs Virtual Conference — June 2-3
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Couldn’t attend? Access session recordings on demand through the <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/2026-federal-programs-virtual-conference-morning-general-session" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GaDOE PL Catalog</a>. </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Opportunity for Public Comment </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Public Notice of ESSA Waiver for Brantley County Schools Due to the Highway 82 Wildfire</strong> </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">GaDOE is seeking comments on a waiver request under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), to submit to the U.S. Department of Education (ED). </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As a result of the Highway 82 wildfire, schools in Brantley County were closed for a substantial portion of the Georgia Milestones state testing window, the state’s general assessment. GaDOE is seeking to waive specific requirements of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), for all Brantley County schools for the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The public comment survey is available on our <a href="https://gadoe.org/public-comment/federal-public-comment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Federal Public Comment webpage</a> until 11:59 p.m. on July 31. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Federal Programs (ESSA & IDEA) Timely Talks </h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Each monthly Timely Talks session features GaDOE Federal Programs staff who provide timely guidance on upcoming grant-cycle topics. Federal programs leaders are encouraged to register and participate in this series, which addresses overarching, timely topics relevant to all programs, including equitable services. While live attendance is encouraged, sessions are recorded and available later in the GaDOE Community Professional Learning Catalog. Sessions highlight a main topic, allow time for updates on the emerging grant cycle, and include a dedicated question-and-answer segment.  Register today for the <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-federal-programs-essa-and-idea-timely-talks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Federal Programs (ESSA & IDEA) Timely Talks</a>.  </p>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-586680" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division of ESSA Program Highlights</h2><div id="ac-586680" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Academy of New Federal Programs Leaders  </h3>


<div class="wp-block-image is-style-black-border">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-academy-of-new-federal-programs-leaders-series"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="791" height="1024" src="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Academy-of-New-Federal-Programs-Leaders-Cohort-Flyer-1-791x1024.png" alt="FY27 Academy of New Federal Programs Leaders flyer" class="wp-image-58246" style="aspect-ratio:0.7724765650119958;width:345px;height:auto" srcset="https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Academy-of-New-Federal-Programs-Leaders-Cohort-Flyer-1-791x1024.png 791w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Academy-of-New-Federal-Programs-Leaders-Cohort-Flyer-1-232x300.png 232w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Academy-of-New-Federal-Programs-Leaders-Cohort-Flyer-1-768x994.png 768w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Academy-of-New-Federal-Programs-Leaders-Cohort-Flyer-1-1187x1536.png 1187w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Academy-of-New-Federal-Programs-Leaders-Cohort-Flyer-1-624x807.png 624w, https://community.gadoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Academy-of-New-Federal-Programs-Leaders-Cohort-Flyer-1.png 1545w" sizes="(max-width: 791px) 100vw, 791px" /></a></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Academy of New Federal Programs Series features GaDOE Federal Programs staff who provide timely guidance on topics related to the upcoming grant cycle. New federal programs leaders with less than three years of experience are encouraged to register and participate in this series, which addresses overarching, timely topics relevant to all programs and aligns with and expands upon the Federal Programs Timely Talks series. For the 2026-2027 school year, GaDOE offers three in-person and eight virtual sessions.  Register today for the <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-academy-of-new-federal-programs-leaders-series" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Academy of New Federal Programs Leaders</a>. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For the 2026-2027 school year, GaDOE will offer three in-person and four virtual sessions. These sessions will work collaboratively with the Federal Programs Timely Talks sessions scheduled throughout the year. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To be considered an Academy of New Federal Program Leaders completer and earn a certificate, participants must attend two of the three in-person sessions and 80% of the virtual Academy of New Federal Programs Leaders and Timely Talks sessions. In-person dates are:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>September 24, 2026</li>



<li>January 26, 2027</li>



<li>March 30, 2027</li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For questions, please contact <a href="mailto:beth.parks@doe.k12.ga.us">Beth Parks</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Simplify ESSA Administration with Consolidation of Administrative Funds </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Looking for ways to reduce administrative burden and streamline federal program management? ESSA’s Consolidation of Administrative Funds flexibility allows LEAs to combine allowable administrative costs into a single federal cost pool, reducing recordkeeping requirements and simplifying time-and-effort documentation. LEAs planning to consolidate administrative funds in the upcoming fiscal year must email <a href="mailto:federalprograms@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Federal Programs</a> to indicate their intent by August 1. Learn more about <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/cf2b6afa-e939-401e-b3b9-a916825cfa64/1/CONSOLIDATION%20OF%20ADMINISTRATIVE%20FUNDS%20-%20Flyer.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Participation in Consolidation of Administrative Funds</a> online, and contact your LEA and program’s <a href="https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/items/8834fee5-eab7-414b-b058-1195d09c3386/1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coordinated specialist</a> with any questions.  </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 Charter Chats Series </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Charter Chats Series features GaDOE Federal Programs staff who provide timely guidance on upcoming grant-cycle topics.  Charter school officials are encouraged to register and participate in this series, which aligns with and expands upon the Federal Programs Timely Talks series offered throughout the year. Register today for <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-charter-chats-series" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 Charter Chats</a>. </p>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-586681" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">Division for Exceptional Children Highlights </h2><div id="ac-586681" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reminders: Timely and Accurate Submission   </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Post Outcomes:</strong> The survey is open for data entry. Submissions are due on <strong>July 31</strong>. </li>



<li><strong>Preschool Outcomes:</strong> The Preschool Outcomes template is located inside the SE Applications Preschool Outcomes Tile or in the SE Application SWD Reporting Resources. Submissions are due on <strong>July 31</strong>. </li>



<li><strong>Timelines—Indicators 11 and 12<span style="margin: 0px;padding: 0px">:</span></strong><span style="margin: 0px;padding: 0px"> We will enable submissions on <strong>J</strong></span><strong>uly 21, </strong>with submissions due on<strong> July 31</strong>. </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">SAVE THE DATE: FY27 Special Education Budget and Data Roadshow: Tools for the Job </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Join one of our roadshows to learn more about Special Education Budget and Data: Filling your Toolbox with the Right Tools for the Job; topics include Maintenance of Effort (MOE), Equitable Services, Allowability, FTE, Student Class, Student Record, and Funding. Dates and locations include:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>September 1 & 2</strong> — In-person in Hall County at Lanier College and Career Academy</li>



<li><strong>September 9 &10</strong> — In-person at Richmond County National Hills Learning Center</li>



<li><strong>September 21 & 22</strong> — In-person in Colquitt County at Southern Regional Technical College </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FY27 SPECIAL EDUCATION FOR SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS ACADEMY (SESAA) </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Special Education School Administrators Academy (SESAA) is a mentorship and professional learning program designed to prepare building-level administrators to lead special education effectively in their schools. The vision of SESAA is to develop building-level administrators who confidently lead legally sound, high-quality special education programs by supporting teachers through targeted professional learning, thoughtful scheduling, and strong instructional leadership. Participants gain essential knowledge of special education law, practical strategies to support special education teachers, and instructional practices that foster high-quality learning environments for students receiving special education services. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">All sessions are held virtually from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and <a href="https://login.community.gadoe.org/events/fy27-special-education-school-administrators-academy-sesaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FY27 SESAA registration</a> is now open. Session dates are listed below.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>August 5, 2026 </li>



<li>September 3, 2026 </li>



<li>October 1, 2026 </li>



<li>November 10, 2026 </li>



<li>December 3, 2026 </li>



<li>January 5, 2027 </li>



<li>February 2, 2027 </li>



<li>March 3, 2027 </li>



<li>April 12, 2027 </li>
</ul>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js" data-initially-open="false" data-click-to-close="true" data-auto-close="true" data-scroll="false" data-scroll-offset="0"><h2 id="at-586682" class="c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller" role="button">ESOL Language Program Highlights </h2><div id="ac-586682" class="c-accordion__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">WIDA Screener 2026-2027 </h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Online administration of the 2026-2027 WIDA Screener is now open in WIDA AMS. Use the following resources to help you prepare to screen potential English learners who will enroll in 2026-2027. </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Prepare to administer the WIDA Screener.</strong> The 2026-2027 <a href="https://portal.wida.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WIDA Screener training courses</a> and test administration materials are now available in the WIDA Secure Portal. Contact your system test coordinator or visit your member/state page to learn about training and certification in your state. </li>



<li><strong>Updates for this year:</strong>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The WIDA Screener Online Writing Prompts are no longer available in the WIDA Secure Portal. Find these resources in the Screener Scoring application in WIDA AMS. </li>



<li>Check out updated WIDA Screener Online test demos and test practice. Access these resources on the <a href="https://www.drcedirect.com/all/eca-portal-v2-ui/#/login/WIDA" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WIDA AMS login page</a> or by logging in to WIDA AMS and selecting <strong>Public Test Resources</strong> at the bottom of the landing page. (In case you missed it, WIDA ACCESS Online test practice and test demos are currently unavailable, but they’ll be back in September 2026.) </li>



<li><strong>Download the 2026-2027 student import file layout from WIDA AMS.</strong> Use this layout to ensure your WIDA Screener Online student imports are error-free. Select the <a href="https://assets.drcedirect.com/States/WIDA%20AMS%20Online%20Help/index.htm#t=Import_Management%2FIntroduction_to_Import_Management.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">online help icon in Import Management</a> to download the file layout and sample file. </li>



<li><strong>New this year:</strong> Review the <a href="https://www.wida-ams.us/Documents/Unsecure/Doc.aspx?id=9cc5c708-ba30-4b5b-ab63-4b5900246429" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Configuring Online Assistive Technologies for WIDA ACCESS and WIDA Screener</a> resource for steps to set up testing for students using the new Assistive Technology or Speech-to-Text accommodations. </li>



<li><strong>Mark your calendar: Upcoming WIDA Screener Webinars:</strong> Please join WIDA and DRC to learn about the following topics:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>WIDA Alternate Screener</strong> on Tuesday, July 14 at 1 p.m. CT </li>



<li><strong>WIDA Screener for Kindergarten</strong> on Tuesday, July 28 at 1 p.m. CT </li>



<li><strong>WIDA Screener Online and Paper</strong>  on Tuesday, August 4 at 1 p.m. CT </li>



<li>Learn more and add these upcoming webinars to your calendar on the <a href="https://portal.wida.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">webinars</a> page (login required). WIDA Assessment Webinars typically last an hour.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Know where to go for more support:</strong> </h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Contact <a href="mailto:Noel.Wilkinson@doe.k12.ga.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Noel Wilkinson</a> (470-421-9976) for questions regarding WIDA Screener/Alternate Screener administration and EL eligibility. </li>



<li>Contact <a href="mailto:Mnesbit@doe.k12.ga.us">Dr. Mary Nesbit-McBride</a>, Assessment Specialist, for questions regarding WIDA AMS.   </li>



<li>Select the <strong>Knowledge Articles</strong> button on the <a href="https://www.drcedirect.com/all/eca-portal-v2-ui/#/login/WIDA" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WIDA AMS</a> landing page to access a library of in-depth information on a variety of topics. </li>



<li>Use DRC’s <strong>Online Help</strong> feature within an application for step-by-step instructions on completing tasks in Import, Student or Test Management, the Test Monitoring Application, or Reporting Services. Select the question mark icon in the upper right corner of the application to get started. </li>



<li>Still need assistance? Contact <a href="mailto:wida@datarecognitioncorp.com">DRC Customer Service</a> (855-787-9615). </li>
</ul>
</div></div>


Federal Programs Newsletter (07.10.2026)

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