Governor Brian P. Kemp signed several bills into law on May 5 that aim to strengthen literacy, math education, and overall support for students and teachers in Georgia’s K-12 schools.
The new legislation is intended to improve classroom learning environments, boost student achievement, and provide more opportunities for families across the state. Governor Kemp said these measures are part of ongoing efforts to ensure classrooms “serve as launching pads for success in the workforce.” He added, “The bills I signed today implement proven strategies to improve literacy and math scores, reduce distractions in the classroom, expand pathways to graduation, and further support hardworking educators and families. These are just the latest steps we’ve taken to create opportunity for all Georgians, no matter their zip code.”
Speaker of the House Jon Burns described one of the new laws as a significant advancement: “Today’s signing of the Early Literacy Act of 2026 marks a historic step forward for Georgia’s children and our state’s future success,” Burns said. “This landmark legislation equips our students, teachers, and parents with the resources they need to strengthen literacy outcomes and ensure every child in Georgia has the opportunity to learn to read. I want to thank Governor Kemp and our colleagues in the Senate for their partnership in advancing these policies that will deliver real, meaningful results for students and families across our great state.”
Among nine pieces of legislation signed were HB 1193 (Georgia Early Literacy Act), which creates a grant program for hiring literacy coaches at elementary schools; HB 907 updating completion school requirements; HB 1123 expanding after-school childcare options; HB 1030 (Math Matters Act) requiring dedicated daily math instruction time; HB 1009 banning personal electronic devices through grade twelve; HB 1107 establishing performance measures for educator preparation programs; HB 1284 allowing diplomas for terminally ill high school students; SB 148 authorizing hunting safety instruction among other changes; and SB 150 extending teacher return-to-work programs.
According to the official website, Georgia’s State Executive operates from Atlanta at the Governor’s Mansion—a Greek Revival-style residence built on an eighteen-acre site—and leads government operations statewide as part of its executive branch responsibilities.
Governor Kemp expressed appreciation toward legislators involved with passing these bills—particularly Speaker Pro Tempore Jan Jones—and recognized Mrs. Dayle Burns’ advocacy on behalf of childhood literacy.
