Atlanta Public Schools (APS) announced on Mar. 20 that members of its Student Advisory Council (SAC), GO Teams, and the Learn 4 Life Youth Council took part in Students At the Capitol, an event designed to immerse students in the legislative process during Georgia’s Crossover Day.
Crossover Day is a key point in the state’s legislative session, marking the last chance for bills to move from one chamber to another. The event aimed to help students understand how policy decisions affect their schools and communities.
Before visiting the Capitol, participants attended a virtual briefing led by Erica Long, APS lobbyist and founder of the Strategic Policy Group. The session covered topics such as school funding, literacy initiatives, property taxes, funding formulas, and teacher recruitment policies. This preparation allowed students to arrive at the Capitol ready to engage with lawmakers and observe live debates.
During their visit, SAC and GO Teams members tracked active bills and spoke directly with legislators including Georgia State Representative Derrick Jackson. Anissah Baker, SAC Vice-Chair and a junior at Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy, said: “During our visit to the Georgia State Capitol, we spoke with Mr. Jackson about issues related to the education system in Georgia. Much of the conversation focused on improving schools and supporting teachers.”
Baker also shared that Rep. Jackson discussed his priorities around fair compensation for educators: “He shared that one of his priorities is strengthening education by making sure teachers and staff who support students are properly paid for their work.” During discussions about staff pay, Rep. Jackson noted that some support roles should earn an annual salary of approximately $88,000.
The group also learned about efforts to expand need-based scholarships using a $16 million state surplus rather than relying solely on merit-based programs like HOPE Scholarship. Baker added: “I also asked how he [Rep. Jackson] gathers input from students, teachers, and parents before making decisions on education policies,” noting that community feedback helps guide legislative decisions.
APS said this experience helped students better understand how legislation moves through the General Assembly and highlighted advocacy’s role in shaping equitable education policy.
