Georgia Teachers and State Workers Get $1,000 Bonus
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp is saying “Merry Christmas” to more than 300,000 teachers and state workers today.
He announced today he’ll be providing $1,000 retention bonuses to teachers, school support staff, and state employees as a thank you for their hard work.
“This retention pay supplement will arrive during the holiday season, and it’s part of my administration’s way of showing our appreciation for all that they do,” said Kemp.
Bonus Money is Coming Next Week
The bonus money, which will be delivered in end-of-the-year paychecks next week, will cost the state about $330 million. It will be included in the mid-year budget that Kemp will submit to lawmakers during the first week of the upcoming legislative session.
It was announced earlier this year that the state is sitting on about $16 billion in reserve money following three consecutive years of large revenue surpluses.
“Throughout the pandemic, a summer of unrest, and the unprecedented challenges of the last several years, our state employees have worked hard, taken on additional challenges, remained committed to serving their fellow Georgians, and became more streamlined so we can remain the best state for opportunity,” said Kemp.
Kemp Has Followed Through
Kemp has made good on a promise he made to raise teacher’s pay when he first ran for governor in 2018. Teachers and many state workers have seen their pay increase by as much as $7,000 in recent years. Some state agencies have had to increase pay simply to keep workers. Officials say worker shortages, inflation and competition from private businesses has led to the need to increase pay.
Earlier this month, Kemp announced he would support legislation that would implement an income tax rate cut faster than originally outlined. The rate, which was approved last year, was scheduled to be phased in through 2029, saving Georgians an estimated $300 million a year in taxes. By accelerating the reduction, the rate for Tax Year 2024 will be 5.39%, rather than the 5.49% rate by HB1437.
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12 Holiday Gifts for Teachers They'll Actually Love and Use
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While some teachers might not be expecting gifts during the busy holiday season, it makes sense to show appreciation for these hardworking educators who devote countless hours to educating your kids.
When it comes to teacher appreciation gifts, the best ones typically fall into two categories. These are usually something useful in the classroom to enhance the student’s experience or a heartfelt token of gratitude for a job well done. And let’s not forget the power of a thank-you note along with a gift card. Teachers often dip into their own pockets for classroom supplies, so a little extra help can go a long way. Besides, there are only so many coffee mugs or candles one person can use.
Steer clear of gifts your teacher might already have or extravagant items that could raise questions about school policies. Unless it’s a collective effort from multiple parents or families.
Gifts you may want to reconsider gifting a teacher.
Teachers often receive an abundance of chocolates and candies during this time of year, which can be a challenge for those trying to stick to a healthier diet.
Imagine receiving a coffee mug from every single one of your students. Yes, that can equate to more coffee mugs a teacher will ever need. So, maybe skip the mugs this time of year.
While homemade treats can be a nice touch, they come with some risks. Allergies, germophobia, and unknown ingredients can sometimes lead to these goodies ending up in the trash.
Also, think twice before gifting clothing, jewelry, or other items with apple or school-themed designs. Just because a teacher’s classroom has bee, owl, or flower decorations doesn’t necessarily mean they want to wear or decorate their home with the same theme. Classroom decor often serves an educational purpose for students.
Scent preferences vary greatly, so unless you’re absolutely certain about your teacher’s likes or can easily make exchanges, it’s best to avoid scented gifts.
Although heartfelt trinkets are appreciated, they tend to accumulate, take up space, and ultimately find their way into the donation pile.
One rather surprising gift trend is the presentation of pets to teachers. However, it’s important to remember that caring for a pet is a big responsibility, and you should never surprise someone with a pet without their consent.
So, how can you select a gift that your child’s teacher will truly appreciate and put to good use? Continue reading to discover some of our top gift recommendations for this season of giving.
Please note that items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time we published this list. Have an idea for a fun theme for a gift idea list you’d like us to create? Drop us a line at [email protected].
Mary Liz is the News Director and Co-Host of Augusta’s Morning News on WGAC. She spent 11 years as a News Director at an Indiana Radio Station. She has also worked as a former Police and Courts Reporter for The Republic Newspaper and Assistant Marketing Director of Merchants National Bank in Indianapolis. Mary Liz focuses most on local breaking news stories, feature stories on upcoming events, or community-service related organizations and the people who serve them. She has been with WGAC since 1995.
