The success of the Georgia Pre-K program is due to the level of dedication that those in the field show each day in their classrooms. Each classroom is required to have a lead teacher as well as a paraprofessional. Our classrooms would not run as efficiently or effectively as they do without the the selflessness that our paraprofessionals display each and every day. They show up and put in a tremendous amount of work with these blessings. However, the pay that they receive is incredibly demeaning. I would like to bring to light the lack of support our paraprofessionals are getting through their pay. As a veteran lead teacher I can attest to the fact that my classroom benefits every second from having my wonderful co-teacher. I’m not asking solely that they receive a raise for the upcoming school year; I’m asking that you begin to recognize the paraprofessionals who have dedicated years to making this program successful. You award lead teachers with a “years of experience” raise. I’m asking that you take a look at the dedicated paraprofessionals and offer them the same benefit. A small amount to ask in return for the amazing job that they do. Help us lead teachers keep the wonderful paraprofessionals that we have. The turn over is incredibly sad and the consensus is that they are underpaid and under recognized by the department. Please take this plea into consideration from a Pre-K lead teacher of 14 years who knows first hand the dedication that our paraprofessionals have to this program, to their lead teachers, and most importantly to the children in their classrooms who become family. --