As a teacher in Georgia, I barely get 25 minutes for lunch. What's more, I dine together with my students, monitoring their behaviors while trying to nourish myself. This scenario shared by not just me, but numerous other educators across Georgia, underlines the need for change. We must advocate for a mandatory 30-minute duty-free lunch break for all teachers in Georgia. Recently it was mandated that K-5 teachers get a 30-minute duty free lunch. However, this mandate did not include teachers for grades 6-12.

While these lunch breaks may seem short, they are critical to teacher wellbeing, productivity, and ultimately student success. As per American Psychological Association's Center for Organizational Excellence, regular breaks can reduce stress, bolster performance, and help to foster better relationships within educational workplaces (APA, 2016).

Yet, in our state, middle school and high school educators are often not afforded time to recuperate, to peacefully consume a meal, or to prepare for the classes ahead. Undoubtedly, this practice impacts the quality of education provided and contributes to increased levels of teacher burnout, as reported by the U.S. Department of Education's recent research. 

We call on our Georgia legislators to enact laws mandating a duty-free 30-minute lunch for all teachers, not just K-5 teachers. The wellbeing of educators at all grade levels should be prioritized - for the benefit of our children, our schools, and our future. This change can ensure that teachers have regular, uninterrupted breaks during the workday. Please help to make this crucial change. Sign the petition today.