HR1495: HR1495 Payne, Susan; Unity Christian School's 2025-2026 STAR Teacher; commend

This resolution is a ceremonial statement from the Georgia House of Representatives recognizing Susan Payne, a teacher at Unity Christian School, for being named the school's STAR Teacher for the 2025-2026 year. The STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) program honors teachers chosen by top-scoring students. The resolution states that quality education is a top priority for the General Assembly and praises Payne's contributions to teaching and to Georgia students. It directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare a copy of the resolution for Payne. The resolution does not change any Georgia law, create funding, or impose any requirements; it is purely a formal expression of commendation.

• Formally commends Susan Payne as Unity Christian School's 2025-2026 STAR Teacher on behalf of the Georgia House of Representatives.
• States the House's general position that quality education is a top priority, without creating any new law or program.
• Directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare and distribute a copy of the resolution to Susan Payne.
• Creates no penalties, funding, or changes to the Official Code of Georgia (O.C.G.A.).

The resolution directly names Susan Payne, a teacher at Unity Christian School, and involves the Clerk of the House of Representatives, who must prepare and distribute a copy. It has no broader effect on other individuals, agencies, or institutions.

This resolution has no practical legal effect; it does not change funding, requirements, or rights for anyone. Its significance is symbolic, giving public recognition to a Georgia teacher and stating the House's general commitment to education.

• The preamble ('WHEREAS' clauses) states that quality education is the General Assembly's most important objective and praises Payne's teaching career.
• The resolving clause commends Susan Payne as Unity Christian School's 2025-2026 STAR Teacher and wishes her continued success.
• A final clause directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to make a copy of the resolution available for distribution to Payne.

1. 2026-02-25House Read and Adopted (House)
2. 2026-02-25House First Readers (House)
3. 2026-02-25House Hopper (House)

• Katie Dempsey (R, HD-013)Primary sponsor
• Eddie Lumsden (R, HD-012)
• Matt Barton (R, HD-005)

• teacher recognition
• STAR Teacher program
• education honors
• Georgia House resolutions