Editor; One important runoff race the many might not be aware of is the job of State School Superintendent. Over half of Georgia's budget is allocated to public education and this race is vital at upholding the law and implementing policy that influences the teaching and learning of all students.
 It is no secret that education impacts economic opportunities for our state and federal over reach in our schools has become more rapid; more so under the Obama Administration.
I encourage voters to consider Richard Woods for State School Superintendent. Richard has the educational and business experience needed to lead Georgia’s schools. He has over 22 years of classroom and administrative experience at the school level, working with students, parents and teachers every day. Richard is a small business owner and also has been a purchasing agent managing multi-million dollar budgets.
I believe that Richard’s solutions-based plan is what our parents, educators, and community deserve. Mr. Woods has the knowledge base and experience that will help restore basic fundamentals to the purpose of public education.
Richard is from South Georgia and will be a needed voice for us in Atlanta. With the rushed changes of the GADOE on testing and teacher evaluations, it is critical we get this right before repeating a Groundhog day scenario like we did with No Child Left Behind I strongly recommend him and do not forget to vote July 22.

— Jeremy Spencer. Ed.S
Georgia Teacher
St. Marys, GA