ATLANTA (May 7, 2009) – Sen. Emanuel Jones (D-Decatur) was recently honored as Legislator of the Year by the Organization of DeKalb Educators (ODE). Sen. Jones is a two-time recipient of the award having previously earned the title in 2006, making this the first time in history the award has been given to a legislator twice.
“Throughout my legislative career, I have concentrated on promoting and fighting for Georgia’s public education system. I am a product of Atlanta public schools, and am proud of the excellent education they provide our children,” said Jones. “This honor is a true affirmation of my commitment to upholding the rights of public education. I feel indebted to the tireless work of our educators, and to the teachers who were instrumental in my election to office.”
As an advocate for common sense legislation that benefits public schools, Sen. Jones has been noted for his success in defeating measures that present a challenge to educators. Most notably, Jones was instrumental of protecting public schools from a measure that would have allowed students to use taxpayer-funded vouchers to transfer to private schools. “Over the years, there have been well-intentioned proposals that would ultimately have put more hardships on the public education system and teachers. I have worked hard to ensure that any education legislation that is passed works only to the benefit of our public schools.”
ODE is a local affiliate of the Georgia Association of Educators and the National Education Association. The largest local teachers’ organization in Georgia, ODE provides information, training, representation and support services for students, parents, teachers and Educational Support Personnel to produce a stronger and more effective school system.
Sen. Emanuel Jones represents the 10th Senate District, which includes portions of DeKalb and Henry counties. He may be reached at 404.656.0502 or via e-mail at emanuel.jones@senate.ga.gov.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
May 7, 2009
For Information Contact:
Raegan Weber, Director
Kallarin Richards, Senior Communications Specialist
kallarin.richards@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028