TALBOTTON, Ga. Ricardo Lawrence, CTAE Business and Technology educator at Central Elementary/High School, has been selected for the 2026–2027 Georgia Department of Education Teacher Policy Fellowship.

The nine-month fellowship brings together educators from across Georgia to explore education policy, legislative processes, and decision-making at the state and national levels. Participants will engage with policymakers, education leaders, and legislators while developing proposals to address educational challenges.

With more than 10 years of experience in education, Lawrence has served in teaching, assessment, and leadership roles in Jamaica and the United States. He is also an FBLA adviser and was selected as a 2025–2026 Georgia LEAD CTAE Fellow, an experience that helped spark his interest in education policymaking.

"My experience through LEAD CTAE opened my eyes to how decisions made beyond the classroom shape opportunities for students and teachers. I look forward to learning more about the policymaking process and how educators can contribute to meaningful change," Lawrence shared.

Lawrence is particularly interested in policies that expand access to high-quality career and technical education, workforce preparation, and opportunities for students in rural communities.

His selection reflects his continued commitment to professional growth, educational leadership, and improving student opportunities in Talbot County and across Georgia.