Marietta Teacher receives Georgia Teacher Policy Fellowship

Candace Torrence, a dedicated teacher at A.L. Burruss Elementary School in Marietta, has been selected for the prestigious Georgia Teacher Policy Fellowship (GTPF). This honor places Torrence among a distinguished group of educators who will play an influential role in shaping education policy at both the state and national levels. The fellowship, a partnership with the Georgia Department of Education, aims to amplify the voices of experienced teachers in policy discussions that directly impact schools, classrooms, and districts.

In 2023, Torrence was named Marietta City Schools’ Teacher of the Year and was also a finalist for the 2024 State Teacher of the Year award.

Torrence’s appointment this year as a fellow is a testament to her unwavering commitment to advocating for quality education and reflects her passion for not only supporting her students but also elevating the voices of educators who often feel underrepresented in policy conversations.

Torrence said, “I’ve always believed deeply in championing quality education for my students, but the longer I’ve taught, the more I’ve realized that standing up for them also means advocating for the teachers who pour their hearts into this profession yet often feel unheard,”  She sees her selection as a collective win for educators everywhere and is excited to bring her experiences from Marietta to the national stage.

As a fellow, Torrence will travel to Washington, D.C., where she will meet with leaders from federal agencies and educational organizations to discuss classroom needs, challenges, and opportunities. The program will also provide her with opportunities to collaborate with other top educators, exchange effective strategies, and share insights into the realities of modern education.

Throughout the fellowship, Torrence will engage in professional development activities, including policy roundtables, leadership workshops, and collaborative research projects. She will have the opportunity to offer testimony and guidance directly to policymakers, ensuring that decisions reflect the needs and challenges faced by today’s educators.