Roy Barnes 2010

In a little less than a week, Georgians have clearly seen why Congressman Deal is not ready to be Georgia's next Education Governor.

Despite being in the race since May 2009, Congressman Deal didn't feel it important to have a plan for Georgia's students and teachers until just last week--eight weeks until Election Day.  The reaction has been immediate: Congressman Deal is not prepared to be Georgia's next Educator-in-Chief.

Deal's plan leaves open the door to vouchers and he says he would continue teacher furloughs.

Don't take our word for it, though.  Here's what others had to say:

-Maureen Downey (former educator and current blogger for AJC.com)

"For one thing, several key Deal initiatives already exist in Georgia, including charter high schools with a math and science emphasis, a “Move on When Ready” program for accelerated high school students and incentives to sway more teachers into math and science. There wasn’t much new in Deal’s vision, which was broad enough to be applicable to any state and any party."

"If you want details, Barnes has them."

(Full article: Nathan Deal: Is he ready to move on to the state’s education problems? Read his policy paper to find out.)

-Larry Peterson (reporter, Savannah Morning News)

"Nathan Deal wants to abolish the U.S. Department of Education, won't rule out more teacher furloughs and once backed private school 'vouchers.'"

(Full article: Deal wants to ax U.S. ed department, won't rule out more furloughs and supported vouchers in D.C.)

-Associated Press

"Hours after saying he would reject "Race to the Top" money for schools, Republican gubernatorial hopeful Nathan Deal reversed course and said he would keep the federal funds."

(Full article: Deal Reverses Course On Race To The Top)

Since announcing his candidacy in July 2009, Roy's focus has been education.  That's why he has been engaged in a statewide Listening Tour, already visiting more than 90 counties, listening to Georgia's educators and developing a comprehensive education plan for Georgia's students and teachers.

Today, Roy will continue his Listening Tour, discussing his education plan with Macon teachers this afternoon.