Georgia is applying for more federal Race to the Top money, this time for early learning. The state has filed a letter of intent to apply for a share of $500 million that the Obama administration has promised for early education programs, said Erin Hames, deputy chief of staff for Gov. Nathan Deal. Georgia has already claimed $400 million in Race to the Top money, half of which is going to 26 local school districts.

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Carleigh Knight (left) and her sister, Natalie Rogovin, look at Christmas ornaments while shopping at Kudzu Antiques + Modern in Decatur on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025. (Natrice Miller/AJC)

Credit: Natrice Miller