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Governor Kemp and TCSG Announce New Georgia College & Career Academy in Walker County
Governor Kemp and TCSG Announce New Georgia College & Career Academy in Walker County
Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) approved a grant totaling more than $3 million to establish a new College & Career Academy in Walker County during yesterday’s TCSG board meeting. Named Walker Launch, this project is the result of a partnership between Walker County Schools and Georgia Northwestern Technical College, and it will serve Walker and Dade County students.
“To maintain our status as the No. 1 state for business, it’s crucial we support our valued and robust workforce,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Walker Launch will help prepare students for new opportunities while connecting them with the jobs of tomorrow, and I appreciate all those who worked on bringing this project to fruition.”
The new College & Career Academy is being made possible through a grant comprised of $3 million in bonds and an additional cash amount of $100,000. This funding will provide essential resources to build and support a state-of-the-art learning environment, equipped to prepare students for the challenges of the modern workforce. With the addition of Walker Launch, the number of College & Career Academies in Georgia rises to 58, marking a significant milestone in the state’s educational landscape.
“This new Georgia College & Career Academy symbolizes our unwavering dedication to providing our students with exceptional learning experiences that blend academic excellence with real-world skills,” said TCSG Commissioner Greg Dozier. “Our focus remains steadfast on equipping students with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive in a competitive global economy.”
Georgia’s College & Career Academies collaborate with over 3,000 business partners. These partnerships ensure that the curriculum and training provided are closely aligned with industry needs, enhancing both employability and skill sets for graduates.
To learn more about Georgia’s College & Career Academies, visit www.tcsg.edu/gcca.
Ringgold Telephone Company Donates $37,500 to Walker LAUNCH College & Career Academy Through Georgia Peach Education Tax Credit
Ringgold Telephone Company Donates $37,500 to Walker LAUNCH College & Career Academy Through Georgia Peach Education Tax Credit
July 31, 2025
Walker County Schools has received a major financial boost thanks to a $37,500 donation from Ringgold Telephone Company (RTC) to the newly renovated Walker LAUNCH College & Career Academy. The contribution was made through the Georgia Peach Education Tax Credit program, a state initiative that allows taxpayers to direct a portion of their state income tax dollars to support local public schools.
The investment highlights RTC’s continued commitment to strengthening education and workforce development in Northwest Georgia.
“We are incredibly proud to support the Walker LAUNCH College & Career Academy through the Georgia Peach Education Tax Credit,” said Marcy Kernea, Communications and Customer Service Manager at RTC. “As a long-standing member of this community, we understand the vital importance of investing in our future workforce.”
The Georgia Peach Education Tax Credit, also known as PEACH, empowers individuals and businesses to redirect state tax dollars directly to innovative and underfunded educational initiatives. RTC’s participation ensures those dollars are invested back into the communities they serve.
Walker LAUNCH, a partnership between Walker County Schools and Georgia Northwestern Technical College, focuses on preparing students for college and careers in high-demand industries. The Academy offers dual enrollment options in fields such as Robotics/Mechatronics, Welding, Emergency Medical Services, and Criminal Justice. A Culinary Lab is currently under construction and is expected to open during the 2026–27 school year.
Superintendent Damon Raines praised RTC for its support:
“The generosity of Ringgold Telephone Company, facilitated by the Peach Education Tax Credit, is a game-changer for Walker LAUNCH. This funding will help us continue to provide our students with the best possible resources and training, ensuring they are ready to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.”
Funds from the donation will help the Academy purchase state-of-the-art equipment, expand program offerings, and enhance learning environments designed to give students a competitive edge after graduation. Walker LAUNCH also provides students with college credits, technical certifications, employability skills, and personal finance training.
This partnership between RTC and Walker County Schools is a prime example of how local businesses can use state tax credit programs to make a lasting impact on public education.
To learn more about the Georgia Peach Education Tax Credit owww.discoverwalker.com/local/rtc-donates-37500-to-walker-launch-college-career-academy-through-georgia-peach-education-tax-credit/ r to partner with Walker LAUNCH College & Career Academy, contact Principal and CEO Zac Wilson at zacwilson@walkerschools.org, or visit www.walkerlaunch.org.
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