Founded in 2021, Georgia Educators for Equity and Justice (GAEEJ) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming education through advocacy, professional development, and systemic change. With a mission to restore prestige to the teaching profession and ensure safe, supportive environments for Black educators and students, GAEEJ actively works to dismantle inequitable systems and create sustainable solutions for teacher recruitment, retention, and empowerment.
GAEEJ focuses on three core areas:
Advocacy & Policy – The organization champions policies that support and protect Black educators while ensuring equitable learning environments for all students. GAEEJ leads efforts to influence education legislation, develop policy recommendations, and provide critical resources to educators navigating systemic challenges.
Professional Development & Community Building – Through training, workshops, and mentorship, GAEEJ cultivates a network of empowered educators prepared to lead in their schools and communities. The organization has partnered with institutions such as Georgia State University, Central State University, and the University of California Davis to train early-career educators and foster professional growth.
Research, Innovation & Technology in Education – GAEEJ leads research and innovation efforts to explore the role of technology in education, particularly in addressing systemic inequities. By examining technology-driven solutions, AI integration, and digital tools, GAEEJ seeks to enhance educational access, teacher support, and parental engagement. These initiatives position GAEEJ as a leader in the intersection of education, policy, and technology.
GAEEJ’s work has been recognized by major media outlets, including CNN, MSNBC, FOX 5, and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC). The organization has secured over $300,000 in federal funding to advance its mission and continues to expand its reach through community partnerships, research, and strategic programming.
As GAEEJ approaches its fourth anniversary in April 2025, the organization remains committed to building a future where Black educators and students thrive in environments that affirm their brilliance, contributions, and cultural identity. Through intentional advocacy, innovative solutions, and unwavering commitment, GAEEJ is reshaping the educational landscape in Georgia and beyond.
Aireane Montgomery is a dynamic leader with over a decade of experience in advocacy and activism for marginalized communities. As an expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion, Aireane has worked with a range of organizations and movements, including the Congressman John Lewis Youth Council, Georgia Legislative Black Caucus Incorporated, and NAACP LDF. Her experience leading grassroots movements across a diverse set of social justice issues makes her a powerful advocate for change. As a former public school educator and department chair, Aireane has firsthand experience with the challenges facing educators and students in under-resourced communities. Her successful grassroots movement around educational equity in Gwinnett County Public Schools resulted in the creation of a district-wide Ethnic Studies course and professional development opportunities. Aireane’s work in education has also led her to become a published teacher textbook editor at McGraw Hill. Aireane is the founder, president, and CEO of Georgia Educators for Equity and Justice Incorporated (GAEEJ Inc.), a 501c3 organization dedicated to the liberation and belonging of Black educators, students, and educational stakeholders across the State of Georgia. Her leadership and dedication have been recognized by media outlets such as CNN, MSNBC, FOX 5, and AJC. As a speaker and facilitator, Aireane brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to conferences and professional development sessions. She has presented at events such as the College Board African-American Dream Deferred and HBCU Conference, The Network for Public Education Conference, and the Southern Convening IDRA EAC Conference. Her leadership statement, “A great leader forges alliances with people that have differing views and perspectives to seek full representation when making decisions,” reflects her commitment to collaboration and inclusivity.