GAEL

That’s a wrap on Summer Conference 2026!

Four days of Live. Learn. Lead. in action — hundreds of leaders, countless breakthroughs, conversations, and “wait, you deal with that too?” moments that remind you: you are not doing this alone.

This is one of the many reasons GAEL exists — to build the kind of community that shows up for you the other 361 days too. We host events all year long, but this one? This is the big one.

Join us for UWG Family Fun Night at Summer Waves Water Park on Monday, July 13, 2026! Enjoy an evening of water slides, dinner, fellowship, and a spectacular fireworks show at 9 PM sponsored by PAGE.

Growing leaders, strengthening schools. 🌟
GAEL members came together for our June Professional Learning session focused on Leadership Coaching Training. Through collaboration, reflection, and skill-building, participants explored coaching strategies that empower educators, foster growth, and create lasting impact in their schools and districts.

The GAEL family is saddened by the passing of GAEL member Brent Lowe, Superintendent of Butts County Schools and brother of GAEL President-Elect Rhonda Gulley. Brent was such a bright light whose impact will be felt by many. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Rhonda, the Lowe family, and all who knew and loved Brent. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. ❤️

To the Butts County Community,

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Superintendent, Brent Lowe. Brent joined our community in 2022, but he quickly became part of our family. He led our District with grace, humor, and unwavering dedication, leaving all who knew him with the confidence that they had both a trusted leader and a dear friend on whom they could rely.

Mr. Lowe was a big presence with a big heart, who always put kids first in the work that he did. He dedicated his recent years to the service of our children, and for that, the Butts County Schools community and family will be forever grateful.

We are saddened by this great loss, but we are confident that what he helped to build here in Butts County will endure. We ask for your thoughts and prayers for his wife, Brandi, his three children, his family, and all of those who loved him.

On behalf of the Butts County Board of Education, we extend our deepest condolences to all those mourning this loss.

Sincerely,

Kelly Strickland-King
Chair, Butts County Board of Education

GAEL UnscriptED is where real conversations in education happen—unfiltered, honest, and insightful.
Listen in as leaders share the stories behind the work.
Season 3 coming soon!

Hit the greens, make connections! ⛳ Sign up for golf at the Summer GAEL Conference before it’s too late.

Corebridge Financial and Kids In Need Foundation are hosting a backpack giveaway at Summer GAEL—two districts will win 120 backpacks filled with school supplies.
Only registered Summer GAEL attendees can enter.
Deadline: 5 PM EST, May 8. Scan the QR code to enter.