Georgia NOW News for Saturday Dec. 27 and Sunday Dec. 28, 2025

Schools in Georgia are seeing noticeable academic gains after banning cell phones during the school day, with educators reporting improved focus, fewer bullying incidents and higher test scores. Findings from Marietta City Schools are now being shared with lawmakers ahead of the upcoming legislative session. Meanwhile, changes to federal housing policy could reshape how Georgia organizations serve people experiencing homelessness, shifting away from the supportive housing model many providers rely on. Voters in McIntosh County are also preparing for a second referendum on zoning changes affecting Hog Hummock, the state’s last Gullah Geechee community on Sapelo Island, after the Georgia Supreme Court upheld residents’ right to hold the vote. Health advocates warn rural Georgia could be hit especially hard if federal health policy changes move forward, with tens of thousands at risk of losing coverage as enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits expire. And as Georgia looks to improve literacy outcomes, state leaders are studying Mississippi’s long-term approach to reading instruction, which has helped propel that state from near the bottom to the top 10 nationally. Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW. Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com. #HearGeorgiaNow #GeorgiaNowNews #Education #CellPhoneBan #Literacy #RuralHealth #SapeloIsland #HogHummock #HousingPolicy #GeorgiaNews