Homeschooling has become a popular option among parents and guardians looking to provide their child with an individualized learning experience in recent years. As with any educational decision, however, there are a number of important questions to consider before homeschooling your child in the state of Georgia. This article provides a comprehensive look at homeschooling in Georgia, offering information about state statutes, the application process, and resources for homeschooling families.
What are the state laws for homeschooling in Georgia?
Homeschooling is regulated differently from state to state, and in Georgia homeschooling is considered a private elementary or secondary educational program. Georgia statute O. C.
G. A.
§ 20-2-690 requires that the parent or legal guardian of a homeschooled child submit an annual notice of intent to the local school board that they will be providing non-accredited private instruction to their child. Furthermore, O. C.
G. A.
§ 20-2-690 also stipulates that the parent or guardian must maintain records of instruction, including educational materials and tests and assessment scores. The records must be submitted for annual review by either the local school board or an independent educational review organization that has been selected by the board.
Additionally, instruction must be provided for subject areas including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, physical education, health, music, and art.
Who can homeschool?
According to Georgia law, any parent or legal guardian who is a resident of the state can homeschool their child. Additionally, any non-resident parent or legal guardian can homeschool their child, provided they provide notice of intent and register with the local school board within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.
What is the application process for homeschooling in Georgia?
The application process for homeschooling in Georgia is relatively simple. Parents or guardians must first submit an annual notice of intent to the local school board.
The notice of intent must comprise the full name and address of the student, the full name and address of the parent or guardian, a statement of intent and the dates of the proposed duration of the homeschooling period, and the curriculum and instruction materials that will be used. Upon submission of the notice of intent, the local school board will either refer the parent or guardian to an independent educational review organization, or review the records themselves. The local school board has the ability to revoke the notice of intent if it does not satisfy the requirements set by Georgia statute O.
C. G. A.
§ 20-2-690.
How often is homeschooling reviewed in Georgia?
Homeschooling in Georgia is subject to review on an annual basis. However, the local school board has the authority to require additional reviews if necessary. Furthermore, the local school board may require the parent or guardian to provide evidence that they are complying with the subjects and program requirements set forth in O.
C. G.
A. § 20-2-690.
What happens if my child fails a review?
If a child fails an annual review, the local school board will take action to ensure the child’s educational needs are being addressed. This may include the provision of additional resources and instruction, or the more drastic action of requiring the enrollment of the child in an accredited school or program. If the parent or guardian fails to comply with the action taken by the local school board, they may be subject to legal action.
How long is the homeschooling year in Georgia?
Homeschooling in Georgia is required to consist of at least 180 days of instruction, which is the same as the school calendar for students enrolled in an accredited school.
What are the resources for homeschoolers in Georgia?
The state of Georgia has a number of organizations and support groups dedicated to homeschooling parents and children. The Georgia Home Education Association is an advocacy group dedicated to preserving the rights of homeschoolers and providing resources to help parents and guardians throughout the process.
Additionally, local chapters of the Home School Legal Defense Association exist throughout the state, providing resources and support for families who choose to homeschool their children. Private tutorial organizations such as Huntington Learning Center and Kumon are also available in most areas of the state, providing supplemental instruction and resources to homeschooling families.
What records do I need to keep while homeschooling?
Homeschooling parents and guardians are required to keep records of their child’s instruction to be submitted for review upon request. These records include attendance records, instructional materials and resources, lessons plans and curricula, and tests and assessment scores.
The local school board may require additional records upon review, and it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to maintain and provide these records.
What are the age requirements for homeschooling in Georgia?
Students who wish to be homeschooled in the state of Georgia must be at least six years of age, and must not have exceeded the age of seventeen. Children who are five years of age may be enrolled in a home study program, but the program must be organized, directed, and conducted by a parent or guardian in compliance with O. C.
G. A.
§ 20-2-690.
Do I have to complete standardized testing while homeschooling?
The state of Georgia does not require standardized testing while homeschooling, although the local school board may require tests or assessment of progress upon reviews. If the local school board is not satisfied with the results of the assessments provided upon review, they may require additional testing or may require the child’s enrollment in an accredited school.
What are the graduation requirements for homeschoolers in Georgia?
Homeschooling students in Georgia may receive a Certificate of Attendance upon the successful completion of their homeschooling program. To receive the certificate, parents and guardians must submit the required attendance and instructional records to the local school board for review.
The certificate itself is issued by the local school board and is only available to students aged sixteen and above.
Are there social activities for homeschooled students?
Yes, there are a number of social activities for homeschooled students in Georgia, including club sports, religious instruction, art and music classes, 4-H clubs, and field trips. Many of these activities are organized by homeschool support groups and organizations, and can be a great way for homeschooled students to socialize with their peers.
What is the process for transitioning back to a traditional school?
If a homeschooled student wishes to transfer to a traditional school, they must provide all records of instruction, including test and assessment scores, to the new school. The school may also require additional test or assessments to determine the student’s progress. It is important to note that the transition process can take some time, and it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure that the child’s educational needs are addressed during this period.
Conclusion
Homeschooling can provide an individualized learning experience for your child, but it is important to weigh all of the factors before embarking on the journey. Remember to research the state laws for homeschooling in your area, develop a plan for instruction, keep records of instruction, and find resources and support groups.
With the proper planning and guidance, however, homeschooling can be an enriching and rewarding experience for both you and your child.