O.C.G.A. § 20-2-786 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-786
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-786
Status: reserved

(a) This Code section shall be known and may be cited as the “Parents' Bill of Rights.”

(a) This Code section shall be known and may be cited as the “Parents' Bill of Rights.”

(b) The General Assembly finds that it is a fundamental right of parents to direct the upbringing and education of their minor children. The General Assembly further finds that important information relating to a minor child should not be withheld, either inadvertently or purposefully, from his or her parent, including information relating to the minor child's education.

(b) The General Assembly finds that it is a fundamental right of parents to direct the upbringing and education of their minor children. The General Assembly further finds that important information relating to a minor child should not be withheld, either inadvertently or purposefully, from his or her parent, including information relating to the minor child's education.

(c) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “Governing body” shall have the same meaning as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-2-167.1 . (2) “ Instructional material ” means instructional materials and content, as defined by the State Board of Education pursuant to Code Section 20-2-1010 , and locally approved instructional materials and content, as defined in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-2-1017 . (3) “ Minor child ” means a person who is less than 18 years of age and who has not been emancipated by operation of law or by court order pursuant to Code Section 15-11-727 or as otherwise provided by law. (4) “ Parent ” means a person who has legal authority to act on behalf of a minor child as a natural or adoptive parent or a legal guardian. (5) “ Review period ” means the first two weeks of each nine-week grading period of the school year; provided, however, that for schools that do not implement nine-week grading periods, the term ‘ review period ' means the first two weeks of each grading period of the school year.

(c) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “Governing body” shall have the same meaning as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-2-167.1 .

(1) “Governing body” shall have the same meaning as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-2-167.1 .

(2) “ Instructional material ” means instructional materials and content, as defined by the State Board of Education pursuant to Code Section 20-2-1010 , and locally approved instructional materials and content, as defined in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-2-1017 .

(2) “ Instructional material ” means instructional materials and content, as defined by the State Board of Education pursuant to Code Section 20-2-1010 , and locally approved instructional materials and content, as defined in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-2-1017 .

(3) “ Minor child ” means a person who is less than 18 years of age and who has not been emancipated by operation of law or by court order pursuant to Code Section 15-11-727 or as otherwise provided by law.

(3) “ Minor child ” means a person who is less than 18 years of age and who has not been emancipated by operation of law or by court order pursuant to Code Section 15-11-727 or as otherwise provided by law.

(4) “ Parent ” means a person who has legal authority to act on behalf of a minor child as a natural or adoptive parent or a legal guardian.

(4) “ Parent ” means a person who has legal authority to act on behalf of a minor child as a natural or adoptive parent or a legal guardian.

(5) “ Review period ” means the first two weeks of each nine-week grading period of the school year; provided, however, that for schools that do not implement nine-week grading periods, the term ‘ review period ' means the first two weeks of each grading period of the school year.

(5) “ Review period ” means the first two weeks of each nine-week grading period of the school year; provided, however, that for schools that do not implement nine-week grading periods, the term ‘ review period ' means the first two weeks of each grading period of the school year.

(d) No state or local government entity, governing body, or any officer, employee, or agent thereof may infringe on the fundamental right of a parent to direct the upbringing and education of his or her minor child without demonstrating that such action is reasonable and necessary to achieve a compelling state interest and that such action is narrowly tailored and is not otherwise served by less restrictive means.

(d) No state or local government entity, governing body, or any officer, employee, or agent thereof may infringe on the fundamental right of a parent to direct the upbringing and education of his or her minor child without demonstrating that such action is reasonable and necessary to achieve a compelling state interest and that such action is narrowly tailored and is not otherwise served by less restrictive means.

(e)(1) All parental rights are reserved to the parent of a minor child in this state without obstruction or interference from a state or local government entity, governing body, or any officer, employee, or agent thereof, including, but not limited to: (A) The right to direct the upbringing and the moral or religious training of his or her minor child; (B) The right to review all instructional materials intended for use in the classroom of his or her minor child; (C) The right to apply to enroll his or her minor child in a public school or, as an alternative to public education, a private school, including a religious school, a home study program, or other available options, as authorized by law and subject to applicable enrollment requirements; (D) The right to access and review all records relating to his or her minor child, including, but not limited to, current grade reports and attendance records, unless otherwise prohibited by law; (E) The right to access information relating to promotion and retention policies and high school graduation requirements; (F) The right to provide written notice that photographs or video or voice recordings of his or her child are not permitted, subject to applicable public safety and security exceptions; and (G)(i) The right to request, in writing, from the local school superintendent or school principal the information provided for in this Code section. The local school superintendent or school principal shall produce such information for inspection within a reasonable amount of time not to exceed three business days of receipt of a request. In those instances where some, but not all, information requested is available for inspection within three business days, the local school superintendent or school principal shall make available within that period such information that is available for inspection. In any instance where some or all of such information is unavailable within three business days of receipt of the request, and such information exists, the local school superintendent or school principal shall, within such time period, provide the requester with a description of such information and a timeline for when the information will be available for inspection and shall provide the information or access thereto as soon as practicable but in no case later than 30 days of receipt of the request. (ii) If the local school superintendent or school principal denies a parent's request for information or does not provide existing responsive information within 30 days, the parent may appeal such denial or failure to respond to the governing body. The governing body must place such appeal on the agenda for its next public meeting. If it is too late for such appeal to appear on the next meeting's agenda, the appeal must be included on the agenda for the subsequent meeting. (iii) A parent aggrieved by the decision of the governing body may appeal such decision to the State Board of Education as provided in subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-1160 . (2) Unless such rights have been waived or terminated as provided by law, parents have inalienable rights that are more comprehensive than those listed in paragraph (1) of this subsection. This Code section does not prescribe all rights of parents. Unless otherwise required by law, the rights of a parent of a minor child shall not be limited or denied.

(e)(1) All parental rights are reserved to the parent of a minor child in this state without obstruction or interference from a state or local government entity, governing body, or any officer, employee, or agent thereof, including, but not limited to: (A) The right to direct the upbringing and the moral or religious training of his or her minor child; (B) The right to review all instructional materials intended for use in the classroom of his or her minor child; (C) The right to apply to enroll his or her minor child in a public school or, as an alternative to public education, a private school, including a religious school, a home study program, or other available options, as authorized by law and subject to applicable enrollment requirements; (D) The right to access and review all records relating to his or her minor child, including, but not limited to, current grade reports and attendance records, unless otherwise prohibited by law; (E) The right to access information relating to promotion and retention policies and high school graduation requirements; (F) The right to provide written notice that photographs or video or voice recordings of his or her child are not permitted, subject to applicable public safety and security exceptions; and (G)(i) The right to request, in writing, from the local school superintendent or school principal the information provided for in this Code section. The local school superintendent or school principal shall produce such information for inspection within a reasonable amount of time not to exceed three business days of receipt of a request. In those instances where some, but not all, information requested is available for inspection within three business days, the local school superintendent or school principal shall make available within that period such information that is available for inspection. In any instance where some or all of such information is unavailable within three business days of receipt of the request, and such information exists, the local school superintendent or school principal shall, within such time period, provide the requester with a description of such information and a timeline for when the information will be available for inspection and shall provide the information or access thereto as soon as practicable but in no case later than 30 days of receipt of the request. (ii) If the local school superintendent or school principal denies a parent's request for information or does not provide existing responsive information within 30 days, the parent may appeal such denial or failure to respond to the governing body. The governing body must place such appeal on the agenda for its next public meeting. If it is too late for such appeal to appear on the next meeting's agenda, the appeal must be included on the agenda for the subsequent meeting. (iii) A parent aggrieved by the decision of the governing body may appeal such decision to the State Board of Education as provided in subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-1160 .

(e)(1) All parental rights are reserved to the parent of a minor child in this state without obstruction or interference from a state or local government entity, governing body, or any officer, employee, or agent thereof, including, but not limited to:

(A) The right to direct the upbringing and the moral or religious training of his or her minor child;

(A) The right to direct the upbringing and the moral or religious training of his or her minor child;

(B) The right to review all instructional materials intended for use in the classroom of his or her minor child;

(B) The right to review all instructional materials intended for use in the classroom of his or her minor child;

(C) The right to apply to enroll his or her minor child in a public school or, as an alternative to public education, a private school, including a religious school, a home study program, or other available options, as authorized by law and subject to applicable enrollment requirements;

(C) The right to apply to enroll his or her minor child in a public school or, as an alternative to public education, a private school, including a religious school, a home study program, or other available options, as authorized by law and subject to applicable enrollment requirements;

(D) The right to access and review all records relating to his or her minor child, including, but not limited to, current grade reports and attendance records, unless otherwise prohibited by law;

(D) The right to access and review all records relating to his or her minor child, including, but not limited to, current grade reports and attendance records, unless otherwise prohibited by law;

(E) The right to access information relating to promotion and retention policies and high school graduation requirements;

(E) The right to access information relating to promotion and retention policies and high school graduation requirements;

(F) The right to provide written notice that photographs or video or voice recordings of his or her child are not permitted, subject to applicable public safety and security exceptions; and

(F) The right to provide written notice that photographs or video or voice recordings of his or her child are not permitted, subject to applicable public safety and security exceptions; and

(G)(i) The right to request, in writing, from the local school superintendent or school principal the information provided for in this Code section. The local school superintendent or school principal shall produce such information for inspection within a reasonable amount of time not to exceed three business days of receipt of a request. In those instances where some, but not all, information requested is available for inspection within three business days, the local school superintendent or school principal shall make available within that period such information that is available for inspection. In any instance where some or all of such information is unavailable within three business days of receipt of the request, and such information exists, the local school superintendent or school principal shall, within such time period, provide the requester with a description of such information and a timeline for when the information will be available for inspection and shall provide the information or access thereto as soon as practicable but in no case later than 30 days of receipt of the request. (ii) If the local school superintendent or school principal denies a parent's request for information or does not provide existing responsive information within 30 days, the parent may appeal such denial or failure to respond to the governing body. The governing body must place such appeal on the agenda for its next public meeting. If it is too late for such appeal to appear on the next meeting's agenda, the appeal must be included on the agenda for the subsequent meeting. (iii) A parent aggrieved by the decision of the governing body may appeal such decision to the State Board of Education as provided in subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-1160 .

(G)(i) The right to request, in writing, from the local school superintendent or school principal the information provided for in this Code section. The local school superintendent or school principal shall produce such information for inspection within a reasonable amount of time not to exceed three business days of receipt of a request. In those instances where some, but not all, information requested is available for inspection within three business days, the local school superintendent or school principal shall make available within that period such information that is available for inspection. In any instance where some or all of such information is unavailable within three business days of receipt of the request, and such information exists, the local school superintendent or school principal shall, within such time period, provide the requester with a description of such information and a timeline for when the information will be available for inspection and shall provide the information or access thereto as soon as practicable but in no case later than 30 days of receipt of the request.

(G)(i) The right to request, in writing, from the local school superintendent or school principal the information provided for in this Code section. The local school superintendent or school principal shall produce such information for inspection within a reasonable amount of time not to exceed three business days of receipt of a request. In those instances where some, but not all, information requested is available for inspection within three business days, the local school superintendent or school principal shall make available within that period such information that is available for inspection. In any instance where some or all of such information is unavailable within three business days of receipt of the request, and such information exists, the local school superintendent or school principal shall, within such time period, provide the requester with a description of such information and a timeline for when the information will be available for inspection and shall provide the information or access thereto as soon as practicable but in no case later than 30 days of receipt of the request.

(ii) If the local school superintendent or school principal denies a parent's request for information or does not provide existing responsive information within 30 days, the parent may appeal such denial or failure to respond to the governing body. The governing body must place such appeal on the agenda for its next public meeting. If it is too late for such appeal to appear on the next meeting's agenda, the appeal must be included on the agenda for the subsequent meeting.

(ii) If the local school superintendent or school principal denies a parent's request for information or does not provide existing responsive information within 30 days, the parent may appeal such denial or failure to respond to the governing body. The governing body must place such appeal on the agenda for its next public meeting. If it is too late for such appeal to appear on the next meeting's agenda, the appeal must be included on the agenda for the subsequent meeting.

(iii) A parent aggrieved by the decision of the governing body may appeal such decision to the State Board of Education as provided in subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-1160 .

(iii) A parent aggrieved by the decision of the governing body may appeal such decision to the State Board of Education as provided in subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-1160 .

(2) Unless such rights have been waived or terminated as provided by law, parents have inalienable rights that are more comprehensive than those listed in paragraph (1) of this subsection. This Code section does not prescribe all rights of parents. Unless otherwise required by law, the rights of a parent of a minor child shall not be limited or denied.

(2) Unless such rights have been waived or terminated as provided by law, parents have inalienable rights that are more comprehensive than those listed in paragraph (1) of this subsection. This Code section does not prescribe all rights of parents. Unless otherwise required by law, the rights of a parent of a minor child shall not be limited or denied.

(f) Each governing body shall, in consultation with parents, teachers, and administrators, develop and adopt a policy or regulation to promote parental involvement in the public schools. Such policy or regulation shall be posted on each governing body's public website, and a copy of such policy or regulation shall be available for review on site upon request by a parent. Such policy or regulation shall include: (1) Procedures for a parent to review records relating to his or her minor child; (2)(A) Procedures for a parent to learn about his or her minor child's courses of study, including, but not limited to, parental access to instructional materials intended for use in the classroom. Instructional materials intended for use in his or her minor child's classroom shall be made available for parental review during the review period. If such instructional materials are not made available by a school or local school system for review online, then they shall be made available for review on site upon a parent's request made during the review period. (B) Procedures for a parent to object to instructional materials intended for use in his or her minor child's classroom or recommended by his or her minor child's teacher; (3) Procedures for a parent to withdraw his or her minor child from the school's prescribed course of study in sex education if the parent provides a written objection to his or her minor child's participation. Such procedures must provide for a parent to be notified in advance of such course content so that he or she may withdraw his or her minor child from the course; and (4) Procedures for a parent to provide written notice that photographs or video or voice recordings of his or her child are not permitted, subject to applicable public safety and security exceptions.

(f) Each governing body shall, in consultation with parents, teachers, and administrators, develop and adopt a policy or regulation to promote parental involvement in the public schools. Such policy or regulation shall be posted on each governing body's public website, and a copy of such policy or regulation shall be available for review on site upon request by a parent. Such policy or regulation shall include:

(1) Procedures for a parent to review records relating to his or her minor child;

(1) Procedures for a parent to review records relating to his or her minor child;

(2)(A) Procedures for a parent to learn about his or her minor child's courses of study, including, but not limited to, parental access to instructional materials intended for use in the classroom. Instructional materials intended for use in his or her minor child's classroom shall be made available for parental review during the review period. If such instructional materials are not made available by a school or local school system for review online, then they shall be made available for review on site upon a parent's request made during the review period. (B) Procedures for a parent to object to instructional materials intended for use in his or her minor child's classroom or recommended by his or her minor child's teacher;

(2)(A) Procedures for a parent to learn about his or her minor child's courses of study, including, but not limited to, parental access to instructional materials intended for use in the classroom. Instructional materials intended for use in his or her minor child's classroom shall be made available for parental review during the review period. If such instructional materials are not made available by a school or local school system for review online, then they shall be made available for review on site upon a parent's request made during the review period.

(2)(A) Procedures for a parent to learn about his or her minor child's courses of study, including, but not limited to, parental access to instructional materials intended for use in the classroom. Instructional materials intended for use in his or her minor child's classroom shall be made available for parental review during the review period. If such instructional materials are not made available by a school or local school system for review online, then they shall be made available for review on site upon a parent's request made during the review period.

(B) Procedures for a parent to object to instructional materials intended for use in his or her minor child's classroom or recommended by his or her minor child's teacher;

(B) Procedures for a parent to object to instructional materials intended for use in his or her minor child's classroom or recommended by his or her minor child's teacher;

(3) Procedures for a parent to withdraw his or her minor child from the school's prescribed course of study in sex education if the parent provides a written objection to his or her minor child's participation. Such procedures must provide for a parent to be notified in advance of such course content so that he or she may withdraw his or her minor child from the course; and

(3) Procedures for a parent to withdraw his or her minor child from the school's prescribed course of study in sex education if the parent provides a written objection to his or her minor child's participation. Such procedures must provide for a parent to be notified in advance of such course content so that he or she may withdraw his or her minor child from the course; and

(4) Procedures for a parent to provide written notice that photographs or video or voice recordings of his or her child are not permitted, subject to applicable public safety and security exceptions.

(4) Procedures for a parent to provide written notice that photographs or video or voice recordings of his or her child are not permitted, subject to applicable public safety and security exceptions.

(g) This Code section does not and shall not be construed to: (1) Authorize a parent of a minor child in this state to engage in conduct that is unlawful or to abuse or neglect his or her minor child in violation of the law; (2) Prohibit a judge or officer of a court of competent jurisdiction, law enforcement officer, or any agent of a state or local government entity that is responsible for child welfare from acting in his or her official capacity within the reasonable and prudent scope of his or her authority; (3) Prohibit a court of competent jurisdiction from issuing an order that is otherwise permitted by law; or (4) Apply to a parental action or decision that would end life.

(g) This Code section does not and shall not be construed to:

(1) Authorize a parent of a minor child in this state to engage in conduct that is unlawful or to abuse or neglect his or her minor child in violation of the law;

(1) Authorize a parent of a minor child in this state to engage in conduct that is unlawful or to abuse or neglect his or her minor child in violation of the law;

(2) Prohibit a judge or officer of a court of competent jurisdiction, law enforcement officer, or any agent of a state or local government entity that is responsible for child welfare from acting in his or her official capacity within the reasonable and prudent scope of his or her authority;

(2) Prohibit a judge or officer of a court of competent jurisdiction, law enforcement officer, or any agent of a state or local government entity that is responsible for child welfare from acting in his or her official capacity within the reasonable and prudent scope of his or her authority;

(3) Prohibit a court of competent jurisdiction from issuing an order that is otherwise permitted by law; or

(3) Prohibit a court of competent jurisdiction from issuing an order that is otherwise permitted by law; or

(4) Apply to a parental action or decision that would end life.

(4) Apply to a parental action or decision that would end life.

(h) This Code section shall not be subject to waiver pursuant to Code Section 20-2-82 for a strategic waivers school system, Code Section 20-2-2063.2 for a charter system, Code Section 20-2-2065 for a charter school, or Code Section 20-2-244 .

(h) This Code section shall not be subject to waiver pursuant to Code Section 20-2-82 for a strategic waivers school system, Code Section 20-2-2063.2 for a charter system, Code Section 20-2-2065 for a charter school, or Code Section 20-2-244 .
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-888 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-888
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-888
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this subpart to the contrary, the board shall offer coverage to the surviving spouse of any teacher who died prior to January 1, 1979, and to any teacher with eight or more years of creditable service who is not presently eligible to receive retirement benefits. The surviving spouse or teacher shall pay in monthly installments both the employer and employee premiums for such insurance coverage. The amount of the monthly premiums shall be equal to the rate of employer and employee contributions in effect during the existence of the coverage.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-522 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-522
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-522
Status: in_force

Condemnation proceedings by the boards and systems referred to in Code Section 20-2-521 shall take the form provided in Chapter 1 of Title 22 and Article 1 of Chapter 2 of Title 22 or the form provided in Article 3 of Chapter 2 of Title 22, provided that county boards of education in counties of this state having a population (including the population of any independent school district located in such county) of more than 500,000 according to the United States decennial census of 1950 or any future such census may use the form provided in Article 2 of Chapter 2 of Title 22.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-738 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-738
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-738
Status: in_force

(a) A teacher shall have the authority, consistent with local board policy, to manage his or her classroom, discipline students, and refer a student to the principal or the principal's designee to maintain discipline in the classroom. The principal or the principal's designee shall respond when a student is referred by a teacher by employing appropriate discipline management techniques that are consistent with local board policy.

(a) A teacher shall have the authority, consistent with local board policy, to manage his or her classroom, discipline students, and refer a student to the principal or the principal's designee to maintain discipline in the classroom. The principal or the principal's designee shall respond when a student is referred by a teacher by employing appropriate discipline management techniques that are consistent with local board policy.

(b) A teacher shall have the authority to remove from his or her class a student who repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teacher's ability to communicate effectively with the students in the class or with the ability of the student's classmates to learn, where the student's behavior is in violation of the student code of conduct, provided that the teacher has previously filed a report pursuant to Code Section 20-2-737 or determines that such behavior of the student poses an immediate threat to the safety of the student's classmates or the teacher. Each school principal shall fully support the authority of every teacher in his or her school to remove a student from the classroom under this Code section. Each school principal shall implement the policies and procedures of the superintendent and local board of education relating to the authority of every teacher to remove a student from the classroom and shall disseminate such policies and procedures to faculty, staff, and parents or guardians of students. The teacher shall file with the principal or the principal's designee a report describing the student's behavior, in one page or less, by the end of the school day on which such removal occurs or at the beginning of the next school day. The principal or the principal's designee shall, within one school day after the student's removal from class, send to the student's parents or guardians written notification that the student was removed from class, a copy of the report filed by the teacher, and information regarding how the student's parents or guardians may contact the principal or the principal's designee.

(b) A teacher shall have the authority to remove from his or her class a student who repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teacher's ability to communicate effectively with the students in the class or with the ability of the student's classmates to learn, where the student's behavior is in violation of the student code of conduct, provided that the teacher has previously filed a report pursuant to Code Section 20-2-737 or determines that such behavior of the student poses an immediate threat to the safety of the student's classmates or the teacher. Each school principal shall fully support the authority of every teacher in his or her school to remove a student from the classroom under this Code section. Each school principal shall implement the policies and procedures of the superintendent and local board of education relating to the authority of every teacher to remove a student from the classroom and shall disseminate such policies and procedures to faculty, staff, and parents or guardians of students. The teacher shall file with the principal or the principal's designee a report describing the student's behavior, in one page or less, by the end of the school day on which such removal occurs or at the beginning of the next school day. The principal or the principal's designee shall, within one school day after the student's removal from class, send to the student's parents or guardians written notification that the student was removed from class, a copy of the report filed by the teacher, and information regarding how the student's parents or guardians may contact the principal or the principal's designee.

(c) If a teacher removes a student from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section, the principal or the principal's designee shall discuss the matter with the teacher and the student by the end of the school day on which such removal occurs or at the beginning of the next school day. The principal or the principal's designee shall give the student oral or written notice of the grounds for his or her removal from class and, if the student denies engaging in such conduct, the principal or the principal's designee shall explain the evidence which supports his or her removal from class and give the student an opportunity to present his or her explanation of the situation. If, after such discussions, the principal or the principal's designee seeks to return the student to the teacher's class and the teacher gives his or her consent, the student shall be returned to the class, and the principal or the principal's designee may take action to discipline the student, as may be warranted, pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection (e) of this Code section. If, after such discussions, the principal or the principal's designee seeks to return the student to the teacher's class and the teacher withholds his or her consent to the student's return to his or her class, the principal or the principal's designee shall determine an appropriate temporary placement for the student by the end of the first school day following such removal and shall also take steps to convene a meeting of a placement review committee. The placement review committee shall convene by the end of the second school day following such removal by the teacher and shall issue a decision by the end of the third school day following such removal by the teacher. An appropriate temporary placement for the student shall be a placement that, in the judgment of the principal or the principal's designee, provides the least interruption to the student's education and reflects other relevant factors, including, but not limited to, the severity of the behavior that was the basis for the removal, the student's behavioral history, the student's need for support services, and the available education settings; provided, however, that the student shall not be returned to the class of the teacher who removed him or her, as an appropriate temporary placement, unless the teacher gives his or her consent. The temporary placement shall be in effect from the time of removal until the decision of the placement review committee is issued or, if applicable, a placement determination is made pursuant to paragraph (2) of subsection (e) of this Code section.

(c) If a teacher removes a student from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section, the principal or the principal's designee shall discuss the matter with the teacher and the student by the end of the school day on which such removal occurs or at the beginning of the next school day. The principal or the principal's designee shall give the student oral or written notice of the grounds for his or her removal from class and, if the student denies engaging in such conduct, the principal or the principal's designee shall explain the evidence which supports his or her removal from class and give the student an opportunity to present his or her explanation of the situation. If, after such discussions, the principal or the principal's designee seeks to return the student to the teacher's class and the teacher gives his or her consent, the student shall be returned to the class, and the principal or the principal's designee may take action to discipline the student, as may be warranted, pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection (e) of this Code section. If, after such discussions, the principal or the principal's designee seeks to return the student to the teacher's class and the teacher withholds his or her consent to the student's return to his or her class, the principal or the principal's designee shall determine an appropriate temporary placement for the student by the end of the first school day following such removal and shall also take steps to convene a meeting of a placement review committee. The placement review committee shall convene by the end of the second school day following such removal by the teacher and shall issue a decision by the end of the third school day following such removal by the teacher. An appropriate temporary placement for the student shall be a placement that, in the judgment of the principal or the principal's designee, provides the least interruption to the student's education and reflects other relevant factors, including, but not limited to, the severity of the behavior that was the basis for the removal, the student's behavioral history, the student's need for support services, and the available education settings; provided, however, that the student shall not be returned to the class of the teacher who removed him or her, as an appropriate temporary placement, unless the teacher gives his or her consent. The temporary placement shall be in effect from the time of removal until the decision of the placement review committee is issued or, if applicable, a placement determination is made pursuant to paragraph (2) of subsection (e) of this Code section.

(d) Local board policies adopted pursuant to Code Section 20-2-735 shall provide for the establishment at each school of one or more placement review committees, each of which is to be composed of three members, to determine the placement of a student when a teacher withholds his or her consent to the return of a student to the teacher's class. For each committee established, the faculty shall choose two teachers to serve as members and one teacher to serve as an alternate member, and the principal shall choose one member of the professional staff of the school to serve as a member. The teacher withholding consent to readmit the student may not serve on the committee. The placement review committee shall have the authority to: (1) Return the student to the teacher's class upon determining that such placement is the best alternative or the only available alternative; or (2) Refer the student to the principal or the principal's designee for appropriate action consistent with paragraph (2) of subsection (e) of this Code section. The decision of the placement review committee shall be in writing and shall be made within three school days after the teacher withholds consent to the return of a student. Local boards of education shall provide training for members of placement review committees regarding the provisions of this subpart, including procedural requirements; local board policies relating to student discipline; and the student code of conduct that is applicable to the school.

(d) Local board policies adopted pursuant to Code Section 20-2-735 shall provide for the establishment at each school of one or more placement review committees, each of which is to be composed of three members, to determine the placement of a student when a teacher withholds his or her consent to the return of a student to the teacher's class. For each committee established, the faculty shall choose two teachers to serve as members and one teacher to serve as an alternate member, and the principal shall choose one member of the professional staff of the school to serve as a member. The teacher withholding consent to readmit the student may not serve on the committee. The placement review committee shall have the authority to:

(1) Return the student to the teacher's class upon determining that such placement is the best alternative or the only available alternative; or

(1) Return the student to the teacher's class upon determining that such placement is the best alternative or the only available alternative; or

(2) Refer the student to the principal or the principal's designee for appropriate action consistent with paragraph (2) of subsection (e) of this Code section.

(2) Refer the student to the principal or the principal's designee for appropriate action consistent with paragraph (2) of subsection (e) of this Code section.

The decision of the placement review committee shall be in writing and shall be made within three school days after the teacher withholds consent to the return of a student. Local boards of education shall provide training for members of placement review committees regarding the provisions of this subpart, including procedural requirements; local board policies relating to student discipline; and the student code of conduct that is applicable to the school.

(e)(1) If a placement review committee decides to return a student to a class from which he or she was removed, the principal or the principal's designee shall implement such decision of the placement review committee. In addition, the principal or the principal's designee may, consistent with any applicable procedural requirements of the Constitutions of the United States and this state and after considering the use of any appropriate student support services, take any of the following actions which are authorized as a response to the alleged violation of the student code of conduct by local board policies adopted pursuant to Code Section 20-2-735 : (A) Place the student in an alternative education program; (B) Impose out-of-school suspension for not more than ten school days, including any time during which the student was subject to out-of-school suspension after his or her removal from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section; or (C) Make another disciplinary decision or recommendation consistent with local board policy. (2) If a placement review committee decides not to return a student to a class from which he or she was removed, the principal or the principal's designee shall implement such decision of the placement review committee. In addition, the principal or the principal's designee shall determine an appropriate placement for the student and may take action to discipline the student, in a manner consistent with any applicable procedural requirements of the Constitutions of the United States and this state and after considering the use of any appropriate student support services, as follows, provided that the placement or disciplinary action is authorized as a response to the alleged violation of the student code of conduct by local board policies adopted pursuant to Code Section 20-2-735 : (A) Place the student into another appropriate classroom or an alternative education program; (B) Impose out-of-school suspension for not more than ten school days, including any time during which the student was subject to out-of-school suspension after his or her removal from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section; (C) Make another placement or disciplinary decision or recommendation consistent with local board policy; or (D) Implement or recommend any appropriate combination of the above and return the student to the class from which he or she was removed upon the completion of any disciplinary or placement action taken pursuant to this paragraph.

(e)(1) If a placement review committee decides to return a student to a class from which he or she was removed, the principal or the principal's designee shall implement such decision of the placement review committee. In addition, the principal or the principal's designee may, consistent with any applicable procedural requirements of the Constitutions of the United States and this state and after considering the use of any appropriate student support services, take any of the following actions which are authorized as a response to the alleged violation of the student code of conduct by local board policies adopted pursuant to Code Section 20-2-735 : (A) Place the student in an alternative education program; (B) Impose out-of-school suspension for not more than ten school days, including any time during which the student was subject to out-of-school suspension after his or her removal from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section; or (C) Make another disciplinary decision or recommendation consistent with local board policy.

(e)(1) If a placement review committee decides to return a student to a class from which he or she was removed, the principal or the principal's designee shall implement such decision of the placement review committee. In addition, the principal or the principal's designee may, consistent with any applicable procedural requirements of the Constitutions of the United States and this state and after considering the use of any appropriate student support services, take any of the following actions which are authorized as a response to the alleged violation of the student code of conduct by local board policies adopted pursuant to Code Section 20-2-735 :

(A) Place the student in an alternative education program;

(A) Place the student in an alternative education program;

(B) Impose out-of-school suspension for not more than ten school days, including any time during which the student was subject to out-of-school suspension after his or her removal from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section; or

(B) Impose out-of-school suspension for not more than ten school days, including any time during which the student was subject to out-of-school suspension after his or her removal from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section; or

(C) Make another disciplinary decision or recommendation consistent with local board policy.

(C) Make another disciplinary decision or recommendation consistent with local board policy.

(2) If a placement review committee decides not to return a student to a class from which he or she was removed, the principal or the principal's designee shall implement such decision of the placement review committee. In addition, the principal or the principal's designee shall determine an appropriate placement for the student and may take action to discipline the student, in a manner consistent with any applicable procedural requirements of the Constitutions of the United States and this state and after considering the use of any appropriate student support services, as follows, provided that the placement or disciplinary action is authorized as a response to the alleged violation of the student code of conduct by local board policies adopted pursuant to Code Section 20-2-735 : (A) Place the student into another appropriate classroom or an alternative education program; (B) Impose out-of-school suspension for not more than ten school days, including any time during which the student was subject to out-of-school suspension after his or her removal from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section; (C) Make another placement or disciplinary decision or recommendation consistent with local board policy; or (D) Implement or recommend any appropriate combination of the above and return the student to the class from which he or she was removed upon the completion of any disciplinary or placement action taken pursuant to this paragraph.

(2) If a placement review committee decides not to return a student to a class from which he or she was removed, the principal or the principal's designee shall implement such decision of the placement review committee. In addition, the principal or the principal's designee shall determine an appropriate placement for the student and may take action to discipline the student, in a manner consistent with any applicable procedural requirements of the Constitutions of the United States and this state and after considering the use of any appropriate student support services, as follows, provided that the placement or disciplinary action is authorized as a response to the alleged violation of the student code of conduct by local board policies adopted pursuant to Code Section 20-2-735 :

(A) Place the student into another appropriate classroom or an alternative education program;

(A) Place the student into another appropriate classroom or an alternative education program;

(B) Impose out-of-school suspension for not more than ten school days, including any time during which the student was subject to out-of-school suspension after his or her removal from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section;

(B) Impose out-of-school suspension for not more than ten school days, including any time during which the student was subject to out-of-school suspension after his or her removal from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section;

(C) Make another placement or disciplinary decision or recommendation consistent with local board policy; or

(C) Make another placement or disciplinary decision or recommendation consistent with local board policy; or

(D) Implement or recommend any appropriate combination of the above and return the student to the class from which he or she was removed upon the completion of any disciplinary or placement action taken pursuant to this paragraph.

(D) Implement or recommend any appropriate combination of the above and return the student to the class from which he or she was removed upon the completion of any disciplinary or placement action taken pursuant to this paragraph.

(f) Within one school day of taking action pursuant to subsection (e) of this Code section, the principal or the principal's designee shall send written notification of such action to the teacher and the parents or guardians of the student and shall make a reasonable attempt to confirm that such written notification has been received by the student's parents or guardians.

(f) Within one school day of taking action pursuant to subsection (e) of this Code section, the principal or the principal's designee shall send written notification of such action to the teacher and the parents or guardians of the student and shall make a reasonable attempt to confirm that such written notification has been received by the student's parents or guardians.

(g) Parents or guardians of a student who has been removed from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section may be required to participate in conferences that may be requested by the principal or the principal's designee; provided, however, that a student may not be penalized for the failure of his or her parent or guardian to attend such a conference.

(g) Parents or guardians of a student who has been removed from class pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section may be required to participate in conferences that may be requested by the principal or the principal's designee; provided, however, that a student may not be penalized for the failure of his or her parent or guardian to attend such a conference.

(h) The procedures contained in this Code section relating to student conferences and notification of parents or guardians are minimum requirements. Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to limit the authority of a local board of education to establish additional requirements relating to student conferences, notification of parents or guardians, conferences with parents or guardians, or other procedures required by the Constitutions of the United States or this state.

(h) The procedures contained in this Code section relating to student conferences and notification of parents or guardians are minimum requirements. Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to limit the authority of a local board of education to establish additional requirements relating to student conferences, notification of parents or guardians, conferences with parents or guardians, or other procedures required by the Constitutions of the United States or this state.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-461 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-461
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-461
Status: in_force

No election as provided in this subpart shall be held in any one district more often than once a year.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-519-11 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-519-11
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-519.11
Status: in_force

(a) The Georgia Student Finance Commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations not inconsistent with the provisions of this part relating to grants and scholarships described in this part. The Georgia Student Finance Commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations related to grants, loans, and scholarships no longer in effect as of March 15, 2011, under this part but for which the Georgia Student Finance Commission or the Georgia Student Finance Authority and the student were previously obligated.

(a) The Georgia Student Finance Commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations not inconsistent with the provisions of this part relating to grants and scholarships described in this part. The Georgia Student Finance Commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations related to grants, loans, and scholarships no longer in effect as of March 15, 2011, under this part but for which the Georgia Student Finance Commission or the Georgia Student Finance Authority and the student were previously obligated.

(b) Every eligible postsecondary institution shall be subject to examination by the Georgia Student Finance Commission for the sole purpose of determining whether such postsecondary institution has properly complied with rules and regulations established pursuant to this Code section. Such examination shall be conducted by the Georgia Student Finance Commission no less frequently than once every three years. The Georgia Student Finance Commission is authorized to conduct the examination using sampling and extrapolation techniques. However, nothing in this subsection shall be construed to interfere with the authority of the postsecondary institution to determine its own curriculum, philosophy, purpose, or administration. In the event it is determined that a postsecondary institution knowingly or through error certified an ineligible student to be eligible for a scholarship or grant under this part, the amount of such scholarship or grant paid to the postsecondary institution pursuant to such certification shall be refunded by the postsecondary institution to the Georgia Student Finance Commission. The Georgia Student Finance Commission may suspend a postsecondary institution from receiving HOPE scholarship or HOPE grant award payments if it fails to refund any moneys deemed due pursuant to this subsection. The Georgia Student Finance Commission shall be authorized to promulgate rules and regulations necessary to carry out the intent of this subsection.

(b) Every eligible postsecondary institution shall be subject to examination by the Georgia Student Finance Commission for the sole purpose of determining whether such postsecondary institution has properly complied with rules and regulations established pursuant to this Code section. Such examination shall be conducted by the Georgia Student Finance Commission no less frequently than once every three years. The Georgia Student Finance Commission is authorized to conduct the examination using sampling and extrapolation techniques. However, nothing in this subsection shall be construed to interfere with the authority of the postsecondary institution to determine its own curriculum, philosophy, purpose, or administration. In the event it is determined that a postsecondary institution knowingly or through error certified an ineligible student to be eligible for a scholarship or grant under this part, the amount of such scholarship or grant paid to the postsecondary institution pursuant to such certification shall be refunded by the postsecondary institution to the Georgia Student Finance Commission. The Georgia Student Finance Commission may suspend a postsecondary institution from receiving HOPE scholarship or HOPE grant award payments if it fails to refund any moneys deemed due pursuant to this subsection. The Georgia Student Finance Commission shall be authorized to promulgate rules and regulations necessary to carry out the intent of this subsection.

(c) Any person who knowingly makes or furnishes any false statement or misrepresentation, or who accepts such statement or misrepresentation knowing it to be false, for the purpose of enabling an ineligible student to obtain wrongfully a scholarship or grant under this part shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

(c) Any person who knowingly makes or furnishes any false statement or misrepresentation, or who accepts such statement or misrepresentation knowing it to be false, for the purpose of enabling an ineligible student to obtain wrongfully a scholarship or grant under this part shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

(d) Notwithstanding any provision of this part, the Georgia Student Finance Commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations restricting eligibility for the scholarships and grants described in this part or reducing the dollar amount of scholarships and grants described in this part in accordance with the provisions of Code Section 50-27-13 . In addition to other remedies available at law and equity, the Georgia Student Finance Commission is authorized to enter into repayment agreements with students that owe refunds to the Georgia Student Finance Commission of any scholarship or grant described in this part. Except as prohibited by federal or other state laws, individuals that owe refunds and fail to enter into repayment agreements with the Georgia Student Finance Commission are, without judicial action, subject to garnishment of their pay, loss of a professional license, offset of lottery winnings, and offset of a state tax refund in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the Georgia Student Finance Commission not inconsistent with the provisions of this part. As used in this subsection, the term “ refund ” shall mean scholarship and grant amounts paid to or on behalf of students subsequently, in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the Georgia Student Finance Commission, determined to be ineligible to receive such funds.

(d) Notwithstanding any provision of this part, the Georgia Student Finance Commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations restricting eligibility for the scholarships and grants described in this part or reducing the dollar amount of scholarships and grants described in this part in accordance with the provisions of Code Section 50-27-13 . In addition to other remedies available at law and equity, the Georgia Student Finance Commission is authorized to enter into repayment agreements with students that owe refunds to the Georgia Student Finance Commission of any scholarship or grant described in this part. Except as prohibited by federal or other state laws, individuals that owe refunds and fail to enter into repayment agreements with the Georgia Student Finance Commission are, without judicial action, subject to garnishment of their pay, loss of a professional license, offset of lottery winnings, and offset of a state tax refund in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the Georgia Student Finance Commission not inconsistent with the provisions of this part. As used in this subsection, the term “ refund ” shall mean scholarship and grant amounts paid to or on behalf of students subsequently, in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the Georgia Student Finance Commission, determined to be ineligible to receive such funds.

(e) The funding for the scholarships and grants described in this part shall be subject to annual appropriations enacted by the General Assembly which shall establish the total amount of funding for such scholarships and grants.

(e) The funding for the scholarships and grants described in this part shall be subject to annual appropriations enacted by the General Assembly which shall establish the total amount of funding for such scholarships and grants.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1192 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-1192
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-1192
Status: in_force

The funds necessary to carry out the provisions of this article shall come from funds appropriated by the General Assembly to the State Board of Education for the purpose of paying the cost of providing sick leave for school food service personnel.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1184 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-1184
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-1184
Status: in_force

(a) Any teacher or other person employed at any public or private elementary or secondary school or any dean or public safety officer employed by a college or university who has reasonable cause to believe that a student at that school has committed any act upon school property or at any school function, which act is prohibited by Code Section 16-5-21 or 16-5-24 , Chapter 6 of Title 16, and Code Section 16-11-127 , 16-11-127.1 , 16-11-132 , or 16-13-30 , shall immediately report the act and the name of the student to the principal or president of that school or the principal's or president's designee; provided, however, that an act which is prohibited by Code Section 16-11-127.1 shall be reported only when it involves a: (1) Firearm, as defined in Code Section 16-11-131 ; (2) Dangerous weapon or machine gun, as defined in Code Section 16-11-121 ; or (3) Weapon, as defined in Code Section 16-11-127.1 , together with an assault.

(a) Any teacher or other person employed at any public or private elementary or secondary school or any dean or public safety officer employed by a college or university who has reasonable cause to believe that a student at that school has committed any act upon school property or at any school function, which act is prohibited by Code Section 16-5-21 or 16-5-24 , Chapter 6 of Title 16, and Code Section 16-11-127 , 16-11-127.1 , 16-11-132 , or 16-13-30 , shall immediately report the act and the name of the student to the principal or president of that school or the principal's or president's designee; provided, however, that an act which is prohibited by Code Section 16-11-127.1 shall be reported only when it involves a:

(1) Firearm, as defined in Code Section 16-11-131 ;

(1) Firearm, as defined in Code Section 16-11-131 ;

(2) Dangerous weapon or machine gun, as defined in Code Section 16-11-121 ; or

(2) Dangerous weapon or machine gun, as defined in Code Section 16-11-121 ; or

(3) Weapon, as defined in Code Section 16-11-127.1 , together with an assault.

(3) Weapon, as defined in Code Section 16-11-127.1 , together with an assault.

(b) The principal or designee who receives a report made pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section who has reasonable cause to believe that the report is valid shall make an oral report thereof immediately by telephone or otherwise to the appropriate school system superintendent and to the appropriate police authority and district attorney.

(b) The principal or designee who receives a report made pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section who has reasonable cause to believe that the report is valid shall make an oral report thereof immediately by telephone or otherwise to the appropriate school system superintendent and to the appropriate police authority and district attorney.

(c) Any person participating in the making of a report or causing a report to be made as authorized or required pursuant to this Code section or participating in any judicial proceeding or any other proceeding resulting therefrom shall in so doing be immune from any civil or criminal liability that might otherwise be incurred or imposed, providing such participation pursuant to this Code section is made in good faith.

(c) Any person participating in the making of a report or causing a report to be made as authorized or required pursuant to this Code section or participating in any judicial proceeding or any other proceeding resulting therefrom shall in so doing be immune from any civil or criminal liability that might otherwise be incurred or imposed, providing such participation pursuant to this Code section is made in good faith.

(d) Any person required to make a report pursuant to this Code section who knowingly and willfully fails to do so shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

(d) Any person required to make a report pursuant to this Code section who knowingly and willfully fails to do so shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 20-4-140 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 4 / Section 20-4-140
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-4-140
Status: in_force

As used in this article, the term:

(1) “ Dual Achievement Program ” or “ program ” means the program provided for in this article.

(1) “ Dual Achievement Program ” or “ program ” means the program provided for in this article.

(2) “ Eligible student ” means a student who meets the qualifications to participate in the program.

(2) “ Eligible student ” means a student who meets the qualifications to participate in the program.

(3) “ State board ” means the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(3) “ State board ” means the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(4) “ Technical college system ” means the Technical College System of Georgia.

(4) “ Technical college system ” means the Technical College System of Georgia.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-768 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-768
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-768
Status: in_force

(a) Each local board of education is authorized to refuse to readmit or enroll any student who has been suspended or expelled for being convicted of, being adjudicated to have committed, being indicted for, or having information filed for the commission of any felony or any delinquent act under Code Sections 15-11-602 and 15-11-707 which would be a felony if committed by an adult. If refused readmission or enrollment, the student or the student's parent or legal guardian has the right to request a hearing pursuant to the procedures provided for in Code Section 20-2-754 .

(a) Each local board of education is authorized to refuse to readmit or enroll any student who has been suspended or expelled for being convicted of, being adjudicated to have committed, being indicted for, or having information filed for the commission of any felony or any delinquent act under Code Sections 15-11-602 and 15-11-707 which would be a felony if committed by an adult. If refused readmission or enrollment, the student or the student's parent or legal guardian has the right to request a hearing pursuant to the procedures provided for in Code Section 20-2-754 .

(b) A hearing officer, tribunal, panel, superintendent, or local board of education shall be authorized to place a student denied enrollment in a local school system under subsection (a) of this Code section in an alternative educational system as appropriate and in the best interest of the student and the education of other students within the school system.

(b) A hearing officer, tribunal, panel, superintendent, or local board of education shall be authorized to place a student denied enrollment in a local school system under subsection (a) of this Code section in an alternative educational system as appropriate and in the best interest of the student and the education of other students within the school system.

(c) It is the policy of this state that it is preferable to reassign disruptive students to alternative educational settings rather than to suspend or expel such students from school.

(c) It is the policy of this state that it is preferable to reassign disruptive students to alternative educational settings rather than to suspend or expel such students from school.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-519-2 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-519-2
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-519.2
Status: in_force

(a) To be eligible for a HOPE scholarship, an entering freshman student seeking an associate or baccalaureate degree at an eligible postsecondary institution shall, in addition to meeting the residency requirements set forth in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-519.1 : (1) Meet achievement standards by: (A) Having graduated from an eligible high school while meeting the curriculum requirements of his or her program of study in 1993 or thereafter and meeting the requirements set out in the applicable subsection and paragraph of Code Section 20-2-157 ; (B) In the case of a student who is otherwise qualified but: (i) Did not graduate from high school or complete a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 , having received the state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma awarded by the Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as the Technical College System of Georgia, after June 30, 1993, provided that such student shall only be eligible for a HOPE scholarship pursuant to subsection (c) of this Code section; (ii) Completed a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 in lieu of graduating from an eligible high school, earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at an eligible postsecondary institution at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours, provided that such student shall be eligible to receive a retroactive HOPE scholarship for such student's freshman year to be paid at the end of the freshman year; or (iii) Graduated from a high school which is not an eligible high school, earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at an eligible postsecondary institution at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours, provided that such student shall be eligible to receive a retroactive HOPE scholarship for such student's freshman year to be paid at the end of the freshman year; or (C) In the case of an otherwise qualified student who: (i) Did not graduate from high school or complete a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 but received the state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma awarded by the Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as the Technical College System of Georgia, after June 30, 1993; (ii) Completed a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 in lieu of graduating from an eligible high school; or (iii) Graduated from a high school which is not an eligible high school, earning a score in the seventy-fifth percentile or higher nationally on a standardized college admission test, such as the SAT or ACT; and (2) Meet enrollment standards by being admitted, enrolled, and classified as an undergraduate student in a matriculated status.

(a) To be eligible for a HOPE scholarship, an entering freshman student seeking an associate or baccalaureate degree at an eligible postsecondary institution shall, in addition to meeting the residency requirements set forth in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-519.1 :

(1) Meet achievement standards by: (A) Having graduated from an eligible high school while meeting the curriculum requirements of his or her program of study in 1993 or thereafter and meeting the requirements set out in the applicable subsection and paragraph of Code Section 20-2-157 ; (B) In the case of a student who is otherwise qualified but: (i) Did not graduate from high school or complete a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 , having received the state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma awarded by the Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as the Technical College System of Georgia, after June 30, 1993, provided that such student shall only be eligible for a HOPE scholarship pursuant to subsection (c) of this Code section; (ii) Completed a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 in lieu of graduating from an eligible high school, earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at an eligible postsecondary institution at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours, provided that such student shall be eligible to receive a retroactive HOPE scholarship for such student's freshman year to be paid at the end of the freshman year; or (iii) Graduated from a high school which is not an eligible high school, earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at an eligible postsecondary institution at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours, provided that such student shall be eligible to receive a retroactive HOPE scholarship for such student's freshman year to be paid at the end of the freshman year; or (C) In the case of an otherwise qualified student who: (i) Did not graduate from high school or complete a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 but received the state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma awarded by the Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as the Technical College System of Georgia, after June 30, 1993; (ii) Completed a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 in lieu of graduating from an eligible high school; or (iii) Graduated from a high school which is not an eligible high school, earning a score in the seventy-fifth percentile or higher nationally on a standardized college admission test, such as the SAT or ACT; and

(1) Meet achievement standards by:

(A) Having graduated from an eligible high school while meeting the curriculum requirements of his or her program of study in 1993 or thereafter and meeting the requirements set out in the applicable subsection and paragraph of Code Section 20-2-157 ;

(A) Having graduated from an eligible high school while meeting the curriculum requirements of his or her program of study in 1993 or thereafter and meeting the requirements set out in the applicable subsection and paragraph of Code Section 20-2-157 ;

(B) In the case of a student who is otherwise qualified but: (i) Did not graduate from high school or complete a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 , having received the state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma awarded by the Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as the Technical College System of Georgia, after June 30, 1993, provided that such student shall only be eligible for a HOPE scholarship pursuant to subsection (c) of this Code section; (ii) Completed a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 in lieu of graduating from an eligible high school, earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at an eligible postsecondary institution at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours, provided that such student shall be eligible to receive a retroactive HOPE scholarship for such student's freshman year to be paid at the end of the freshman year; or (iii) Graduated from a high school which is not an eligible high school, earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at an eligible postsecondary institution at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours, provided that such student shall be eligible to receive a retroactive HOPE scholarship for such student's freshman year to be paid at the end of the freshman year; or

(B) In the case of a student who is otherwise qualified but:

(i) Did not graduate from high school or complete a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 , having received the state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma awarded by the Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as the Technical College System of Georgia, after June 30, 1993, provided that such student shall only be eligible for a HOPE scholarship pursuant to subsection (c) of this Code section;

(i) Did not graduate from high school or complete a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 , having received the state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma awarded by the Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as the Technical College System of Georgia, after June 30, 1993, provided that such student shall only be eligible for a HOPE scholarship pursuant to subsection (c) of this Code section;

(ii) Completed a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 in lieu of graduating from an eligible high school, earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at an eligible postsecondary institution at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours, provided that such student shall be eligible to receive a retroactive HOPE scholarship for such student's freshman year to be paid at the end of the freshman year; or

(ii) Completed a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 in lieu of graduating from an eligible high school, earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at an eligible postsecondary institution at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours, provided that such student shall be eligible to receive a retroactive HOPE scholarship for such student's freshman year to be paid at the end of the freshman year; or

(iii) Graduated from a high school which is not an eligible high school, earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at an eligible postsecondary institution at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours, provided that such student shall be eligible to receive a retroactive HOPE scholarship for such student's freshman year to be paid at the end of the freshman year; or

(iii) Graduated from a high school which is not an eligible high school, earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at an eligible postsecondary institution at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours, provided that such student shall be eligible to receive a retroactive HOPE scholarship for such student's freshman year to be paid at the end of the freshman year; or

(C) In the case of an otherwise qualified student who: (i) Did not graduate from high school or complete a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 but received the state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma awarded by the Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as the Technical College System of Georgia, after June 30, 1993; (ii) Completed a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 in lieu of graduating from an eligible high school; or (iii) Graduated from a high school which is not an eligible high school, earning a score in the seventy-fifth percentile or higher nationally on a standardized college admission test, such as the SAT or ACT; and

(C) In the case of an otherwise qualified student who:

(i) Did not graduate from high school or complete a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 but received the state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma awarded by the Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as the Technical College System of Georgia, after June 30, 1993;

(i) Did not graduate from high school or complete a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 but received the state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma awarded by the Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as the Technical College System of Georgia, after June 30, 1993;

(ii) Completed a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 in lieu of graduating from an eligible high school; or

(ii) Completed a home study program meeting the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-690 in lieu of graduating from an eligible high school; or

(iii) Graduated from a high school which is not an eligible high school,

(iii) Graduated from a high school which is not an eligible high school,

earning a score in the seventy-fifth percentile or higher nationally on a standardized college admission test, such as the SAT or ACT; and

(2) Meet enrollment standards by being admitted, enrolled, and classified as an undergraduate student in a matriculated status.

(2) Meet enrollment standards by being admitted, enrolled, and classified as an undergraduate student in a matriculated status.

(b) To be eligible for a HOPE scholarship, a sophomore, junior, senior, or first professional student seeking an associate, baccalaureate, or first professional degree at an eligible postsecondary institution shall, in addition to meeting the residency requirements set forth in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-519.1 : (1) Meet achievement standards by meeting the following criteria: (A) Earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at a postsecondary institution: (i) At the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours if such student is a full-time student; or (ii) At the end of three consecutive quarters or semesters if such student is a part-time student and has maintained part-time student status for three consecutive quarters or semesters; and (B) Maintaining satisfactory academic progress in a course of study in accordance with the standards and practices used for federal Title IV programs by the postsecondary institution in which the student is enrolled; and (2) Meet enrollment standards by being admitted, enrolled, and classified as an undergraduate or first professional student in a matriculated status. Beginning in academic year 2017-2018, the cumulative grade point average calculated pursuant to this subsection shall include weighted grades for specific science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) college courses identified by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia in consultation with the Technical College System of Georgia, the Department of Economic Development, and private eligible postsecondary institutions, by increasing the grade assigned by the instructor to the student for any such course by an additional 0.5 point if such grade is a B, C, or D. Such courses shall be academically rigorous and required for or leading to employment in high demand fields in Georgia in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Beginning with the completion of the 2017-2018 academic year, the Georgia Student Finance Commission shall provide a biennial report to the chairpersons of the House Committee on Higher Education and the Senate Higher Education Committee at the following general session of the legislature. The report shall include the fields identified as high demand fields and associated workforce shortages in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and health care; the courses identified as academically rigorous and their relevance to such fields; and any other pertinent information that the Georgia Student Finance Commission deems relevant. The Governor shall be authorized to convene a task force to identify high demand fields and associated workforce shortages and may recommend to the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia initial science, technology, engineering, and mathematics college courses to receive additional weight.

(b) To be eligible for a HOPE scholarship, a sophomore, junior, senior, or first professional student seeking an associate, baccalaureate, or first professional degree at an eligible postsecondary institution shall, in addition to meeting the residency requirements set forth in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-519.1 :

(1) Meet achievement standards by meeting the following criteria: (A) Earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at a postsecondary institution: (i) At the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours if such student is a full-time student; or (ii) At the end of three consecutive quarters or semesters if such student is a part-time student and has maintained part-time student status for three consecutive quarters or semesters; and (B) Maintaining satisfactory academic progress in a course of study in accordance with the standards and practices used for federal Title IV programs by the postsecondary institution in which the student is enrolled; and

(1) Meet achievement standards by meeting the following criteria:

(A) Earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at a postsecondary institution: (i) At the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours if such student is a full-time student; or (ii) At the end of three consecutive quarters or semesters if such student is a part-time student and has maintained part-time student status for three consecutive quarters or semesters; and

(A) Earning a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at a postsecondary institution:

(i) At the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours if such student is a full-time student; or

(i) At the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours if such student is a full-time student; or

(ii) At the end of three consecutive quarters or semesters if such student is a part-time student and has maintained part-time student status for three consecutive quarters or semesters; and

(ii) At the end of three consecutive quarters or semesters if such student is a part-time student and has maintained part-time student status for three consecutive quarters or semesters; and

(B) Maintaining satisfactory academic progress in a course of study in accordance with the standards and practices used for federal Title IV programs by the postsecondary institution in which the student is enrolled; and

(B) Maintaining satisfactory academic progress in a course of study in accordance with the standards and practices used for federal Title IV programs by the postsecondary institution in which the student is enrolled; and

(2) Meet enrollment standards by being admitted, enrolled, and classified as an undergraduate or first professional student in a matriculated status.

(2) Meet enrollment standards by being admitted, enrolled, and classified as an undergraduate or first professional student in a matriculated status.

Beginning in academic year 2017-2018, the cumulative grade point average calculated pursuant to this subsection shall include weighted grades for specific science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) college courses identified by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia in consultation with the Technical College System of Georgia, the Department of Economic Development, and private eligible postsecondary institutions, by increasing the grade assigned by the instructor to the student for any such course by an additional 0.5 point if such grade is a B, C, or D. Such courses shall be academically rigorous and required for or leading to employment in high demand fields in Georgia in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Beginning with the completion of the 2017-2018 academic year, the Georgia Student Finance Commission shall provide a biennial report to the chairpersons of the House Committee on Higher Education and the Senate Higher Education Committee at the following general session of the legislature. The report shall include the fields identified as high demand fields and associated workforce shortages in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and health care; the courses identified as academically rigorous and their relevance to such fields; and any other pertinent information that the Georgia Student Finance Commission deems relevant. The Governor shall be authorized to convene a task force to identify high demand fields and associated workforce shortages and may recommend to the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia initial science, technology, engineering, and mathematics college courses to receive additional weight.

(c)(1)(A) A full-time student who fails to maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours may attend the next 45 quarter or 30 semester hours without a HOPE scholarship. (B) An otherwise eligible student who attains or regains a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of a quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours may qualify or requalify for a HOPE scholarship; provided, however, that a student who receives a HOPE scholarship and loses eligibility pursuant to this subsection is only eligible to regain or requalify for the HOPE scholarship one time. (2) In addition to other requirements, and regardless of quarter hours or semester hours of coursework attempted, a student who fails to possess a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of each spring quarter or semester or at the end of three consecutive quarters or semesters for a part-time student pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection (b) of this Code section shall be ineligible for a HOPE scholarship until such time as the student regains or attains a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at one of the 45, 90, or 135 quarter hour grade point average checkpoints or at one of the 30, 60, or 90 semester hour grade point average checkpoints, at which time the student will regain or attain eligibility if other terms and conditions in this Code section are also satisfied; provided, however, that a student who receives a HOPE scholarship and loses eligibility pursuant to this subsection is only eligible to regain or requalify for the HOPE scholarship one time.

(c)(1)(A) A full-time student who fails to maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours may attend the next 45 quarter or 30 semester hours without a HOPE scholarship. (B) An otherwise eligible student who attains or regains a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of a quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours may qualify or requalify for a HOPE scholarship; provided, however, that a student who receives a HOPE scholarship and loses eligibility pursuant to this subsection is only eligible to regain or requalify for the HOPE scholarship one time.

(c)(1)(A) A full-time student who fails to maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours may attend the next 45 quarter or 30 semester hours without a HOPE scholarship.

(c)(1)(A) A full-time student who fails to maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of the quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours may attend the next 45 quarter or 30 semester hours without a HOPE scholarship.

(B) An otherwise eligible student who attains or regains a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of a quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours may qualify or requalify for a HOPE scholarship; provided, however, that a student who receives a HOPE scholarship and loses eligibility pursuant to this subsection is only eligible to regain or requalify for the HOPE scholarship one time.

(B) An otherwise eligible student who attains or regains a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of a quarter or semester in which the student has attempted 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours or 30, 60, or 90 semester hours may qualify or requalify for a HOPE scholarship; provided, however, that a student who receives a HOPE scholarship and loses eligibility pursuant to this subsection is only eligible to regain or requalify for the HOPE scholarship one time.

(2) In addition to other requirements, and regardless of quarter hours or semester hours of coursework attempted, a student who fails to possess a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of each spring quarter or semester or at the end of three consecutive quarters or semesters for a part-time student pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection (b) of this Code section shall be ineligible for a HOPE scholarship until such time as the student regains or attains a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at one of the 45, 90, or 135 quarter hour grade point average checkpoints or at one of the 30, 60, or 90 semester hour grade point average checkpoints, at which time the student will regain or attain eligibility if other terms and conditions in this Code section are also satisfied; provided, however, that a student who receives a HOPE scholarship and loses eligibility pursuant to this subsection is only eligible to regain or requalify for the HOPE scholarship one time.

(2) In addition to other requirements, and regardless of quarter hours or semester hours of coursework attempted, a student who fails to possess a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at the end of each spring quarter or semester or at the end of three consecutive quarters or semesters for a part-time student pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection (b) of this Code section shall be ineligible for a HOPE scholarship until such time as the student regains or attains a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 at one of the 45, 90, or 135 quarter hour grade point average checkpoints or at one of the 30, 60, or 90 semester hour grade point average checkpoints, at which time the student will regain or attain eligibility if other terms and conditions in this Code section are also satisfied; provided, however, that a student who receives a HOPE scholarship and loses eligibility pursuant to this subsection is only eligible to regain or requalify for the HOPE scholarship one time.

(d) A student may receive the HOPE scholarship until the first of these events: (1) The student has earned a baccalaureate or first professional degree; (2) The student has attempted at any postsecondary institution a total of 190 quarter hours or 127 semester hours; or (3) For those students receiving a HOPE scholarship for the first time between July 1, 2011, and June 30, 2019, seven years from a student's graduation from high school or the equivalent thereof as determined by the Georgia Student Finance Commission in its rules and regulations; provided, however, that for a student who serves in the military during such seven-year period, any such active duty military service shall not count against the seven-year period nor constitute a failure to be enrolled. For those students receiving a HOPE scholarship for the first time on or after July 1, 2019, ten years from a student's graduation from high school or the equivalent thereof as determined by the Georgia Student Finance Commission in its rules and regulations; provided, however, that for a student who serves in the military during such ten-year period, any such active duty military service shall not count against the ten-year period nor constitute a failure to be enrolled. Any full-time or part-time student receiving a HOPE scholarship and enrolled in an eligible postsecondary institution after June 30, 2019, shall remain eligible for a HOPE scholarship pursuant to this paragraph, provided that such student meets all other eligibility requirements, including, but not limited to, those set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection. Students with a disability, as defined in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. Section 12102 , which prevents or substantially inhibits full-time academic study, may apply to the Georgia Student Finance Commission for a limited waiver from the applicable year limit set forth in this paragraph and request additional time to complete the first to occur of the events set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection. Such application for a limited waiver shall be considered and determined by the Georgia Student Finance Commission in accordance with its rules and regulations.

(d) A student may receive the HOPE scholarship until the first of these events:

(1) The student has earned a baccalaureate or first professional degree;

(1) The student has earned a baccalaureate or first professional degree;

(2) The student has attempted at any postsecondary institution a total of 190 quarter hours or 127 semester hours; or

(2) The student has attempted at any postsecondary institution a total of 190 quarter hours or 127 semester hours; or

(3) For those students receiving a HOPE scholarship for the first time between July 1, 2011, and June 30, 2019, seven years from a student's graduation from high school or the equivalent thereof as determined by the Georgia Student Finance Commission in its rules and regulations; provided, however, that for a student who serves in the military during such seven-year period, any such active duty military service shall not count against the seven-year period nor constitute a failure to be enrolled. For those students receiving a HOPE scholarship for the first time on or after July 1, 2019, ten years from a student's graduation from high school or the equivalent thereof as determined by the Georgia Student Finance Commission in its rules and regulations; provided, however, that for a student who serves in the military during such ten-year period, any such active duty military service shall not count against the ten-year period nor constitute a failure to be enrolled. Any full-time or part-time student receiving a HOPE scholarship and enrolled in an eligible postsecondary institution after June 30, 2019, shall remain eligible for a HOPE scholarship pursuant to this paragraph, provided that such student meets all other eligibility requirements, including, but not limited to, those set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection. Students with a disability, as defined in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. Section 12102 , which prevents or substantially inhibits full-time academic study, may apply to the Georgia Student Finance Commission for a limited waiver from the applicable year limit set forth in this paragraph and request additional time to complete the first to occur of the events set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection. Such application for a limited waiver shall be considered and determined by the Georgia Student Finance Commission in accordance with its rules and regulations.

(3) For those students receiving a HOPE scholarship for the first time between July 1, 2011, and June 30, 2019, seven years from a student's graduation from high school or the equivalent thereof as determined by the Georgia Student Finance Commission in its rules and regulations; provided, however, that for a student who serves in the military during such seven-year period, any such active duty military service shall not count against the seven-year period nor constitute a failure to be enrolled. For those students receiving a HOPE scholarship for the first time on or after July 1, 2019, ten years from a student's graduation from high school or the equivalent thereof as determined by the Georgia Student Finance Commission in its rules and regulations; provided, however, that for a student who serves in the military during such ten-year period, any such active duty military service shall not count against the ten-year period nor constitute a failure to be enrolled. Any full-time or part-time student receiving a HOPE scholarship and enrolled in an eligible postsecondary institution after June 30, 2019, shall remain eligible for a HOPE scholarship pursuant to this paragraph, provided that such student meets all other eligibility requirements, including, but not limited to, those set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection. Students with a disability, as defined in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. Section 12102 , which prevents or substantially inhibits full-time academic study, may apply to the Georgia Student Finance Commission for a limited waiver from the applicable year limit set forth in this paragraph and request additional time to complete the first to occur of the events set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection. Such application for a limited waiver shall be considered and determined by the Georgia Student Finance Commission in accordance with its rules and regulations.

(e) Subject to the amounts appropriated by the General Assembly and provisions relating to the Lottery for Education Account in Code Section 50-27-13 , a HOPE scholarship awarded under this Code section shall be equal to the HOPE award amount.

(e) Subject to the amounts appropriated by the General Assembly and provisions relating to the Lottery for Education Account in Code Section 50-27-13 , a HOPE scholarship awarded under this Code section shall be equal to the HOPE award amount.

(f) For each semester of eligibility, Zell Miller Scholarship Scholars shall be awarded an amount in addition to the HOPE award amount as follows: (1) If attending an eligible public institution, an amount equal to the difference between the HOPE award amount and the then current academic year standard undergraduate tuition amount at the institution to be paid; and (2) If attending an eligible private institution, an amount equal to the difference between the HOPE award amount and the HOPE tuition payment.

(f) For each semester of eligibility, Zell Miller Scholarship Scholars shall be awarded an amount in addition to the HOPE award amount as follows:

(1) If attending an eligible public institution, an amount equal to the difference between the HOPE award amount and the then current academic year standard undergraduate tuition amount at the institution to be paid; and

(1) If attending an eligible public institution, an amount equal to the difference between the HOPE award amount and the then current academic year standard undergraduate tuition amount at the institution to be paid; and

(2) If attending an eligible private institution, an amount equal to the difference between the HOPE award amount and the HOPE tuition payment.

(2) If attending an eligible private institution, an amount equal to the difference between the HOPE award amount and the HOPE tuition payment.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-670 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-670
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-670
Status: in_force

(a) A transferring student applying for admission to a grade higher than the sixth grade shall as a prerequisite to admission present a certified copy of his or her academic transcript and disciplinary record from the school previously attended.

(a) A transferring student applying for admission to a grade higher than the sixth grade shall as a prerequisite to admission present a certified copy of his or her academic transcript and disciplinary record from the school previously attended.

(b) In lieu of complying with the provision of subsection (a) of this Code section, a transferring student may be admitted on a conditional basis if he or she and his or her parent or legal guardian execute a document providing the name and address of the school last attended and authorizing the release of all academic and disciplinary records to the school administration. The parent or guardian shall be notified of the transfer of such records and shall, upon written request made within ten days of such notice, be entitled to receive a copy of such records. Within five days of the receipt of a copy of such records, the parent or guardian may make a written request for and shall be entitled to a hearing before the principal of the school or his or her designee which is the custodian of such records for the purpose of challenging the content of the records. The student or his or her parent or legal guardian shall also disclose on the same document as the release whether the child has ever been adjudicated guilty of the commission of a class A designated felony act or class B designated felony act, as defined in Code Section 15-11-2 and, if so, the date of such adjudication, the offense committed, the jurisdiction in which such adjudication was made, and the sentence imposed. Any form document to authorize the release of records which is provided by a school to a transferring student or such student's parent or legal guardian shall include a list of class A designated felony acts or class B designated felony acts. The student or his or her parent or legal guardian shall also disclose on the document whether the student is currently serving a suspension or expulsion from another school, the reason for such discipline, and the term of such discipline. If a student so conditionally admitted is found to be ineligible for enrollment pursuant to the provisions of Code Section 20-2-751.2 , or is subsequently found to be so ineligible, he or she shall be dismissed from enrollment until such time as he or she becomes so eligible.

(b) In lieu of complying with the provision of subsection (a) of this Code section, a transferring student may be admitted on a conditional basis if he or she and his or her parent or legal guardian execute a document providing the name and address of the school last attended and authorizing the release of all academic and disciplinary records to the school administration. The parent or guardian shall be notified of the transfer of such records and shall, upon written request made within ten days of such notice, be entitled to receive a copy of such records. Within five days of the receipt of a copy of such records, the parent or guardian may make a written request for and shall be entitled to a hearing before the principal of the school or his or her designee which is the custodian of such records for the purpose of challenging the content of the records. The student or his or her parent or legal guardian shall also disclose on the same document as the release whether the child has ever been adjudicated guilty of the commission of a class A designated felony act or class B designated felony act, as defined in Code Section 15-11-2 and, if so, the date of such adjudication, the offense committed, the jurisdiction in which such adjudication was made, and the sentence imposed. Any form document to authorize the release of records which is provided by a school to a transferring student or such student's parent or legal guardian shall include a list of class A designated felony acts or class B designated felony acts. The student or his or her parent or legal guardian shall also disclose on the document whether the student is currently serving a suspension or expulsion from another school, the reason for such discipline, and the term of such discipline. If a student so conditionally admitted is found to be ineligible for enrollment pursuant to the provisions of Code Section 20-2-751.2 , or is subsequently found to be so ineligible, he or she shall be dismissed from enrollment until such time as he or she becomes so eligible.

(c) Every school system in this state shall be obligated to provide complete information to a requesting school pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section within ten days of receipt of such request.

(c) Every school system in this state shall be obligated to provide complete information to a requesting school pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section within ten days of receipt of such request.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-991-1 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-991-1
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-991.1
Status: in_force

A policy of liability insurance or contract of indemnity purchased pursuant to Code Section 20-2-991 by a board of education of a county, city, or independent school system may, in the board's discretion, include provisions insuring nonprofit organizations, their members, and school volunteers against damages arising out of the performance of volunteer duties in support of the educational purposes of the school system, when such duties are authorized by the board or its designee; provided, however, that the inclusion of such provisions relating to nonprofit organizations and their members (1) has no effect whatsoever on the cost of the policy or contract so purchased either at its initial purchase or upon renewal and (2) does not require the expenditure of state, county, federal, or local funds for the administration of such provisions.
O.C.G.A. § 20-1-30 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 1 / Section 20-1-30
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-1-30
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “Hazing” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 . (2) “School” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 . (3) “School organization” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 . (4) “Student” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 .

(a) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “Hazing” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 .

(1) “Hazing” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 .

(2) “School” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 .

(2) “School” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 .

(3) “School organization” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 .

(3) “School organization” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 .

(4) “Student” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 .

(4) “Student” shall have the same meaning as provided for under Code Section 16-5-61 .

(b) Not later than July 1, 2021, each school shall establish policies to facilitate the: (1) Reporting, investigation, provision of due process, and administrative adjudication of alleged incidents of hazing as related to students and student organizations; and (2) Public disclosure of administrative adjudications of hazing or hazing related convictions within 15 calendar days of final adjudication or public notice of criminal conviction.

(b) Not later than July 1, 2021, each school shall establish policies to facilitate the:

(1) Reporting, investigation, provision of due process, and administrative adjudication of alleged incidents of hazing as related to students and student organizations; and

(1) Reporting, investigation, provision of due process, and administrative adjudication of alleged incidents of hazing as related to students and student organizations; and

(2) Public disclosure of administrative adjudications of hazing or hazing related convictions within 15 calendar days of final adjudication or public notice of criminal conviction.

(2) Public disclosure of administrative adjudications of hazing or hazing related convictions within 15 calendar days of final adjudication or public notice of criminal conviction.

(c) The public disclosure of each incident of hazing adjudicated pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section, criminal convictions for hazing pursuant to Code Section 16-5-61 , and other criminal convictions arising from any incident of hazing shall require the following minimum information be posted prominently on the school's website for a period of not less than five years after final adjudication or conviction: (1) The name of any school organization involved; (2) The date or dates on which the hazing occurred; and (3) A description of the specific hazing related findings, sanctions, adjudications, and convictions for any person or school organization.

(c) The public disclosure of each incident of hazing adjudicated pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section, criminal convictions for hazing pursuant to Code Section 16-5-61 , and other criminal convictions arising from any incident of hazing shall require the following minimum information be posted prominently on the school's website for a period of not less than five years after final adjudication or conviction:

(1) The name of any school organization involved;

(1) The name of any school organization involved;

(2) The date or dates on which the hazing occurred; and

(2) The date or dates on which the hazing occurred; and

(3) A description of the specific hazing related findings, sanctions, adjudications, and convictions for any person or school organization.

(3) A description of the specific hazing related findings, sanctions, adjudications, and convictions for any person or school organization.

(d) Public disclosure provided pursuant to subsection (c) of this Code section shall not include the personal identifying information of any individual student and shall be subject to the requirements of the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. Section 1232g .

(d) Public disclosure provided pursuant to subsection (c) of this Code section shall not include the personal identifying information of any individual student and shall be subject to the requirements of the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. Section 1232g .
O.C.G.A. § 20-14-36 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 14 / Section 20-14-36
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-14-36
Status: in_force

The office shall recommend, and the State Board of Education shall adopt, written procedures for conducting on-site audits under this part. The office shall make the procedures available to the schools, school councils, local boards of education, and the public. Office staff shall be trained in audit procedures and shall follow such procedures in conducting the audit.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1181 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-1181
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-1181
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly disrupt or interfere with the operation of any public school, public school bus, or public school bus stop as designated by local boards of education. Except as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section, a person convicted of violating this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly disrupt or interfere with the operation of any public school, public school bus, or public school bus stop as designated by local boards of education. Except as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section, a person convicted of violating this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.

(b)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ complaint ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 15-11-2 . (2) A local board of education shall develop a system of progressive discipline that may be imposed on a child accused of violating this Code section before initiating a complaint. (3) When a complaint is filed involving a violation of this Code section by a child not included in paragraph (4) of this subsection, it shall include information showing that the local board of education sought to: (A) Resolve the expressed problem through available educational approaches; and (B) Engage the child's parent, guardian, or legal custodian to resolve the expressed problem and that such individual has been unable or unwilling to resolve the expressed problem, that the expressed problem remains, and that court intervention is necessary. (4) When a complaint is filed involving a violation of this Code section by a child who is eligible for or suspected to be eligible for services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, it shall include information showing that the local board of education: (A) Has determined that such child is eligible or suspected to be eligible for services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973; (B) Has reviewed for appropriateness such child's current Individualized Education Program (IEP) and placement and has made modifications where appropriate; (C) Sought to resolve the expressed problem through available educational approaches; and (D) Sought to engage the child's parent, guardian, or legal custodian to resolve the expressed problem and that such individual has been unable or unwilling to resolve the expressed problem, that the expressed problem remains, and that court intervention is necessary.

(b)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ complaint ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 15-11-2 .

(b)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ complaint ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 15-11-2 .

(2) A local board of education shall develop a system of progressive discipline that may be imposed on a child accused of violating this Code section before initiating a complaint.

(2) A local board of education shall develop a system of progressive discipline that may be imposed on a child accused of violating this Code section before initiating a complaint.

(3) When a complaint is filed involving a violation of this Code section by a child not included in paragraph (4) of this subsection, it shall include information showing that the local board of education sought to: (A) Resolve the expressed problem through available educational approaches; and (B) Engage the child's parent, guardian, or legal custodian to resolve the expressed problem and that such individual has been unable or unwilling to resolve the expressed problem, that the expressed problem remains, and that court intervention is necessary.

(3) When a complaint is filed involving a violation of this Code section by a child not included in paragraph (4) of this subsection, it shall include information showing that the local board of education sought to:

(A) Resolve the expressed problem through available educational approaches; and

(A) Resolve the expressed problem through available educational approaches; and

(B) Engage the child's parent, guardian, or legal custodian to resolve the expressed problem and that such individual has been unable or unwilling to resolve the expressed problem, that the expressed problem remains, and that court intervention is necessary.

(B) Engage the child's parent, guardian, or legal custodian to resolve the expressed problem and that such individual has been unable or unwilling to resolve the expressed problem, that the expressed problem remains, and that court intervention is necessary.

(4) When a complaint is filed involving a violation of this Code section by a child who is eligible for or suspected to be eligible for services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, it shall include information showing that the local board of education: (A) Has determined that such child is eligible or suspected to be eligible for services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973; (B) Has reviewed for appropriateness such child's current Individualized Education Program (IEP) and placement and has made modifications where appropriate; (C) Sought to resolve the expressed problem through available educational approaches; and (D) Sought to engage the child's parent, guardian, or legal custodian to resolve the expressed problem and that such individual has been unable or unwilling to resolve the expressed problem, that the expressed problem remains, and that court intervention is necessary.

(4) When a complaint is filed involving a violation of this Code section by a child who is eligible for or suspected to be eligible for services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, it shall include information showing that the local board of education:

(A) Has determined that such child is eligible or suspected to be eligible for services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973;

(A) Has determined that such child is eligible or suspected to be eligible for services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973;

(B) Has reviewed for appropriateness such child's current Individualized Education Program (IEP) and placement and has made modifications where appropriate;

(B) Has reviewed for appropriateness such child's current Individualized Education Program (IEP) and placement and has made modifications where appropriate;

(C) Sought to resolve the expressed problem through available educational approaches; and

(C) Sought to resolve the expressed problem through available educational approaches; and

(D) Sought to engage the child's parent, guardian, or legal custodian to resolve the expressed problem and that such individual has been unable or unwilling to resolve the expressed problem, that the expressed problem remains, and that court intervention is necessary.

(D) Sought to engage the child's parent, guardian, or legal custodian to resolve the expressed problem and that such individual has been unable or unwilling to resolve the expressed problem, that the expressed problem remains, and that court intervention is necessary.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-660 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-660
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-660
Status: in_force

(a) It is the policy of the General Assembly that resources of this state should be committed to support benefits and positive outcomes for youth who age out of foster care. A postsecondary education can benefit these youth, many of whom who have come from places of great disadvantage; however, too few have been able to realize the benefit. Therefore, the General Assembly establishes this program to support as many of these youth as possible in realizing the benefits of postsecondary education. The General Assembly urges and recommends that the Board of Regents adopt substantially similar tuition waiver programs for these youth to realize the benefits of postsecondary education in the University System of Georgia.

(a) It is the policy of the General Assembly that resources of this state should be committed to support benefits and positive outcomes for youth who age out of foster care. A postsecondary education can benefit these youth, many of whom who have come from places of great disadvantage; however, too few have been able to realize the benefit. Therefore, the General Assembly establishes this program to support as many of these youth as possible in realizing the benefits of postsecondary education. The General Assembly urges and recommends that the Board of Regents adopt substantially similar tuition waiver programs for these youth to realize the benefits of postsecondary education in the University System of Georgia.

(b) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Public postsecondary educational institution ” means any unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. (2) “ Waiver program ” or “ program ” means the program provided for in this Code section.

(b) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “ Public postsecondary educational institution ” means any unit of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(1) “ Public postsecondary educational institution ” means any unit of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(2) “ Waiver program ” or “ program ” means the program provided for in this Code section.

(2) “ Waiver program ” or “ program ” means the program provided for in this Code section.

(c) Tuition and all fees, including, but not limited to, any fees, costs, or charges relating to customary housing, meal, or room and board programs, for any undergraduate program of any public postsecondary educational institution shall be waived as provided for in this Code section for each foster child or adopted child who meets the following requirements: (1)(A) The student's family receives state funded adoption assistance as provided in Code Section 49-5-8 ; (B) The student is currently in the custody of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services as provided in Code Section 15-11-212 ; (C) The student is participating in the Division of Family and Children Services independent living program in accordance with applicable policies and procedures; or (D) The student is an adopted child who was in the permanent legal custody of and placed for adoption by the Division of Family and Children Services following the child's fourteenth birthday, including any such student who, at the time of application to a public postsecondary educational institution, resides outside of Georgia due to such placement. (2) The student is currently enrolled full-time or part-time in a public postsecondary educational institution or, within three years of receiving his or her high school diploma or state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma, the student has been accepted for admission to a public postsecondary educational institution; (3) The student remains in good standing and meets the standard for satisfactory academic progress as defined by the public postsecondary educational institution and as applied to undergraduate students generally; (4) The student has not reached the age of 28; (5) The student completes a simplified application process established by the Division of Family and Children Services, which shall include completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine the level of need and eligibility for state and federal financial aid programs; provided, however, that a student who is presumptively eligible to participate in the waiver program shall be permitted to provisionally participate in the waiver program for a period of up to 30 days pending the student's completion of the application process; and (6) The student is a United States citizen or a permanent resident alien who meets the definition of an eligible noncitizen under federal Title IV requirements.

(c) Tuition and all fees, including, but not limited to, any fees, costs, or charges relating to customary housing, meal, or room and board programs, for any undergraduate program of any public postsecondary educational institution shall be waived as provided for in this Code section for each foster child or adopted child who meets the following requirements:

(1)(A) The student's family receives state funded adoption assistance as provided in Code Section 49-5-8 ; (B) The student is currently in the custody of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services as provided in Code Section 15-11-212 ; (C) The student is participating in the Division of Family and Children Services independent living program in accordance with applicable policies and procedures; or (D) The student is an adopted child who was in the permanent legal custody of and placed for adoption by the Division of Family and Children Services following the child's fourteenth birthday, including any such student who, at the time of application to a public postsecondary educational institution, resides outside of Georgia due to such placement.

(1)(A) The student's family receives state funded adoption assistance as provided in Code Section 49-5-8 ;

(1)(A) The student's family receives state funded adoption assistance as provided in Code Section 49-5-8 ;

(B) The student is currently in the custody of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services as provided in Code Section 15-11-212 ;

(B) The student is currently in the custody of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services as provided in Code Section 15-11-212 ;

(C) The student is participating in the Division of Family and Children Services independent living program in accordance with applicable policies and procedures; or

(C) The student is participating in the Division of Family and Children Services independent living program in accordance with applicable policies and procedures; or

(D) The student is an adopted child who was in the permanent legal custody of and placed for adoption by the Division of Family and Children Services following the child's fourteenth birthday, including any such student who, at the time of application to a public postsecondary educational institution, resides outside of Georgia due to such placement.

(D) The student is an adopted child who was in the permanent legal custody of and placed for adoption by the Division of Family and Children Services following the child's fourteenth birthday, including any such student who, at the time of application to a public postsecondary educational institution, resides outside of Georgia due to such placement.

(2) The student is currently enrolled full-time or part-time in a public postsecondary educational institution or, within three years of receiving his or her high school diploma or state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma, the student has been accepted for admission to a public postsecondary educational institution;

(2) The student is currently enrolled full-time or part-time in a public postsecondary educational institution or, within three years of receiving his or her high school diploma or state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma, the student has been accepted for admission to a public postsecondary educational institution;

(3) The student remains in good standing and meets the standard for satisfactory academic progress as defined by the public postsecondary educational institution and as applied to undergraduate students generally;

(3) The student remains in good standing and meets the standard for satisfactory academic progress as defined by the public postsecondary educational institution and as applied to undergraduate students generally;

(4) The student has not reached the age of 28;

(4) The student has not reached the age of 28;

(5) The student completes a simplified application process established by the Division of Family and Children Services, which shall include completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine the level of need and eligibility for state and federal financial aid programs; provided, however, that a student who is presumptively eligible to participate in the waiver program shall be permitted to provisionally participate in the waiver program for a period of up to 30 days pending the student's completion of the application process; and

(5) The student completes a simplified application process established by the Division of Family and Children Services, which shall include completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine the level of need and eligibility for state and federal financial aid programs; provided, however, that a student who is presumptively eligible to participate in the waiver program shall be permitted to provisionally participate in the waiver program for a period of up to 30 days pending the student's completion of the application process; and

(6) The student is a United States citizen or a permanent resident alien who meets the definition of an eligible noncitizen under federal Title IV requirements.

(6) The student is a United States citizen or a permanent resident alien who meets the definition of an eligible noncitizen under federal Title IV requirements.

(d) For each student who meets the requirements provided for in subsection (c) of this Code section, such student's public postsecondary educational institution shall waive tuition and all fees as necessary to cover all assessed costs of attendance, as defined in 20 U.S.C. Section 1087ll , that are not covered by all available federal and nonfederal student aid sources identified in the student's Student Aid Report from the United States Department of Education excepting student loans and any work-study program provided for in 42 U.S.C. 2751 - 2756b .

(d) For each student who meets the requirements provided for in subsection (c) of this Code section, such student's public postsecondary educational institution shall waive tuition and all fees as necessary to cover all assessed costs of attendance, as defined in 20 U.S.C. Section 1087ll , that are not covered by all available federal and nonfederal student aid sources identified in the student's Student Aid Report from the United States Department of Education excepting student loans and any work-study program provided for in 42 U.S.C. 2751 - 2756b .

(e) For each individual who meets the requirements provided for in paragraph (1) of subsection (c) of this Code section, the Technical College System of Georgia shall provide for the waiver of all tuition and fees necessary to cover the full cost for such individual to obtain a state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma, provided that such costs are limited to HSE preparation courses provided by the Technical College System of Georgia and HSE tests facilitated by the Technical College System of Georgia.

(e) For each individual who meets the requirements provided for in paragraph (1) of subsection (c) of this Code section, the Technical College System of Georgia shall provide for the waiver of all tuition and fees necessary to cover the full cost for such individual to obtain a state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma, provided that such costs are limited to HSE preparation courses provided by the Technical College System of Georgia and HSE tests facilitated by the Technical College System of Georgia.

(f) The Division of Family and Children Services shall: (1) Advertise the availability of the waiver program and ensure that the children and young adults leaving foster care, foster parents, and any other applicable resources are informed of the availability of the waiver program and the related application procedures; (2) Provide application forms to participate in the waiver program to all children and young adults leaving foster care; (3) Provide assistance to students attempting to complete the application process; (4) Report the number of students participating in the waiver program on October 1 of each year to the Office of Planning and Budget and the Office of the Child Advocate; (5) Report nonidentifying data on graduation rates of students participating in the waiver program by November 30 each year to the Office of Planning and Budget and the Office of the Child Advocate; and (6) Promulgate such rules and regulations as may be required to carry out the provisions of this Code section.

(f) The Division of Family and Children Services shall:

(1) Advertise the availability of the waiver program and ensure that the children and young adults leaving foster care, foster parents, and any other applicable resources are informed of the availability of the waiver program and the related application procedures;

(1) Advertise the availability of the waiver program and ensure that the children and young adults leaving foster care, foster parents, and any other applicable resources are informed of the availability of the waiver program and the related application procedures;

(2) Provide application forms to participate in the waiver program to all children and young adults leaving foster care;

(2) Provide application forms to participate in the waiver program to all children and young adults leaving foster care;

(3) Provide assistance to students attempting to complete the application process;

(3) Provide assistance to students attempting to complete the application process;

(4) Report the number of students participating in the waiver program on October 1 of each year to the Office of Planning and Budget and the Office of the Child Advocate;

(4) Report the number of students participating in the waiver program on October 1 of each year to the Office of Planning and Budget and the Office of the Child Advocate;

(5) Report nonidentifying data on graduation rates of students participating in the waiver program by November 30 each year to the Office of Planning and Budget and the Office of the Child Advocate; and

(5) Report nonidentifying data on graduation rates of students participating in the waiver program by November 30 each year to the Office of Planning and Budget and the Office of the Child Advocate; and

(6) Promulgate such rules and regulations as may be required to carry out the provisions of this Code section.

(6) Promulgate such rules and regulations as may be required to carry out the provisions of this Code section.

(g) The State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia shall adopt policies creating an expedited and simplified process to work in collaboration with Division of Family and Children Services and to enroll eligible students with a simplified process involving minimal paperwork.

(g) The State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia shall adopt policies creating an expedited and simplified process to work in collaboration with Division of Family and Children Services and to enroll eligible students with a simplified process involving minimal paperwork.

(h) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to: (1) Guarantee acceptance of or entrance into any public postsecondary educational institution for a foster child or adopted child; (2) Limit the participation of a student who is a foster child or adopted child in any other program of financial assistance for postsecondary education; (3) Restrict any public postsecondary educational institution or the Division of Family and Children Services from accessing other sources of financial assistance, except loans, that may be available to a foster child or adopted child who meets the eligibility requirements of the waiver program; or (4) Provide access to a public benefit, as such term is defined in Code Section 50-36-1 , for individuals except as permitted by state and federal law.

(h) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to:

(1) Guarantee acceptance of or entrance into any public postsecondary educational institution for a foster child or adopted child;

(1) Guarantee acceptance of or entrance into any public postsecondary educational institution for a foster child or adopted child;

(2) Limit the participation of a student who is a foster child or adopted child in any other program of financial assistance for postsecondary education;

(2) Limit the participation of a student who is a foster child or adopted child in any other program of financial assistance for postsecondary education;

(3) Restrict any public postsecondary educational institution or the Division of Family and Children Services from accessing other sources of financial assistance, except loans, that may be available to a foster child or adopted child who meets the eligibility requirements of the waiver program; or

(3) Restrict any public postsecondary educational institution or the Division of Family and Children Services from accessing other sources of financial assistance, except loans, that may be available to a foster child or adopted child who meets the eligibility requirements of the waiver program; or

(4) Provide access to a public benefit, as such term is defined in Code Section 50-36-1 , for individuals except as permitted by state and federal law.

(4) Provide access to a public benefit, as such term is defined in Code Section 50-36-1 , for individuals except as permitted by state and federal law.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2a-2 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2A / Section 20-2a-2
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2A-2
Status: in_force

Each student scholarship organization:

(1) With respect to the first $1.5 million of its annual revenue received from donations for scholarships or tuition grants, including interest earned on deposits and investments of scholarship funds or tuition grants, shall obligate at least 92 percent of such revenue for scholarships or tuition grants; with respect to its annual revenue received from donations for scholarships or tuition grants in excess of $1.5 million and up to and including $10 million, including interest earned on deposits and investments of scholarship funds or tuition grants, shall obligate at least 94 percent of such revenue for scholarships or tuition grants; with respect to its annual revenue received from donations for scholarships or tuition grants in excess of $10 million and up to and including $20 million, including interest earned on deposits and investments of scholarship funds or tuition grants, shall obligate at least 95 percent of such revenue for scholarships or tuition grants; and, with respect to its annual revenue received from donations for scholarships or tuition grants in excess of $20 million, including interest earned on deposits and investments of scholarship funds or tuition grants, shall obligate at least 96 percent of such revenue for scholarships or tuition grants. On or before the end of the calendar year following the calendar year in which a student scholarship organization receives revenues from donations and obligates them for the awarding of scholarships or tuition grants, the student scholarship organization shall designate the obligated revenues for specific student recipients. Once the student scholarship organization designates obligated revenues for specific student recipients, in the case of multiyear scholarships or tuition grants, the student scholarship organization may distribute the entire obligated and designated revenues to a qualified school or program to be held in accordance with Department of Revenue rules for distribution to the specified recipients during the years in which the recipients are projected in writing by the private school to be enrolled at the qualified school or program. In making a multiyear distribution to a qualified school or program, the student scholarship organization shall require that if the designated student becomes ineligible or for any other reason the qualified school or program elects not to continue disbursement of the multiyear scholarship or tuition grant to the designated student for all the projected years, then the qualified school or program shall immediately return the remaining funds to the student scholarship organization. Once the student scholarship organization designates obligated revenues for specific student recipients, in the case of multiyear scholarships or tuition grants for which the student scholarship organization distributes the obligated and designated revenues to a qualified school or program annually rather than the entire amount, if the designated student becomes ineligible or for any other reason the student scholarship organization elects not to continue disbursement for all years, then the student scholarship organization shall designate any remaining previously obligated revenues for a new specific student recipient on or before the end of the following calendar year. The maximum scholarship amount given by the student scholarship organization in any given year shall not exceed the average state and local expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary education for this state. The Department of Education shall determine and publish such amount annually, no later than January 1;

(1) With respect to the first $1.5 million of its annual revenue received from donations for scholarships or tuition grants, including interest earned on deposits and investments of scholarship funds or tuition grants, shall obligate at least 92 percent of such revenue for scholarships or tuition grants; with respect to its annual revenue received from donations for scholarships or tuition grants in excess of $1.5 million and up to and including $10 million, including interest earned on deposits and investments of scholarship funds or tuition grants, shall obligate at least 94 percent of such revenue for scholarships or tuition grants; with respect to its annual revenue received from donations for scholarships or tuition grants in excess of $10 million and up to and including $20 million, including interest earned on deposits and investments of scholarship funds or tuition grants, shall obligate at least 95 percent of such revenue for scholarships or tuition grants; and, with respect to its annual revenue received from donations for scholarships or tuition grants in excess of $20 million, including interest earned on deposits and investments of scholarship funds or tuition grants, shall obligate at least 96 percent of such revenue for scholarships or tuition grants. On or before the end of the calendar year following the calendar year in which a student scholarship organization receives revenues from donations and obligates them for the awarding of scholarships or tuition grants, the student scholarship organization shall designate the obligated revenues for specific student recipients. Once the student scholarship organization designates obligated revenues for specific student recipients, in the case of multiyear scholarships or tuition grants, the student scholarship organization may distribute the entire obligated and designated revenues to a qualified school or program to be held in accordance with Department of Revenue rules for distribution to the specified recipients during the years in which the recipients are projected in writing by the private school to be enrolled at the qualified school or program. In making a multiyear distribution to a qualified school or program, the student scholarship organization shall require that if the designated student becomes ineligible or for any other reason the qualified school or program elects not to continue disbursement of the multiyear scholarship or tuition grant to the designated student for all the projected years, then the qualified school or program shall immediately return the remaining funds to the student scholarship organization. Once the student scholarship organization designates obligated revenues for specific student recipients, in the case of multiyear scholarships or tuition grants for which the student scholarship organization distributes the obligated and designated revenues to a qualified school or program annually rather than the entire amount, if the designated student becomes ineligible or for any other reason the student scholarship organization elects not to continue disbursement for all years, then the student scholarship organization shall designate any remaining previously obligated revenues for a new specific student recipient on or before the end of the following calendar year. The maximum scholarship amount given by the student scholarship organization in any given year shall not exceed the average state and local expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary education for this state. The Department of Education shall determine and publish such amount annually, no later than January 1;

(1.1) In awarding scholarships or tuition grants, shall consider financial needs of students based on all sources, including the federal adjusted gross income from the federal income tax return most recently filed by the parents or guardians of such students, as adjusted for family size. If the parents or guardians of a student have not filed a federal income tax return in either of the two calendar years immediately preceding the year of application, the student scholarship organization shall consider the financial need of the student based on proof of employment income of the parents or guardians from the 30 consecutive days closest to when the applicant submitted the scholarship application and on any other sources of income, including, but not limited to, unemployment benefits, social security benefits, and child support benefits;

(1.1) In awarding scholarships or tuition grants, shall consider financial needs of students based on all sources, including the federal adjusted gross income from the federal income tax return most recently filed by the parents or guardians of such students, as adjusted for family size. If the parents or guardians of a student have not filed a federal income tax return in either of the two calendar years immediately preceding the year of application, the student scholarship organization shall consider the financial need of the student based on proof of employment income of the parents or guardians from the 30 consecutive days closest to when the applicant submitted the scholarship application and on any other sources of income, including, but not limited to, unemployment benefits, social security benefits, and child support benefits;

(2) Shall maintain separate accounts for scholarship funds and operating funds. Until obligated revenues are designated for specific student recipients, the student scholarship organization shall hold the obligated revenues in a bank or investment account owned by the student scholarship organization and over which it has complete control; provided, however, that interest earned on deposits and investments of scholarship funds and tuition grants shall be included in the calculation of the minimum obligations provided for in paragraph (1) of this Code section;

(2) Shall maintain separate accounts for scholarship funds and operating funds. Until obligated revenues are designated for specific student recipients, the student scholarship organization shall hold the obligated revenues in a bank or investment account owned by the student scholarship organization and over which it has complete control; provided, however, that interest earned on deposits and investments of scholarship funds and tuition grants shall be included in the calculation of the minimum obligations provided for in paragraph (1) of this Code section;

(3) Shall have an independent board of directors with at least three members;

(3) Shall have an independent board of directors with at least three members;

(4) May transfer funds to another student scholarship organization;

(4) May transfer funds to another student scholarship organization;

(5) Within 120 days after the completion of the student scholarship organization's fiscal year, shall conduct an audit of its accounts by an independent certified public accountant in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards verifying that the student scholarship organization has complied with all requirements of this chapter, including, but not limited to, scholarship fund management requirements, operational fund management requirements, other financial requirements, student eligibility requirements, school qualification requirements, and other scholarship management requirements. Each student scholarship organization shall also submit with each such audit a signed declaration certifying that it has complied and is in compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements imposed by state or federal law. Within 60 days of completion of such audit, each student scholarship organization shall provide a copy of such audit to the Department of Revenue in accordance with Code Section 20-2A-3 . Notwithstanding Code Sections 20-2A-7 , 48-2-15 , 48-7-60 , and 48-7-61 , if the copy of the audit submitted fails to verify that the student scholarship organization obligated its annual revenue received from donations for scholarships or tuition grants, including interest earned on deposits and investments of such funds, as required under paragraph (1) of this Code section; that obligated revenues were designated for specific student recipients within the time frame required by paragraph (1) of this Code section; and that all obligated and designated revenue distributed to a qualified school or program for the funding of multiyear scholarships or tuition grants complied with all applicable Department of Revenue rules, then the Department of Revenue shall post on its website the details of such failure to verify. Until any such noncompliant student scholarship organization submits an amended audit, which, to the satisfaction of the Department of Revenue, contains the verifications required under this Code section, the Department of Revenue shall not preapprove any contributions to the noncompliant student scholarship organization;

(5) Within 120 days after the completion of the student scholarship organization's fiscal year, shall conduct an audit of its accounts by an independent certified public accountant in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards verifying that the student scholarship organization has complied with all requirements of this chapter, including, but not limited to, scholarship fund management requirements, operational fund management requirements, other financial requirements, student eligibility requirements, school qualification requirements, and other scholarship management requirements. Each student scholarship organization shall also submit with each such audit a signed declaration certifying that it has complied and is in compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements imposed by state or federal law. Within 60 days of completion of such audit, each student scholarship organization shall provide a copy of such audit to the Department of Revenue in accordance with Code Section 20-2A-3 . Notwithstanding Code Sections 20-2A-7 , 48-2-15 , 48-7-60 , and 48-7-61 , if the copy of the audit submitted fails to verify that the student scholarship organization obligated its annual revenue received from donations for scholarships or tuition grants, including interest earned on deposits and investments of such funds, as required under paragraph (1) of this Code section; that obligated revenues were designated for specific student recipients within the time frame required by paragraph (1) of this Code section; and that all obligated and designated revenue distributed to a qualified school or program for the funding of multiyear scholarships or tuition grants complied with all applicable Department of Revenue rules, then the Department of Revenue shall post on its website the details of such failure to verify. Until any such noncompliant student scholarship organization submits an amended audit, which, to the satisfaction of the Department of Revenue, contains the verifications required under this Code section, the Department of Revenue shall not preapprove any contributions to the noncompliant student scholarship organization;

(5.1) In addition to the audit required by paragraph (5) of this Code section, in 2023, the state auditor shall issue an economic analysis report on the performance of this tax credit to the chairpersons of the House Committee on Ways and Means and the Senate Finance Committee. An economic analysis shall include, but not be limited to, a good faith estimate, on both a direct and indirect basis, as to the: (A) Net change in state revenue; (B) Net change in state expenditures, which shall include, but not be limited to, costs of administering the tax credit; (C) Net change in economic activity; and (D) Net change in public benefit;

(5.1) In addition to the audit required by paragraph (5) of this Code section, in 2023, the state auditor shall issue an economic analysis report on the performance of this tax credit to the chairpersons of the House Committee on Ways and Means and the Senate Finance Committee. An economic analysis shall include, but not be limited to, a good faith estimate, on both a direct and indirect basis, as to the:

(A) Net change in state revenue;

(A) Net change in state revenue;

(B) Net change in state expenditures, which shall include, but not be limited to, costs of administering the tax credit;

(B) Net change in state expenditures, which shall include, but not be limited to, costs of administering the tax credit;

(C) Net change in economic activity; and

(C) Net change in economic activity; and

(D) Net change in public benefit;

(D) Net change in public benefit;

(6) Shall annually submit notice to the Department of Education in accordance with department guidelines of its participation as a student scholarship organization under this chapter; provided, however, that the student scholarship organization shall immediately notify the Department of Education if the Department of Revenue has temporarily or permanently ceased preapproving contributions to the student scholarship organization in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (5) of this Code section;

(6) Shall annually submit notice to the Department of Education in accordance with department guidelines of its participation as a student scholarship organization under this chapter; provided, however, that the student scholarship organization shall immediately notify the Department of Education if the Department of Revenue has temporarily or permanently ceased preapproving contributions to the student scholarship organization in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (5) of this Code section;

(7) Shall annually submit to the Department of Revenue a copy of its most recent Form 990 filed with the United States Internal Revenue Service; and

(7) Shall annually submit to the Department of Revenue a copy of its most recent Form 990 filed with the United States Internal Revenue Service; and

(8) Shall be solely responsible for verifying the eligibility of students for participation in the program provided for in this chapter.

(8) Shall be solely responsible for verifying the eligibility of students for participation in the program provided for in this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-286 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-286
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-286
Status: in_force

(a) Beginning with the 2018-2019 school year, the State Board of Education shall establish an innovative assessment pilot program to examine one or more alternate assessment and accountability systems aligned with state academic content standards. The pilot program shall span from three to five years in duration, as determined by the state board and may include up to ten local school system participants. A consortium of local school systems implementing the same innovative alternate assessment may participate in the pilot program and shall be counted as one of the ten pilot program participants. The participating local school systems shall be selected by the state board in a competitive process and based on criteria established by the state board, including current compliance with the terms of their charter system contract or strategic waivers school system contract.

(a) Beginning with the 2018-2019 school year, the State Board of Education shall establish an innovative assessment pilot program to examine one or more alternate assessment and accountability systems aligned with state academic content standards. The pilot program shall span from three to five years in duration, as determined by the state board and may include up to ten local school system participants. A consortium of local school systems implementing the same innovative alternate assessment may participate in the pilot program and shall be counted as one of the ten pilot program participants. The participating local school systems shall be selected by the state board in a competitive process and based on criteria established by the state board, including current compliance with the terms of their charter system contract or strategic waivers school system contract.

(b) The local school systems participating in the pilot program shall be authorized to design and implement an innovative alternate assessment and accountability program which may include, but shall not be limited to, cumulative year-end assessments, competency based assessments, instructionally embedded assessments, interim assessments, performance based assessments, or other innovated assessment designs approved by the State Board of Education. In order to allow the time and resources for the participating local school systems to implement an innovative alternate assessment and accountability program, the state board shall be authorized to reduce the state-wide testing requirements for such local school systems for the duration of the pilot program for end-of-grade and end-of-course assessments as contained in Code Section 20-2-281 .

(b) The local school systems participating in the pilot program shall be authorized to design and implement an innovative alternate assessment and accountability program which may include, but shall not be limited to, cumulative year-end assessments, competency based assessments, instructionally embedded assessments, interim assessments, performance based assessments, or other innovated assessment designs approved by the State Board of Education. In order to allow the time and resources for the participating local school systems to implement an innovative alternate assessment and accountability program, the state board shall be authorized to reduce the state-wide testing requirements for such local school systems for the duration of the pilot program for end-of-grade and end-of-course assessments as contained in Code Section 20-2-281 .

(c) Notwithstanding Code Sections 20-2-82 , 20-2-244 , and 20-2-2065 , the State Board of Education shall be authorized to waive, for the duration of the pilot program, all or a portion of the requirements of Part 3 of Article 2 of Chapter 14 of this title for local school systems participating in the pilot program, but may replace any such accountability requirements with alternate requirements as specified in the local school system's charter system contract or strategic waivers school system contract.

(c) Notwithstanding Code Sections 20-2-82 , 20-2-244 , and 20-2-2065 , the State Board of Education shall be authorized to waive, for the duration of the pilot program, all or a portion of the requirements of Part 3 of Article 2 of Chapter 14 of this title for local school systems participating in the pilot program, but may replace any such accountability requirements with alternate requirements as specified in the local school system's charter system contract or strategic waivers school system contract.

(d) Each local school system participating in the pilot program shall amend its charter system contract or strategic waivers school system contract to reflect the innovative alternate assessment and accountability system that will be utilized during the term of the pilot program. Any local school system in the pilot program that is not complying with the terms of its charter system contract or strategic waivers school system contract may be removed from the pilot program at the sole discretion of the state board and shall be subject to the state-wide assessment requirements contained in Code Section 20-2-281 and the accountability system provided for in Part 3 of Article 2 of Chapter 14 of this title.

(d) Each local school system participating in the pilot program shall amend its charter system contract or strategic waivers school system contract to reflect the innovative alternate assessment and accountability system that will be utilized during the term of the pilot program. Any local school system in the pilot program that is not complying with the terms of its charter system contract or strategic waivers school system contract may be removed from the pilot program at the sole discretion of the state board and shall be subject to the state-wide assessment requirements contained in Code Section 20-2-281 and the accountability system provided for in Part 3 of Article 2 of Chapter 14 of this title.

(e) The State Board of Education shall take all reasonable steps to obtain any necessary waivers or approvals and maximum flexibility from the U.S. Department of Education to facilitate the implementation of the innovative assessment pilot program within the confines of federal law, including any appropriate changes to the state-wide accountability system established in the state plan for Georgia pursuant to the federal Every Student Succeeds Act that are necessary for the local school systems participating in the pilot program.

(e) The State Board of Education shall take all reasonable steps to obtain any necessary waivers or approvals and maximum flexibility from the U.S. Department of Education to facilitate the implementation of the innovative assessment pilot program within the confines of federal law, including any appropriate changes to the state-wide accountability system established in the state plan for Georgia pursuant to the federal Every Student Succeeds Act that are necessary for the local school systems participating in the pilot program.

(f)(1) The State Board of Education may contract with an external, independent third party with expertise in innovative and flexible approaches to assessment systems to assist in the development and implementation of one or more innovative alternate assessment and accountability systems. Such independent third party shall have access to and expertise from external technical experts, including technical experts in states that have pursued innovative and flexible approaches, in state assessment and accountability systems as well as knowledge and experience in the federal Every Student Succeeds Act and its implementing regulations. (2) The State Board of Education shall consult with and provide coordination with the Office of Student Achievement in the development and implementation of the pilot program established pursuant to this Code section. (3) The State Board of Education and the Department of Education shall contract with an external, independent third party to evaluate comparability between the innovative assessments, including norm referenced assessments, and the state-wide assessments, including for subgroups of students, and shall identify strategies that may be used to scale the innovative assessment to all local school systems state wide. The State Board of Education shall determine initial performance based baselines and accountability requirements for local school systems participating in the pilot program. (4) Local school systems participating in the pilot program shall be encouraged to collaborate amongst each other during the course of the pilot program.

(f)(1) The State Board of Education may contract with an external, independent third party with expertise in innovative and flexible approaches to assessment systems to assist in the development and implementation of one or more innovative alternate assessment and accountability systems. Such independent third party shall have access to and expertise from external technical experts, including technical experts in states that have pursued innovative and flexible approaches, in state assessment and accountability systems as well as knowledge and experience in the federal Every Student Succeeds Act and its implementing regulations.

(f)(1) The State Board of Education may contract with an external, independent third party with expertise in innovative and flexible approaches to assessment systems to assist in the development and implementation of one or more innovative alternate assessment and accountability systems. Such independent third party shall have access to and expertise from external technical experts, including technical experts in states that have pursued innovative and flexible approaches, in state assessment and accountability systems as well as knowledge and experience in the federal Every Student Succeeds Act and its implementing regulations.

(2) The State Board of Education shall consult with and provide coordination with the Office of Student Achievement in the development and implementation of the pilot program established pursuant to this Code section.

(2) The State Board of Education shall consult with and provide coordination with the Office of Student Achievement in the development and implementation of the pilot program established pursuant to this Code section.

(3) The State Board of Education and the Department of Education shall contract with an external, independent third party to evaluate comparability between the innovative assessments, including norm referenced assessments, and the state-wide assessments, including for subgroups of students, and shall identify strategies that may be used to scale the innovative assessment to all local school systems state wide. The State Board of Education shall determine initial performance based baselines and accountability requirements for local school systems participating in the pilot program.

(3) The State Board of Education and the Department of Education shall contract with an external, independent third party to evaluate comparability between the innovative assessments, including norm referenced assessments, and the state-wide assessments, including for subgroups of students, and shall identify strategies that may be used to scale the innovative assessment to all local school systems state wide. The State Board of Education shall determine initial performance based baselines and accountability requirements for local school systems participating in the pilot program.

(4) Local school systems participating in the pilot program shall be encouraged to collaborate amongst each other during the course of the pilot program.

(4) Local school systems participating in the pilot program shall be encouraged to collaborate amongst each other during the course of the pilot program.

(g) No later than December 31, 2019, and annually thereafter for the duration of the pilot program, the Department of Education shall submit a detailed written report, approved by the State Board of Education, on the implementation and effectiveness of the innovative assessment pilot program to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President of the Senate. The final report shall also include recommendations as to expansion of the pilot program state wide and estimated costs of implementation.

(g) No later than December 31, 2019, and annually thereafter for the duration of the pilot program, the Department of Education shall submit a detailed written report, approved by the State Board of Education, on the implementation and effectiveness of the innovative assessment pilot program to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President of the Senate. The final report shall also include recommendations as to expansion of the pilot program state wide and estimated costs of implementation.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-66 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-66
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-66
Status: in_force

(a) Each local school system in this state is encouraged to establish and support a school breakfast program to make breakfast available to all students in kindergarten through grade eight. All school systems are required to establish and support a school breakfast program in all schools with kindergarten through grade eight if at least 25 percent of the student population is eligible for free or reduced price lunch under federal guidelines and in all schools not containing kindergarten through grade eight if at least 40 percent of the student population is eligible for free or reduced price lunch under federal guidelines. School breakfast programs shall be phased in over a period beginning September 1, 1994, and ending June 15, 1996, in all such schools. Each local school system operating a school breakfast program pursuant to this Code section shall be reimbursed by the state at the federal reimbursement rate per meal prepared and served. The school breakfast program reimbursement by the state shall be automatically terminated if federal funding for this program ceases.

(a) Each local school system in this state is encouraged to establish and support a school breakfast program to make breakfast available to all students in kindergarten through grade eight. All school systems are required to establish and support a school breakfast program in all schools with kindergarten through grade eight if at least 25 percent of the student population is eligible for free or reduced price lunch under federal guidelines and in all schools not containing kindergarten through grade eight if at least 40 percent of the student population is eligible for free or reduced price lunch under federal guidelines. School breakfast programs shall be phased in over a period beginning September 1, 1994, and ending June 15, 1996, in all such schools. Each local school system operating a school breakfast program pursuant to this Code section shall be reimbursed by the state at the federal reimbursement rate per meal prepared and served. The school breakfast program reimbursement by the state shall be automatically terminated if federal funding for this program ceases.

(b) The State Board of Education shall promulgate rules and regulations which: (1) Establish minimum nutritional requirements for school breakfast programs which meet or exceed the minimum federal regulations; (2) Utilize federal standards of income eligibility for free or reduced price meals for lower income students; (3) Prescribe uniform methods of determining eligibility for free or reduced price meals that are discreet and accessible. Each participating school system shall establish a method to regularly notify parents of the availability of the program; (4) Provide that each participating local board of education submit a plan of compliance; (5) Provide that compliance with the standards and regulations of the National School Lunch Act 1 and Child Nutrition Act of 1966, 2 as amended, shall be deemed compliance with the requirements promulgated by the board; (6) Assist the local school board in applying for and obtaining start-up grant money for such programs.

(b) The State Board of Education shall promulgate rules and regulations which:

(1) Establish minimum nutritional requirements for school breakfast programs which meet or exceed the minimum federal regulations;

(1) Establish minimum nutritional requirements for school breakfast programs which meet or exceed the minimum federal regulations;

(2) Utilize federal standards of income eligibility for free or reduced price meals for lower income students;

(2) Utilize federal standards of income eligibility for free or reduced price meals for lower income students;

(3) Prescribe uniform methods of determining eligibility for free or reduced price meals that are discreet and accessible. Each participating school system shall establish a method to regularly notify parents of the availability of the program;

(3) Prescribe uniform methods of determining eligibility for free or reduced price meals that are discreet and accessible. Each participating school system shall establish a method to regularly notify parents of the availability of the program;

(4) Provide that each participating local board of education submit a plan of compliance;

(4) Provide that each participating local board of education submit a plan of compliance;

(5) Provide that compliance with the standards and regulations of the National School Lunch Act 1 and Child Nutrition Act of 1966, 2 as amended, shall be deemed compliance with the requirements promulgated by the board;

(5) Provide that compliance with the standards and regulations of the National School Lunch Act 1 and Child Nutrition Act of 1966, 2 as amended, shall be deemed compliance with the requirements promulgated by the board;

(6) Assist the local school board in applying for and obtaining start-up grant money for such programs.

(6) Assist the local school board in applying for and obtaining start-up grant money for such programs.

1 42 U.S.C.A. § 1751 et seq.

2 42 U.S.C.A. § 1771 et seq.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-214 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-214
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-214
Status: in_force

The State Board of Education shall establish a salary schedule for school principals that includes a supplement amount for each principal. The amount of the supplement shall be based on the amount appropriated by the General Assembly for this purpose each year divided by the total weighted full-time equivalent count for the state. The amount for each principal shall be determined by multiplying the amount per weighted full-time equivalent count by the weighted full-time equivalent count for each school. Local school systems shall pay this supplement to each local school principal.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-73-3 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-73-3
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-73.3
Status: in_force

(a) The General Assembly, in recognition of the outstanding and patriotic services and accomplishments of a native Georgian, the Honorable Dr. Charles H. Herty, in the pulp and paper experimental work which he conducted at Savannah, and desirous not only of continuing this great work but of broadening this work, does by this Code section register its enthusiastic appreciation of the services of Dr. Herty and the benefits of the experiments which he made.

(a) The General Assembly, in recognition of the outstanding and patriotic services and accomplishments of a native Georgian, the Honorable Dr. Charles H. Herty, in the pulp and paper experimental work which he conducted at Savannah, and desirous not only of continuing this great work but of broadening this work, does by this Code section register its enthusiastic appreciation of the services of Dr. Herty and the benefits of the experiments which he made.

(b) The Georgia Southern University Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, created by Act of the General Assembly and formerly known successively as the Herty Foundation and the Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, is hereby continued to conduct research, development, and commercialization with respect to natural and synthetic organic and inorganic materials of all types; to accelerate the commercial availability of newly developed or discovered systems or processes using these materials; and to produce and manufacture for others goods and products using natural or synthetic materials of all types that serve to enhance the economy of the State of Georgia. The Georgia Southern University Herty Advanced Materials Development Center shall be governed as provided by this Code section.

(b) The Georgia Southern University Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, created by Act of the General Assembly and formerly known successively as the Herty Foundation and the Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, is hereby continued to conduct research, development, and commercialization with respect to natural and synthetic organic and inorganic materials of all types; to accelerate the commercial availability of newly developed or discovered systems or processes using these materials; and to produce and manufacture for others goods and products using natural or synthetic materials of all types that serve to enhance the economy of the State of Georgia. The Georgia Southern University Herty Advanced Materials Development Center shall be governed as provided by this Code section.

(c) The board of trustees of the former Herty Advanced Materials Development Center provided under former provisions of Part 5 of Article 1 of Chapter 6 of Title 12, as such existed on June 30, 2012, shall be abolished as of July 1, 2012. On and after July 1, 2012, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia shall be the successor to and a continuation of the former board of trustees of the center and shall continue the mission of the center.

(c) The board of trustees of the former Herty Advanced Materials Development Center provided under former provisions of Part 5 of Article 1 of Chapter 6 of Title 12, as such existed on June 30, 2012, shall be abolished as of July 1, 2012. On and after July 1, 2012, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia shall be the successor to and a continuation of the former board of trustees of the center and shall continue the mission of the center.

(d) The change of the name and governance of the center and its continuation, as provided in this Code section, shall in no way affect any existing obligations, liabilities, or rights of the center or the trustees thereof acting in their official capacities, as such existed on June 30, 2012. All such obligations, liabilities, and rights are transferred to, vested in, and assumed by the board of regents. All existing contracts and agreements between any party and the center or the trustees thereof acting in their official capacities shall not be affected by this Code section but shall continue in full force and effect, without interruption, as contracts or agreements of the board of regents.

(d) The change of the name and governance of the center and its continuation, as provided in this Code section, shall in no way affect any existing obligations, liabilities, or rights of the center or the trustees thereof acting in their official capacities, as such existed on June 30, 2012. All such obligations, liabilities, and rights are transferred to, vested in, and assumed by the board of regents. All existing contracts and agreements between any party and the center or the trustees thereof acting in their official capacities shall not be affected by this Code section but shall continue in full force and effect, without interruption, as contracts or agreements of the board of regents.

(e) All right, title, interest, and ownership of all assets, including all real estate, of the center and the trustees thereof acting in their official capacities are transferred to and vested in the board of regents.

(e) All right, title, interest, and ownership of all assets, including all real estate, of the center and the trustees thereof acting in their official capacities are transferred to and vested in the board of regents.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-2011 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-2011
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-2011
Status: in_force

(a) The Commissioner shall require each administrator to have and maintain a fidelity bond in an amount which the Commissioner deems appropriate but which is not less than $100,000.00.

(a) The Commissioner shall require each administrator to have and maintain a fidelity bond in an amount which the Commissioner deems appropriate but which is not less than $100,000.00.

(b) Errors and omissions coverage or other appropriate liability insurance in an amount which is not less than that specified by the rules and regulations of the Commissioner shall be maintained at all times by an administrator of a fund; and a certificate by the insurer or other appropriate evidence of such coverage shall be filed with the Commissioner by the fund.

(b) Errors and omissions coverage or other appropriate liability insurance in an amount which is not less than that specified by the rules and regulations of the Commissioner shall be maintained at all times by an administrator of a fund; and a certificate by the insurer or other appropriate evidence of such coverage shall be filed with the Commissioner by the fund.

(c) Each administrator shall maintain an office in this state for the payment, processing, and adjustment of the claims of the fund or funds which it represents.

(c) Each administrator shall maintain an office in this state for the payment, processing, and adjustment of the claims of the fund or funds which it represents.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1012 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-1012
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-1012
Status: in_force

(a)(1) The State Board of Education may select a committee or committees of educators actually engaged in public school work in this state to examine instructional materials and content and make recommendations thereon to the state board. Such committee or committees may consist of such number of educators as the state board may deem advisable. They may serve for such time and for such duties as the state board may prescribe and may receive such compensation as may be fixed by the state board. (2) In the event that it elects to provide for state approved instructional materials and content, the State Board of Education shall establish a review and recommendation process in accordance with this paragraph. Such process shall include the opportunity for public comment and parental input prior to the adoption of any proposed instructional materials and content. As part of such process, the State Board of Education shall post in a prominent location on its website a list of proposed instructional materials and content for public review, including the version or edition number, if applicable; the state funded course number for which the instructional resource will be used; and the identification number, in accordance with any guidelines established by the State Board of Education. The State Board of Education shall make all state approved instructional materials and content available for review upon request and may specify reasonable hours for review. If state instructional materials and content are approved, the state board shall designate at least one employee to serve as the contact person for any inquiries related to or requests for review of state approved instructional materials and content and to coordinate its efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under this subsection.

(a)(1) The State Board of Education may select a committee or committees of educators actually engaged in public school work in this state to examine instructional materials and content and make recommendations thereon to the state board. Such committee or committees may consist of such number of educators as the state board may deem advisable. They may serve for such time and for such duties as the state board may prescribe and may receive such compensation as may be fixed by the state board.

(a)(1) The State Board of Education may select a committee or committees of educators actually engaged in public school work in this state to examine instructional materials and content and make recommendations thereon to the state board. Such committee or committees may consist of such number of educators as the state board may deem advisable. They may serve for such time and for such duties as the state board may prescribe and may receive such compensation as may be fixed by the state board.

(2) In the event that it elects to provide for state approved instructional materials and content, the State Board of Education shall establish a review and recommendation process in accordance with this paragraph. Such process shall include the opportunity for public comment and parental input prior to the adoption of any proposed instructional materials and content. As part of such process, the State Board of Education shall post in a prominent location on its website a list of proposed instructional materials and content for public review, including the version or edition number, if applicable; the state funded course number for which the instructional resource will be used; and the identification number, in accordance with any guidelines established by the State Board of Education. The State Board of Education shall make all state approved instructional materials and content available for review upon request and may specify reasonable hours for review. If state instructional materials and content are approved, the state board shall designate at least one employee to serve as the contact person for any inquiries related to or requests for review of state approved instructional materials and content and to coordinate its efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under this subsection.

(2) In the event that it elects to provide for state approved instructional materials and content, the State Board of Education shall establish a review and recommendation process in accordance with this paragraph. Such process shall include the opportunity for public comment and parental input prior to the adoption of any proposed instructional materials and content. As part of such process, the State Board of Education shall post in a prominent location on its website a list of proposed instructional materials and content for public review, including the version or edition number, if applicable; the state funded course number for which the instructional resource will be used; and the identification number, in accordance with any guidelines established by the State Board of Education. The State Board of Education shall make all state approved instructional materials and content available for review upon request and may specify reasonable hours for review. If state instructional materials and content are approved, the state board shall designate at least one employee to serve as the contact person for any inquiries related to or requests for review of state approved instructional materials and content and to coordinate its efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under this subsection.

(b) In addition to any other method of instructional materials and content selection, the State Board of Education may add to the approved list of instructional materials and content for use in the public schools of this state any instructional materials and content requested in writing by: (1) The superintendents of five or more different school systems; or (2) Twenty or more teachers from at least 20 different school systems who teach and are certified to teach the courses encompassed by the instructional materials and content requested, if the requisite number of requests for the specified instructional materials and content are received within any 365 day period. Instructional materials and content so added to the approved list may be added within 30 days following the receipt by the state board of the requisite number of requests. No designation may be included upon the approved list which indicates the manner in which any instructional materials and content were added to the list. Other than the selection method, publishers whose instructional materials and content are added to the approved list as provided in this subsection shall be required to comply with the same rules regarding instructional materials and content as other publishers, including but not limited to price, durability, accessibility, and availability.

(b) In addition to any other method of instructional materials and content selection, the State Board of Education may add to the approved list of instructional materials and content for use in the public schools of this state any instructional materials and content requested in writing by:

(1) The superintendents of five or more different school systems; or

(1) The superintendents of five or more different school systems; or

(2) Twenty or more teachers from at least 20 different school systems who teach and are certified to teach the courses encompassed by the instructional materials and content requested,

(2) Twenty or more teachers from at least 20 different school systems who teach and are certified to teach the courses encompassed by the instructional materials and content requested,

if the requisite number of requests for the specified instructional materials and content are received within any 365 day period. Instructional materials and content so added to the approved list may be added within 30 days following the receipt by the state board of the requisite number of requests. No designation may be included upon the approved list which indicates the manner in which any instructional materials and content were added to the list. Other than the selection method, publishers whose instructional materials and content are added to the approved list as provided in this subsection shall be required to comply with the same rules regarding instructional materials and content as other publishers, including but not limited to price, durability, accessibility, and availability.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-2095-1 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-2095-1
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-2095.1
Status: in_force

As used in this article, the term:

(1) “ Capital outlay ” includes, but is not necessarily limited to, expenditures which result in the acquisition of fixed assets, existing buildings, improvements to sites, construction of buildings, construction of additions to buildings, retrofitting of existing buildings for energy conservation, and initial and additional equipment and furnishings for educational facilities.

(1) “ Capital outlay ” includes, but is not necessarily limited to, expenditures which result in the acquisition of fixed assets, existing buildings, improvements to sites, construction of buildings, construction of additions to buildings, retrofitting of existing buildings for energy conservation, and initial and additional equipment and furnishings for educational facilities.

(2) “ Charter school ” means a charter school: (A) As defined in paragraph (3) of Code Section 20-2-2062 ; or (B) Authorized by a state entity pursuant to other statutory authority.

(2) “ Charter school ” means a charter school:

(A) As defined in paragraph (3) of Code Section 20-2-2062 ; or

(A) As defined in paragraph (3) of Code Section 20-2-2062 ; or

(B) Authorized by a state entity pursuant to other statutory authority.

(B) Authorized by a state entity pursuant to other statutory authority.

(3) “ Qualified charter school contributions ” means the donation of funds by a taxpayer to a qualified charter school organization for the purchase of real property and for capital outlay for a charter school. Such donations shall only be deemed qualified for purposes of this article if any real property purchased for a charter school with the proceeds donated pursuant to this article or any charter school constructed or expanded with proceeds donated pursuant to this article shall have title held by the state board or, if approved by the state board, a local board of education or other state or local government entity.

(3) “ Qualified charter school contributions ” means the donation of funds by a taxpayer to a qualified charter school organization for the purchase of real property and for capital outlay for a charter school. Such donations shall only be deemed qualified for purposes of this article if any real property purchased for a charter school with the proceeds donated pursuant to this article or any charter school constructed or expanded with proceeds donated pursuant to this article shall have title held by the state board or, if approved by the state board, a local board of education or other state or local government entity.

(4) “ Qualified charter school organization ” means a charitable organization in this state that is exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code which is approved by the state board to provide funds for the purchase of real property for capital outlay for charter schools in this state.

(4) “ Qualified charter school organization ” means a charitable organization in this state that is exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code which is approved by the state board to provide funds for the purchase of real property for capital outlay for charter schools in this state.

(5) “ State board ” means the State Board of Education.

(5) “ State board ” means the State Board of Education.