O.C.G.A. § 20-2-776-4 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-776-4
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-776.4
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “ levalbuterol sulfate ” means an orally inhaled medication that contains a premeasured single dose of levalbuterol sulfate or albuterol sulfate delivered by a nebulizer or compressor device or by a pressurized metered dose inhaler used to treat perceived respiratory distress including, but not limited to, wheezing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “ levalbuterol sulfate ” means an orally inhaled medication that contains a premeasured single dose of levalbuterol sulfate or albuterol sulfate delivered by a nebulizer or compressor device or by a pressurized metered dose inhaler used to treat perceived respiratory distress including, but not limited to, wheezing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing.

(b) Each local board of education shall adopt a policy authorizing school personnel to administer levalbuterol sulfate, if available, to a student upon the occurrence of perceived respiratory distress by the student, whether or not such student has a prescription for levalbuterol sulfate.

(b) Each local board of education shall adopt a policy authorizing school personnel to administer levalbuterol sulfate, if available, to a student upon the occurrence of perceived respiratory distress by the student, whether or not such student has a prescription for levalbuterol sulfate.

(c) Each local board of education shall provide information to school personnel on how to recognize the symptoms of respiratory distress and the correct method of administering the levalbuterol sulfate.

(c) Each local board of education shall provide information to school personnel on how to recognize the symptoms of respiratory distress and the correct method of administering the levalbuterol sulfate.

(d) Any school personnel who in good faith administers or chooses not to administer levalbuterol sulfate to a student pursuant to this Code section shall be immune from civil liability for any act or omission to act related to the administration of levalbuterol sulfate, except that such immunity shall not apply to an act of willful or wanton misconduct.

(d) Any school personnel who in good faith administers or chooses not to administer levalbuterol sulfate to a student pursuant to this Code section shall be immune from civil liability for any act or omission to act related to the administration of levalbuterol sulfate, except that such immunity shall not apply to an act of willful or wanton misconduct.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1013 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-1013
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-1013
Status: in_force

(a) The State Board of Education is authorized and directed to inaugurate and administer a system of free instructional materials and content for the public schools of this state. The state board shall have authority to promulgate and enforce such rules and regulations as may be necessary for that purpose.

(a) The State Board of Education is authorized and directed to inaugurate and administer a system of free instructional materials and content for the public schools of this state. The state board shall have authority to promulgate and enforce such rules and regulations as may be necessary for that purpose.

(b) All instructional materials and content and any computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such digital materials and content purchased by local units of administration with state Quality Basic Education Program funds or any other means of acquisition may remain the property of the local unit purchasing or acquiring them. Assistive technology devices that are acquired may remain the property of the student; provided, however, that this shall not be construed to violate any contracts or copyright laws. Each local unit of administration shall establish such policies as it deems necessary for the care and protection of its instructional materials and content; computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such materials and content; library books; and media materials as a condition to receiving all or part of the state contributed Quality Basic Education Program funds allotted to the local unit. Such policies may include any of the following sanctions against a pupil who fails or refuses to pay for any lost or damaged instructional materials and content; computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such materials and content; library book; or media material at the replacement cost: (1) Refusal to issue or make available any additional instructional materials and content, any computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such materials and content, any library books, or any media materials until restitution is made; or (2) Withholding of all grade cards, diplomas, or certificates of progress until restitution is made. No local unit of administration shall require any pupil or parent to purchase any instructional materials and content; computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such materials and content; library book; or media material except in cases where the pupil damages, loses, or defaces such item either through willful intent or neglect.

(b) All instructional materials and content and any computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such digital materials and content purchased by local units of administration with state Quality Basic Education Program funds or any other means of acquisition may remain the property of the local unit purchasing or acquiring them. Assistive technology devices that are acquired may remain the property of the student; provided, however, that this shall not be construed to violate any contracts or copyright laws. Each local unit of administration shall establish such policies as it deems necessary for the care and protection of its instructional materials and content; computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such materials and content; library books; and media materials as a condition to receiving all or part of the state contributed Quality Basic Education Program funds allotted to the local unit. Such policies may include any of the following sanctions against a pupil who fails or refuses to pay for any lost or damaged instructional materials and content; computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such materials and content; library book; or media material at the replacement cost:

(1) Refusal to issue or make available any additional instructional materials and content, any computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such materials and content, any library books, or any media materials until restitution is made; or

(1) Refusal to issue or make available any additional instructional materials and content, any computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such materials and content, any library books, or any media materials until restitution is made; or

(2) Withholding of all grade cards, diplomas, or certificates of progress until restitution is made.

(2) Withholding of all grade cards, diplomas, or certificates of progress until restitution is made.

No local unit of administration shall require any pupil or parent to purchase any instructional materials and content; computer hardware, software, and technical equipment necessary to support such materials and content; library book; or media material except in cases where the pupil damages, loses, or defaces such item either through willful intent or neglect.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-2 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-2
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-2
Status: in_force

The first State Board of Education appointed under this article shall hold office as follows: two for three years; four for five years; and four for seven years. All of such terms shall date from January 1, 1943. The Governor in making the appointments shall designate the holders of the respective terms. Successors to persons so appointed shall hold terms of office of seven years from the expiration of the previous term. All members of the state board appointed for a first or succeeding full term shall hold office until their successors are appointed and have qualified. Any appointment of a member of the state board for a full term made when the Senate is not in session shall be effective until the appointment is acted on by the Senate.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-375 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-375
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-375
Status: in_force

All income earned by the authority on funds held under this subpart, including earnings on educational loan trust fund assets unless otherwise provided for in the terms of such trust fund agreements, shall be credited to the authority administration fund for the uses prescribed in Code Section 20-3-318 . The board of directors is authorized, in its discretion, to transfer any surplus moneys in the authority administration fund to the general loan fund account for the uses prescribed in Code Section 20-3-373 .
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-2074 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-2074
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-2074
Status: in_force

The principal, or its equivalent, for a charter school shall not serve simultaneously as the chief financial officer, or its equivalent, for the charter school.
O.C.G.A. § 20-14-43 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 14 / Section 20-14-43
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-14-43
Status: in_force

(a) There is created the position of Chief Turnaround Officer. The Governor, after consulting with the State School Superintendent and the Education Turnaround Advisory Council and, in his or her discretion, conducting a national search, shall appoint the Chief Turnaround Officer who shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The Chief Turnaround Officer shall be an employee of the Department of Education in the school improvement division and shall report to the State School Superintendent.

(a) There is created the position of Chief Turnaround Officer. The Governor, after consulting with the State School Superintendent and the Education Turnaround Advisory Council and, in his or her discretion, conducting a national search, shall appoint the Chief Turnaround Officer who shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The Chief Turnaround Officer shall be an employee of the Department of Education in the school improvement division and shall report to the State School Superintendent.

(b) The Chief Turnaround Officer shall have the following qualifications: (1) Extensive personal experience in turning around low-performing schools, including expertise in turnaround strategies, curriculum, instruction, and teacher and principal effectiveness; (2) Has held the position of at least principal or a higher administrative position in a public school system for a minimum of five years with demonstrated skills in school management, budget, finance, federal and state programs, funding sources, and talent management; and (3) Such additional education, experience, and other qualifications as determined by the Governor, in consultation with the State Board of Education and the State School Superintendent.

(b) The Chief Turnaround Officer shall have the following qualifications:

(1) Extensive personal experience in turning around low-performing schools, including expertise in turnaround strategies, curriculum, instruction, and teacher and principal effectiveness;

(1) Extensive personal experience in turning around low-performing schools, including expertise in turnaround strategies, curriculum, instruction, and teacher and principal effectiveness;

(2) Has held the position of at least principal or a higher administrative position in a public school system for a minimum of five years with demonstrated skills in school management, budget, finance, federal and state programs, funding sources, and talent management; and

(2) Has held the position of at least principal or a higher administrative position in a public school system for a minimum of five years with demonstrated skills in school management, budget, finance, federal and state programs, funding sources, and talent management; and

(3) Such additional education, experience, and other qualifications as determined by the Governor, in consultation with the State Board of Education and the State School Superintendent.

(3) Such additional education, experience, and other qualifications as determined by the Governor, in consultation with the State Board of Education and the State School Superintendent.

(c) The duties of the Chief Turnaround Officer shall include, but are not limited to: (1) Managing and overseeing a system of supports and assistance for the lowest-performing schools in this state identified as in the greatest need of assistance; (2) Identifying resources, including the establishment of a resource list of evidence based strategies and integrated student services, and consulting with regional educational service agencies to determine specific expertise and resources available at each such regional educational service agency directly relating to school turnaround; (3) Annually establishing a list of third-party specialists, including auditors and consultants, to assist schools and local school systems in conducting comprehensive on-site evaluations of schools to determine the root causes of low performance and lack of progress, to assist schools and local school systems in the implementation of intensive school improvement plans, or to provide any of the necessary support services as specified in the engagement letter or contract. Such list of third-party specialists shall be established through a request for proposals process and approved by the State Board of Education. Such request for proposals shall be designed with input from the Education Turnaround Advisory Council; (4) Coordinating with the Office of Student Achievement to identify all state resources and supports available to the lowest-performing schools in the greatest need of assistance; (5) Identifying turnaround coaches pursuant to Code Section 20-14-44 to serve as the assigned state site liaison in the school improvement process; (6) Building school level leadership capabilities, in cooperation with agencies and organizations that have experience and capacity, and providing leadership development opportunities for principals and other school level leaders in turnaround eligible schools selected by the Chief Turnaround Officer; and (7) Identifying best practices for school turnaround, including identifying those practices that are not successful in improving student outcomes, and sharing such information with local school systems and schools in this state.

(c) The duties of the Chief Turnaround Officer shall include, but are not limited to:

(1) Managing and overseeing a system of supports and assistance for the lowest-performing schools in this state identified as in the greatest need of assistance;

(1) Managing and overseeing a system of supports and assistance for the lowest-performing schools in this state identified as in the greatest need of assistance;

(2) Identifying resources, including the establishment of a resource list of evidence based strategies and integrated student services, and consulting with regional educational service agencies to determine specific expertise and resources available at each such regional educational service agency directly relating to school turnaround;

(2) Identifying resources, including the establishment of a resource list of evidence based strategies and integrated student services, and consulting with regional educational service agencies to determine specific expertise and resources available at each such regional educational service agency directly relating to school turnaround;

(3) Annually establishing a list of third-party specialists, including auditors and consultants, to assist schools and local school systems in conducting comprehensive on-site evaluations of schools to determine the root causes of low performance and lack of progress, to assist schools and local school systems in the implementation of intensive school improvement plans, or to provide any of the necessary support services as specified in the engagement letter or contract. Such list of third-party specialists shall be established through a request for proposals process and approved by the State Board of Education. Such request for proposals shall be designed with input from the Education Turnaround Advisory Council;

(3) Annually establishing a list of third-party specialists, including auditors and consultants, to assist schools and local school systems in conducting comprehensive on-site evaluations of schools to determine the root causes of low performance and lack of progress, to assist schools and local school systems in the implementation of intensive school improvement plans, or to provide any of the necessary support services as specified in the engagement letter or contract. Such list of third-party specialists shall be established through a request for proposals process and approved by the State Board of Education. Such request for proposals shall be designed with input from the Education Turnaround Advisory Council;

(4) Coordinating with the Office of Student Achievement to identify all state resources and supports available to the lowest-performing schools in the greatest need of assistance;

(4) Coordinating with the Office of Student Achievement to identify all state resources and supports available to the lowest-performing schools in the greatest need of assistance;

(5) Identifying turnaround coaches pursuant to Code Section 20-14-44 to serve as the assigned state site liaison in the school improvement process;

(5) Identifying turnaround coaches pursuant to Code Section 20-14-44 to serve as the assigned state site liaison in the school improvement process;

(6) Building school level leadership capabilities, in cooperation with agencies and organizations that have experience and capacity, and providing leadership development opportunities for principals and other school level leaders in turnaround eligible schools selected by the Chief Turnaround Officer; and

(6) Building school level leadership capabilities, in cooperation with agencies and organizations that have experience and capacity, and providing leadership development opportunities for principals and other school level leaders in turnaround eligible schools selected by the Chief Turnaround Officer; and

(7) Identifying best practices for school turnaround, including identifying those practices that are not successful in improving student outcomes, and sharing such information with local school systems and schools in this state.

(7) Identifying best practices for school turnaround, including identifying those practices that are not successful in improving student outcomes, and sharing such information with local school systems and schools in this state.

(d) The Department of Education shall establish the state plan pursuant to the federal Every Student Succeeds Act in a manner that pursues and allows maximum flexibility to implement the provisions of this part.

(d) The Department of Education shall establish the state plan pursuant to the federal Every Student Succeeds Act in a manner that pursues and allows maximum flexibility to implement the provisions of this part.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-291 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-291
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-291
Status: reserved

(a) In the event a local school system is voluntarily merged with one or more adjoining local school systems under the provisions of Code Section 20-2-60 or Code Sections 20-2-370 through 20-2-372 , all local school systems which are party to such voluntary merger shall not be required to finance any portion of the costs for new construction or renovation of existing facilities qualified under Code Section 20-2-260 that are needed to effectuate the merger of the school systems, subject to appropriation by the General Assembly.

(a) In the event a local school system is voluntarily merged with one or more adjoining local school systems under the provisions of Code Section 20-2-60 or Code Sections 20-2-370 through 20-2-372 , all local school systems which are party to such voluntary merger shall not be required to finance any portion of the costs for new construction or renovation of existing facilities qualified under Code Section 20-2-260 that are needed to effectuate the merger of the school systems, subject to appropriation by the General Assembly.

(b) In the event two or more local school systems voluntarily consolidate two or more elementary, middle, or high schools into a single school which meets or exceeds the minimum sizes specified in subsection (q) of Code Section 20-2-260 or 100 percent of the student population for the respective school level from all local school systems which are party to the consolidation will attend such school, all local school systems involved in such consolidation shall not be required to finance any portion of the costs of new construction or renovation of existing facilities qualified under Code Section 20-2-260 that are needed to effectuate such school consolidation.

(b) In the event two or more local school systems voluntarily consolidate two or more elementary, middle, or high schools into a single school which meets or exceeds the minimum sizes specified in subsection (q) of Code Section 20-2-260 or 100 percent of the student population for the respective school level from all local school systems which are party to the consolidation will attend such school, all local school systems involved in such consolidation shall not be required to finance any portion of the costs of new construction or renovation of existing facilities qualified under Code Section 20-2-260 that are needed to effectuate such school consolidation.

(c) As used in this subsection, the term: (1) Reserved. (2) Reserved. (3) Reserved. (4) “Elementary school” is defined as a school which contains any grade below grade four and does not contain any grade above grade eight. (5) “High school” is defined as a school which contains any grade above grade eight. (6) “Middle school” is defined as a school which contains no grade below grade four and no grade above grade eight. (7) Reserved. (8) “School level” is defined as a grade range which is consistent with paragraph (4), (5), or (6) of this subsection. In the event a local school system consolidates an elementary, a middle, or a high school which is smaller than the minimum size specified in subsection (q) of Code Section 20-2-260 for that respective school with one or more other schools of the same school level within the same local school system, resulting in the consolidated school or schools being at least as large as the minimum size specified in subsection (q) of Code Section 20-2-260 or containing all the students within the local school system for the respective school level: the local school system shall be required to finance one-half the costs that the local school system would otherwise be required to finance under the provisions of Code Section 20-2-260 for any new construction or any renovation of existing facilities needed to effectuate such consolidation of schools.

(c) As used in this subsection, the term:

(1) Reserved.

(1) Reserved.

(2) Reserved.

(2) Reserved.

(3) Reserved.

(3) Reserved.

(4) “Elementary school” is defined as a school which contains any grade below grade four and does not contain any grade above grade eight.

(4) “Elementary school” is defined as a school which contains any grade below grade four and does not contain any grade above grade eight.

(5) “High school” is defined as a school which contains any grade above grade eight.

(5) “High school” is defined as a school which contains any grade above grade eight.

(6) “Middle school” is defined as a school which contains no grade below grade four and no grade above grade eight.

(6) “Middle school” is defined as a school which contains no grade below grade four and no grade above grade eight.

(7) Reserved.

(7) Reserved.

(8) “School level” is defined as a grade range which is consistent with paragraph (4), (5), or (6) of this subsection.

(8) “School level” is defined as a grade range which is consistent with paragraph (4), (5), or (6) of this subsection.

In the event a local school system consolidates an elementary, a middle, or a high school which is smaller than the minimum size specified in subsection (q) of Code Section 20-2-260 for that respective school with one or more other schools of the same school level within the same local school system, resulting in the consolidated school or schools being at least as large as the minimum size specified in subsection (q) of Code Section 20-2-260 or containing all the students within the local school system for the respective school level: the local school system shall be required to finance one-half the costs that the local school system would otherwise be required to finance under the provisions of Code Section 20-2-260 for any new construction or any renovation of existing facilities needed to effectuate such consolidation of schools.

(d) All benefits to local school systems as provided under this Code section shall be conditioned upon the following: (1) No student shall be expected or required to travel a greater time than the maximum travel time prescribed by the State Board of Education to attend a school unless the state board explicitly authorizes an exemption based upon the greater good for all students which will result from such local school system merger or school consolidation; and (2) In the event of such local school system merger or school consolidation, all instructional facilities will be utilized for public educational purposes to the extent feasible and practical.

(d) All benefits to local school systems as provided under this Code section shall be conditioned upon the following:

(1) No student shall be expected or required to travel a greater time than the maximum travel time prescribed by the State Board of Education to attend a school unless the state board explicitly authorizes an exemption based upon the greater good for all students which will result from such local school system merger or school consolidation; and

(1) No student shall be expected or required to travel a greater time than the maximum travel time prescribed by the State Board of Education to attend a school unless the state board explicitly authorizes an exemption based upon the greater good for all students which will result from such local school system merger or school consolidation; and

(2) In the event of such local school system merger or school consolidation, all instructional facilities will be utilized for public educational purposes to the extent feasible and practical.

(2) In the event of such local school system merger or school consolidation, all instructional facilities will be utilized for public educational purposes to the extent feasible and practical.

(e) All benefits to local school systems as provided under subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section shall be conditioned upon the following: (1) The local boards of education which are potential parties to a merger of local school systems or a consolidation of schools have approved resolutions requesting the State Board of Education to conduct a feasibility study; (2) The state board has conducted a feasibility study; (3) The local boards of education which are to be parties to a merger of local school systems or a consolidation of a school or schools have approved the recommendations of the feasibility study; (4) The voters of the affected local school systems, if appropriate, have approved the merger of the local school systems; and (5) The state board has approved the recommendations of the feasibility study.

(e) All benefits to local school systems as provided under subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section shall be conditioned upon the following:

(1) The local boards of education which are potential parties to a merger of local school systems or a consolidation of schools have approved resolutions requesting the State Board of Education to conduct a feasibility study;

(1) The local boards of education which are potential parties to a merger of local school systems or a consolidation of schools have approved resolutions requesting the State Board of Education to conduct a feasibility study;

(2) The state board has conducted a feasibility study;

(2) The state board has conducted a feasibility study;

(3) The local boards of education which are to be parties to a merger of local school systems or a consolidation of a school or schools have approved the recommendations of the feasibility study;

(3) The local boards of education which are to be parties to a merger of local school systems or a consolidation of a school or schools have approved the recommendations of the feasibility study;

(4) The voters of the affected local school systems, if appropriate, have approved the merger of the local school systems; and

(4) The voters of the affected local school systems, if appropriate, have approved the merger of the local school systems; and

(5) The state board has approved the recommendations of the feasibility study.

(5) The state board has approved the recommendations of the feasibility study.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1127 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-1127
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-1127
Status: in_force

(a) Each local board of education employing or using persons as school bus drivers shall submit to the Department of Public Safety the full name and driver's license number of every person who is to be employed or used as a school bus driver prior to authorizing such person to operate a school bus. Such local board of education shall provide an updated list to the Department of Public Safety twice within a calendar year as provided for in rules and regulations promulgated by the commissioner of public safety.

(a) Each local board of education employing or using persons as school bus drivers shall submit to the Department of Public Safety the full name and driver's license number of every person who is to be employed or used as a school bus driver prior to authorizing such person to operate a school bus. Such local board of education shall provide an updated list to the Department of Public Safety twice within a calendar year as provided for in rules and regulations promulgated by the commissioner of public safety.

(b) The Department of Public Safety shall operate and maintain a data base of the names and license information of the persons provided for in subsection (a) of this Code section and, in coordination with the Georgia Technology Authority and the Department of Driver Services for immediate electronic furnishing of information, shall confirm or verify the status of each such person's driver's license and provide notification to the appropriate local board of education if such person's driver's license or driving privileges have expired or been canceled, suspended, or revoked.

(b) The Department of Public Safety shall operate and maintain a data base of the names and license information of the persons provided for in subsection (a) of this Code section and, in coordination with the Georgia Technology Authority and the Department of Driver Services for immediate electronic furnishing of information, shall confirm or verify the status of each such person's driver's license and provide notification to the appropriate local board of education if such person's driver's license or driving privileges have expired or been canceled, suspended, or revoked.

(c)(1) Upon notice that a person's driver's license or driving privileges have expired or been canceled, suspended, or revoked, the local board of education shall suspend or revoke the authorization it has given to such person to drive a school bus and inform such person of, and reason for, the suspension or revocation. (2) Any person authorized to drive a school bus by a local board of education shall notify the local board of education if such person's driver's license or driving privileges have expired or been canceled, suspended, or revoked. (3) A person's whose authorization to drive a school bus has been suspended or revoked by a local board of education pursuant to this Code section may request a new authorization to drive a school bus upon the reinstatement of his or her driver's license or driving privileges.

(c)(1) Upon notice that a person's driver's license or driving privileges have expired or been canceled, suspended, or revoked, the local board of education shall suspend or revoke the authorization it has given to such person to drive a school bus and inform such person of, and reason for, the suspension or revocation.

(c)(1) Upon notice that a person's driver's license or driving privileges have expired or been canceled, suspended, or revoked, the local board of education shall suspend or revoke the authorization it has given to such person to drive a school bus and inform such person of, and reason for, the suspension or revocation.

(2) Any person authorized to drive a school bus by a local board of education shall notify the local board of education if such person's driver's license or driving privileges have expired or been canceled, suspended, or revoked.

(2) Any person authorized to drive a school bus by a local board of education shall notify the local board of education if such person's driver's license or driving privileges have expired or been canceled, suspended, or revoked.

(3) A person's whose authorization to drive a school bus has been suspended or revoked by a local board of education pursuant to this Code section may request a new authorization to drive a school bus upon the reinstatement of his or her driver's license or driving privileges.

(3) A person's whose authorization to drive a school bus has been suspended or revoked by a local board of education pursuant to this Code section may request a new authorization to drive a school bus upon the reinstatement of his or her driver's license or driving privileges.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-943 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-943
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-943
Status: in_force

(a) In exercising its powers in the enforcement of due process under this part, a local board of education shall be authorized: (1) Under Code Section 20-2-940 to: (A) Terminate the contract of the teacher or other school employee; (B) Suspend a teacher or other school employee without pay for a period of time not to exceed 60 days. In such event, the teacher or employee shall provide no services for the school system and shall receive no compensation but shall be considered an employee on suspended status; or (C) Reinstate a teacher or other school employee in the event the teacher or school employee has been temporarily relieved from duty in accordance with this part; (2) Under Code Section 20-2-942 to: (A) Nonrenew a teacher's or other school employee's contract; (B) Renew a teacher's or other school employee's contract; or (C) Demote a teacher or other school employee from one position in the school system to another position in the school system having less responsibility, prestige, and salary.

(a) In exercising its powers in the enforcement of due process under this part, a local board of education shall be authorized:

(1) Under Code Section 20-2-940 to: (A) Terminate the contract of the teacher or other school employee; (B) Suspend a teacher or other school employee without pay for a period of time not to exceed 60 days. In such event, the teacher or employee shall provide no services for the school system and shall receive no compensation but shall be considered an employee on suspended status; or (C) Reinstate a teacher or other school employee in the event the teacher or school employee has been temporarily relieved from duty in accordance with this part;

(1) Under Code Section 20-2-940 to:

(A) Terminate the contract of the teacher or other school employee;

(A) Terminate the contract of the teacher or other school employee;

(B) Suspend a teacher or other school employee without pay for a period of time not to exceed 60 days. In such event, the teacher or employee shall provide no services for the school system and shall receive no compensation but shall be considered an employee on suspended status; or

(B) Suspend a teacher or other school employee without pay for a period of time not to exceed 60 days. In such event, the teacher or employee shall provide no services for the school system and shall receive no compensation but shall be considered an employee on suspended status; or

(C) Reinstate a teacher or other school employee in the event the teacher or school employee has been temporarily relieved from duty in accordance with this part;

(C) Reinstate a teacher or other school employee in the event the teacher or school employee has been temporarily relieved from duty in accordance with this part;

(2) Under Code Section 20-2-942 to: (A) Nonrenew a teacher's or other school employee's contract; (B) Renew a teacher's or other school employee's contract; or (C) Demote a teacher or other school employee from one position in the school system to another position in the school system having less responsibility, prestige, and salary.

(2) Under Code Section 20-2-942 to:

(A) Nonrenew a teacher's or other school employee's contract;

(A) Nonrenew a teacher's or other school employee's contract;

(B) Renew a teacher's or other school employee's contract; or

(B) Renew a teacher's or other school employee's contract; or

(C) Demote a teacher or other school employee from one position in the school system to another position in the school system having less responsibility, prestige, and salary.

(C) Demote a teacher or other school employee from one position in the school system to another position in the school system having less responsibility, prestige, and salary.

(b) Nothing in this part shall be construed as depriving local boards of education and other school officials from assigning and reassigning teachers and other certificated professional employees from one school to another or from assigning and reassigning teachers to teach different classes or subjects.

(b) Nothing in this part shall be construed as depriving local boards of education and other school officials from assigning and reassigning teachers and other certificated professional employees from one school to another or from assigning and reassigning teachers to teach different classes or subjects.
O.C.G.A. § 20-5-51 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 5 / Section 20-5-51
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-5-51
Status: in_force

(a) A library system shall be dissolved by a reversal of procedures followed in its original organization. A majority of the board members in a majority of the counties must agree to the dissolution of the system. One county in a multicounty system may withdraw by a reversal of the procedure by which the county became a member.

(a) A library system shall be dissolved by a reversal of procedures followed in its original organization. A majority of the board members in a majority of the counties must agree to the dissolution of the system. One county in a multicounty system may withdraw by a reversal of the procedure by which the county became a member.

(b) If the local constitution and bylaws or participating agreement does not specify a notification period for withdrawal, the proper notice shall be sent six months prior to the end of the state fiscal year. This notice must include reasons for the withdrawal and the method by which the decision was reached and must be sent to the chairman of the system board of trustees and the system library director. The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia must be notified of the receipt of this letter of intent within five working days.

(b) If the local constitution and bylaws or participating agreement does not specify a notification period for withdrawal, the proper notice shall be sent six months prior to the end of the state fiscal year. This notice must include reasons for the withdrawal and the method by which the decision was reached and must be sent to the chairman of the system board of trustees and the system library director. The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia must be notified of the receipt of this letter of intent within five working days.

(c) Upon dissolution or withdrawal, no further state or federal grant funds shall be paid for or to the dissolving or withdrawing unit or units until such time as the unit or units reestablish the library or libraries pursuant to this part and meet eligibility requirements for such grant funds.

(c) Upon dissolution or withdrawal, no further state or federal grant funds shall be paid for or to the dissolving or withdrawing unit or units until such time as the unit or units reestablish the library or libraries pursuant to this part and meet eligibility requirements for such grant funds.

(d) A multicounty regional system may elect to expel a member county upon the following conditions: (1) Failure of the county to maintain the agreed level of support to the regional system as in the most recent system-participating agreement; or (2) Failure of the county to meet criteria which may jeopardize the system's eligibility for state or federal funds.

(d) A multicounty regional system may elect to expel a member county upon the following conditions:

(1) Failure of the county to maintain the agreed level of support to the regional system as in the most recent system-participating agreement; or

(1) Failure of the county to maintain the agreed level of support to the regional system as in the most recent system-participating agreement; or

(2) Failure of the county to meet criteria which may jeopardize the system's eligibility for state or federal funds.

(2) Failure of the county to meet criteria which may jeopardize the system's eligibility for state or federal funds.

(e) If the system's constitution and bylaws or participating agreement fails to describe a notice period for expulsion, the proper notice shall be sent not less than six months prior to the end of the state fiscal year. This notice must be sent to the chairperson of the county board of trustees, all funding agencies party to the participating agreement, the system library director, and the Office of Public Library Services of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.

(e) If the system's constitution and bylaws or participating agreement fails to describe a notice period for expulsion, the proper notice shall be sent not less than six months prior to the end of the state fiscal year. This notice must be sent to the chairperson of the county board of trustees, all funding agencies party to the participating agreement, the system library director, and the Office of Public Library Services of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.

(f) Upon total dissolution of a library system, all property shall be disposed of as provided in this part.

(f) Upon total dissolution of a library system, all property shall be disposed of as provided in this part.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-204 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-204
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-204
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Paraprofessional ” is defined as a person who may have less than professional-level certification, who relates in role and function to a professional and does a portion of the professional's job or tasks under the supervision of the professional, and whose decision-making authority is limited and regulated by the professional. Such a paraprofessional shall possess the minimum of a high school diploma or a state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma. If assigned to positions governed by federal regulations, the paraprofessional must meet specified federal hiring requirements. (2) “ Permitted personnel ” is defined as persons who may not qualify for professional certificates, including retired teachers, but who function in the educational programs in the same manner as certificated personnel. Such personnel qualify for their positions on the basis of experience rather than formal education.

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

(1) “ Paraprofessional ” is defined as a person who may have less than professional-level certification, who relates in role and function to a professional and does a portion of the professional's job or tasks under the supervision of the professional, and whose decision-making authority is limited and regulated by the professional. Such a paraprofessional shall possess the minimum of a high school diploma or a state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma. If assigned to positions governed by federal regulations, the paraprofessional must meet specified federal hiring requirements.

(1) “ Paraprofessional ” is defined as a person who may have less than professional-level certification, who relates in role and function to a professional and does a portion of the professional's job or tasks under the supervision of the professional, and whose decision-making authority is limited and regulated by the professional. Such a paraprofessional shall possess the minimum of a high school diploma or a state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma. If assigned to positions governed by federal regulations, the paraprofessional must meet specified federal hiring requirements.

(2) “ Permitted personnel ” is defined as persons who may not qualify for professional certificates, including retired teachers, but who function in the educational programs in the same manner as certificated personnel. Such personnel qualify for their positions on the basis of experience rather than formal education.

(2) “ Permitted personnel ” is defined as persons who may not qualify for professional certificates, including retired teachers, but who function in the educational programs in the same manner as certificated personnel. Such personnel qualify for their positions on the basis of experience rather than formal education.

(b) The Professional Standards Commission shall provide for the classification of all certified and permitted personnel employed in the public schools of this state, and no such personnel shall be employed in the public schools of this state unless they meet such minimum criteria as developed by the commission; provided, however, that such classifications shall be based only upon academic, technical, and professional training and experience of such personnel. The commission is authorized to provide for revoking or denying a certificate or permit for good cause after an investigation is conducted and notice and hearing is provided the certificate or permit holder.

(b) The Professional Standards Commission shall provide for the classification of all certified and permitted personnel employed in the public schools of this state, and no such personnel shall be employed in the public schools of this state unless they meet such minimum criteria as developed by the commission; provided, however, that such classifications shall be based only upon academic, technical, and professional training and experience of such personnel. The commission is authorized to provide for revoking or denying a certificate or permit for good cause after an investigation is conducted and notice and hearing is provided the certificate or permit holder.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-435 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-435
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-435
Status: in_force

The University of North Georgia shall be subject to examination by the state auditor for the sole purpose of determining whether the school has properly certified eligibility and enrollment of students and credited grants paid on behalf of such students. However, nothing in this subpart shall be construed to interfere with the authority of the school to determine admissibility of students or to control its own curriculum, philosophy, purpose, or administration. In the event it is determined that the school knowingly or through error certified an ineligible student to be eligible for a grant under this subpart, the amount of the grant paid to the school pursuant to such certification shall be refunded by the school to the authority.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-250-8 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-250-8
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-250.8
Status: in_force

(a) Each nonpublic postsecondary educational institution desiring to operate or conduct postsecondary activities in this state shall make application to the commission, upon forms to be provided by the commission. Such application shall be accompanied by a catalog or other written description published, or proposed to be published, by the institution, containing the information specified in paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-250.6 , including information required by rules and regulations of the commission. Such application shall also be accompanied by evidence of a surety bond if required by Code Section 20-3-250.10 and subsection (c) of Code Section 20-3-250.27 and shall be accompanied by payment of the fees specified in Code Section 20-3-250.11 ; provided, however, that when making application to the commission for authorization to operate, those institutions exempt from certain provisions of this part pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (10) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-250.3 or subsection (c) of Code Section 20-3-250.3 shall be required to submit only those documents pertaining to provisions of this part from which such institutions are not exempt.

(a) Each nonpublic postsecondary educational institution desiring to operate or conduct postsecondary activities in this state shall make application to the commission, upon forms to be provided by the commission. Such application shall be accompanied by a catalog or other written description published, or proposed to be published, by the institution, containing the information specified in paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-250.6 , including information required by rules and regulations of the commission. Such application shall also be accompanied by evidence of a surety bond if required by Code Section 20-3-250.10 and subsection (c) of Code Section 20-3-250.27 and shall be accompanied by payment of the fees specified in Code Section 20-3-250.11 ; provided, however, that when making application to the commission for authorization to operate, those institutions exempt from certain provisions of this part pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (10) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-250.3 or subsection (c) of Code Section 20-3-250.3 shall be required to submit only those documents pertaining to provisions of this part from which such institutions are not exempt.

(b) A nonpublic postsecondary educational institution shall not operate or conduct postsecondary activities in any building in which that institution did not previously operate or conduct postsecondary activities unless the institution obtains authorization to operate or conduct those activities in that building as a branch facility. An application for authorization to operate any branch facility shall be accompanied by catalogs, other written documents, evidence of bond if a bond is required, and payment of fees as required for an initial application pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section.

(b) A nonpublic postsecondary educational institution shall not operate or conduct postsecondary activities in any building in which that institution did not previously operate or conduct postsecondary activities unless the institution obtains authorization to operate or conduct those activities in that building as a branch facility. An application for authorization to operate any branch facility shall be accompanied by catalogs, other written documents, evidence of bond if a bond is required, and payment of fees as required for an initial application pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section.

(c) Following review of such application and any further information submitted by the applicant or required by the executive director, an inspection of the physical facility at which the institution will be operating, if located in this state, and such investigation of the applicant as the executive director may deem necessary or appropriate, the executive director shall either grant or deny authorization to operate to the applicant. The executive director shall have the sole discretion to determine whether the inspection of the physical facility shall be conducted on the site of the institution or through alternative methods, including, but not limited to, remote inspection conducted through use of electronic and audio-visual equipment. A grant of authorization to operate may be on such terms and conditions as the executive director may specify.

(c) Following review of such application and any further information submitted by the applicant or required by the executive director, an inspection of the physical facility at which the institution will be operating, if located in this state, and such investigation of the applicant as the executive director may deem necessary or appropriate, the executive director shall either grant or deny authorization to operate to the applicant. The executive director shall have the sole discretion to determine whether the inspection of the physical facility shall be conducted on the site of the institution or through alternative methods, including, but not limited to, remote inspection conducted through use of electronic and audio-visual equipment. A grant of authorization to operate may be on such terms and conditions as the executive director may specify.

(d) The authorization to operate shall be in a form recommended and approved by the commission and shall state in a clear and conspicuous manner at least the following information: (1) The date of issuance, effective date, and term of authorization; (2) The correct name and address of the institution so authorized; (3) The authority for authorization and conditions thereof; (4) Any limitation of the authorization, as deemed necessary by the executive director; (5) The signature of the executive director or such person as may have been designated by the executive director; and (6) Any other fair and reasonable representations consistent with this part and deemed necessary by the executive director.

(d) The authorization to operate shall be in a form recommended and approved by the commission and shall state in a clear and conspicuous manner at least the following information:

(1) The date of issuance, effective date, and term of authorization;

(1) The date of issuance, effective date, and term of authorization;

(2) The correct name and address of the institution so authorized;

(2) The correct name and address of the institution so authorized;

(3) The authority for authorization and conditions thereof;

(3) The authority for authorization and conditions thereof;

(4) Any limitation of the authorization, as deemed necessary by the executive director;

(4) Any limitation of the authorization, as deemed necessary by the executive director;

(5) The signature of the executive director or such person as may have been designated by the executive director; and

(5) The signature of the executive director or such person as may have been designated by the executive director; and

(6) Any other fair and reasonable representations consistent with this part and deemed necessary by the executive director.

(6) Any other fair and reasonable representations consistent with this part and deemed necessary by the executive director.

(e) The term for which authorization is given shall not extend for more than one year and may be issued for a lesser period of time.

(e) The term for which authorization is given shall not extend for more than one year and may be issued for a lesser period of time.

(f) The authorization to operate shall be issued to the owner or governing body of the applicant institution and shall be nontransferable. In the event of a change in ownership of the institution, a new owner or governing body shall within ten days after the change in ownership notify the commission in writing and shall within 30 days after the change in ownership make application to the commission for a new authorization to operate; and in the event of failure to do so, the institution's authorization to operate shall terminate. Application for a new authorization to operate by reason of change in ownership of the institution shall, for purposes of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-3-250.12 , be deemed an application for renewal of the institution's authorization to operate.

(f) The authorization to operate shall be issued to the owner or governing body of the applicant institution and shall be nontransferable. In the event of a change in ownership of the institution, a new owner or governing body shall within ten days after the change in ownership notify the commission in writing and shall within 30 days after the change in ownership make application to the commission for a new authorization to operate; and in the event of failure to do so, the institution's authorization to operate shall terminate. Application for a new authorization to operate by reason of change in ownership of the institution shall, for purposes of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-3-250.12 , be deemed an application for renewal of the institution's authorization to operate.

(g) At least 60 days prior to the expiration of an authorization to operate, the institution shall complete and file with the executive director an application form for renewal of its authorization to operate. Such renewal application shall be reviewed and acted upon as provided in subsections (c) through (f) of this Code section.

(g) At least 60 days prior to the expiration of an authorization to operate, the institution shall complete and file with the executive director an application form for renewal of its authorization to operate. Such renewal application shall be reviewed and acted upon as provided in subsections (c) through (f) of this Code section.

(h) An institution not yet in operation when its application for authorization to operate is filed may not begin operation or conduct any postsecondary activities until receipt of authorization.

(h) An institution not yet in operation when its application for authorization to operate is filed may not begin operation or conduct any postsecondary activities until receipt of authorization.

(i) Each nonpublic postsecondary educational institution which has been granted an authorization to operate or conduct postsecondary activities in this state shall obtain authorization from the executive director before it offers any course not offered by the institution at the time its most recent authorization was granted. The commission by regulation shall establish procedures and standards for authorization of such additional course offerings.

(i) Each nonpublic postsecondary educational institution which has been granted an authorization to operate or conduct postsecondary activities in this state shall obtain authorization from the executive director before it offers any course not offered by the institution at the time its most recent authorization was granted. The commission by regulation shall establish procedures and standards for authorization of such additional course offerings.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-280 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-280
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-280
Status: in_force

The corporation is authorized:

(1) To examine and audit accounts and records of lenders and schools relative to educational loans guaranteed by the corporation;

(1) To examine and audit accounts and records of lenders and schools relative to educational loans guaranteed by the corporation;

(2) To conduct program reviews with appropriate officers and personnel of lenders and schools as may be necessary or appropriate to assure compliance by all parties with this part and the federal act; and

(2) To conduct program reviews with appropriate officers and personnel of lenders and schools as may be necessary or appropriate to assure compliance by all parties with this part and the federal act; and

(3) To take or require that such corrective, remedial, or preventive actions be taken as may be necessary or appropriate to protect the interests of the corporation, the United States, lenders, schools, present and future borrowers, and the public at large.

(3) To take or require that such corrective, remedial, or preventive actions be taken as may be necessary or appropriate to protect the interests of the corporation, the United States, lenders, schools, present and future borrowers, and the public at large.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-730 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-730
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-730
Status: in_force

All area, county, and independent boards of education shall be authorized to determine and adopt policies and regulations relating to the use of corporal punishment by school principals and teachers employed by such boards.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1131 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-1131
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-1131
Status: in_force

Any person who is designated by a local law enforcement agency as set forth in Code Section 35-1-11 shall be authorized to direct and regulate the flow of traffic at school crossings or within a reduced speed school zone during the time when he or she is on duty.
O.C.G.A. § 20-16-4 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 16 / Section 20-16-4
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-16-4
Status: in_force

The authority shall have power:

(1) To have a seal and alter it at pleasure;

(1) To have a seal and alter it at pleasure;

(2) To acquire by purchase, lease, or otherwise and to hold, lease, and dispose of real and personal property of every kind and character for its corporate purposes;

(2) To acquire by purchase, lease, or otherwise and to hold, lease, and dispose of real and personal property of every kind and character for its corporate purposes;

(3) To acquire in its own name by purchase, on such terms and conditions, and in such manner as it may deem proper, real property or estates for years, usufructs, or rights of easements therein or franchises necessary or convenient for its corporate purposes and to use them so long as its corporate existence shall continue and to lease or make contracts with respect to the use of or dispose of them in any manner it deems to the best advantage of the authority; and if the authority shall deem it expedient to construct or finance any project on lands which are a part of the campus, grounds, or other real estate holdings of a unit, the Governor and the board of regents, as may be applicable, are authorized to execute for and on behalf of the state a lease for the term of the financing, such lease to terminate when the bonds for the project are retired, upon such lands to the authority or to an entity borrowing funds from the authority for such parcel or parcels as shall be needed for a period not to exceed 50 years, provided that such lands shall remain subject to the police power jurisdiction of the board of regents or the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia, as may be applicable;

(3) To acquire in its own name by purchase, on such terms and conditions, and in such manner as it may deem proper, real property or estates for years, usufructs, or rights of easements therein or franchises necessary or convenient for its corporate purposes and to use them so long as its corporate existence shall continue and to lease or make contracts with respect to the use of or dispose of them in any manner it deems to the best advantage of the authority; and if the authority shall deem it expedient to construct or finance any project on lands which are a part of the campus, grounds, or other real estate holdings of a unit, the Governor and the board of regents, as may be applicable, are authorized to execute for and on behalf of the state a lease for the term of the financing, such lease to terminate when the bonds for the project are retired, upon such lands to the authority or to an entity borrowing funds from the authority for such parcel or parcels as shall be needed for a period not to exceed 50 years, provided that such lands shall remain subject to the police power jurisdiction of the board of regents or the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia, as may be applicable;

(4) To appoint an executive director who shall be the executive officer and administrative head of the authority. The executive director shall be appointed by and shall serve at the pleasure of the members of the authority. The executive director shall hire officers, agents, and employees, prescribe their duties and qualifications and fix their compensation, and perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the members of this authority. Such officers, agents, and employees shall serve at the pleasure of the executive director;

(4) To appoint an executive director who shall be the executive officer and administrative head of the authority. The executive director shall be appointed by and shall serve at the pleasure of the members of the authority. The executive director shall hire officers, agents, and employees, prescribe their duties and qualifications and fix their compensation, and perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the members of this authority. Such officers, agents, and employees shall serve at the pleasure of the executive director;

(5) To make and execute contracts, leases, rental agreements, and other instruments necessary or convenient to exercise the powers of the authority, including contracts for construction of projects and leases of projects or contracts with respect to the use or operation of projects which the authority causes to be erected or acquired;

(5) To make and execute contracts, leases, rental agreements, and other instruments necessary or convenient to exercise the powers of the authority, including contracts for construction of projects and leases of projects or contracts with respect to the use or operation of projects which the authority causes to be erected or acquired;

(6) To construct, erect, acquire, own, repair, remodel, maintain, add to, extend, improve, equip, operate, and manage projects to be located on property owned by or leased by the authority;

(6) To construct, erect, acquire, own, repair, remodel, maintain, add to, extend, improve, equip, operate, and manage projects to be located on property owned by or leased by the authority;

(7) To extend credit or make loans to any person, firm, corporation, limited liability company, or other type of entity for the planning, design, construction, acquisition, refinancing, or carrying out of any project, which credit or loans shall be secured by loan agreements, deeds to secure debt, security agreements, contracts, and all other instruments, fees, or charges, upon such terms and conditions as the authority shall determine reasonable in connection with such loans, including provision for the establishment and maintenance of reserves and insurance funds, and to require the inclusion in any contract, loan agreement, deed to secure debt, security agreement, or other instrument, of such provisions for guaranty, insurance, construction, use, operation, maintenance, and financing of a project as the authority may deem necessary or desirable;

(7) To extend credit or make loans to any person, firm, corporation, limited liability company, or other type of entity for the planning, design, construction, acquisition, refinancing, or carrying out of any project, which credit or loans shall be secured by loan agreements, deeds to secure debt, security agreements, contracts, and all other instruments, fees, or charges, upon such terms and conditions as the authority shall determine reasonable in connection with such loans, including provision for the establishment and maintenance of reserves and insurance funds, and to require the inclusion in any contract, loan agreement, deed to secure debt, security agreement, or other instrument, of such provisions for guaranty, insurance, construction, use, operation, maintenance, and financing of a project as the authority may deem necessary or desirable;

(8) To acquire, accept, or retain equitable interests, security interests, or other interests in any property, real or personal, by deed to secure debt, assignment, security agreement, pledge, conveyance, contract, lien, loan agreement, or other consensual transfer, with any such instrument terminating when the bonds for the project are retired, in order to secure the repayment of any moneys loaned or credit extended by the authority;

(8) To acquire, accept, or retain equitable interests, security interests, or other interests in any property, real or personal, by deed to secure debt, assignment, security agreement, pledge, conveyance, contract, lien, loan agreement, or other consensual transfer, with any such instrument terminating when the bonds for the project are retired, in order to secure the repayment of any moneys loaned or credit extended by the authority;

(9) To accept loans or grants of money or materials or property of any kind from the United States or any agency or instrumentality thereof upon such terms and conditions as the United States or such agency or instrumentality may impose;

(9) To accept loans or grants of money or materials or property of any kind from the United States or any agency or instrumentality thereof upon such terms and conditions as the United States or such agency or instrumentality may impose;

(10) To borrow money for any of its corporate purposes and to issue negotiable revenue bonds payable solely from funds pledged for that purpose and to provide for the payment of such bonds and for the rights of the holders thereof;

(10) To borrow money for any of its corporate purposes and to issue negotiable revenue bonds payable solely from funds pledged for that purpose and to provide for the payment of such bonds and for the rights of the holders thereof;

(11) To borrow money for any of its corporate purposes, on either an unsecured or secured basis, and to execute loan agreements, promissory notes, and other contracts and instruments in connection therewith and to provide for the repayment of such loans and for the rights of the lenders thereof;

(11) To borrow money for any of its corporate purposes, on either an unsecured or secured basis, and to execute loan agreements, promissory notes, and other contracts and instruments in connection therewith and to provide for the repayment of such loans and for the rights of the lenders thereof;

(12) As security for repayment of its revenue bonds, loans, or notes, to pledge, mortgage, convey, assign, hypothecate, or otherwise encumber any property, real or personal, of such authority, to the extent of its interest therein, and to execute any trust agreement, indenture, or security agreement containing any provisions not in conflict with law, which trust agreement, indenture, or security agreement may provide for foreclosure or forced sale of any property of the authority upon default on such bonds, loans, or notes, either in payment of principal or interest or in the performance of any term or condition as are contained in such agreement or indenture. The state waives any right which it may have to prevent the forced sale or foreclosure of any property of the authority so mortgaged or encumbered, to the extent of the interest of the authority therein but not any interest of the state therein, and any such mortgage or encumbrance may be foreclosed in accordance with law and the terms thereof;

(12) As security for repayment of its revenue bonds, loans, or notes, to pledge, mortgage, convey, assign, hypothecate, or otherwise encumber any property, real or personal, of such authority, to the extent of its interest therein, and to execute any trust agreement, indenture, or security agreement containing any provisions not in conflict with law, which trust agreement, indenture, or security agreement may provide for foreclosure or forced sale of any property of the authority upon default on such bonds, loans, or notes, either in payment of principal or interest or in the performance of any term or condition as are contained in such agreement or indenture. The state waives any right which it may have to prevent the forced sale or foreclosure of any property of the authority so mortgaged or encumbered, to the extent of the interest of the authority therein but not any interest of the state therein, and any such mortgage or encumbrance may be foreclosed in accordance with law and the terms thereof;

(13) To procure or to provide insurance against any loss in connection with its programs, property, and other assets;

(13) To procure or to provide insurance against any loss in connection with its programs, property, and other assets;

(14) To receive and administer gifts, grants, and devises of money and property of any kind from any source and to administer trusts;

(14) To receive and administer gifts, grants, and devises of money and property of any kind from any source and to administer trusts;

(15) To exercise any power usually possessed by private corporations performing similar functions which is not in conflict with the Constitution and laws of this state; and

(15) To exercise any power usually possessed by private corporations performing similar functions which is not in conflict with the Constitution and laws of this state; and

(16) To do all things necessary or convenient to carry out the powers expressly given in this chapter.

(16) To do all things necessary or convenient to carry out the powers expressly given in this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-601 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-601
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-601
Status: in_force

This article shall apply to all public school systems in this state, including those maintained and operated by counties and cities and independent local systems.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-54-1 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-54-1
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-54.1
Status: in_force

(a) In all instances where local laws applicable to local boards of education do not provide otherwise, a vacancy occurring for any reason on a local board of education shall be filled as follows: (1) If the vacancy occurs more than 90 days prior to the date of a general election preceding the general election at which a successor will be elected to a new full term of office, then such vacancy shall be filled for the unexpired term of office at a special election to be held on the same date as said general election preceding the general election at which a successor will be elected to a new full term of office; and in this case the remaining members of the board of education shall, by majority vote, select a qualified person to fill the vacancy until the person elected at such special election takes office; and (2) If the vacancy does not occur more than 90 days prior to the date of a general election preceding the general election at which a successor will be elected to a new full term of office, then the remaining members of the local board of education shall, by majority vote, select a qualified person to serve for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(a) In all instances where local laws applicable to local boards of education do not provide otherwise, a vacancy occurring for any reason on a local board of education shall be filled as follows:

(1) If the vacancy occurs more than 90 days prior to the date of a general election preceding the general election at which a successor will be elected to a new full term of office, then such vacancy shall be filled for the unexpired term of office at a special election to be held on the same date as said general election preceding the general election at which a successor will be elected to a new full term of office; and in this case the remaining members of the board of education shall, by majority vote, select a qualified person to fill the vacancy until the person elected at such special election takes office; and

(1) If the vacancy occurs more than 90 days prior to the date of a general election preceding the general election at which a successor will be elected to a new full term of office, then such vacancy shall be filled for the unexpired term of office at a special election to be held on the same date as said general election preceding the general election at which a successor will be elected to a new full term of office; and in this case the remaining members of the board of education shall, by majority vote, select a qualified person to fill the vacancy until the person elected at such special election takes office; and

(2) If the vacancy does not occur more than 90 days prior to the date of a general election preceding the general election at which a successor will be elected to a new full term of office, then the remaining members of the local board of education shall, by majority vote, select a qualified person to serve for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(2) If the vacancy does not occur more than 90 days prior to the date of a general election preceding the general election at which a successor will be elected to a new full term of office, then the remaining members of the local board of education shall, by majority vote, select a qualified person to serve for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(b) Any person elected or appointed to fill a vacancy pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section shall possess the same qualifications required for election to a full term of office as provided by law applicable to the office wherein the vacancy occurred. As applied to special elections under paragraph (1) of subsection (a) of this Code section, if the office wherein the vacancy occurred is filled by election of voters within a portion of the local school district, then the special election shall be held within that portion of the local school district, but if the office wherein the vacancy occurred is filled by the voters within the entire school district, then the special election shall be held within the entire school district.

(b) Any person elected or appointed to fill a vacancy pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section shall possess the same qualifications required for election to a full term of office as provided by law applicable to the office wherein the vacancy occurred. As applied to special elections under paragraph (1) of subsection (a) of this Code section, if the office wherein the vacancy occurred is filled by election of voters within a portion of the local school district, then the special election shall be held within that portion of the local school district, but if the office wherein the vacancy occurred is filled by the voters within the entire school district, then the special election shall be held within the entire school district.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-870 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-870
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-870
Status: in_force

Each person employed as a teacher in any public school of this state shall be allowed a leave of absence without loss of pay and without deduction of any amounts otherwise received as compensation for service as a teacher, for the purpose of attending any court as a juror or when subpoenaed to testify in a case arising out of the person's duties as a teacher, such as the reporting of child abuse required by Code Section 19-7-5 . Any teacher who serves as a juror or witness as provided in this Code section shall not have the jury or witness leave deducted from sick, personal, or professional leave. No teacher utilizing jury or witness leave under this Code section shall be required to pay the cost of employing a substitute teacher to serve in his absence on such jury or witness leave, and local boards of education may adopt policies regarding the retention by teachers of the compensation for serving on a jury.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-681 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-681
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-681
Status: in_force

(a) A student athlete at a postsecondary educational institution may earn compensation for the use of his or her name, image, or likeness. Such compensation must be commensurate with the market value of the authorized use of the student athlete's name, image, or likeness. Such compensation may not be provided in exchange, in whole or in part, for a current or prospective student athlete to attend, participate, or perform at a particular postsecondary educational institution.

(a) A student athlete at a postsecondary educational institution may earn compensation for the use of his or her name, image, or likeness. Such compensation must be commensurate with the market value of the authorized use of the student athlete's name, image, or likeness. Such compensation may not be provided in exchange, in whole or in part, for a current or prospective student athlete to attend, participate, or perform at a particular postsecondary educational institution.

(b) A scholarship from the postsecondary educational institution in which a student athlete is enrolled that provides such student with all or part of the cost of attendance at such institution is not compensation for purposes of this article.

(b) A scholarship from the postsecondary educational institution in which a student athlete is enrolled that provides such student with all or part of the cost of attendance at such institution is not compensation for purposes of this article.

(c) A student athlete's scholarship shall not be revoked, nor shall scholarship eligibility be adversely impacted, as a result of a student athlete earning compensation or obtaining representation as provided for in this article.

(c) A student athlete's scholarship shall not be revoked, nor shall scholarship eligibility be adversely impacted, as a result of a student athlete earning compensation or obtaining representation as provided for in this article.

(d)(1) A student athlete shall not enter into a contract providing compensation to the student athlete for use of the student athlete's name, image, or likeness if a provision of such contract is in conflict with the student athlete's team contract. (2) A student athlete who enters into a contract providing compensation to the student athlete for use of the student athlete's name, image, or likeness shall disclose such contract to an official of the student athlete's postsecondary educational institution, to be designated by such institution. (3) A postsecondary educational institution asserting a conflict under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall disclose to the student athlete or the student athlete's representative the relevant provisions of the contract that are asserted to be in conflict. (4)(A) A team contract entered into on or after July 1, 2021, and required by a postsecondary educational institution, or a division, department, program, or team thereof, shall not include any provision which prevents or discourages a student athlete from receiving compensation for the use of his or her name, image, or likeness when the student is not engaged in official activities of the intercollegiate athletic program; provided, however, that such contract may provide for a pooling arrangement as provided for in subparagraph (B) of this paragraph. (B) Team contracts may provide for a pooling arrangement whereby student athletes who receive compensation for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article agree to contribute a portion of the compensation they receive pursuant to such contract to a fund for the benefit of individuals previously enrolled as student athletes in the same postsecondary educational institution as such student athlete, provided that such pooling arrangement meets the following conditions: (i) Student athletes shall not be required to contribute an amount equal to more than 75 percent of the compensation received for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article; (ii) Each postsecondary educational institution shall establish only for the purposes of this paragraph an escrow account in any bank or lending institution subject to regulation by this state only; (iii) All contributions from student athletes who receive compensation for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article shall be deposited in such escrow account by the athletic director of the postsecondary educational institution, or his or her designee; (iv) Upon graduation or withdrawal for at least 12 months from the postsecondary educational institution, individuals who were student athletes prior to such graduation or withdrawal, shall be eligible to receive a pro rata share of the pooled contributions based on the number of months the individual was a student athlete; and (v) The postsecondary educational institution shall provide for the implementation of the provisions of this paragraph in a manner that does not discriminate against or treat differently individuals based upon race, gender, or other personal status protected by federal or state law.

(d)(1) A student athlete shall not enter into a contract providing compensation to the student athlete for use of the student athlete's name, image, or likeness if a provision of such contract is in conflict with the student athlete's team contract.

(d)(1) A student athlete shall not enter into a contract providing compensation to the student athlete for use of the student athlete's name, image, or likeness if a provision of such contract is in conflict with the student athlete's team contract.

(2) A student athlete who enters into a contract providing compensation to the student athlete for use of the student athlete's name, image, or likeness shall disclose such contract to an official of the student athlete's postsecondary educational institution, to be designated by such institution.

(2) A student athlete who enters into a contract providing compensation to the student athlete for use of the student athlete's name, image, or likeness shall disclose such contract to an official of the student athlete's postsecondary educational institution, to be designated by such institution.

(3) A postsecondary educational institution asserting a conflict under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall disclose to the student athlete or the student athlete's representative the relevant provisions of the contract that are asserted to be in conflict.

(3) A postsecondary educational institution asserting a conflict under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall disclose to the student athlete or the student athlete's representative the relevant provisions of the contract that are asserted to be in conflict.

(4)(A) A team contract entered into on or after July 1, 2021, and required by a postsecondary educational institution, or a division, department, program, or team thereof, shall not include any provision which prevents or discourages a student athlete from receiving compensation for the use of his or her name, image, or likeness when the student is not engaged in official activities of the intercollegiate athletic program; provided, however, that such contract may provide for a pooling arrangement as provided for in subparagraph (B) of this paragraph. (B) Team contracts may provide for a pooling arrangement whereby student athletes who receive compensation for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article agree to contribute a portion of the compensation they receive pursuant to such contract to a fund for the benefit of individuals previously enrolled as student athletes in the same postsecondary educational institution as such student athlete, provided that such pooling arrangement meets the following conditions: (i) Student athletes shall not be required to contribute an amount equal to more than 75 percent of the compensation received for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article; (ii) Each postsecondary educational institution shall establish only for the purposes of this paragraph an escrow account in any bank or lending institution subject to regulation by this state only; (iii) All contributions from student athletes who receive compensation for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article shall be deposited in such escrow account by the athletic director of the postsecondary educational institution, or his or her designee; (iv) Upon graduation or withdrawal for at least 12 months from the postsecondary educational institution, individuals who were student athletes prior to such graduation or withdrawal, shall be eligible to receive a pro rata share of the pooled contributions based on the number of months the individual was a student athlete; and (v) The postsecondary educational institution shall provide for the implementation of the provisions of this paragraph in a manner that does not discriminate against or treat differently individuals based upon race, gender, or other personal status protected by federal or state law.

(4)(A) A team contract entered into on or after July 1, 2021, and required by a postsecondary educational institution, or a division, department, program, or team thereof, shall not include any provision which prevents or discourages a student athlete from receiving compensation for the use of his or her name, image, or likeness when the student is not engaged in official activities of the intercollegiate athletic program; provided, however, that such contract may provide for a pooling arrangement as provided for in subparagraph (B) of this paragraph.

(4)(A) A team contract entered into on or after July 1, 2021, and required by a postsecondary educational institution, or a division, department, program, or team thereof, shall not include any provision which prevents or discourages a student athlete from receiving compensation for the use of his or her name, image, or likeness when the student is not engaged in official activities of the intercollegiate athletic program; provided, however, that such contract may provide for a pooling arrangement as provided for in subparagraph (B) of this paragraph.

(B) Team contracts may provide for a pooling arrangement whereby student athletes who receive compensation for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article agree to contribute a portion of the compensation they receive pursuant to such contract to a fund for the benefit of individuals previously enrolled as student athletes in the same postsecondary educational institution as such student athlete, provided that such pooling arrangement meets the following conditions: (i) Student athletes shall not be required to contribute an amount equal to more than 75 percent of the compensation received for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article; (ii) Each postsecondary educational institution shall establish only for the purposes of this paragraph an escrow account in any bank or lending institution subject to regulation by this state only; (iii) All contributions from student athletes who receive compensation for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article shall be deposited in such escrow account by the athletic director of the postsecondary educational institution, or his or her designee; (iv) Upon graduation or withdrawal for at least 12 months from the postsecondary educational institution, individuals who were student athletes prior to such graduation or withdrawal, shall be eligible to receive a pro rata share of the pooled contributions based on the number of months the individual was a student athlete; and (v) The postsecondary educational institution shall provide for the implementation of the provisions of this paragraph in a manner that does not discriminate against or treat differently individuals based upon race, gender, or other personal status protected by federal or state law.

(B) Team contracts may provide for a pooling arrangement whereby student athletes who receive compensation for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article agree to contribute a portion of the compensation they receive pursuant to such contract to a fund for the benefit of individuals previously enrolled as student athletes in the same postsecondary educational institution as such student athlete, provided that such pooling arrangement meets the following conditions:

(i) Student athletes shall not be required to contribute an amount equal to more than 75 percent of the compensation received for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article;

(i) Student athletes shall not be required to contribute an amount equal to more than 75 percent of the compensation received for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article;

(ii) Each postsecondary educational institution shall establish only for the purposes of this paragraph an escrow account in any bank or lending institution subject to regulation by this state only;

(ii) Each postsecondary educational institution shall establish only for the purposes of this paragraph an escrow account in any bank or lending institution subject to regulation by this state only;

(iii) All contributions from student athletes who receive compensation for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article shall be deposited in such escrow account by the athletic director of the postsecondary educational institution, or his or her designee;

(iii) All contributions from student athletes who receive compensation for the use of their name, image, or likeness pursuant to this article shall be deposited in such escrow account by the athletic director of the postsecondary educational institution, or his or her designee;

(iv) Upon graduation or withdrawal for at least 12 months from the postsecondary educational institution, individuals who were student athletes prior to such graduation or withdrawal, shall be eligible to receive a pro rata share of the pooled contributions based on the number of months the individual was a student athlete; and

(iv) Upon graduation or withdrawal for at least 12 months from the postsecondary educational institution, individuals who were student athletes prior to such graduation or withdrawal, shall be eligible to receive a pro rata share of the pooled contributions based on the number of months the individual was a student athlete; and

(v) The postsecondary educational institution shall provide for the implementation of the provisions of this paragraph in a manner that does not discriminate against or treat differently individuals based upon race, gender, or other personal status protected by federal or state law.

(v) The postsecondary educational institution shall provide for the implementation of the provisions of this paragraph in a manner that does not discriminate against or treat differently individuals based upon race, gender, or other personal status protected by federal or state law.

(e) A postsecondary educational institution shall conduct a financial literacy and life skills workshop for a minimum of five hours at the beginning of the student athlete's first and third academic years. The workshop shall, at a minimum, include information concerning financial aid, debt management, and a recommended budget for student athletes based on the current academic year's cost of attendance. The workshop shall also include information on time management skills necessary for success as a student athlete and available academic resources. The workshop may not include any marketing, advertising, referral, or solicitation by providers of financial products or services.

(e) A postsecondary educational institution shall conduct a financial literacy and life skills workshop for a minimum of five hours at the beginning of the student athlete's first and third academic years. The workshop shall, at a minimum, include information concerning financial aid, debt management, and a recommended budget for student athletes based on the current academic year's cost of attendance. The workshop shall also include information on time management skills necessary for success as a student athlete and available academic resources. The workshop may not include any marketing, advertising, referral, or solicitation by providers of financial products or services.

(f) A postsecondary educational institution, an entity whose purpose includes supporting or benefiting such institution or its intercollegiate athletic programs, or an officer, director, employee, or agent of such institution or entity shall not provide a current or prospective student athlete with compensation for the use of the student athlete's name, image, or likeness.

(f) A postsecondary educational institution, an entity whose purpose includes supporting or benefiting such institution or its intercollegiate athletic programs, or an officer, director, employee, or agent of such institution or entity shall not provide a current or prospective student athlete with compensation for the use of the student athlete's name, image, or likeness.

(g) A postsecondary educational institution shall not adopt or maintain any policy, regulation, rule, standard, or other requirement that prevents a student athlete of such institution from earning compensation as a result of the use of such student's name, image, or likeness.

(g) A postsecondary educational institution shall not adopt or maintain any policy, regulation, rule, standard, or other requirement that prevents a student athlete of such institution from earning compensation as a result of the use of such student's name, image, or likeness.

(h)(1) An intercollegiate athletic association shall not prevent a student athlete from receiving compensation, or penalize a student athlete for earning compensation, as a result of the student athlete earning compensation for the use of such student's name, image, or likeness. (2) An intercollegiate athletic association shall not prevent a postsecondary educational institution from participating in intercollegiate athletics, or otherwise penalize a postsecondary educational institution, as a result of a student athlete earning compensation for the use of such student's name, image, or likeness.

(h)(1) An intercollegiate athletic association shall not prevent a student athlete from receiving compensation, or penalize a student athlete for earning compensation, as a result of the student athlete earning compensation for the use of such student's name, image, or likeness.

(h)(1) An intercollegiate athletic association shall not prevent a student athlete from receiving compensation, or penalize a student athlete for earning compensation, as a result of the student athlete earning compensation for the use of such student's name, image, or likeness.

(2) An intercollegiate athletic association shall not prevent a postsecondary educational institution from participating in intercollegiate athletics, or otherwise penalize a postsecondary educational institution, as a result of a student athlete earning compensation for the use of such student's name, image, or likeness.

(2) An intercollegiate athletic association shall not prevent a postsecondary educational institution from participating in intercollegiate athletics, or otherwise penalize a postsecondary educational institution, as a result of a student athlete earning compensation for the use of such student's name, image, or likeness.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-892 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-892
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-892
Status: in_force

(a) During any period in which an employee is covered under the health insurance plan authorized by this subpart prior to the date of his retirement, there shall be withheld from each salary payment of such employee, as his share of the costs of coverage under this plan, such portion of the premium or subscription charges under the terms of any contract or contracts issued in accordance with this subpart as may be established by the board. During any month in which the benefits are being paid by the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia to an individual so covered under this program, contributions shall be deducted from such payments in the amounts prescribed by the board with consent of the recipient.

(a) During any period in which an employee is covered under the health insurance plan authorized by this subpart prior to the date of his retirement, there shall be withheld from each salary payment of such employee, as his share of the costs of coverage under this plan, such portion of the premium or subscription charges under the terms of any contract or contracts issued in accordance with this subpart as may be established by the board. During any month in which the benefits are being paid by the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia to an individual so covered under this program, contributions shall be deducted from such payments in the amounts prescribed by the board with consent of the recipient.

(b) As the local employer's share, the local employer shall contribute to the health insurance fund such portion of the cost of such benefits as may be established by the Governor and the board and, in addition thereto, an amount to be established by the board to defray the cost of administration. The board shall determine whether such portion shall be determined based upon a percentage of the total outlay for the salaries of teachers employed by the local employer or determined on an amount per employee electing coverage under the plan based on the coverage elected, in accordance with the appropriation of funds. If a local employer fails to remit the employer's share as calculated by the commissioner, as provided in this Code section, it shall be the duty of the commissioner to notify the State Board of Education of such failure and it shall be the duty of the State Board of Education to, with reasonable promptness, withhold from the employer which has failed to comply sufficient state funds as calculated by the commissioner to fully satisfy the outstanding obligation of the local employer to the health insurance fund. Such withheld funds shall be promptly transmitted by the state board to the Department of Community Health.

(b) As the local employer's share, the local employer shall contribute to the health insurance fund such portion of the cost of such benefits as may be established by the Governor and the board and, in addition thereto, an amount to be established by the board to defray the cost of administration. The board shall determine whether such portion shall be determined based upon a percentage of the total outlay for the salaries of teachers employed by the local employer or determined on an amount per employee electing coverage under the plan based on the coverage elected, in accordance with the appropriation of funds. If a local employer fails to remit the employer's share as calculated by the commissioner, as provided in this Code section, it shall be the duty of the commissioner to notify the State Board of Education of such failure and it shall be the duty of the State Board of Education to, with reasonable promptness, withhold from the employer which has failed to comply sufficient state funds as calculated by the commissioner to fully satisfy the outstanding obligation of the local employer to the health insurance fund. Such withheld funds shall be promptly transmitted by the state board to the Department of Community Health.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-145 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-145
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-145
Status: in_force

(a) The State Board of Education shall develop by the start of the 1997-1998 school year a comprehensive character education program for levels K-12. This comprehensive character education program shall be known as the “character curriculum” and shall focus on the students' development of the following character traits: courage, patriotism, citizenship, honesty, fairness, respect for others, kindness, cooperation, self-respect, self-control, courtesy, compassion, tolerance, diligence, generosity, punctuality, cleanliness, cheerfulness, school pride, respect for the environment, respect for the creator, patience, creativity, sportsmanship, loyalty, perseverance, and virtue. Such program shall also address, by the start of the 1999-2000 school year, methods of discouraging bullying and violent acts against fellow students. Local boards shall implement such a program in all grade levels at the beginning of the 2000-2001 school year and shall provide opportunities for parental involvement in establishing expected outcomes of the character education program.

(a) The State Board of Education shall develop by the start of the 1997-1998 school year a comprehensive character education program for levels K-12. This comprehensive character education program shall be known as the “character curriculum” and shall focus on the students' development of the following character traits: courage, patriotism, citizenship, honesty, fairness, respect for others, kindness, cooperation, self-respect, self-control, courtesy, compassion, tolerance, diligence, generosity, punctuality, cleanliness, cheerfulness, school pride, respect for the environment, respect for the creator, patience, creativity, sportsmanship, loyalty, perseverance, and virtue. Such program shall also address, by the start of the 1999-2000 school year, methods of discouraging bullying and violent acts against fellow students. Local boards shall implement such a program in all grade levels at the beginning of the 2000-2001 school year and shall provide opportunities for parental involvement in establishing expected outcomes of the character education program.

(b) The Department of Education shall develop character education program workshops designed for employees of local school systems.

(b) The Department of Education shall develop character education program workshops designed for employees of local school systems.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-606 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-606
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-606
Status: in_force

(a) At a minimum, the trust shall offer contracts of the two types set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection, to be known as Plan A and Plan B, respectively. (1) Under Plan A: (A) A payment or series of installment payments of not less than $50.00 per month shall be required from the purchaser on behalf of a qualified beneficiary. (B) If an advance tuition payment contract is terminated before a qualified beneficiary earns a high school diploma or reaches the age of majority, or pursuant to paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-607 , the trust shall refund the face amount of the payment or payments in accordance with the terms of the contract, less any administrative fee specified in the contract, but shall not refund any investment income attributable to the payments. (C) Except as provided in subparagraph (D) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for the number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates. (D) As an alternative to subparagraph (C) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for a fixed number of credit hours, as permitted by the trust, less than the total number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary for that fixed number of credit hours, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates. (2) Under Plan B: (A) A payment or series of installment payments of not less than $50.00 per month shall be required on behalf of a qualified beneficiary. (B) If an advance tuition payment contract is terminated before a qualified beneficiary earns a high school diploma or reaches the age of majority, or pursuant to paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-607 , the trust shall refund the face amount of the payment or payments in accordance with the terms of the contract, less any administrative fee specified in the contract, together with all or a specified portion of accrued investment income attributable to the payment or payments as may be agreed to in the contract. (C) Except as provided in subparagraph (D) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for the number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates. (D) As an alternative to subparagraph (C) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for a fixed number of credit hours, as permitted by the trust, less than the total number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary for that fixed number of credit hours, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(a) At a minimum, the trust shall offer contracts of the two types set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection, to be known as Plan A and Plan B, respectively.

(1) Under Plan A: (A) A payment or series of installment payments of not less than $50.00 per month shall be required from the purchaser on behalf of a qualified beneficiary. (B) If an advance tuition payment contract is terminated before a qualified beneficiary earns a high school diploma or reaches the age of majority, or pursuant to paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-607 , the trust shall refund the face amount of the payment or payments in accordance with the terms of the contract, less any administrative fee specified in the contract, but shall not refund any investment income attributable to the payments. (C) Except as provided in subparagraph (D) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for the number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates. (D) As an alternative to subparagraph (C) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for a fixed number of credit hours, as permitted by the trust, less than the total number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary for that fixed number of credit hours, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(1) Under Plan A:

(A) A payment or series of installment payments of not less than $50.00 per month shall be required from the purchaser on behalf of a qualified beneficiary.

(A) A payment or series of installment payments of not less than $50.00 per month shall be required from the purchaser on behalf of a qualified beneficiary.

(B) If an advance tuition payment contract is terminated before a qualified beneficiary earns a high school diploma or reaches the age of majority, or pursuant to paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-607 , the trust shall refund the face amount of the payment or payments in accordance with the terms of the contract, less any administrative fee specified in the contract, but shall not refund any investment income attributable to the payments.

(B) If an advance tuition payment contract is terminated before a qualified beneficiary earns a high school diploma or reaches the age of majority, or pursuant to paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-607 , the trust shall refund the face amount of the payment or payments in accordance with the terms of the contract, less any administrative fee specified in the contract, but shall not refund any investment income attributable to the payments.

(C) Except as provided in subparagraph (D) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for the number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(C) Except as provided in subparagraph (D) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for the number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(D) As an alternative to subparagraph (C) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for a fixed number of credit hours, as permitted by the trust, less than the total number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary for that fixed number of credit hours, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(D) As an alternative to subparagraph (C) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for a fixed number of credit hours, as permitted by the trust, less than the total number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary for that fixed number of credit hours, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(2) Under Plan B: (A) A payment or series of installment payments of not less than $50.00 per month shall be required on behalf of a qualified beneficiary. (B) If an advance tuition payment contract is terminated before a qualified beneficiary earns a high school diploma or reaches the age of majority, or pursuant to paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-607 , the trust shall refund the face amount of the payment or payments in accordance with the terms of the contract, less any administrative fee specified in the contract, together with all or a specified portion of accrued investment income attributable to the payment or payments as may be agreed to in the contract. (C) Except as provided in subparagraph (D) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for the number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates. (D) As an alternative to subparagraph (C) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for a fixed number of credit hours, as permitted by the trust, less than the total number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary for that fixed number of credit hours, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(2) Under Plan B:

(A) A payment or series of installment payments of not less than $50.00 per month shall be required on behalf of a qualified beneficiary.

(A) A payment or series of installment payments of not less than $50.00 per month shall be required on behalf of a qualified beneficiary.

(B) If an advance tuition payment contract is terminated before a qualified beneficiary earns a high school diploma or reaches the age of majority, or pursuant to paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-607 , the trust shall refund the face amount of the payment or payments in accordance with the terms of the contract, less any administrative fee specified in the contract, together with all or a specified portion of accrued investment income attributable to the payment or payments as may be agreed to in the contract.

(B) If an advance tuition payment contract is terminated before a qualified beneficiary earns a high school diploma or reaches the age of majority, or pursuant to paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-607 , the trust shall refund the face amount of the payment or payments in accordance with the terms of the contract, less any administrative fee specified in the contract, together with all or a specified portion of accrued investment income attributable to the payment or payments as may be agreed to in the contract.

(C) Except as provided in subparagraph (D) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for the number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(C) Except as provided in subparagraph (D) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for the number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(D) As an alternative to subparagraph (C) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for a fixed number of credit hours, as permitted by the trust, less than the total number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary for that fixed number of credit hours, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(D) As an alternative to subparagraph (C) of this paragraph, the trust shall provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a state institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary attends for a fixed number of credit hours, as permitted by the trust, less than the total number of credit hours required by the institution for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary for that fixed number of credit hours, except as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 20-3-605 for a qualified beneficiary who is not entitled to in-state tuition rates.

(b) Contracts required to be offered by this Code section may require that payment or payments from a purchaser, on behalf of a qualified beneficiary who may attend a state institution of higher education in less than four years after the date the contract is entered into by the purchaser, be based upon attendance at a certain state institution of higher education or at that state institution of higher education with the highest prevailing tuition cost for the number of credit hours covered by the contract.

(b) Contracts required to be offered by this Code section may require that payment or payments from a purchaser, on behalf of a qualified beneficiary who may attend a state institution of higher education in less than four years after the date the contract is entered into by the purchaser, be based upon attendance at a certain state institution of higher education or at that state institution of higher education with the highest prevailing tuition cost for the number of credit hours covered by the contract.

(c) Contracts required to be offered by this Code section shall be offered with two alternatives. One alternative shall offer advance tuition payment contracts that provide the credit hours of higher education necessary for the granting of a baccalaureate degree at any of the state institutions of higher education. The second alternative shall provide that the number of credit hours of higher education a qualified beneficiary may receive under the contract will be reduced to a percentage of the credit hours required for the granting of a baccalaureate degree at a state institution of higher education, as specified in the contract, if the qualified beneficiary enrolls in a state institution of higher education imposing at the time the qualified beneficiary enrolls an annual tuition rate that is greater than 105 percent of the weighted average annual tuition rate of all state institutions of higher education. This subsection shall not preclude a state institution of higher education at which a qualified beneficiary is entitled to receive less than the minimum number of credit hours required for the granting of a baccalaureate degree from providing that qualified beneficiary, without further tuition charges, the additional credit hours necessary to receive a baccalaureate degree.

(c) Contracts required to be offered by this Code section shall be offered with two alternatives. One alternative shall offer advance tuition payment contracts that provide the credit hours of higher education necessary for the granting of a baccalaureate degree at any of the state institutions of higher education. The second alternative shall provide that the number of credit hours of higher education a qualified beneficiary may receive under the contract will be reduced to a percentage of the credit hours required for the granting of a baccalaureate degree at a state institution of higher education, as specified in the contract, if the qualified beneficiary enrolls in a state institution of higher education imposing at the time the qualified beneficiary enrolls an annual tuition rate that is greater than 105 percent of the weighted average annual tuition rate of all state institutions of higher education. This subsection shall not preclude a state institution of higher education at which a qualified beneficiary is entitled to receive less than the minimum number of credit hours required for the granting of a baccalaureate degree from providing that qualified beneficiary, without further tuition charges, the additional credit hours necessary to receive a baccalaureate degree.

(d) If a beneficiary of an advance tuition payment contract with either an alternative one or alternative two designation, as described in subsection (c) of this Code section, attends a community or junior college for two years at the in-state tuition rate, that beneficiary then may attend any state institution of higher education at no additional tuition cost and receive the number of credit hours necessary for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree.

(d) If a beneficiary of an advance tuition payment contract with either an alternative one or alternative two designation, as described in subsection (c) of this Code section, attends a community or junior college for two years at the in-state tuition rate, that beneficiary then may attend any state institution of higher education at no additional tuition cost and receive the number of credit hours necessary for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-311 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-311
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-311
Status: in_force

(a) Legislative findings. The General Assembly finds that the growth and development of this state and nation have been and will undoubtedly remain strongly related to the degree to which educational opportunities are provided to all of their citizens; recognizes that costs associated with postsecondary educational opportunities are substantial when considered in relation to the average earnings and wealth of most families and that such costs are in many cases prohibitive; and determines that it is a valid public purpose to promote the educational level of achievement and the welfare and general prosperity of the state and nation as a whole by creating the Georgia Student Finance Authority, a public authority, for the purpose of providing educational scholarship, grant, and loan assistance to students and their parents. The General Assembly further finds that substantial investments of public and private moneys have been made and will undoubtedly continue to be made in the construction, development, and operation of public and private postsecondary educational institutions; that such postsecondary educational institutions are of immense value to the state and nation in that they promote the general welfare and the economic and cultural development and prosperity of the state and nation and all their citizens; that it is in the public interest to sustain such institutions; and, therefore, that the provision of educational scholarship, grant, and loan assistance to persons who desire to attend such educational institutions will be of substantial financial benefit to those institutions and will better ensure their continued economic viability and value to the state and nation. The General Assembly therefore determines that public moneys may within the provisions of the Constitution of Georgia be appropriated for use by the authority for the student aid purposes prescribed in this part and that the carrying out by the authority of its corporate powers, duties, and functions as provided for in this part is in all respects a necessary and valid public purpose within the Constitution of Georgia.

(a) Legislative findings. The General Assembly finds that the growth and development of this state and nation have been and will undoubtedly remain strongly related to the degree to which educational opportunities are provided to all of their citizens; recognizes that costs associated with postsecondary educational opportunities are substantial when considered in relation to the average earnings and wealth of most families and that such costs are in many cases prohibitive; and determines that it is a valid public purpose to promote the educational level of achievement and the welfare and general prosperity of the state and nation as a whole by creating the Georgia Student Finance Authority, a public authority, for the purpose of providing educational scholarship, grant, and loan assistance to students and their parents. The General Assembly further finds that substantial investments of public and private moneys have been made and will undoubtedly continue to be made in the construction, development, and operation of public and private postsecondary educational institutions; that such postsecondary educational institutions are of immense value to the state and nation in that they promote the general welfare and the economic and cultural development and prosperity of the state and nation and all their citizens; that it is in the public interest to sustain such institutions; and, therefore, that the provision of educational scholarship, grant, and loan assistance to persons who desire to attend such educational institutions will be of substantial financial benefit to those institutions and will better ensure their continued economic viability and value to the state and nation. The General Assembly therefore determines that public moneys may within the provisions of the Constitution of Georgia be appropriated for use by the authority for the student aid purposes prescribed in this part and that the carrying out by the authority of its corporate powers, duties, and functions as provided for in this part is in all respects a necessary and valid public purpose within the Constitution of Georgia.

(b) The purposes of the authority shall be to improve higher educational opportunities by providing educational scholarship, grant, and loan assistance and to further other public purposes by loan forgiveness programs in specified circumstances, all as prescribed and as provided for in this part.

(b) The purposes of the authority shall be to improve higher educational opportunities by providing educational scholarship, grant, and loan assistance and to further other public purposes by loan forgiveness programs in specified circumstances, all as prescribed and as provided for in this part.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-312 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-312
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-312
Status: in_force

As used in this part, the term:

(1) “ Authority ” means the Georgia Student Finance Authority created by Code Section 20-3-313 .

(1) “ Authority ” means the Georgia Student Finance Authority created by Code Section 20-3-313 .

(2) “ Authorized officer ” means the chairperson, vice chairperson, executive director or president, treasurer, secretary, or other person authorized by this part, resolution of the board of directors, agreements entered into by the board of directors or the authority, or bylaws of the authority to act as an authorized officer of the authority for any prescribed purpose.

(2) “ Authorized officer ” means the chairperson, vice chairperson, executive director or president, treasurer, secretary, or other person authorized by this part, resolution of the board of directors, agreements entered into by the board of directors or the authority, or bylaws of the authority to act as an authorized officer of the authority for any prescribed purpose.

(3) “ Board of directors ” means the board of directors of the authority.

(3) “ Board of directors ” means the board of directors of the authority.

(4) “ Borrower ” means an eligible student or eligible parent who has obtained an educational loan under this part or from a lender under Part 2 of this article.

(4) “ Borrower ” means an eligible student or eligible parent who has obtained an educational loan under this part or from a lender under Part 2 of this article.

(5) “ Commission ” means the Georgia Student Finance Commission created by Code Section 20-3-233 .

(5) “ Commission ” means the Georgia Student Finance Commission created by Code Section 20-3-233 .

(6) “ Corporation ” means the Georgia Higher Education Assistance Corporation created by Code Section 20-3-263 .

(6) “ Corporation ” means the Georgia Higher Education Assistance Corporation created by Code Section 20-3-263 .

(7) “ Directory information ” means the present or last known name, address, and place of employment; social security number; telephone number; school enrollment status; academic classification and standing; actual or anticipated date of graduation, withdrawal from, or transfer to another school; other educational loan indebtedness; and other financial aid available to, and other similar data as the case may be and as may be applicable to, an applicant for or the recipient of scholarship or grant assistance under this part or to a borrower, comaker, cosigner, endorser, or person or credit reference named on an application for loan guaranty submitted to a lender under Part 2 of this article, and the spouse thereof.

(7) “ Directory information ” means the present or last known name, address, and place of employment; social security number; telephone number; school enrollment status; academic classification and standing; actual or anticipated date of graduation, withdrawal from, or transfer to another school; other educational loan indebtedness; and other financial aid available to, and other similar data as the case may be and as may be applicable to, an applicant for or the recipient of scholarship or grant assistance under this part or to a borrower, comaker, cosigner, endorser, or person or credit reference named on an application for loan guaranty submitted to a lender under Part 2 of this article, and the spouse thereof.

(8) “ Federal act ” means all provisions of federal statutes which provide federal funds for any student financial aid purpose or for any activity related to student financial aid and federal statutes relative to programs of low-interest educational loans to students and parents administered in whole or in part by the secretary, including but not limited to the federal Higher Education Act of 1965 ( P.L. 89-329 ), 1 as amended, and all rules and regulations prescribed by the secretary pursuant thereto.

(8) “ Federal act ” means all provisions of federal statutes which provide federal funds for any student financial aid purpose or for any activity related to student financial aid and federal statutes relative to programs of low-interest educational loans to students and parents administered in whole or in part by the secretary, including but not limited to the federal Higher Education Act of 1965 ( P.L. 89-329 ), 1 as amended, and all rules and regulations prescribed by the secretary pursuant thereto.

(9) “ Federal interest subsidies ” means the interest subsidy payments on educational loans provided for in the federal act.

(9) “ Federal interest subsidies ” means the interest subsidy payments on educational loans provided for in the federal act.

(10) “ Guaranty agency ” means the corporation or any other state or nonprofit institution or organization with which the United States Department of Education has an agreement under the federal act.

(10) “ Guaranty agency ” means the corporation or any other state or nonprofit institution or organization with which the United States Department of Education has an agreement under the federal act.

(11) “ Guaranty fee ” means the insurance premium charge on educational loans authorized by Code Section 20-3-271 or the federal act.

(11) “ Guaranty fee ” means the insurance premium charge on educational loans authorized by Code Section 20-3-271 or the federal act.

(12) “ Lender ” means a “lender” as defined in paragraph (12) of Code Section 20-3-262 or as prescribed by the federal act.

(12) “ Lender ” means a “lender” as defined in paragraph (12) of Code Section 20-3-262 or as prescribed by the federal act.

(13) “ Loan ” or “ educational loan ” means an obligation representing advances of money by a lender to an eligible student or eligible parent evidenced by one or more promissory notes, on note forms prescribed by any guaranty agency, as prescribed by the federal act. In the event of the purchase and sale or the pledge or assignment of such loans or a participating interest in such loans, the term shall include contingent interests, security interests, pledges, commitments, choses in action, or other property interests in such loans.

(13) “ Loan ” or “ educational loan ” means an obligation representing advances of money by a lender to an eligible student or eligible parent evidenced by one or more promissory notes, on note forms prescribed by any guaranty agency, as prescribed by the federal act. In the event of the purchase and sale or the pledge or assignment of such loans or a participating interest in such loans, the term shall include contingent interests, security interests, pledges, commitments, choses in action, or other property interests in such loans.

(14) “ Loan guaranty ” means the document or endorsement issued by any guaranty agency, as prescribed by the federal act, as evidence of the guaranty by the corporation of an educational loan to be made by a lender to an eligible student or eligible parent. The term “ guaranty ,” when used in this part, shall have the same meaning as “insurance” as such term is used in the federal act and shall be synonymous therewith.

(14) “ Loan guaranty ” means the document or endorsement issued by any guaranty agency, as prescribed by the federal act, as evidence of the guaranty by the corporation of an educational loan to be made by a lender to an eligible student or eligible parent. The term “ guaranty ,” when used in this part, shall have the same meaning as “insurance” as such term is used in the federal act and shall be synonymous therewith.

(15) “ Parent ” or “ eligible parent ” means a parent of an eligible student who qualifies for an educational loan under the federal act and regulations prescribed by the authority.

(15) “ Parent ” or “ eligible parent ” means a parent of an eligible student who qualifies for an educational loan under the federal act and regulations prescribed by the authority.

(16) “ Part ” means this part, including rules and regulations prescribed by the board of directors pursuant thereto.

(16) “ Part ” means this part, including rules and regulations prescribed by the board of directors pursuant thereto.

(17) “ Secretary ” means the United States secretary of education or any official succeeding to the powers of such secretary under the federal act.

(17) “ Secretary ” means the United States secretary of education or any official succeeding to the powers of such secretary under the federal act.

(18) “ Special allowance payments ” means the special allowance payments on educational loans provided for in the federal act.

(18) “ Special allowance payments ” means the special allowance payments on educational loans provided for in the federal act.

1 20 U.S.C.A. § 1001 et seq.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-314 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-314
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-314
Status: in_force

(a) Functions and composition . The authority shall be governed and all of its corporate powers, duties, and functions shall be exercised by a board of directors. The board of directors shall be composed of the same persons who are serving as members of the board of commissioners of the commission pursuant to Code Section 20-3-234 . The executive director of the authority, or president, if designated by such title by the board of directors, shall be an ex officio member of the board of directors. The board of directors provided for by this subsection shall be the successor to and a continuation of, without interruption, the board of directors of the previously existing Georgia Higher Education Assistance Authority. No director shall be eligible to become an officer or employee of the authority for a period of one year after expiration of the director's period of service as a director of the authority.

(a) Functions and composition . The authority shall be governed and all of its corporate powers, duties, and functions shall be exercised by a board of directors. The board of directors shall be composed of the same persons who are serving as members of the board of commissioners of the commission pursuant to Code Section 20-3-234 . The executive director of the authority, or president, if designated by such title by the board of directors, shall be an ex officio member of the board of directors. The board of directors provided for by this subsection shall be the successor to and a continuation of, without interruption, the board of directors of the previously existing Georgia Higher Education Assistance Authority. No director shall be eligible to become an officer or employee of the authority for a period of one year after expiration of the director's period of service as a director of the authority.

(b) Organization and conduct of affairs . Subsections (c) through (h) of Code Section 20-3-234 , pertaining to the commission and relative to officers of the board of commissioners, meetings of the board of commissioners, executive committee, other committees, compensation of commissioners, and advisory councils, inclusively, are incorporated by reference into this subsection and shall apply to the board of directors in the same manner as if fully set out, with conformable language, in this subsection. The board of directors shall organize and conduct its affairs in accordance with such provisions of law; provided, however: (1) That nothing in this Code section shall be construed to mean that the board of directors must elect the same persons to serve as officers of the board of directors as are elected by the board of commissioners of the commission to serve as officers of the board of commissioners; (2) That no person serving as a public commissioner of the commission and thereby as a director of the authority shall receive more than one day's per diem plus actual expenses incurred for one day's service or portion thereof rendered to the state; and (3) That the limitation as to the number of days during any fiscal year that per diem may be paid to a public commissioner of the commission shall be inclusive of services rendered by such person as a director of the authority.

(b) Organization and conduct of affairs . Subsections (c) through (h) of Code Section 20-3-234 , pertaining to the commission and relative to officers of the board of commissioners, meetings of the board of commissioners, executive committee, other committees, compensation of commissioners, and advisory councils, inclusively, are incorporated by reference into this subsection and shall apply to the board of directors in the same manner as if fully set out, with conformable language, in this subsection. The board of directors shall organize and conduct its affairs in accordance with such provisions of law; provided, however:

(1) That nothing in this Code section shall be construed to mean that the board of directors must elect the same persons to serve as officers of the board of directors as are elected by the board of commissioners of the commission to serve as officers of the board of commissioners;

(1) That nothing in this Code section shall be construed to mean that the board of directors must elect the same persons to serve as officers of the board of directors as are elected by the board of commissioners of the commission to serve as officers of the board of commissioners;

(2) That no person serving as a public commissioner of the commission and thereby as a director of the authority shall receive more than one day's per diem plus actual expenses incurred for one day's service or portion thereof rendered to the state; and

(2) That no person serving as a public commissioner of the commission and thereby as a director of the authority shall receive more than one day's per diem plus actual expenses incurred for one day's service or portion thereof rendered to the state; and

(3) That the limitation as to the number of days during any fiscal year that per diem may be paid to a public commissioner of the commission shall be inclusive of services rendered by such person as a director of the authority.

(3) That the limitation as to the number of days during any fiscal year that per diem may be paid to a public commissioner of the commission shall be inclusive of services rendered by such person as a director of the authority.
O.C.G.A. § 20-5-5 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 5 / Section 20-5-5
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-5-5
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Acceptable-use policy ” means a policy for Internet usage adopted by the governing board of a public library that meets the requirements of this Code section. (2) “ Child pornography ” means any computer depiction or other material depicting a child under the age of 18 years engaging in sexually explicit conduct or in the simulation of such conduct. (3) “Harmful to minors” has the meaning given to such term in Code Section 16-12-100.1 . (4) “ Internet ” means a global network that connects computers via telephone lines, fiber networks, or both to electronic information. (5) “Obscene” has the meaning given to such term in Code Section 16-12-80 . (6) “Sexually explicit conduct” has the meaning given to such term in Code Section 16-12-100 .

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

(1) “ Acceptable-use policy ” means a policy for Internet usage adopted by the governing board of a public library that meets the requirements of this Code section.

(1) “ Acceptable-use policy ” means a policy for Internet usage adopted by the governing board of a public library that meets the requirements of this Code section.

(2) “ Child pornography ” means any computer depiction or other material depicting a child under the age of 18 years engaging in sexually explicit conduct or in the simulation of such conduct.

(2) “ Child pornography ” means any computer depiction or other material depicting a child under the age of 18 years engaging in sexually explicit conduct or in the simulation of such conduct.

(3) “Harmful to minors” has the meaning given to such term in Code Section 16-12-100.1 .

(3) “Harmful to minors” has the meaning given to such term in Code Section 16-12-100.1 .

(4) “ Internet ” means a global network that connects computers via telephone lines, fiber networks, or both to electronic information.

(4) “ Internet ” means a global network that connects computers via telephone lines, fiber networks, or both to electronic information.

(5) “Obscene” has the meaning given to such term in Code Section 16-12-80 .

(5) “Obscene” has the meaning given to such term in Code Section 16-12-80 .

(6) “Sexually explicit conduct” has the meaning given to such term in Code Section 16-12-100 .

(6) “Sexually explicit conduct” has the meaning given to such term in Code Section 16-12-100 .

(b) No later than January 1, 2007, the governing body of each public library shall adopt an acceptable-use policy for its public library system. At a minimum, an acceptable-use policy shall contain provisions which are reasonably designed to: (1) Prevent library patrons, including those patrons under 18 years of age, and library employees from using any computer equipment and communication services owned or leased by the public library for sending, receiving, viewing, or downloading visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, or material that is harmful to minors; and (2) Establish appropriate measures to be taken against library patrons and employees who willfully violate the acceptable-use policy.

(b) No later than January 1, 2007, the governing body of each public library shall adopt an acceptable-use policy for its public library system. At a minimum, an acceptable-use policy shall contain provisions which are reasonably designed to:

(1) Prevent library patrons, including those patrons under 18 years of age, and library employees from using any computer equipment and communication services owned or leased by the public library for sending, receiving, viewing, or downloading visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, or material that is harmful to minors; and

(1) Prevent library patrons, including those patrons under 18 years of age, and library employees from using any computer equipment and communication services owned or leased by the public library for sending, receiving, viewing, or downloading visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, or material that is harmful to minors; and

(2) Establish appropriate measures to be taken against library patrons and employees who willfully violate the acceptable-use policy.

(2) Establish appropriate measures to be taken against library patrons and employees who willfully violate the acceptable-use policy.

(c) A public library shall take such steps as it deems appropriate to implement and enforce the acceptable-use policy, which shall include, but not be limited to: (1) Use of software programs reasonably designed to block access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and material that is harmful to minors; or (2) Selection of online servers that block access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and material that is harmful to minors.

(c) A public library shall take such steps as it deems appropriate to implement and enforce the acceptable-use policy, which shall include, but not be limited to:

(1) Use of software programs reasonably designed to block access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and material that is harmful to minors; or

(1) Use of software programs reasonably designed to block access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and material that is harmful to minors; or

(2) Selection of online servers that block access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and material that is harmful to minors.

(2) Selection of online servers that block access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and material that is harmful to minors.

(d) A public library shall not be subject to civil liability for damages to any person as a result of the failure of any approved software program or approved online server to block access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and material that is harmful to minors. Nothing in this Code section shall be deemed to abrogate or lessen any immunity or other protection against liability accorded to public libraries under an existing law or court decision.

(d) A public library shall not be subject to civil liability for damages to any person as a result of the failure of any approved software program or approved online server to block access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and material that is harmful to minors. Nothing in this Code section shall be deemed to abrogate or lessen any immunity or other protection against liability accorded to public libraries under an existing law or court decision.

(e) The Attorney General and the board of regents shall consult with and assist any public library in the development and implementation of an acceptable-use policy pursuant to this Code section.

(e) The Attorney General and the board of regents shall consult with and assist any public library in the development and implementation of an acceptable-use policy pursuant to this Code section.

(f)(1) No later than January 31, 2007, each public library shall submit a copy of the acceptable-use policy adopted pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section to the board of regents. Such submission shall also include the identification of any software program or online server that is being utilized to block access to material in accordance with subsection (c) of this Code section. (2) The board of regents shall review each acceptable-use policy and any subsequent revisions submitted pursuant to paragraph (3) of this subsection. If the board of regents determines after review that a policy or revision is not reasonably designed to achieve the requirements of this Code section, the board of regents shall provide written notice to the public library explaining the nature of such noncompliance and the public library shall have 30 days from the receipt of written notice to correct such noncompliance. The board of regents may provide an extension to the 30 day period on a showing of good cause. (3) No revision of an acceptable-use policy which has been approved by the board of regents pursuant to paragraph (2) of this subsection shall be implemented until such revision is approved by the board of regents. If the board of regents fails to disapprove the revision within 60 days after the submission is received, the public library may proceed with the implementation of the revision. (4) The board of regents shall be authorized to withhold a portion of state funding to a public library if the public library: (A) Fails to timely submit an acceptable-use policy in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection; (B) Submits an acceptable-use policy that is not reasonably designed to achieve the requirements of this Code section; or (C) Is not enforcing or is substantially disregarding its acceptable-use policy. (5) If the board of regents disapproves an acceptable-use policy of a public library or any revision thereof or notifies the public library that it is subject to the withholding of funding pursuant to paragraph (4) of this subsection, the public library may appeal the decision to the superior court of the county where the public library is situated.

(f)(1) No later than January 31, 2007, each public library shall submit a copy of the acceptable-use policy adopted pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section to the board of regents. Such submission shall also include the identification of any software program or online server that is being utilized to block access to material in accordance with subsection (c) of this Code section.

(f)(1) No later than January 31, 2007, each public library shall submit a copy of the acceptable-use policy adopted pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section to the board of regents. Such submission shall also include the identification of any software program or online server that is being utilized to block access to material in accordance with subsection (c) of this Code section.

(2) The board of regents shall review each acceptable-use policy and any subsequent revisions submitted pursuant to paragraph (3) of this subsection. If the board of regents determines after review that a policy or revision is not reasonably designed to achieve the requirements of this Code section, the board of regents shall provide written notice to the public library explaining the nature of such noncompliance and the public library shall have 30 days from the receipt of written notice to correct such noncompliance. The board of regents may provide an extension to the 30 day period on a showing of good cause.

(2) The board of regents shall review each acceptable-use policy and any subsequent revisions submitted pursuant to paragraph (3) of this subsection. If the board of regents determines after review that a policy or revision is not reasonably designed to achieve the requirements of this Code section, the board of regents shall provide written notice to the public library explaining the nature of such noncompliance and the public library shall have 30 days from the receipt of written notice to correct such noncompliance. The board of regents may provide an extension to the 30 day period on a showing of good cause.

(3) No revision of an acceptable-use policy which has been approved by the board of regents pursuant to paragraph (2) of this subsection shall be implemented until such revision is approved by the board of regents. If the board of regents fails to disapprove the revision within 60 days after the submission is received, the public library may proceed with the implementation of the revision.

(3) No revision of an acceptable-use policy which has been approved by the board of regents pursuant to paragraph (2) of this subsection shall be implemented until such revision is approved by the board of regents. If the board of regents fails to disapprove the revision within 60 days after the submission is received, the public library may proceed with the implementation of the revision.

(4) The board of regents shall be authorized to withhold a portion of state funding to a public library if the public library: (A) Fails to timely submit an acceptable-use policy in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection; (B) Submits an acceptable-use policy that is not reasonably designed to achieve the requirements of this Code section; or (C) Is not enforcing or is substantially disregarding its acceptable-use policy.

(4) The board of regents shall be authorized to withhold a portion of state funding to a public library if the public library:

(A) Fails to timely submit an acceptable-use policy in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection;

(A) Fails to timely submit an acceptable-use policy in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection;

(B) Submits an acceptable-use policy that is not reasonably designed to achieve the requirements of this Code section; or

(B) Submits an acceptable-use policy that is not reasonably designed to achieve the requirements of this Code section; or

(C) Is not enforcing or is substantially disregarding its acceptable-use policy.

(C) Is not enforcing or is substantially disregarding its acceptable-use policy.

(5) If the board of regents disapproves an acceptable-use policy of a public library or any revision thereof or notifies the public library that it is subject to the withholding of funding pursuant to paragraph (4) of this subsection, the public library may appeal the decision to the superior court of the county where the public library is situated.

(5) If the board of regents disapproves an acceptable-use policy of a public library or any revision thereof or notifies the public library that it is subject to the withholding of funding pursuant to paragraph (4) of this subsection, the public library may appeal the decision to the superior court of the county where the public library is situated.

(g)(1) The board of regents shall be responsible for conducting investigations and making written determinations as to whether a public library has violated the requirements of this Code section. (2) If the board of regents determines that a public library is in violation of the requirements of this Code section, it shall direct the public library to acknowledge and correct the violation within 30 days and to develop a corrective plan for preventing future recurrences.

(g)(1) The board of regents shall be responsible for conducting investigations and making written determinations as to whether a public library has violated the requirements of this Code section.

(g)(1) The board of regents shall be responsible for conducting investigations and making written determinations as to whether a public library has violated the requirements of this Code section.

(2) If the board of regents determines that a public library is in violation of the requirements of this Code section, it shall direct the public library to acknowledge and correct the violation within 30 days and to develop a corrective plan for preventing future recurrences.

(2) If the board of regents determines that a public library is in violation of the requirements of this Code section, it shall direct the public library to acknowledge and correct the violation within 30 days and to develop a corrective plan for preventing future recurrences.

(h)(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Code section to the contrary, an administrator or supervisor of a public library, or designee thereof, may disable the software program or online server that is being utilized to block access to material for an adult or for a minor who provides written consent from his or her parent or guardian to enable access to the Internet for bona fide research or other lawful purpose. (2) Nothing in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be construed to permit any person to have access to material the character of which is illegal under federal or state law.

(h)(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Code section to the contrary, an administrator or supervisor of a public library, or designee thereof, may disable the software program or online server that is being utilized to block access to material for an adult or for a minor who provides written consent from his or her parent or guardian to enable access to the Internet for bona fide research or other lawful purpose.

(h)(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Code section to the contrary, an administrator or supervisor of a public library, or designee thereof, may disable the software program or online server that is being utilized to block access to material for an adult or for a minor who provides written consent from his or her parent or guardian to enable access to the Internet for bona fide research or other lawful purpose.

(2) Nothing in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be construed to permit any person to have access to material the character of which is illegal under federal or state law.

(2) Nothing in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be construed to permit any person to have access to material the character of which is illegal under federal or state law.

(i) A public library which is fulfilling the requirements of the federal Children's Internet Protection Act, P.L. 106-554 , is not required to comply with this Code section.

(i) A public library which is fulfilling the requirements of the federal Children's Internet Protection Act, P.L. 106-554 , is not required to comply with this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-518 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-518
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-518
Status: in_force

It is the purpose and intent of this part to bring about an adequate supply of persons licensed to practice medicine in the more sparsely populated areas of the State of Georgia by increasing the number of medical students from Georgia with scholarships awarded by the board pursuant to this part attending the various medical schools and inducing a sufficient number of the graduates from medical schools to return to Georgia and practice their profession in rural and underserved areas, thus affording adequate medical care to the people of Georgia.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-235 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-235
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-235
Status: in_force

The board of commissioners shall provide for the employment of all personnel and for retention of all support services necessary to enable it to effectuate and carry out its powers, duties, and functions under this part, including, but without limitation, the following:

(1) CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER.The board of commissioners shall select and employ an executive director of the commission, or president, if designated by such title by the board of commissioners, who shall be the chief executive officer of the commission and who shall serve at the pleasure of the board of commissioners. The executive director may be employed on an annual basis by resolution adopted at a regular meeting of the board of commissioners or for a longer contractual period of time not to exceed three years. The executive director shall receive such salary and other compensation and benefits as determined and fixed by the board of commissioners. He shall cause to be filed with the commission a fidelity bond in the minimum sum of $100,000.00, conditioned upon the faithful performance of his duties under this part, and such additional bond coverage as the board of commissioners may direct; and the cost thereof shall be paid from funds available to the commission. The executive director shall provide for maintenance of accurate and permanent minutes and records of all proceedings and activities of the board of commissioners and the commission and have authority and responsibility to implement and carry out all administrative powers, duties, and functions of the commission in accordance with governing state and federal laws and rules, regulations, and policies prescribed by the board of commissioners. Unless otherwise prescribed by the board of commissioners, the executive director is authorized to select, employ, and terminate the employment of, and prescribe the duties of, all officers and employees of the commission in accordance with applicable provisions of law;

(1) CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER.The board of commissioners shall select and employ an executive director of the commission, or president, if designated by such title by the board of commissioners, who shall be the chief executive officer of the commission and who shall serve at the pleasure of the board of commissioners. The executive director may be employed on an annual basis by resolution adopted at a regular meeting of the board of commissioners or for a longer contractual period of time not to exceed three years. The executive director shall receive such salary and other compensation and benefits as determined and fixed by the board of commissioners. He shall cause to be filed with the commission a fidelity bond in the minimum sum of $100,000.00, conditioned upon the faithful performance of his duties under this part, and such additional bond coverage as the board of commissioners may direct; and the cost thereof shall be paid from funds available to the commission. The executive director shall provide for maintenance of accurate and permanent minutes and records of all proceedings and activities of the board of commissioners and the commission and have authority and responsibility to implement and carry out all administrative powers, duties, and functions of the commission in accordance with governing state and federal laws and rules, regulations, and policies prescribed by the board of commissioners. Unless otherwise prescribed by the board of commissioners, the executive director is authorized to select, employ, and terminate the employment of, and prescribe the duties of, all officers and employees of the commission in accordance with applicable provisions of law;

(2) OTHER OFFICERS.The board of commissioners shall designate an employee of the commission to serve as treasurer of the commission. The treasurer shall receive and disburse all funds made available to the commission by the General Assembly or otherwise in accordance with law and as may be directed by the board of commissioners. The treasurer shall cause to be filed with the commission a fidelity bond in such sum as the board of commissioners shall direct, conditioned upon the faithful performance of his duties under this part and the proper accounting of all funds coming into possession or control of the commission; and the cost thereof shall be paid from funds available to the commission. The board of commissioners is authorized to designate the executive director as treasurer. The board of commissioners shall also designate an employee of the commission to serve as secretary of the commission. The board of commissioners is further authorized to designate other budgeted personnel positions of the commission as officers of the commission and to ascribe to such positions such duties, responsibilities, and official titles as it may deem appropriate;

(2) OTHER OFFICERS.The board of commissioners shall designate an employee of the commission to serve as treasurer of the commission. The treasurer shall receive and disburse all funds made available to the commission by the General Assembly or otherwise in accordance with law and as may be directed by the board of commissioners. The treasurer shall cause to be filed with the commission a fidelity bond in such sum as the board of commissioners shall direct, conditioned upon the faithful performance of his duties under this part and the proper accounting of all funds coming into possession or control of the commission; and the cost thereof shall be paid from funds available to the commission. The board of commissioners is authorized to designate the executive director as treasurer. The board of commissioners shall also designate an employee of the commission to serve as secretary of the commission. The board of commissioners is further authorized to designate other budgeted personnel positions of the commission as officers of the commission and to ascribe to such positions such duties, responsibilities, and official titles as it may deem appropriate;

(3) PERSONNEL.The commission is authorized to employ, on a full-time, part-time, or contractual basis, all officers, employees, professional personnel, agents, experts, consultants, and other personnel needed for the performance of its powers, duties, and functions under this part. Officers and employees of the commission are authorized to travel within and outside the state in connection with the performance of their duties as may be authorized by the board of commissioners;

(3) PERSONNEL.The commission is authorized to employ, on a full-time, part-time, or contractual basis, all officers, employees, professional personnel, agents, experts, consultants, and other personnel needed for the performance of its powers, duties, and functions under this part. Officers and employees of the commission are authorized to travel within and outside the state in connection with the performance of their duties as may be authorized by the board of commissioners;

(4) FIDELITY BONDS.All officers and employees of the commission and public commissioners shall be covered by a fidelity bond or bonds in such sum or sums and conditioned for such purpose or purposes as the board of commissioners shall determine, and the cost thereof shall be paid from funds available to the commission; and

(4) FIDELITY BONDS.All officers and employees of the commission and public commissioners shall be covered by a fidelity bond or bonds in such sum or sums and conditioned for such purpose or purposes as the board of commissioners shall determine, and the cost thereof shall be paid from funds available to the commission; and

(5) LEGAL SERVICES.Legal services shall be provided to the commission, the corporation, and the authority by the Attorney General as provided for by state law, or by private attorneys designated by the Attorney General, or, if authorized by the Attorney General, by private attorneys selected and retained or employed by the commission, the corporation, or the authority for the purposes authorized by the Attorney General. The commission is authorized to provide for paying from funds available to the commission, the corporation, or the authority all legal costs incurred, including, without limitation, attorneys' fees, court costs, and all other costs and expenses incurred incident to the retention of legal services and in respect of legal proceedings.

(5) LEGAL SERVICES.Legal services shall be provided to the commission, the corporation, and the authority by the Attorney General as provided for by state law, or by private attorneys designated by the Attorney General, or, if authorized by the Attorney General, by private attorneys selected and retained or employed by the commission, the corporation, or the authority for the purposes authorized by the Attorney General. The commission is authorized to provide for paying from funds available to the commission, the corporation, or the authority all legal costs incurred, including, without limitation, attorneys' fees, court costs, and all other costs and expenses incurred incident to the retention of legal services and in respect of legal proceedings.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-327 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-327
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-327
Status: in_force

(a) Student performance at the advanced proficiency/honors level on any assessments required for purposes of high school graduation shall be recognized as: (1) Meeting postsecondary entrance test requirements; and (2) Qualifying students to enroll in credit-bearing postsecondary coursework in accordance with policies and requirements established by the State Board of Education, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, and the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(a) Student performance at the advanced proficiency/honors level on any assessments required for purposes of high school graduation shall be recognized as:

(1) Meeting postsecondary entrance test requirements; and

(1) Meeting postsecondary entrance test requirements; and

(2) Qualifying students to enroll in credit-bearing postsecondary coursework in accordance with policies and requirements established by the State Board of Education, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, and the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(2) Qualifying students to enroll in credit-bearing postsecondary coursework in accordance with policies and requirements established by the State Board of Education, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, and the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(b) Secondary and postsecondary credit shall be awarded immediately upon successful completion of any articulated or dual enrollment course in accordance with policies and requirements established by the State Board of Education, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, and the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(b) Secondary and postsecondary credit shall be awarded immediately upon successful completion of any articulated or dual enrollment course in accordance with policies and requirements established by the State Board of Education, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, and the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(c)(1) Students in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades shall be provided counseling, advisement, career awareness, career interest and career demand inventories, and information to assist them in evaluating their academic skills, career oriented aptitudes, and career interests. Before the end of the second semester of the eighth grade, students shall develop an individual graduation plan based on their academic skills, career oriented aptitudes, and career interests in consultation with their parents, guardians, or individuals appointed by the parents or guardians to serve as their designee. A student's individual graduation plan shall be taken into consideration when scheduling a student's courses in ninth grade. High school students shall be provided guidance, advisement, and counseling annually that will enable them to successfully update and implement their individual graduation plans, preparing them for a seamless transition to postsecondary study, further training, or employment, including information regarding occupations, degrees, industry credentials, certifications, and technical skills; work-ready skills in demand by Georgia employers through the department's career pipeline website; and other career related inventories made available through the Technical College System of Georgia or the Office of Student Achievement. Beginning with the 2018-2019 school year, such guidance, advisement, and counseling for high school students shall include providing career oriented aptitude and career interest guidance. An individual graduation plan shall: (A) Include rigorous academic core subjects and focused coursework in mathematics and science or in humanities, fine arts, and foreign language or sequenced career pathway coursework; (B) Incorporate provisions of a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP), where applicable; (C) Align educational and broad career goals and a student's course of study; (D) Be based on the student's selected academic and career focus area as approved by the student's parent or guardian; (E) Include experience based, career oriented learning experiences which may include, but not be limited to, participation in work based learning programs such as internships, apprenticeships, cooperative education, and employability skill development; (F) Include any applicable industry credentialing that pertains to the student's focused program of study; (G) Include opportunities for postsecondary studies through articulation, dual enrollment, and joint enrollment; (H) Be flexible to allow change in the course of study but be sufficiently structured to meet graduation requirements and qualify the student for admission to postsecondary education; and (I) Be approved by the student and the student's parent or guardian with guidance from the student's school counselor or teacher adviser. (2) An individual graduation plan shall be reviewed annually, and revised, if appropriate, upon approval by the student and the student's parent or guardian with guidance from the student's school counselor or teacher adviser. An individual graduation plan may be changed at any time throughout a student's high school career upon approval by the student and the student's parent or guardian with guidance from the student's school counselor or teacher adviser.

(c)(1) Students in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades shall be provided counseling, advisement, career awareness, career interest and career demand inventories, and information to assist them in evaluating their academic skills, career oriented aptitudes, and career interests. Before the end of the second semester of the eighth grade, students shall develop an individual graduation plan based on their academic skills, career oriented aptitudes, and career interests in consultation with their parents, guardians, or individuals appointed by the parents or guardians to serve as their designee. A student's individual graduation plan shall be taken into consideration when scheduling a student's courses in ninth grade. High school students shall be provided guidance, advisement, and counseling annually that will enable them to successfully update and implement their individual graduation plans, preparing them for a seamless transition to postsecondary study, further training, or employment, including information regarding occupations, degrees, industry credentials, certifications, and technical skills; work-ready skills in demand by Georgia employers through the department's career pipeline website; and other career related inventories made available through the Technical College System of Georgia or the Office of Student Achievement. Beginning with the 2018-2019 school year, such guidance, advisement, and counseling for high school students shall include providing career oriented aptitude and career interest guidance. An individual graduation plan shall: (A) Include rigorous academic core subjects and focused coursework in mathematics and science or in humanities, fine arts, and foreign language or sequenced career pathway coursework; (B) Incorporate provisions of a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP), where applicable; (C) Align educational and broad career goals and a student's course of study; (D) Be based on the student's selected academic and career focus area as approved by the student's parent or guardian; (E) Include experience based, career oriented learning experiences which may include, but not be limited to, participation in work based learning programs such as internships, apprenticeships, cooperative education, and employability skill development; (F) Include any applicable industry credentialing that pertains to the student's focused program of study; (G) Include opportunities for postsecondary studies through articulation, dual enrollment, and joint enrollment; (H) Be flexible to allow change in the course of study but be sufficiently structured to meet graduation requirements and qualify the student for admission to postsecondary education; and (I) Be approved by the student and the student's parent or guardian with guidance from the student's school counselor or teacher adviser.

(c)(1) Students in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades shall be provided counseling, advisement, career awareness, career interest and career demand inventories, and information to assist them in evaluating their academic skills, career oriented aptitudes, and career interests. Before the end of the second semester of the eighth grade, students shall develop an individual graduation plan based on their academic skills, career oriented aptitudes, and career interests in consultation with their parents, guardians, or individuals appointed by the parents or guardians to serve as their designee. A student's individual graduation plan shall be taken into consideration when scheduling a student's courses in ninth grade. High school students shall be provided guidance, advisement, and counseling annually that will enable them to successfully update and implement their individual graduation plans, preparing them for a seamless transition to postsecondary study, further training, or employment, including information regarding occupations, degrees, industry credentials, certifications, and technical skills; work-ready skills in demand by Georgia employers through the department's career pipeline website; and other career related inventories made available through the Technical College System of Georgia or the Office of Student Achievement. Beginning with the 2018-2019 school year, such guidance, advisement, and counseling for high school students shall include providing career oriented aptitude and career interest guidance. An individual graduation plan shall:

(A) Include rigorous academic core subjects and focused coursework in mathematics and science or in humanities, fine arts, and foreign language or sequenced career pathway coursework;

(A) Include rigorous academic core subjects and focused coursework in mathematics and science or in humanities, fine arts, and foreign language or sequenced career pathway coursework;

(B) Incorporate provisions of a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP), where applicable;

(B) Incorporate provisions of a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP), where applicable;

(C) Align educational and broad career goals and a student's course of study;

(C) Align educational and broad career goals and a student's course of study;

(D) Be based on the student's selected academic and career focus area as approved by the student's parent or guardian;

(D) Be based on the student's selected academic and career focus area as approved by the student's parent or guardian;

(E) Include experience based, career oriented learning experiences which may include, but not be limited to, participation in work based learning programs such as internships, apprenticeships, cooperative education, and employability skill development;

(E) Include experience based, career oriented learning experiences which may include, but not be limited to, participation in work based learning programs such as internships, apprenticeships, cooperative education, and employability skill development;

(F) Include any applicable industry credentialing that pertains to the student's focused program of study;

(F) Include any applicable industry credentialing that pertains to the student's focused program of study;

(G) Include opportunities for postsecondary studies through articulation, dual enrollment, and joint enrollment;

(G) Include opportunities for postsecondary studies through articulation, dual enrollment, and joint enrollment;

(H) Be flexible to allow change in the course of study but be sufficiently structured to meet graduation requirements and qualify the student for admission to postsecondary education; and

(H) Be flexible to allow change in the course of study but be sufficiently structured to meet graduation requirements and qualify the student for admission to postsecondary education; and

(I) Be approved by the student and the student's parent or guardian with guidance from the student's school counselor or teacher adviser.

(I) Be approved by the student and the student's parent or guardian with guidance from the student's school counselor or teacher adviser.

(2) An individual graduation plan shall be reviewed annually, and revised, if appropriate, upon approval by the student and the student's parent or guardian with guidance from the student's school counselor or teacher adviser. An individual graduation plan may be changed at any time throughout a student's high school career upon approval by the student and the student's parent or guardian with guidance from the student's school counselor or teacher adviser.

(2) An individual graduation plan shall be reviewed annually, and revised, if appropriate, upon approval by the student and the student's parent or guardian with guidance from the student's school counselor or teacher adviser. An individual graduation plan may be changed at any time throughout a student's high school career upon approval by the student and the student's parent or guardian with guidance from the student's school counselor or teacher adviser.