O.C.G.A. § 20-3-421 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-421
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-421
Status: in_force

(a) In order for a student to qualify as a nominee for and to be a recipient of a scholarship under this subpart, the student shall meet the following standards and requirements: (1) The student shall be a resident of Georgia; (2) The student shall have demonstrated academic excellence at the high school level; (3) The student shall meet mental and physical health standards required for commission in the Army National Guard; and (4) The student shall qualify for regular admission to the University of North Georgia.

(a) In order for a student to qualify as a nominee for and to be a recipient of a scholarship under this subpart, the student shall meet the following standards and requirements:

(1) The student shall be a resident of Georgia;

(1) The student shall be a resident of Georgia;

(2) The student shall have demonstrated academic excellence at the high school level;

(2) The student shall have demonstrated academic excellence at the high school level;

(3) The student shall meet mental and physical health standards required for commission in the Army National Guard; and

(3) The student shall meet mental and physical health standards required for commission in the Army National Guard; and

(4) The student shall qualify for regular admission to the University of North Georgia.

(4) The student shall qualify for regular admission to the University of North Georgia.

(b) If selected as a recipient of a scholarship under this subpart, a student, in order to maintain eligibility for the scholarship, shall: (1) Maintain standards of academic excellence and standards of conduct as established by the University of North Georgia; (2) Maintain minimum full-time enrollment of at least 12 hours each quarter; (3) Participate in military and Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs at the University of North Georgia; (4) Maintain membership in good standing in the Army National Guard; (5) Demonstrate the qualities required of a commissioned officer in the United States armed forces; and (6) Upon graduation from the University of North Georgia, accept a commission as a second lieutenant and agree to serve not less than four years in the Georgia Army National Guard; however, terms of the scholarship may be met by acceptance of a commission and active duty service for not less than four years in the United States Army or a combination of service in the active army and the Georgia Army National Guard for not less than four years upon certification by the adjutant general that no need exists in the Georgia Army National Guard at the time of the commencement of the period of active service.

(b) If selected as a recipient of a scholarship under this subpart, a student, in order to maintain eligibility for the scholarship, shall:

(1) Maintain standards of academic excellence and standards of conduct as established by the University of North Georgia;

(1) Maintain standards of academic excellence and standards of conduct as established by the University of North Georgia;

(2) Maintain minimum full-time enrollment of at least 12 hours each quarter;

(2) Maintain minimum full-time enrollment of at least 12 hours each quarter;

(3) Participate in military and Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs at the University of North Georgia;

(3) Participate in military and Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs at the University of North Georgia;

(4) Maintain membership in good standing in the Army National Guard;

(4) Maintain membership in good standing in the Army National Guard;

(5) Demonstrate the qualities required of a commissioned officer in the United States armed forces; and

(5) Demonstrate the qualities required of a commissioned officer in the United States armed forces; and

(6) Upon graduation from the University of North Georgia, accept a commission as a second lieutenant and agree to serve not less than four years in the Georgia Army National Guard; however, terms of the scholarship may be met by acceptance of a commission and active duty service for not less than four years in the United States Army or a combination of service in the active army and the Georgia Army National Guard for not less than four years upon certification by the adjutant general that no need exists in the Georgia Army National Guard at the time of the commencement of the period of active service.

(6) Upon graduation from the University of North Georgia, accept a commission as a second lieutenant and agree to serve not less than four years in the Georgia Army National Guard; however, terms of the scholarship may be met by acceptance of a commission and active duty service for not less than four years in the United States Army or a combination of service in the active army and the Georgia Army National Guard for not less than four years upon certification by the adjutant general that no need exists in the Georgia Army National Guard at the time of the commencement of the period of active service.

(c) No recipient of a scholarship under this subpart shall be eligible to receive financial aid assistance under any other student financial aid program authorized by the laws of this state.

(c) No recipient of a scholarship under this subpart shall be eligible to receive financial aid assistance under any other student financial aid program authorized by the laws of this state.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-293 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-293
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-293
Status: in_force

(a) The provisions of this article and other statutes to the contrary notwithstanding, the State Board of Education is authorized to provide a procedure whereby a student shall, for such compelling reasons and circumstances as may be specified by the state board, be permitted to attend and to be included as an enrolled student in the public schools of a local unit of administration other than the local unit of administration wherein the student resides for the purpose of allotting state funds under this article, notwithstanding absence of an agreement between the two local units and a refusal by the board of education of the local unit wherein the student resides to approve voluntarily such transfer of the student to the public schools of the other local unit; provided, however, that the board of education of the local unit is willing to receive and to permit such student to enroll in and to attend the public schools of such local unit. The state board shall adopt such rules, regulations, and policies as may be necessary for implementation of this Code section. Grant or refusal of permission for students to attend such schools, for the purpose of permitting state funds to follow such students, shall be entirely discretionary with the state board and shall, in the absence of a clear abuse of discretion by the state board, be final and conclusive. Local units of administration may contract with each other for the care, education, and transportation of students and for such other activities as they may be authorized by law to perform.

(a) The provisions of this article and other statutes to the contrary notwithstanding, the State Board of Education is authorized to provide a procedure whereby a student shall, for such compelling reasons and circumstances as may be specified by the state board, be permitted to attend and to be included as an enrolled student in the public schools of a local unit of administration other than the local unit of administration wherein the student resides for the purpose of allotting state funds under this article, notwithstanding absence of an agreement between the two local units and a refusal by the board of education of the local unit wherein the student resides to approve voluntarily such transfer of the student to the public schools of the other local unit; provided, however, that the board of education of the local unit is willing to receive and to permit such student to enroll in and to attend the public schools of such local unit. The state board shall adopt such rules, regulations, and policies as may be necessary for implementation of this Code section. Grant or refusal of permission for students to attend such schools, for the purpose of permitting state funds to follow such students, shall be entirely discretionary with the state board and shall, in the absence of a clear abuse of discretion by the state board, be final and conclusive. Local units of administration may contract with each other for the care, education, and transportation of students and for such other activities as they may be authorized by law to perform.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section or any other general law, and except as provided by the General Assembly by local law, a student shall be allowed to attend and be enrolled in the school in which a parent or guardian of such student is a full-time teacher, professional, or other employee, notwithstanding the fact that such school is not located in the local unit of administration in which such student resides. Each school system of this state shall provide procedures to implement the provisions of this subsection.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section or any other general law, and except as provided by the General Assembly by local law, a student shall be allowed to attend and be enrolled in the school in which a parent or guardian of such student is a full-time teacher, professional, or other employee, notwithstanding the fact that such school is not located in the local unit of administration in which such student resides. Each school system of this state shall provide procedures to implement the provisions of this subsection.
O.C.G.A. § 20-1a-34 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 1A / Section 20-1a-34
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-1A-34
Status: in_force

(a) The department shall receive a records check application, as may be required by the department and allowed under federal law, for any individual that cares for children through a program that receives, either directly or indirectly, federal funds through the department for the care of children. Upon receipt of such records check application, the department shall comply with all rules of GCIC and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the request and receipt of national fingerprint based criminal history reports. Such individuals shall also submit all necessary applications, fees, and acceptable fingerprints to GCIC. Within ten days after receiving fingerprints acceptable to GCIC, the application, and fee, GCIC shall notify the department in writing of any derogatory finding, including, but not limited to, any criminal record, of the state fingerprint records check or if there is no such finding. GCIC shall also conduct a search of Federal Bureau of Investigation records and fingerprints and notify the department in writing of the results of such search. Upon receipt of the bureau's report, the department shall make a national fingerprint records check determination. If the fingerprint records check determination is unsatisfactory for an individual, the department shall notify the provider and the employee of such determination in writing, and no such individual shall be allowed to be present at the facility when any child is present for care or to reside in the facility until he or she either has obtained a satisfactory comprehensive records check determination or has had the unsatisfactory determination reversed in accordance with Code Section 20-1A-43 , notwithstanding Code Section 20-1A-45 . The department shall cease to issue funds, either directly or indirectly, to any individual or program that willfully and continually fails to comply with the requirements of this Code section.

(a) The department shall receive a records check application, as may be required by the department and allowed under federal law, for any individual that cares for children through a program that receives, either directly or indirectly, federal funds through the department for the care of children. Upon receipt of such records check application, the department shall comply with all rules of GCIC and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the request and receipt of national fingerprint based criminal history reports. Such individuals shall also submit all necessary applications, fees, and acceptable fingerprints to GCIC. Within ten days after receiving fingerprints acceptable to GCIC, the application, and fee, GCIC shall notify the department in writing of any derogatory finding, including, but not limited to, any criminal record, of the state fingerprint records check or if there is no such finding. GCIC shall also conduct a search of Federal Bureau of Investigation records and fingerprints and notify the department in writing of the results of such search. Upon receipt of the bureau's report, the department shall make a national fingerprint records check determination. If the fingerprint records check determination is unsatisfactory for an individual, the department shall notify the provider and the employee of such determination in writing, and no such individual shall be allowed to be present at the facility when any child is present for care or to reside in the facility until he or she either has obtained a satisfactory comprehensive records check determination or has had the unsatisfactory determination reversed in accordance with Code Section 20-1A-43 , notwithstanding Code Section 20-1A-45 . The department shall cease to issue funds, either directly or indirectly, to any individual or program that willfully and continually fails to comply with the requirements of this Code section.

(b) Every potential employee of the department or contractor performing duties on behalf of the department who may have any reason to be present at a licensed or commissioned early care and education program while any child is present for care must receive a comprehensive records check determination that is satisfactory or have had an unsatisfactory comprehensive records check determination reversed in accordance with Code Section 20-1A-43 , notwithstanding Code Section 20-1A-45 , prior to being present at a licensed or commissioned early care and education program while children are present for care. Every current employee of the department who may have any reason to be present at a licensed or commissioned early care and education program while any child is present for care must receive a comprehensive records check determination that is satisfactory or have had an unsatisfactory comprehensive records check determination reversed in accordance with Code Section 20-1A-43 , notwithstanding Code Section 20-1A-45 . Every employee of the department shall undergo additional comprehensive records check determinations such that the time between such additional comprehensive records check determinations and that employee's previous comprehensive records check determination shall not exceed five years except when fingerprints have been retained by the department due to its participation in the program described in subparagraph (a)(1)(F) of Code Section 35-3-33 , notwithstanding Code Section 20-1A-45 . The department shall maintain documentation in the appropriate personnel file indicating that such person has obtained such current comprehensive records check determination that is satisfactory or has had an unsatisfactory comprehensive records check determination reversed in accordance with Code Section 20-1A-43 , notwithstanding Code Section 20-1A-45 .

(b) Every potential employee of the department or contractor performing duties on behalf of the department who may have any reason to be present at a licensed or commissioned early care and education program while any child is present for care must receive a comprehensive records check determination that is satisfactory or have had an unsatisfactory comprehensive records check determination reversed in accordance with Code Section 20-1A-43 , notwithstanding Code Section 20-1A-45 , prior to being present at a licensed or commissioned early care and education program while children are present for care. Every current employee of the department who may have any reason to be present at a licensed or commissioned early care and education program while any child is present for care must receive a comprehensive records check determination that is satisfactory or have had an unsatisfactory comprehensive records check determination reversed in accordance with Code Section 20-1A-43 , notwithstanding Code Section 20-1A-45 . Every employee of the department shall undergo additional comprehensive records check determinations such that the time between such additional comprehensive records check determinations and that employee's previous comprehensive records check determination shall not exceed five years except when fingerprints have been retained by the department due to its participation in the program described in subparagraph (a)(1)(F) of Code Section 35-3-33 , notwithstanding Code Section 20-1A-45 . The department shall maintain documentation in the appropriate personnel file indicating that such person has obtained such current comprehensive records check determination that is satisfactory or has had an unsatisfactory comprehensive records check determination reversed in accordance with Code Section 20-1A-43 , notwithstanding Code Section 20-1A-45 .

(c) If the department is participating in the program described in subparagraph (a)(1)(F) of Code Section 35-3-33 , the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall be authorized to retain fingerprints obtained pursuant to this Code section for such program and the department shall notify the individual whose fingerprints were taken of the parameters of such retention.

(c) If the department is participating in the program described in subparagraph (a)(1)(F) of Code Section 35-3-33 , the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall be authorized to retain fingerprints obtained pursuant to this Code section for such program and the department shall notify the individual whose fingerprints were taken of the parameters of such retention.
O.C.G.A. § 20-5-4 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 5 / Section 20-5-4
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-5-4
Status: in_force

All public libraries in the state shall submit reports annually to the board of regents.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-770 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-770
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-770
Status: in_force

The Department of Public Health is authorized and directed, in cooperation with the State Board of Education, to promulgate rules and regulations to provide for a nutritional screening and eye, ear, and dental examinations for each student entering the first grade in the public schools of this state and at such other times as such rules and regulations shall provide. Such rules and regulations shall provide procedures for local boards of health to provide for such examinations and screenings and for the issuance of a certificate to the parent or parents of children entering the first grade indicating that such examinations and screenings have been made, and such certificates shall be turned in to the school officials at the time of enrollment. Such rules and regulations shall further provide that the examinations and screenings required in this Code section may be made by private practitioners and authorize the certification provided for in this Code section by such private practitioners.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-551 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-551
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-551
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this part, the term: (1) “Authority” means the Georgia Education Authority (Schools), which was formerly known as the State School Building Authority. Such change in the name of the authority shall in no way affect the identity of the authority or the rights, powers, privileges, or liabilities of the authority or any person under this part. (2) “Bonds” or “revenue bonds” means any bonds issued by the authority under this part, including refunding bonds. (3) “Cost of the project” means the cost of construction; the cost of all lands, properties, rights, easements, and franchises acquired; the cost of all machinery and equipment; financing charges; interest prior to and during construction and for one year after completion of construction; cost of engineering; architectural and legal expenses; cost of plans and specifications and other expenses necessary or incident to determining the feasibility or practicability of the project; administrative expense; and such other expenses as may be necessary or incident to the financing authorized in this part, the construction of any project, the placing of it in operation, and the condemnation of property necessary for such construction and operation. Any obligation or expense incurred for any of the foregoing purposes shall be regarded as a part of the cost of the project and may be paid or reimbursed as such out of the proceeds of revenue bonds issued under this part for such project. (4) “Project” means one or a combination of two or more of the following: buildings and facilities intended for use as school buildings; classrooms; laboratories; libraries; and instructional, administrative, and recreational facilities for students, faculty, officers, and employees of any institution or unit under the control of a county board of education, city board of education, or governing bodies of independent districts or systems; and all structures; electric, gas, steam, and water utilities; and facilities of every kind and character deemed by the authority necessary or convenient for the efficient operation of any unit which is a part of any such institution, including the improving, altering, or repairing of such unit. (5) “Unit” shall mean any institution, school, or academy, at any particular location, which forms a part of the public school system of this state, operated by a county board of education, city board of education, or governing bodies of independent districts or systems.

(a) As used in this part, the term:

(1) “Authority” means the Georgia Education Authority (Schools), which was formerly known as the State School Building Authority. Such change in the name of the authority shall in no way affect the identity of the authority or the rights, powers, privileges, or liabilities of the authority or any person under this part.

(1) “Authority” means the Georgia Education Authority (Schools), which was formerly known as the State School Building Authority. Such change in the name of the authority shall in no way affect the identity of the authority or the rights, powers, privileges, or liabilities of the authority or any person under this part.

(2) “Bonds” or “revenue bonds” means any bonds issued by the authority under this part, including refunding bonds.

(2) “Bonds” or “revenue bonds” means any bonds issued by the authority under this part, including refunding bonds.

(3) “Cost of the project” means the cost of construction; the cost of all lands, properties, rights, easements, and franchises acquired; the cost of all machinery and equipment; financing charges; interest prior to and during construction and for one year after completion of construction; cost of engineering; architectural and legal expenses; cost of plans and specifications and other expenses necessary or incident to determining the feasibility or practicability of the project; administrative expense; and such other expenses as may be necessary or incident to the financing authorized in this part, the construction of any project, the placing of it in operation, and the condemnation of property necessary for such construction and operation. Any obligation or expense incurred for any of the foregoing purposes shall be regarded as a part of the cost of the project and may be paid or reimbursed as such out of the proceeds of revenue bonds issued under this part for such project.

(3) “Cost of the project” means the cost of construction; the cost of all lands, properties, rights, easements, and franchises acquired; the cost of all machinery and equipment; financing charges; interest prior to and during construction and for one year after completion of construction; cost of engineering; architectural and legal expenses; cost of plans and specifications and other expenses necessary or incident to determining the feasibility or practicability of the project; administrative expense; and such other expenses as may be necessary or incident to the financing authorized in this part, the construction of any project, the placing of it in operation, and the condemnation of property necessary for such construction and operation. Any obligation or expense incurred for any of the foregoing purposes shall be regarded as a part of the cost of the project and may be paid or reimbursed as such out of the proceeds of revenue bonds issued under this part for such project.

(4) “Project” means one or a combination of two or more of the following: buildings and facilities intended for use as school buildings; classrooms; laboratories; libraries; and instructional, administrative, and recreational facilities for students, faculty, officers, and employees of any institution or unit under the control of a county board of education, city board of education, or governing bodies of independent districts or systems; and all structures; electric, gas, steam, and water utilities; and facilities of every kind and character deemed by the authority necessary or convenient for the efficient operation of any unit which is a part of any such institution, including the improving, altering, or repairing of such unit.

(4) “Project” means one or a combination of two or more of the following: buildings and facilities intended for use as school buildings; classrooms; laboratories; libraries; and instructional, administrative, and recreational facilities for students, faculty, officers, and employees of any institution or unit under the control of a county board of education, city board of education, or governing bodies of independent districts or systems; and all structures; electric, gas, steam, and water utilities; and facilities of every kind and character deemed by the authority necessary or convenient for the efficient operation of any unit which is a part of any such institution, including the improving, altering, or repairing of such unit.

(5) “Unit” shall mean any institution, school, or academy, at any particular location, which forms a part of the public school system of this state, operated by a county board of education, city board of education, or governing bodies of independent districts or systems.

(5) “Unit” shall mean any institution, school, or academy, at any particular location, which forms a part of the public school system of this state, operated by a county board of education, city board of education, or governing bodies of independent districts or systems.

(b) Any project or combination of projects shall be deemed “self-liquidating” if, in the judgment of the authority, the revenues, rents, or earnings to be derived by the authority therefrom will be sufficient to pay the cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating the project and to pay the principal and interest of revenue bonds which may be issued for the cost of such project, projects, or combination of projects.

(b) Any project or combination of projects shall be deemed “self-liquidating” if, in the judgment of the authority, the revenues, rents, or earnings to be derived by the authority therefrom will be sufficient to pay the cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating the project and to pay the principal and interest of revenue bonds which may be issued for the cost of such project, projects, or combination of projects.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-571 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-571
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-571
Status: in_force

The creation of the authority and the carrying out of its corporate purpose shall be a public purpose and in all respects for the benefit of the people of this state. The authority will be performing an essential governmental function in the exercise of the power conferred upon it by this part; and this state covenants with the holders of the bonds that the authority shall be required to pay no taxes or assessments upon any of the property acquired or leased by it or under its jurisdiction, control, possession, or supervision or upon its activities in the operation or maintenance of the buildings erected or acquired by it or any fees, revenues, rentals, or other charges for the use of such buildings or other income received by the authority and that the bonds of the authority and the income therefrom shall at all times be exempt from taxation within this state.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-316-2 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-316-2
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-316.2
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “ athletic association ” means any association of schools or any other similar organization which acts as an organizing, sanctioning, scheduling, or rule-making body for interscholastic athletic events in which public schools in this state participate.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “ athletic association ” means any association of schools or any other similar organization which acts as an organizing, sanctioning, scheduling, or rule-making body for interscholastic athletic events in which public schools in this state participate.

(b) No high school which receives funding under this article shall participate in, sponsor, or provide coaching staff for interscholastic sports events which are conducted under the authority of, conducted under the rules of, or scheduled by any athletic association unless such athletic association annually publishes and provides to its members a financial report of its activities for the preceding calendar year or fiscal year, if different from the calendar year, within 90 days after the end of such calendar year or fiscal year. Such report shall include a complete financial statement setting forth its assets, liabilities, income, and operating expenses for such calendar year or fiscal year.

(b) No high school which receives funding under this article shall participate in, sponsor, or provide coaching staff for interscholastic sports events which are conducted under the authority of, conducted under the rules of, or scheduled by any athletic association unless such athletic association annually publishes and provides to its members a financial report of its activities for the preceding calendar year or fiscal year, if different from the calendar year, within 90 days after the end of such calendar year or fiscal year. Such report shall include a complete financial statement setting forth its assets, liabilities, income, and operating expenses for such calendar year or fiscal year.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-51 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-51
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-51
Status: reserved

(a) No person shall be eligible for election as a member of a local board of education who is not a resident of the school district in which that person seeks election and of the election district which such person seeks to represent. Whenever there is in a portion of any county a local school system having a board of education of its own, receiving its pro rata of the public school fund directly from the State School Superintendent and having no dealings whatever with the local board, then the members of the board of such county shall be selected from that portion of the county not embraced within the territory covered by such local system.

(a) No person shall be eligible for election as a member of a local board of education who is not a resident of the school district in which that person seeks election and of the election district which such person seeks to represent. Whenever there is in a portion of any county a local school system having a board of education of its own, receiving its pro rata of the public school fund directly from the State School Superintendent and having no dealings whatever with the local board, then the members of the board of such county shall be selected from that portion of the county not embraced within the territory covered by such local system.

(b) Whenever a member of a local board of education moves that person's domicile from the district which that person represents, such person shall cease to be a member of such local board of education, and a vacancy shall occur. The member shall provide notice of such move to the secretary of the local board of education and the election superintendent within ten days of such move.

(b) Whenever a member of a local board of education moves that person's domicile from the district which that person represents, such person shall cease to be a member of such local board of education, and a vacancy shall occur. The member shall provide notice of such move to the secretary of the local board of education and the election superintendent within ten days of such move.

(c)(1) No person serving on the governing body of a private elementary or secondary educational institution shall be eligible to serve as a member of a local board of education. (2) No person employed by a local board of education shall be eligible to serve as a member of that board of education. (3) No person employed by the Department of Education or serving as a member of the State Board of Education shall be eligible to serve as a member of a local board of education. (4)(A) No person who has an immediate family member sitting on a local board of education or serving as the local school superintendent or as a principal, assistant principal, or system administrative staff in the local school system shall be eligible to serve as a member of such local board of education. As used in this paragraph, the term “ immediate family member ” means a spouse, child, sibling, or parent or the spouse of a child, sibling, or parent whose employment as the local school superintendent or as a principal, assistant principal, or system administrative staff in the local school system began on or after January 1, 2010. This paragraph shall apply only to local board of education members elected or appointed on or after July 1, 2009. Nothing in this Code section shall affect the employment of any person who is employed by a local school system on or before July 1, 2009, or who is employed by a local school system when an immediate family member becomes a local board of education member for that school system. (B) Notwithstanding subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-244 , in local school systems in which the initial fall enrollment count conducted in 2009 pursuant to Code Section 20-2-160 does not exceed a full-time equivalent count of 2,800, the State Board of Education shall be authorized to waive this paragraph upon the request of a local board of education or an individual attempting to qualify to run for local board of education member and in accordance with the provisions of subsections (d) and (e) of Code Section 20-2-244 ; provided, however, that prior to submitting any such request, the local board of education shall, upon its own initiative, or at the request of such individual attempting to qualify to run for local board of education member: (i) Provide 30 days' notice of the individual's intent to run for office; and (ii) Conduct a public hearing for the purpose of providing an opportunity for full discussion and public input on the issue of potential nepotism problems and other concerns with regard to such waiver. The public hearing shall be advertised at least seven days prior to the date of such hearing in a local newspaper of general circulation which shall be the same newspaper in which other legal announcements of the local board of education are advertised. The public hearing may be conducted in conjunction with a regular or called meeting of the local board or may be conducted independently, at the local board's discretion. The cost of such notice and public hearing shall be borne by the local board. The State Board of Education shall approve or deny a waiver request no later than 45 days after receipt of such waiver request, taking into consideration whether the benefit to the public would justify approval of the waiver. An approved waiver must be received by the local election superintendent prior to an individual's filing of a declaration or notice of candidacy in accordance with Article 4 of Chapter 2 of Title 21.

(c)(1) No person serving on the governing body of a private elementary or secondary educational institution shall be eligible to serve as a member of a local board of education.

(c)(1) No person serving on the governing body of a private elementary or secondary educational institution shall be eligible to serve as a member of a local board of education.

(2) No person employed by a local board of education shall be eligible to serve as a member of that board of education.

(2) No person employed by a local board of education shall be eligible to serve as a member of that board of education.

(3) No person employed by the Department of Education or serving as a member of the State Board of Education shall be eligible to serve as a member of a local board of education.

(3) No person employed by the Department of Education or serving as a member of the State Board of Education shall be eligible to serve as a member of a local board of education.

(4)(A) No person who has an immediate family member sitting on a local board of education or serving as the local school superintendent or as a principal, assistant principal, or system administrative staff in the local school system shall be eligible to serve as a member of such local board of education. As used in this paragraph, the term “ immediate family member ” means a spouse, child, sibling, or parent or the spouse of a child, sibling, or parent whose employment as the local school superintendent or as a principal, assistant principal, or system administrative staff in the local school system began on or after January 1, 2010. This paragraph shall apply only to local board of education members elected or appointed on or after July 1, 2009. Nothing in this Code section shall affect the employment of any person who is employed by a local school system on or before July 1, 2009, or who is employed by a local school system when an immediate family member becomes a local board of education member for that school system. (B) Notwithstanding subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-244 , in local school systems in which the initial fall enrollment count conducted in 2009 pursuant to Code Section 20-2-160 does not exceed a full-time equivalent count of 2,800, the State Board of Education shall be authorized to waive this paragraph upon the request of a local board of education or an individual attempting to qualify to run for local board of education member and in accordance with the provisions of subsections (d) and (e) of Code Section 20-2-244 ; provided, however, that prior to submitting any such request, the local board of education shall, upon its own initiative, or at the request of such individual attempting to qualify to run for local board of education member: (i) Provide 30 days' notice of the individual's intent to run for office; and (ii) Conduct a public hearing for the purpose of providing an opportunity for full discussion and public input on the issue of potential nepotism problems and other concerns with regard to such waiver. The public hearing shall be advertised at least seven days prior to the date of such hearing in a local newspaper of general circulation which shall be the same newspaper in which other legal announcements of the local board of education are advertised. The public hearing may be conducted in conjunction with a regular or called meeting of the local board or may be conducted independently, at the local board's discretion. The cost of such notice and public hearing shall be borne by the local board. The State Board of Education shall approve or deny a waiver request no later than 45 days after receipt of such waiver request, taking into consideration whether the benefit to the public would justify approval of the waiver. An approved waiver must be received by the local election superintendent prior to an individual's filing of a declaration or notice of candidacy in accordance with Article 4 of Chapter 2 of Title 21.

(4)(A) No person who has an immediate family member sitting on a local board of education or serving as the local school superintendent or as a principal, assistant principal, or system administrative staff in the local school system shall be eligible to serve as a member of such local board of education. As used in this paragraph, the term “ immediate family member ” means a spouse, child, sibling, or parent or the spouse of a child, sibling, or parent whose employment as the local school superintendent or as a principal, assistant principal, or system administrative staff in the local school system began on or after January 1, 2010. This paragraph shall apply only to local board of education members elected or appointed on or after July 1, 2009. Nothing in this Code section shall affect the employment of any person who is employed by a local school system on or before July 1, 2009, or who is employed by a local school system when an immediate family member becomes a local board of education member for that school system.

(4)(A) No person who has an immediate family member sitting on a local board of education or serving as the local school superintendent or as a principal, assistant principal, or system administrative staff in the local school system shall be eligible to serve as a member of such local board of education. As used in this paragraph, the term “ immediate family member ” means a spouse, child, sibling, or parent or the spouse of a child, sibling, or parent whose employment as the local school superintendent or as a principal, assistant principal, or system administrative staff in the local school system began on or after January 1, 2010. This paragraph shall apply only to local board of education members elected or appointed on or after July 1, 2009. Nothing in this Code section shall affect the employment of any person who is employed by a local school system on or before July 1, 2009, or who is employed by a local school system when an immediate family member becomes a local board of education member for that school system.

(B) Notwithstanding subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-244 , in local school systems in which the initial fall enrollment count conducted in 2009 pursuant to Code Section 20-2-160 does not exceed a full-time equivalent count of 2,800, the State Board of Education shall be authorized to waive this paragraph upon the request of a local board of education or an individual attempting to qualify to run for local board of education member and in accordance with the provisions of subsections (d) and (e) of Code Section 20-2-244 ; provided, however, that prior to submitting any such request, the local board of education shall, upon its own initiative, or at the request of such individual attempting to qualify to run for local board of education member: (i) Provide 30 days' notice of the individual's intent to run for office; and (ii) Conduct a public hearing for the purpose of providing an opportunity for full discussion and public input on the issue of potential nepotism problems and other concerns with regard to such waiver. The public hearing shall be advertised at least seven days prior to the date of such hearing in a local newspaper of general circulation which shall be the same newspaper in which other legal announcements of the local board of education are advertised. The public hearing may be conducted in conjunction with a regular or called meeting of the local board or may be conducted independently, at the local board's discretion. The cost of such notice and public hearing shall be borne by the local board. The State Board of Education shall approve or deny a waiver request no later than 45 days after receipt of such waiver request, taking into consideration whether the benefit to the public would justify approval of the waiver. An approved waiver must be received by the local election superintendent prior to an individual's filing of a declaration or notice of candidacy in accordance with Article 4 of Chapter 2 of Title 21.

(B) Notwithstanding subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-244 , in local school systems in which the initial fall enrollment count conducted in 2009 pursuant to Code Section 20-2-160 does not exceed a full-time equivalent count of 2,800, the State Board of Education shall be authorized to waive this paragraph upon the request of a local board of education or an individual attempting to qualify to run for local board of education member and in accordance with the provisions of subsections (d) and (e) of Code Section 20-2-244 ; provided, however, that prior to submitting any such request, the local board of education shall, upon its own initiative, or at the request of such individual attempting to qualify to run for local board of education member:

(i) Provide 30 days' notice of the individual's intent to run for office; and

(i) Provide 30 days' notice of the individual's intent to run for office; and

(ii) Conduct a public hearing for the purpose of providing an opportunity for full discussion and public input on the issue of potential nepotism problems and other concerns with regard to such waiver. The public hearing shall be advertised at least seven days prior to the date of such hearing in a local newspaper of general circulation which shall be the same newspaper in which other legal announcements of the local board of education are advertised. The public hearing may be conducted in conjunction with a regular or called meeting of the local board or may be conducted independently, at the local board's discretion.

(ii) Conduct a public hearing for the purpose of providing an opportunity for full discussion and public input on the issue of potential nepotism problems and other concerns with regard to such waiver. The public hearing shall be advertised at least seven days prior to the date of such hearing in a local newspaper of general circulation which shall be the same newspaper in which other legal announcements of the local board of education are advertised. The public hearing may be conducted in conjunction with a regular or called meeting of the local board or may be conducted independently, at the local board's discretion.

The cost of such notice and public hearing shall be borne by the local board. The State Board of Education shall approve or deny a waiver request no later than 45 days after receipt of such waiver request, taking into consideration whether the benefit to the public would justify approval of the waiver. An approved waiver must be received by the local election superintendent prior to an individual's filing of a declaration or notice of candidacy in accordance with Article 4 of Chapter 2 of Title 21.

(d) Reserved.

(d) Reserved.

(e) In addition to any other requirements provided by law, no person shall be eligible for election as a member of a local board of education unless he or she: (1) Has read and understands the code of ethics and the conflict of interest provisions applicable to members of local boards of education and has agreed to abide by them; (2) Has agreed to annually disclose compliance with the State Board of Education's policy on training for members of local boards of education, the code of ethics of the local board of education, and the conflict of interest provisions applicable to members of local boards of education; and (3) Has completed all prior annual training requirements established by the local board of education and the State Board of Education pursuant to Code Section 20-2-230 if such person is eligible for reelection as a member of the local board of education. Each person offering his or her candidacy for election as a member of a local board of education shall file an affidavit with the officer before whom such person has qualified for such election prior to or at the time of qualifying, which affidavit shall affirm that he or she meets all of the qualifications required pursuant to this subsection. This subsection shall apply only to local board of education members elected or appointed on or after July 1, 2010.

(e) In addition to any other requirements provided by law, no person shall be eligible for election as a member of a local board of education unless he or she:

(1) Has read and understands the code of ethics and the conflict of interest provisions applicable to members of local boards of education and has agreed to abide by them;

(1) Has read and understands the code of ethics and the conflict of interest provisions applicable to members of local boards of education and has agreed to abide by them;

(2) Has agreed to annually disclose compliance with the State Board of Education's policy on training for members of local boards of education, the code of ethics of the local board of education, and the conflict of interest provisions applicable to members of local boards of education; and

(2) Has agreed to annually disclose compliance with the State Board of Education's policy on training for members of local boards of education, the code of ethics of the local board of education, and the conflict of interest provisions applicable to members of local boards of education; and

(3) Has completed all prior annual training requirements established by the local board of education and the State Board of Education pursuant to Code Section 20-2-230 if such person is eligible for reelection as a member of the local board of education.

(3) Has completed all prior annual training requirements established by the local board of education and the State Board of Education pursuant to Code Section 20-2-230 if such person is eligible for reelection as a member of the local board of education.

Each person offering his or her candidacy for election as a member of a local board of education shall file an affidavit with the officer before whom such person has qualified for such election prior to or at the time of qualifying, which affidavit shall affirm that he or she meets all of the qualifications required pursuant to this subsection. This subsection shall apply only to local board of education members elected or appointed on or after July 1, 2010.

(f) No person who is on the National Sex Offender Registry or the state sexual offender registry shall be eligible for election to or service on a local board of education.

(f) No person who is on the National Sex Offender Registry or the state sexual offender registry shall be eligible for election to or service on a local board of education.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-574 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-574
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-574
Status: in_force

While any of the bonds issued by the authority remain outstanding, the powers, duties, or existence of the authority or of its officers, employees, or agents or of the various county boards of education, city boards of education, or governing bodies of independent or quasi-independent districts or systems shall not be diminished or impaired in any manner that will affect adversely the interests and rights of the holders of such bonds, nor will the state itself so compete with the authority. This part shall be for the benefit of the state, the authority, and the holders of any such bonds and, upon the issuance of bonds under this part, shall constitute a contract with the holders of such bonds.
O.C.G.A. § 20-1a-5 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 1A / Section 20-1a-5
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-1A-5
Status: in_force

This chapter shall not be construed to impair or affect the rights of persons previously transferred to the Office of School Readiness who were members of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia created in Chapter 3 of Title 47 and who elected to continue membership in such retirement system in accordance with previous law.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-329 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-329
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-329
Status: in_force

High schools that receive reform grants as chronically low-performing high schools pursuant to subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-328 shall:

(1) Provide focused programs of study which are designed to provide a well-rounded education for students by fostering artistic creativity, critical thinking, and self-discipline through the teaching of academic content, knowledge, and skills that students will use in the workplace, further education, and life. The focused programs of study, whether provided at a choice technical high school, a college and career academy, a traditional high school, or on site at a technical school or college or a public college or university, shall be aligned with graduation requirements established by the State Board of Education and content standards established pursuant to Part 2 of this article, including, at a minimum, four years of mathematics, Algebra I and higher, and four years of English, with an emphasis on developing reading and writing skills to meet college and career readiness standards or including high school diploma requirements established pursuant to Code Section 20-2-149.2 ;

(1) Provide focused programs of study which are designed to provide a well-rounded education for students by fostering artistic creativity, critical thinking, and self-discipline through the teaching of academic content, knowledge, and skills that students will use in the workplace, further education, and life. The focused programs of study, whether provided at a choice technical high school, a college and career academy, a traditional high school, or on site at a technical school or college or a public college or university, shall be aligned with graduation requirements established by the State Board of Education and content standards established pursuant to Part 2 of this article, including, at a minimum, four years of mathematics, Algebra I and higher, and four years of English, with an emphasis on developing reading and writing skills to meet college and career readiness standards or including high school diploma requirements established pursuant to Code Section 20-2-149.2 ;

(2) Implement a teacher adviser system;

(2) Implement a teacher adviser system;

(3) Provide students in the ninth through twelfth grades information on educational programs offered in high school, in technical and community colleges, in colleges and universities, and through work based learning programs and how these programs can lead to a variety of career fields. Local school systems shall provide career awareness and exploratory opportunities such as field trips, speakers, educational and career information centers, job shadowing, and classroom centers to assist students and their parents or guardians, with guidance from school counselors and teacher advisers, in revising, if appropriate, the individual graduation plan developed pursuant to subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-327 ;

(3) Provide students in the ninth through twelfth grades information on educational programs offered in high school, in technical and community colleges, in colleges and universities, and through work based learning programs and how these programs can lead to a variety of career fields. Local school systems shall provide career awareness and exploratory opportunities such as field trips, speakers, educational and career information centers, job shadowing, and classroom centers to assist students and their parents or guardians, with guidance from school counselors and teacher advisers, in revising, if appropriate, the individual graduation plan developed pursuant to subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-327 ;

(4) Enroll students no later than ninth grade into one of the following options for earning a high school diploma and preparing students for postsecondary education and a career which will include a structured program of academic study with in-depth studies in: (A) Mathematics and science; (B) Humanities, fine arts, and foreign language; or (C) A career pathway that leads to passing an industry credentialing exam in a high demand, high skill, or high wage career field or to an associate's degree or bachelor's degree. The awarding of a special education diploma to any disabled student who has not completed all of the requirements for a high school diploma, but who has completed his or her Individualized Education Program (IEP) shall be deemed to meet the requirements of this paragraph;

(4) Enroll students no later than ninth grade into one of the following options for earning a high school diploma and preparing students for postsecondary education and a career which will include a structured program of academic study with in-depth studies in:

(A) Mathematics and science;

(A) Mathematics and science;

(B) Humanities, fine arts, and foreign language; or

(B) Humanities, fine arts, and foreign language; or

(C) A career pathway that leads to passing an industry credentialing exam in a high demand, high skill, or high wage career field or to an associate's degree or bachelor's degree.

(C) A career pathway that leads to passing an industry credentialing exam in a high demand, high skill, or high wage career field or to an associate's degree or bachelor's degree.

The awarding of a special education diploma to any disabled student who has not completed all of the requirements for a high school diploma, but who has completed his or her Individualized Education Program (IEP) shall be deemed to meet the requirements of this paragraph;

(5) Implement the at-risk model program developed by the State Board of Education pursuant to subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-328 ;

(5) Implement the at-risk model program developed by the State Board of Education pursuant to subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-328 ;

(6) Comply with the rules and regulations promulgated by the State Board of Education for chronically low-performing high schools pursuant to subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-328 ; and

(6) Comply with the rules and regulations promulgated by the State Board of Education for chronically low-performing high schools pursuant to subsection (c) of Code Section 20-2-328 ; and

(7) Schedule annual conferences to assist students and their parents or guardians in setting educational and career goals and creating individual graduation plans beginning with students in the eighth grade and continuing through high school. These conferences shall include, but are not limited to, assisting the student in identifying educational and career interests and goals, selecting a career and academic focus area, and developing an individual graduation plan.

(7) Schedule annual conferences to assist students and their parents or guardians in setting educational and career goals and creating individual graduation plans beginning with students in the eighth grade and continuing through high school. These conferences shall include, but are not limited to, assisting the student in identifying educational and career interests and goals, selecting a career and academic focus area, and developing an individual graduation plan.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-159-4 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-159-4
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-159.4
Status: in_force

(a) The State Board of Education, in consultation with the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia and the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia, shall adopt policies and establish guidelines for awarding units of high school credit to students based on a demonstration of subject area competency, instead of or in combination with completion of courses of classroom instruction. Such policies and guidelines shall clearly delineate the manner in which students can earn credit, how mastery of standards will be assessed, how locally developed assessments will be reviewed and approved, how such credit will be recorded on high school transcripts, and when outcomes as a result of these policies and guidelines will be reviewed. The state board shall adopt such policies and establish guidelines, and such policies and guidelines shall be applicable beginning with the 2013-2014 school year.

(a) The State Board of Education, in consultation with the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia and the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia, shall adopt policies and establish guidelines for awarding units of high school credit to students based on a demonstration of subject area competency, instead of or in combination with completion of courses of classroom instruction. Such policies and guidelines shall clearly delineate the manner in which students can earn credit, how mastery of standards will be assessed, how locally developed assessments will be reviewed and approved, how such credit will be recorded on high school transcripts, and when outcomes as a result of these policies and guidelines will be reviewed. The state board shall adopt such policies and establish guidelines, and such policies and guidelines shall be applicable beginning with the 2013-2014 school year.

(b) Students may earn credits through: (1) The completion of courses; or (2) The testing out or otherwise demonstrating mastery of the course content.

(b) Students may earn credits through:

(1) The completion of courses; or

(1) The completion of courses; or

(2) The testing out or otherwise demonstrating mastery of the course content.

(2) The testing out or otherwise demonstrating mastery of the course content.

(c) The state board shall identify assessments, including various commercial assessments, for immediate use for students to demonstrate subject area competency, which may include, but not be limited to: (1) Advanced placement exams; (2) ACT course assessment; (3) Industry-specific certificates and industry credentialing, as defined in Code Section 20-2-326 , for career, technical, and agricultural education courses; (4) College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams; and (5) Nationally recognized foreign language performance assessments. The state board shall establish a process for reviewing and approving performance based assessments developed commercially, by the state, or by a local school system. Initially, the state board shall limit the number of credits earned though such educational options to three credits per student until the practice is proven to yield student outcomes at least equivalent to those found in standard seat-time courses. The policy shall ensure that credit for demonstrated proficiency is reported on student transcripts in the same way that seat-time credit is recorded. The state board shall review such policy after three years to determine if student outcomes from these educational options are equivalent to, if not better than, student outcomes in traditional courses.

(c) The state board shall identify assessments, including various commercial assessments, for immediate use for students to demonstrate subject area competency, which may include, but not be limited to:

(1) Advanced placement exams;

(1) Advanced placement exams;

(2) ACT course assessment;

(2) ACT course assessment;

(3) Industry-specific certificates and industry credentialing, as defined in Code Section 20-2-326 , for career, technical, and agricultural education courses;

(3) Industry-specific certificates and industry credentialing, as defined in Code Section 20-2-326 , for career, technical, and agricultural education courses;

(4) College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams; and

(4) College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams; and

(5) Nationally recognized foreign language performance assessments.

(5) Nationally recognized foreign language performance assessments.

The state board shall establish a process for reviewing and approving performance based assessments developed commercially, by the state, or by a local school system. Initially, the state board shall limit the number of credits earned though such educational options to three credits per student until the practice is proven to yield student outcomes at least equivalent to those found in standard seat-time courses. The policy shall ensure that credit for demonstrated proficiency is reported on student transcripts in the same way that seat-time credit is recorded. The state board shall review such policy after three years to determine if student outcomes from these educational options are equivalent to, if not better than, student outcomes in traditional courses.

(d) Each local school system shall comply with the state board's plan adopted pursuant to this Code section and shall award units of high school credit in accordance with such plan. Local boards of education and charter schools shall establish implementation policies and shall be prohibited from setting policies that negate or otherwise prohibit access to such plan.

(d) Each local school system shall comply with the state board's plan adopted pursuant to this Code section and shall award units of high school credit in accordance with such plan. Local boards of education and charter schools shall establish implementation policies and shall be prohibited from setting policies that negate or otherwise prohibit access to such plan.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-671 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-671
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-671
Status: in_force

If any school administrator determines from the information obtained pursuant to Code Section 15-11-602 or 20-2-670 or from any other source that a student has committed a class A designated felony act or class B designated felony act, as defined in Code Section 15-11-2 , such administrator shall so inform all teachers to whom the student is assigned that they may review the information in the student's file provided pursuant to subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-670 received from other schools or from the juvenile courts. Such information shall be kept confidential.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-162 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-162
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-162
Status: in_force

(a) The State Board of Education shall annually recalculate the total amount needed under the Quality Basic Education Formula for the midterm adjustment for the current fiscal year using the average of the first and the projected second full-time equivalent counts for the current fiscal year, with the first full-time equivalent count weighted two parts and the projected second full-time equivalent count weighted one part. If the total amount needed by each local school system when recalculated is greater than the initial amount calculated, then the state board shall increase the total allotment for said system by the difference between the recalculation and the initial calculation. All funds allocated as the result of this recalculation to a local school system for direct instructional costs as defined in paragraph (1) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-2-167 shall be applied to the direct instructional costs of the instructional programs specified in Code Section 20-2-161 which had full-time equivalent counts pursuant to this Code section that are higher than the full-time equivalent counts upon which the initial allocations were based. The balance of the funds allocated to a local school system as the result of this recalculation must be applied to items specified in Code Sections 20-2-182 through 20-2-186 for instructional programs specified in subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-161 and shall not be expended for any program or service explicitly excluded from the full-time equivalent count in Code Section 20-2-160 . The total amount of increased funding required by the midterm adjustment shall be requested by the state board and shall demonstrate for each receiving local school system the average full-time equivalent count used in the initial calculation compared to the midterm average count for each program category system wide. If the recalculation for a local school system is less than the initial calculation, the amount of funds initially allotted to the system shall not be reduced for the current fiscal year. Local school systems which fail to provide the state board with complete full-time equivalent student counts by instructional program in the manner and by dates prescribed by the state board shall not be eligible for recalculation of their current year allotment.

(a) The State Board of Education shall annually recalculate the total amount needed under the Quality Basic Education Formula for the midterm adjustment for the current fiscal year using the average of the first and the projected second full-time equivalent counts for the current fiscal year, with the first full-time equivalent count weighted two parts and the projected second full-time equivalent count weighted one part. If the total amount needed by each local school system when recalculated is greater than the initial amount calculated, then the state board shall increase the total allotment for said system by the difference between the recalculation and the initial calculation. All funds allocated as the result of this recalculation to a local school system for direct instructional costs as defined in paragraph (1) of subsection (a) of Code Section 20-2-167 shall be applied to the direct instructional costs of the instructional programs specified in Code Section 20-2-161 which had full-time equivalent counts pursuant to this Code section that are higher than the full-time equivalent counts upon which the initial allocations were based. The balance of the funds allocated to a local school system as the result of this recalculation must be applied to items specified in Code Sections 20-2-182 through 20-2-186 for instructional programs specified in subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-161 and shall not be expended for any program or service explicitly excluded from the full-time equivalent count in Code Section 20-2-160 . The total amount of increased funding required by the midterm adjustment shall be requested by the state board and shall demonstrate for each receiving local school system the average full-time equivalent count used in the initial calculation compared to the midterm average count for each program category system wide. If the recalculation for a local school system is less than the initial calculation, the amount of funds initially allotted to the system shall not be reduced for the current fiscal year. Local school systems which fail to provide the state board with complete full-time equivalent student counts by instructional program in the manner and by dates prescribed by the state board shall not be eligible for recalculation of their current year allotment.

(b) A midterm adjustment in a local school system's local five mill share shall be made if: (1) The most recent actual property tax digest for educational maintenance and operation of a local school system, as approved by the Department of Revenue, is less than the actual property tax digest for educational maintenance and operation approved by the Department of Revenue for the year used initially to calculate the system's local five mill share pursuant to Code Section 20-2-164 , and such reduction is due to more accurate assessments or actual loss in tangible property or a combination of these factors as determined by the Department of Revenue; and (2) The most recent equalized adjusted school property tax digest for the local school system is less than the equalized adjusted school property tax digest for the year used initially to calculate the system's local five mill share. Such a midterm adjustment shall be made by reducing the initial local five mill share by the percentage decrease over the most recent two years in the actual property tax digest for educational maintenance and operation. The gross value of property prior to deduction of any exemptions shall be used throughout the calculations under this subsection. The provisions of this subsection shall apply only to the midterm adjustment of local five mill share as provided in this Code section.

(b) A midterm adjustment in a local school system's local five mill share shall be made if:

(1) The most recent actual property tax digest for educational maintenance and operation of a local school system, as approved by the Department of Revenue, is less than the actual property tax digest for educational maintenance and operation approved by the Department of Revenue for the year used initially to calculate the system's local five mill share pursuant to Code Section 20-2-164 , and such reduction is due to more accurate assessments or actual loss in tangible property or a combination of these factors as determined by the Department of Revenue; and

(1) The most recent actual property tax digest for educational maintenance and operation of a local school system, as approved by the Department of Revenue, is less than the actual property tax digest for educational maintenance and operation approved by the Department of Revenue for the year used initially to calculate the system's local five mill share pursuant to Code Section 20-2-164 , and such reduction is due to more accurate assessments or actual loss in tangible property or a combination of these factors as determined by the Department of Revenue; and

(2) The most recent equalized adjusted school property tax digest for the local school system is less than the equalized adjusted school property tax digest for the year used initially to calculate the system's local five mill share.

(2) The most recent equalized adjusted school property tax digest for the local school system is less than the equalized adjusted school property tax digest for the year used initially to calculate the system's local five mill share.

Such a midterm adjustment shall be made by reducing the initial local five mill share by the percentage decrease over the most recent two years in the actual property tax digest for educational maintenance and operation. The gross value of property prior to deduction of any exemptions shall be used throughout the calculations under this subsection. The provisions of this subsection shall apply only to the midterm adjustment of local five mill share as provided in this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-946 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-946
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-946
Status: in_force

This part shall apply to boards of education of all public school systems in this state.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-470 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-470
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-470
Status: in_force

The authority is authorized to establish and administer a program of scholarships, grants, or cancelable loans to economically disadvantaged students who are residents of Georgia enrolled in a graduate or professional degree program in a branch of the university system. The eligibility of students and the criteria for the award of such financial aid shall be determined by the board of regents. Such assistance may be awarded to the extent that funds are provided therefor in the annual appropriations Act of the General Assembly. In the event such assistance shall be provided in the form of cancelable loans, such loans shall be guaranteed by the corporation. As used in this Code section, the term “resident of Georgia” shall mean any person classified by the board of regents as a resident of Georgia for tuition and matriculation fee purposes.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-989-8 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-989-8
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-989.8
Status: in_force

Local units of administration shall establish a complaint policy that shall include the following:

(1) A statement that a complaint by the certified employee at the initial level shall be in writing and shall clearly state the intent of the employee to access the complaints policy. All certified employees shall request in writing successive levels of review;

(1) A statement that a complaint by the certified employee at the initial level shall be in writing and shall clearly state the intent of the employee to access the complaints policy. All certified employees shall request in writing successive levels of review;

(2) A method and time frame for filing complaints and appeals, including successive levels of appeal from the complainant's immediate supervisor to the central office administrator to the local unit of administration, provided that the complainant shall be entitled to file a complaint within ten days from the most recent incident upon which the complaint is based, and provided that the complainant shall have a minimum of ten days to file an appeal at any level up to and including the local unit of administration, and provided that the total time frame shall not exceed 60 days from the initiation of the complaint until notification to the complainant of the decision rendered by the local unit of administration;

(2) A method and time frame for filing complaints and appeals, including successive levels of appeal from the complainant's immediate supervisor to the central office administrator to the local unit of administration, provided that the complainant shall be entitled to file a complaint within ten days from the most recent incident upon which the complaint is based, and provided that the complainant shall have a minimum of ten days to file an appeal at any level up to and including the local unit of administration, and provided that the total time frame shall not exceed 60 days from the initiation of the complaint until notification to the complainant of the decision rendered by the local unit of administration;

(3) A statement setting forth the manner in which notice of the initial hearing and appeals shall be given;

(3) A statement setting forth the manner in which notice of the initial hearing and appeals shall be given;

(4) A statement that the complainant shall be entitled to an opportunity to be heard, to present relevant evidence, and to examine witnesses at each level;

(4) A statement that the complainant shall be entitled to an opportunity to be heard, to present relevant evidence, and to examine witnesses at each level;

(5) A provision whereby the complainant is entitled to the presence of an individual of his or her choice to assist in the presentation of the complaint to the central office administrator and at the local unit of administration level. The policy shall also include a provision whereby the presence of any individual other than the complainant and the administrator at any lower level is specifically prohibited. At the local unit of administration level nothing shall prevent the local unit from having an attorney present to serve as the law officer who shall rule on issues of law and who shall not participate in the presentation of the case for the administrator or the complainant;

(5) A provision whereby the complainant is entitled to the presence of an individual of his or her choice to assist in the presentation of the complaint to the central office administrator and at the local unit of administration level. The policy shall also include a provision whereby the presence of any individual other than the complainant and the administrator at any lower level is specifically prohibited. At the local unit of administration level nothing shall prevent the local unit from having an attorney present to serve as the law officer who shall rule on issues of law and who shall not participate in the presentation of the case for the administrator or the complainant;

(6) Provisions for keeping an accurate record of the proceedings at each level, requiring the proceedings to be recorded by mechanical means, preserving all evidence, and requiring that these be made available at all times to the parties involved but which provisions do not permit the presence of a third person at any level below the central office administrator or local unit of administration level;

(6) Provisions for keeping an accurate record of the proceedings at each level, requiring the proceedings to be recorded by mechanical means, preserving all evidence, and requiring that these be made available at all times to the parties involved but which provisions do not permit the presence of a third person at any level below the central office administrator or local unit of administration level;

(7) A statement that the complainant cannot present additional evidence at each level of the complaint process unless it is submitted in writing by the complainant five days prior to the set date for the Level II and Level III hearing to the administrator presiding over the complaint. The board of the local unit of administration, when hearing an appeal from a prior complaint level, shall hear the complaint de novo;

(7) A statement that the complainant cannot present additional evidence at each level of the complaint process unless it is submitted in writing by the complainant five days prior to the set date for the Level II and Level III hearing to the administrator presiding over the complaint. The board of the local unit of administration, when hearing an appeal from a prior complaint level, shall hear the complaint de novo;

(8) A statement that each decision be made in writing and dated. Each decision shall contain findings of fact and reasons for the particular resolution reached. The decision reached at each complaint level shall be sent to the complainant by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery or hand delivered by a person designated by the central office administrator within 20 days of the decision;

(8) A statement that each decision be made in writing and dated. Each decision shall contain findings of fact and reasons for the particular resolution reached. The decision reached at each complaint level shall be sent to the complainant by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery or hand delivered by a person designated by the central office administrator within 20 days of the decision;

(9) A statement that any complaint not processed by the administrator or the local unit of administration within the time frames required by the local complaint procedure and this part shall be forwarded to the next level of the complaint procedure;

(9) A statement that any complaint not processed by the administrator or the local unit of administration within the time frames required by the local complaint procedure and this part shall be forwarded to the next level of the complaint procedure;

(10) A provision that all costs and fees shall be borne by the party incurring them unless otherwise agreed upon by the parties involved, except that the cost of preparing and preserving the record of the proceedings shall be borne by the local board of education; and

(10) A provision that all costs and fees shall be borne by the party incurring them unless otherwise agreed upon by the parties involved, except that the cost of preparing and preserving the record of the proceedings shall be borne by the local board of education; and

(11) A statement that a complainant shall not be the subject of any reprisal as a result of filing a complaint under this part. Should any reprisal occur, the complainant may refer the matter to the Professional Standards Commission.

(11) A statement that a complainant shall not be the subject of any reprisal as a result of filing a complaint under this part. Should any reprisal occur, the complainant may refer the matter to the Professional Standards Commission.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-601 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-601
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-601
Status: in_force

The General Assembly finds and declares the following:

(1) It is an essential function of state government to encourage schools and the means of education, as provided in Article VIII, Section I, Paragraph I of the Constitution ;

(1) It is an essential function of state government to encourage schools and the means of education, as provided in Article VIII, Section I, Paragraph I of the Constitution ;

(2) It is a responsibility of state government to maintain state institutions of higher education as provided by Article VIII, Section IV of the Constitution ;

(2) It is a responsibility of state government to maintain state institutions of higher education as provided by Article VIII, Section IV of the Constitution ;

(3) It is an essential function of state government to encourage attendance at state institutions of higher education;

(3) It is an essential function of state government to encourage attendance at state institutions of higher education;

(4) Tuition costs at public institutions of higher education are difficult for many to afford and are unpredictable which causes problems when families attempt to plan for the cost of higher education;

(4) Tuition costs at public institutions of higher education are difficult for many to afford and are unpredictable which causes problems when families attempt to plan for the cost of higher education;

(5) It is in the best interest of the people of this state to foster public higher education resulting in more educated citizens;

(5) It is in the best interest of the people of this state to foster public higher education resulting in more educated citizens;

(6) It is in the best interest of the people of this state to encourage state residents to enroll in state public institutions of higher learning;

(6) It is in the best interest of the people of this state to encourage state residents to enroll in state public institutions of higher learning;

(7) Students in elementary and secondary schools tend to achieve to a higher standard of performance when the payment or tuition for their higher education is secured; and

(7) Students in elementary and secondary schools tend to achieve to a higher standard of performance when the payment or tuition for their higher education is secured; and

(8) Providing assistance to assure the higher education of the citizens of this state is necessary and desirable for the public health, safety, and welfare.

(8) Providing assistance to assure the higher education of the citizens of this state is necessary and desirable for the public health, safety, and welfare.
O.C.G.A. § 20-1-45 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 1 / Section 20-1-45
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-1-45
Status: repealed

The council shall be abolished and this article shall stand repealed on December 31, 2026.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-181 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-181
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-181
Status: in_force

The calculation of all program weights shall reflect a base size local school system of 3,300 full-time equivalent students. The calculation of program weights for the kindergarten program, the kindergarten early intervention program, the primary grades (1-3) early intervention program, the primary grades (1-3) program, the upper elementary grades (4-5) early intervention program, and the upper elementary grades (4-5) program shall reflect a base school size of 450 full-time equivalent students. The calculation of program weights for the middle school (6-8) program, the special education programs, the remedial education program, and the English for speakers of other languages program shall reflect a base school size of 624 full-time equivalent students. The calculation of program weights for the high school general education program and the high school career, technical, and agricultural education laboratory program shall reflect a base school size of 970 full-time equivalent students. The calculation of program weights for the alternative education program shall reflect a base school size of 100 full-time equivalent students, except that the calculations for secretaries and media personnel shall reflect a base school size of 624 full-time equivalent students.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-256 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-256
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-256
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “After-school program” means any academic program conducted after regular school hours to serve only: (A) Students who have previously dropped out of school; (B) Students who are in a regular day time school who have previously failed courses; or (C) A combination of students described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph and subparagraph (B) of this paragraph. (2) “Course” means an instructional course for which a program count is permissible under Code Section 20-2-160 . (3) “FTE” or “full-time equivalency” means the program cost obtained under the method described in paragraph (2) of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-160 . (4) “Student” means a person who is otherwise eligible to be included in a program count under Code Section 20-2-160 .

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

(1) “After-school program” means any academic program conducted after regular school hours to serve only: (A) Students who have previously dropped out of school; (B) Students who are in a regular day time school who have previously failed courses; or (C) A combination of students described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph and subparagraph (B) of this paragraph.

(1) “After-school program” means any academic program conducted after regular school hours to serve only:

(A) Students who have previously dropped out of school;

(A) Students who have previously dropped out of school;

(B) Students who are in a regular day time school who have previously failed courses; or

(B) Students who are in a regular day time school who have previously failed courses; or

(C) A combination of students described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph and subparagraph (B) of this paragraph.

(C) A combination of students described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph and subparagraph (B) of this paragraph.

(2) “Course” means an instructional course for which a program count is permissible under Code Section 20-2-160 .

(2) “Course” means an instructional course for which a program count is permissible under Code Section 20-2-160 .

(3) “FTE” or “full-time equivalency” means the program cost obtained under the method described in paragraph (2) of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-160 .

(3) “FTE” or “full-time equivalency” means the program cost obtained under the method described in paragraph (2) of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-160 .

(4) “Student” means a person who is otherwise eligible to be included in a program count under Code Section 20-2-160 .

(4) “Student” means a person who is otherwise eligible to be included in a program count under Code Section 20-2-160 .

(b) Four or more local school systems which jointly establish any after-school program for at-risk students shall be eligible to receive a state grant, not to exceed $225,000.00 per year, which is equal to the amount of direct instructional costs which would be earned by students described in subparagraph (a)(1)(B) of this Code section if they were enrolled in equivalent courses in the remedial education program during the school day and counted as FTE students under the method described in paragraph (2) of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-160 . No student in the after-school program who is actually included in a regular after-school FTE program count pursuant to Code Section 20-2-160 may be counted in determining the amount of a grant under this Code section.

(b) Four or more local school systems which jointly establish any after-school program for at-risk students shall be eligible to receive a state grant, not to exceed $225,000.00 per year, which is equal to the amount of direct instructional costs which would be earned by students described in subparagraph (a)(1)(B) of this Code section if they were enrolled in equivalent courses in the remedial education program during the school day and counted as FTE students under the method described in paragraph (2) of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-160 . No student in the after-school program who is actually included in a regular after-school FTE program count pursuant to Code Section 20-2-160 may be counted in determining the amount of a grant under this Code section.

(c) The FTE count for students described in subparagraph (a)(1)(A) of this Code section shall be funded at the weight and teacher-student ratio specified for alternative education programs in paragraph (18) of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-161 .

(c) The FTE count for students described in subparagraph (a)(1)(A) of this Code section shall be funded at the weight and teacher-student ratio specified for alternative education programs in paragraph (18) of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-161 .

(d) The State Board of Education is directed to prescribe a method of determining full-time equivalency of such programs in keeping with paragraph (2) of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-160 and shall calculate the funds needed for such programs as part of its annual budget request.

(d) The State Board of Education is directed to prescribe a method of determining full-time equivalency of such programs in keeping with paragraph (2) of subsection (b) of Code Section 20-2-160 and shall calculate the funds needed for such programs as part of its annual budget request.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-250-26 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-250-26
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-250.26
Status: in_force

Nothing in this part shall be construed to limit a professional licensing board's authority, as granted by Title 43, to regulate and govern the curriculum, course requirements, instructor qualifications, and other educational activities of nonpublic postsecondary educational institutions.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-10 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-10
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-10
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this part, the term: (1) “ Federal officials or law enforcement officers ” means any person employed by the United States government for the purpose of enforcing or regulating federal laws and any peace officer certified by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council where such federal official or peace officer is acting within the scope of his or her employment for the purpose of enforcing federal or state laws or preserving homeland security. (2) “ Private postsecondary institution ” means a school which is: (A) A private independent nonproprietary postsecondary institution eligible for tuition equalization grants in accordance with the provisions of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of Code Section 20-3-411 ; or (B) A private proprietary postsecondary institution eligible for tuition equalization grants in accordance with the provisions of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of Code Section 20-3-411 . (3) “ Sanctuary policy ” means any regulation, rule, policy, or practice adopted or administered by a private postsecondary institution which prohibits or restricts officials or employees of such private postsecondary institution from communicating or cooperating with federal officials or law enforcement officers with regard to reporting status information while such official or employee is acting within the scope of his or her official duties at such private postsecondary institution. (4) “ Status information ” means any information, not including any information required by law to be kept confidential but otherwise including, but not limited to, any statement, document, computer generated data, recording, or photograph, which is relevant to the identity or location of an individual who is reasonably believed to be violating state or federal laws, illegally residing within the United States, or who is reasonably believed to be involved in domestic terrorism as that term is defined in Code Section 16-11-220 or a terroristic act as that term is defined by Code Section 35-3-62 .

(a) As used in this part, the term:

(1) “ Federal officials or law enforcement officers ” means any person employed by the United States government for the purpose of enforcing or regulating federal laws and any peace officer certified by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council where such federal official or peace officer is acting within the scope of his or her employment for the purpose of enforcing federal or state laws or preserving homeland security.

(1) “ Federal officials or law enforcement officers ” means any person employed by the United States government for the purpose of enforcing or regulating federal laws and any peace officer certified by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council where such federal official or peace officer is acting within the scope of his or her employment for the purpose of enforcing federal or state laws or preserving homeland security.

(2) “ Private postsecondary institution ” means a school which is: (A) A private independent nonproprietary postsecondary institution eligible for tuition equalization grants in accordance with the provisions of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of Code Section 20-3-411 ; or (B) A private proprietary postsecondary institution eligible for tuition equalization grants in accordance with the provisions of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of Code Section 20-3-411 .

(2) “ Private postsecondary institution ” means a school which is:

(A) A private independent nonproprietary postsecondary institution eligible for tuition equalization grants in accordance with the provisions of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of Code Section 20-3-411 ; or

(A) A private independent nonproprietary postsecondary institution eligible for tuition equalization grants in accordance with the provisions of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of Code Section 20-3-411 ; or

(B) A private proprietary postsecondary institution eligible for tuition equalization grants in accordance with the provisions of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of Code Section 20-3-411 .

(B) A private proprietary postsecondary institution eligible for tuition equalization grants in accordance with the provisions of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of Code Section 20-3-411 .

(3) “ Sanctuary policy ” means any regulation, rule, policy, or practice adopted or administered by a private postsecondary institution which prohibits or restricts officials or employees of such private postsecondary institution from communicating or cooperating with federal officials or law enforcement officers with regard to reporting status information while such official or employee is acting within the scope of his or her official duties at such private postsecondary institution.

(3) “ Sanctuary policy ” means any regulation, rule, policy, or practice adopted or administered by a private postsecondary institution which prohibits or restricts officials or employees of such private postsecondary institution from communicating or cooperating with federal officials or law enforcement officers with regard to reporting status information while such official or employee is acting within the scope of his or her official duties at such private postsecondary institution.

(4) “ Status information ” means any information, not including any information required by law to be kept confidential but otherwise including, but not limited to, any statement, document, computer generated data, recording, or photograph, which is relevant to the identity or location of an individual who is reasonably believed to be violating state or federal laws, illegally residing within the United States, or who is reasonably believed to be involved in domestic terrorism as that term is defined in Code Section 16-11-220 or a terroristic act as that term is defined by Code Section 35-3-62 .

(4) “ Status information ” means any information, not including any information required by law to be kept confidential but otherwise including, but not limited to, any statement, document, computer generated data, recording, or photograph, which is relevant to the identity or location of an individual who is reasonably believed to be violating state or federal laws, illegally residing within the United States, or who is reasonably believed to be involved in domestic terrorism as that term is defined in Code Section 16-11-220 or a terroristic act as that term is defined by Code Section 35-3-62 .

(b) No private postsecondary institution in this state whether acting through its governing body or officers, or by any other process, shall enact, adopt, implement, or enforce any sanctuary policy.

(b) No private postsecondary institution in this state whether acting through its governing body or officers, or by any other process, shall enact, adopt, implement, or enforce any sanctuary policy.

(c) Any private postsecondary institution that violates subsection (b) of this Code section shall be subject to the withholding of state funding or state administered federal funding other than funds to provide services specified in subsection (d) of Code Section 50-36-1 . Such withholding of state funding shall include funds provided to the private postsecondary institution directly as well as funding for scholarships, loans, and grants pursuant to this chapter for students of such private postsecondary institution.

(c) Any private postsecondary institution that violates subsection (b) of this Code section shall be subject to the withholding of state funding or state administered federal funding other than funds to provide services specified in subsection (d) of Code Section 50-36-1 . Such withholding of state funding shall include funds provided to the private postsecondary institution directly as well as funding for scholarships, loans, and grants pursuant to this chapter for students of such private postsecondary institution.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-880 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-880
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-880
Status: in_force

As used in this subpart, the term or terms:

(1) “ Board ” means the Board of Community Health established under Chapter 2 of Title 31.

(1) “ Board ” means the Board of Community Health established under Chapter 2 of Title 31.

(2) “ Commissioner ” means the commissioner of community health established under Chapter 2 of Title 31.

(2) “ Commissioner ” means the commissioner of community health established under Chapter 2 of Title 31.

(3) “ Local employer ” means the county or independent board of education, a charter school, regional and county libraries, and the governing authority of Georgia Military College.

(3) “ Local employer ” means the county or independent board of education, a charter school, regional and county libraries, and the governing authority of Georgia Military College.

(4) “ Public school teacher ,” “ teacher ,” and “ employee ” mean and include any person employed not less than half time in a professionally certificated capacity or position in the public school systems of this state. The terms also mean and include librarians and other personnel employed not less than 30 hours per week by regional and county libraries; personnel employed by the high school program of Georgia Military College; and any professionally certificated person who has acquired ten years or more of creditable service and who is being paid retirement benefits by the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia, Chapter 3 of Title 47, or by any other public school teacher retirement system in this state. Such terms shall also mean and include any person employed not less than half time and compensated in a professionally certificated capacity or position in a charter school in this state established pursuant to either Article 31 or Article 31A of this chapter if such charter school elects to participate in the health insurance plan established pursuant to this subpart upon initial approval of its charter or, if such charter school is an existing charter school, upon renewal of its charter, upon notice by the health insurance plan provided in this part, or upon the expiration of its current health care plan. Such terms shall not be deemed to include any emergency or temporary employee. Notwithstanding this definition or any other provision of this subpart, the board may, by regulation, make available to employees who work 17 1 / 2 hours or more per week such benefits as are required to be made available to such employees by regulations of the United States Internal Revenue Service or any other federal authority.

(4) “ Public school teacher ,” “ teacher ,” and “ employee ” mean and include any person employed not less than half time in a professionally certificated capacity or position in the public school systems of this state. The terms also mean and include librarians and other personnel employed not less than 30 hours per week by regional and county libraries; personnel employed by the high school program of Georgia Military College; and any professionally certificated person who has acquired ten years or more of creditable service and who is being paid retirement benefits by the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia, Chapter 3 of Title 47, or by any other public school teacher retirement system in this state. Such terms shall also mean and include any person employed not less than half time and compensated in a professionally certificated capacity or position in a charter school in this state established pursuant to either Article 31 or Article 31A of this chapter if such charter school elects to participate in the health insurance plan established pursuant to this subpart upon initial approval of its charter or, if such charter school is an existing charter school, upon renewal of its charter, upon notice by the health insurance plan provided in this part, or upon the expiration of its current health care plan. Such terms shall not be deemed to include any emergency or temporary employee. Notwithstanding this definition or any other provision of this subpart, the board may, by regulation, make available to employees who work 17 1 / 2 hours or more per week such benefits as are required to be made available to such employees by regulations of the United States Internal Revenue Service or any other federal authority.

(5) “ Qualified entity ” means any person, association, corporation, or other legal entity with which the board is authorized under Article 1 of Chapter 18 of Title 45, relating to state employees' health insurance, to enter into contract.

(5) “ Qualified entity ” means any person, association, corporation, or other legal entity with which the board is authorized under Article 1 of Chapter 18 of Title 45, relating to state employees' health insurance, to enter into contract.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-167-1 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-167-1
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-167.1
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Governing body ” means the local board of education, governing council, governing board, or other entity by whatever name responsible for creating and implementing the budget of a local education agency. (2) “ Local education agency ” means any local school system and, any charter school subject to the provisions of Article 31 or 31A of this chapter, and any completion special school subject to the provisions of Article 31C of this chapter, except this shall not include college and career academies that are charter schools; conversion charter schools, as defined in Code Section 20-2-2062 , whose charter is not held by a nonprofit corporation; or system charter schools, as defined in Code Section 20-2-2062 .

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

(1) “ Governing body ” means the local board of education, governing council, governing board, or other entity by whatever name responsible for creating and implementing the budget of a local education agency.

(1) “ Governing body ” means the local board of education, governing council, governing board, or other entity by whatever name responsible for creating and implementing the budget of a local education agency.

(2) “ Local education agency ” means any local school system and, any charter school subject to the provisions of Article 31 or 31A of this chapter, and any completion special school subject to the provisions of Article 31C of this chapter, except this shall not include college and career academies that are charter schools; conversion charter schools, as defined in Code Section 20-2-2062 , whose charter is not held by a nonprofit corporation; or system charter schools, as defined in Code Section 20-2-2062 .

(2) “ Local education agency ” means any local school system and, any charter school subject to the provisions of Article 31 or 31A of this chapter, and any completion special school subject to the provisions of Article 31C of this chapter, except this shall not include college and career academies that are charter schools; conversion charter schools, as defined in Code Section 20-2-2062 , whose charter is not held by a nonprofit corporation; or system charter schools, as defined in Code Section 20-2-2062 .

(b) Each governing body shall hold at least two public meetings, which shall not occur within the same week, for the purpose of providing an opportunity for public input on its proposed annual operating budget before adopting any budget; provided, however, that any other public meeting or hearing held that is related to the budget as required by law shall satisfy all or a portion of such requirement. The governing body of a charter school with a state-wide attendance zone and students residing in 25 percent or more of Georgia's counties or in three or more counties which are not geographically contiguous shall conduct one such public meeting virtually and one such public meeting in the county in which its primary business office is located. The public meetings shall be advertised in a local newspaper of general circulation which shall be the same newspaper in which other legal announcements of the board of education are advertised.

(b) Each governing body shall hold at least two public meetings, which shall not occur within the same week, for the purpose of providing an opportunity for public input on its proposed annual operating budget before adopting any budget; provided, however, that any other public meeting or hearing held that is related to the budget as required by law shall satisfy all or a portion of such requirement. The governing body of a charter school with a state-wide attendance zone and students residing in 25 percent or more of Georgia's counties or in three or more counties which are not geographically contiguous shall conduct one such public meeting virtually and one such public meeting in the county in which its primary business office is located. The public meetings shall be advertised in a local newspaper of general circulation which shall be the same newspaper in which other legal announcements of the board of education are advertised.

(c) A summary of the annual operating budget proposed by the governing board and the annual operating budget adopted by the governing board shall be posted on a publicly available area of such governing body's website. The summary of the annual operating budget adopted by the governing body shall be maintained on such publicly available area of the website until the annual operating budget for the next fiscal year is adopted by the governing body. In the event a governing body elects to post the line item detailed proposed and adopted annual operating budgets on a publicly available area of its website, it shall be deemed in compliance with this subsection.

(c) A summary of the annual operating budget proposed by the governing board and the annual operating budget adopted by the governing board shall be posted on a publicly available area of such governing body's website. The summary of the annual operating budget adopted by the governing body shall be maintained on such publicly available area of the website until the annual operating budget for the next fiscal year is adopted by the governing body. In the event a governing body elects to post the line item detailed proposed and adopted annual operating budgets on a publicly available area of its website, it shall be deemed in compliance with this subsection.

(d) Upon request, each governing body shall provide to any person an electronic copy of the line item detailed adopted annual operating budget in a format suitable for analysis at no cost within three business days of such request, and the summary of the budget required by subsection (c) of this Code section shall give notice of such right.

(d) Upon request, each governing body shall provide to any person an electronic copy of the line item detailed adopted annual operating budget in a format suitable for analysis at no cost within three business days of such request, and the summary of the budget required by subsection (c) of this Code section shall give notice of such right.

(e) The provisions of this Code section shall not be construed to apply to the operating budget or accounting records of a nonprofit corporation itself that operates a charter school.

(e) The provisions of this Code section shall not be construed to apply to the operating budget or accounting records of a nonprofit corporation itself that operates a charter school.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-218 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-218
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-218
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “ planning period ” means a block of time when a teacher is not responsible for the direct supervision of student safety or conduct or for providing instruction to students and is responsible for participating in activities that are part of the established duties of a teacher, including, but not limited to, instructional lesson design, grading and assessment, data analysis of student achievement, and growing skills and knowledge in the profession of teaching.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “ planning period ” means a block of time when a teacher is not responsible for the direct supervision of student safety or conduct or for providing instruction to students and is responsible for participating in activities that are part of the established duties of a teacher, including, but not limited to, instructional lesson design, grading and assessment, data analysis of student achievement, and growing skills and knowledge in the profession of teaching.

(b)(1) Every teacher who is employed in grades kindergarten through five for a period of time of more than one-half of the class periods of the regular school day shall be provided a daily lunch period of not less than 30 consecutive minutes, and such employee shall not be assigned any responsibilities during such lunch period. Such lunch period shall be included in the number of hours worked, and no local board of education shall increase the number of hours to be worked by an employee as a result of such employee's being granted a lunch period under the provisions of this Code section. This duty-free lunch period shall not be calculated under any circumstances as a part of any daily planning period or other noninstructional time. (2) Every teacher who is employed in grades kindergarten through 12 for a period of time of more than one-half of the class periods of the regular school day shall be provided a daily planning period. Such planning period shall be included in the number of hours worked, and no local board of education shall increase the number of hours to be worked by an employee as a result of such employee's being granted a planning period under the provisions of this Code section. This planning period shall not be calculated under any circumstances as a part of any daily lunch period or other noninstructional time.

(b)(1) Every teacher who is employed in grades kindergarten through five for a period of time of more than one-half of the class periods of the regular school day shall be provided a daily lunch period of not less than 30 consecutive minutes, and such employee shall not be assigned any responsibilities during such lunch period. Such lunch period shall be included in the number of hours worked, and no local board of education shall increase the number of hours to be worked by an employee as a result of such employee's being granted a lunch period under the provisions of this Code section. This duty-free lunch period shall not be calculated under any circumstances as a part of any daily planning period or other noninstructional time.

(b)(1) Every teacher who is employed in grades kindergarten through five for a period of time of more than one-half of the class periods of the regular school day shall be provided a daily lunch period of not less than 30 consecutive minutes, and such employee shall not be assigned any responsibilities during such lunch period. Such lunch period shall be included in the number of hours worked, and no local board of education shall increase the number of hours to be worked by an employee as a result of such employee's being granted a lunch period under the provisions of this Code section. This duty-free lunch period shall not be calculated under any circumstances as a part of any daily planning period or other noninstructional time.

(2) Every teacher who is employed in grades kindergarten through 12 for a period of time of more than one-half of the class periods of the regular school day shall be provided a daily planning period. Such planning period shall be included in the number of hours worked, and no local board of education shall increase the number of hours to be worked by an employee as a result of such employee's being granted a planning period under the provisions of this Code section. This planning period shall not be calculated under any circumstances as a part of any daily lunch period or other noninstructional time.

(2) Every teacher who is employed in grades kindergarten through 12 for a period of time of more than one-half of the class periods of the regular school day shall be provided a daily planning period. Such planning period shall be included in the number of hours worked, and no local board of education shall increase the number of hours to be worked by an employee as a result of such employee's being granted a planning period under the provisions of this Code section. This planning period shall not be calculated under any circumstances as a part of any daily lunch period or other noninstructional time.

(c) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to prevent any teacher from exchanging that teacher's lunch period or planning period for any compensation or benefit mutually agreed upon by the employee and the local superintendent of schools or such superintendent's agent, except that a teacher and the superintendent or agent may not agree to terms which are different from those available to any other teacher granted rights under this Code section within the individual school or to terms which in any way discriminate among such teachers within the individual school.

(c) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to prevent any teacher from exchanging that teacher's lunch period or planning period for any compensation or benefit mutually agreed upon by the employee and the local superintendent of schools or such superintendent's agent, except that a teacher and the superintendent or agent may not agree to terms which are different from those available to any other teacher granted rights under this Code section within the individual school or to terms which in any way discriminate among such teachers within the individual school.

(d) The implementation of this Code section may not result in a lengthened school day.

(d) The implementation of this Code section may not result in a lengthened school day.

(e) If necessary where due to extreme economic conditions or an unforeseen and unavoidable personnel shortage, a local unit of administration may: (1) Require a teacher otherwise entitled to a duty-free lunch period to supervise students during such lunch period but for no more than one day in any school week; and (2) Require a teacher otherwise entitled to a planning period to supervise students during such planning period but for no more than one day in any school week except when necessary to ensure the safety of students and staff.

(e) If necessary where due to extreme economic conditions or an unforeseen and unavoidable personnel shortage, a local unit of administration may:

(1) Require a teacher otherwise entitled to a duty-free lunch period to supervise students during such lunch period but for no more than one day in any school week; and

(1) Require a teacher otherwise entitled to a duty-free lunch period to supervise students during such lunch period but for no more than one day in any school week; and

(2) Require a teacher otherwise entitled to a planning period to supervise students during such planning period but for no more than one day in any school week except when necessary to ensure the safety of students and staff.

(2) Require a teacher otherwise entitled to a planning period to supervise students during such planning period but for no more than one day in any school week except when necessary to ensure the safety of students and staff.

(f) During planning periods teachers are encouraged to review the school safety plan and incorporate it into lesson plans as appropriate.

(f) During planning periods teachers are encouraged to review the school safety plan and incorporate it into lesson plans as appropriate.

(g) Notwithstanding any of the foregoing provisions of this Code section to the contrary, nothing in this Code section shall require the General Assembly to appropriate funds for the implementation of the planning period and duty-free lunch program; provided, however, that any such funds appropriated for this purpose shall be used by local school systems for duty-free lunch periods for classroom teachers in grades kindergarten through five and planning periods for classroom teachers in grades kindergarten through 12.

(g) Notwithstanding any of the foregoing provisions of this Code section to the contrary, nothing in this Code section shall require the General Assembly to appropriate funds for the implementation of the planning period and duty-free lunch program; provided, however, that any such funds appropriated for this purpose shall be used by local school systems for duty-free lunch periods for classroom teachers in grades kindergarten through five and planning periods for classroom teachers in grades kindergarten through 12.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-605 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-605
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-605
Status: in_force

(a) The trust, on behalf of itself and the state, may contract with a purchaser for the advance payment of tuition by the purchaser for a qualified beneficiary to attend any of the state institutions of higher education to which the qualified beneficiary is admitted, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary. In addition, an advance tuition payment contract shall set forth all of the following: (1) The amount of the payment or payments required from the purchaser on behalf of the qualified beneficiary; (2) The terms and conditions for making the payment, including, but not limited to, the date or dates upon which the payment, or portions of the payment, shall be due; (3) Provisions for late payment charges and for default; (4) The name and age of the qualified beneficiary under the contract. The purchaser, with the approval of and on conditions determined by the trust, may subsequently substitute another person for the qualified beneficiary originally named; (5) The number of credit hours covered by the contract; (6) The name of the person entitled to terminate the contract, which, as provided by the contract, may be the purchaser, the qualified beneficiary, or a person to act on behalf of the purchaser or qualified beneficiary, or any combination of these persons; (7) The terms and conditions under which the contract may be terminated and the amount of the refund, if any, to which the person terminating the contract, or specifically the purchaser or designated qualified beneficiary if the contract so provides, shall be entitled upon termination; (8) The assumption of a contractual obligation by the trust to the qualified beneficiary on its own behalf and on behalf of the state to provide for credit hours of higher education, not to exceed credit hours required for the granting of a baccalaureate degree, at any state institution of higher education to which the qualified beneficiary is admitted. The advance tuition payment contract shall provide for the credit hours of higher education that a qualified beneficiary may receive under the contract if the qualified beneficiary is not entitled to in-state tuition rates; (9) The period of time from the beginning to the end of which the qualified beneficiary may receive the benefits under the contract; (10) All other rights and obligations of the purchaser and the trust; and (11) Other terms, conditions, and provisions as the trust considers in its sole discretion to be necessary or appropriate.

(a) The trust, on behalf of itself and the state, may contract with a purchaser for the advance payment of tuition by the purchaser for a qualified beneficiary to attend any of the state institutions of higher education to which the qualified beneficiary is admitted, without further tuition cost to the qualified beneficiary. In addition, an advance tuition payment contract shall set forth all of the following:

(1) The amount of the payment or payments required from the purchaser on behalf of the qualified beneficiary;

(1) The amount of the payment or payments required from the purchaser on behalf of the qualified beneficiary;

(2) The terms and conditions for making the payment, including, but not limited to, the date or dates upon which the payment, or portions of the payment, shall be due;

(2) The terms and conditions for making the payment, including, but not limited to, the date or dates upon which the payment, or portions of the payment, shall be due;

(3) Provisions for late payment charges and for default;

(3) Provisions for late payment charges and for default;

(4) The name and age of the qualified beneficiary under the contract. The purchaser, with the approval of and on conditions determined by the trust, may subsequently substitute another person for the qualified beneficiary originally named;

(4) The name and age of the qualified beneficiary under the contract. The purchaser, with the approval of and on conditions determined by the trust, may subsequently substitute another person for the qualified beneficiary originally named;

(5) The number of credit hours covered by the contract;

(5) The number of credit hours covered by the contract;

(6) The name of the person entitled to terminate the contract, which, as provided by the contract, may be the purchaser, the qualified beneficiary, or a person to act on behalf of the purchaser or qualified beneficiary, or any combination of these persons;

(6) The name of the person entitled to terminate the contract, which, as provided by the contract, may be the purchaser, the qualified beneficiary, or a person to act on behalf of the purchaser or qualified beneficiary, or any combination of these persons;

(7) The terms and conditions under which the contract may be terminated and the amount of the refund, if any, to which the person terminating the contract, or specifically the purchaser or designated qualified beneficiary if the contract so provides, shall be entitled upon termination;

(7) The terms and conditions under which the contract may be terminated and the amount of the refund, if any, to which the person terminating the contract, or specifically the purchaser or designated qualified beneficiary if the contract so provides, shall be entitled upon termination;

(8) The assumption of a contractual obligation by the trust to the qualified beneficiary on its own behalf and on behalf of the state to provide for credit hours of higher education, not to exceed credit hours required for the granting of a baccalaureate degree, at any state institution of higher education to which the qualified beneficiary is admitted. The advance tuition payment contract shall provide for the credit hours of higher education that a qualified beneficiary may receive under the contract if the qualified beneficiary is not entitled to in-state tuition rates;

(8) The assumption of a contractual obligation by the trust to the qualified beneficiary on its own behalf and on behalf of the state to provide for credit hours of higher education, not to exceed credit hours required for the granting of a baccalaureate degree, at any state institution of higher education to which the qualified beneficiary is admitted. The advance tuition payment contract shall provide for the credit hours of higher education that a qualified beneficiary may receive under the contract if the qualified beneficiary is not entitled to in-state tuition rates;

(9) The period of time from the beginning to the end of which the qualified beneficiary may receive the benefits under the contract;

(9) The period of time from the beginning to the end of which the qualified beneficiary may receive the benefits under the contract;

(10) All other rights and obligations of the purchaser and the trust; and

(10) All other rights and obligations of the purchaser and the trust; and

(11) Other terms, conditions, and provisions as the trust considers in its sole discretion to be necessary or appropriate.

(11) Other terms, conditions, and provisions as the trust considers in its sole discretion to be necessary or appropriate.

(b) The form of any advance tuition payment contract to be entered into by the trust shall first be approved by the Office of Planning and Budget.

(b) The form of any advance tuition payment contract to be entered into by the trust shall first be approved by the Office of Planning and Budget.

(c) The trust shall make any arrangements that are necessary or appropriate with the board of regents or state institutions of higher education in order to fulfill its obligations under advance tuition payment contracts, which arrangements may include, but need not be limited to, the payment by the trust of the then actual in-state tuition cost on behalf of a qualified beneficiary to the state institution of higher education.

(c) The trust shall make any arrangements that are necessary or appropriate with the board of regents or state institutions of higher education in order to fulfill its obligations under advance tuition payment contracts, which arrangements may include, but need not be limited to, the payment by the trust of the then actual in-state tuition cost on behalf of a qualified beneficiary to the state institution of higher education.

(d) An advance tuition payment contract shall provide that the trust provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a community or junior college in this state before entering a state institution of higher education if the beneficiary so chooses and that the contract may be terminated pursuant to Code Section 20-3-607 after completing the requirements for a degree at the community or junior college in this state or before entering a state institution of higher education.

(d) An advance tuition payment contract shall provide that the trust provide for the qualified beneficiary to attend a community or junior college in this state before entering a state institution of higher education if the beneficiary so chooses and that the contract may be terminated pursuant to Code Section 20-3-607 after completing the requirements for a degree at the community or junior college in this state or before entering a state institution of higher education.

(e) An advance tuition payment contract may provide that, if after a number of years specified in the contract the contract has not been terminated or the qualified beneficiary's rights under the contract have not been exercised, the trust shall retain the amounts otherwise payable and the rights of the qualified beneficiary, the purchaser, or the agent of either shall be considered terminated.

(e) An advance tuition payment contract may provide that, if after a number of years specified in the contract the contract has not been terminated or the qualified beneficiary's rights under the contract have not been exercised, the trust shall retain the amounts otherwise payable and the rights of the qualified beneficiary, the purchaser, or the agent of either shall be considered terminated.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-505 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-505
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-505
Status: in_force

(a) No member of any county board of education in this state shall sell to any county board any supplies or equipment used, consumed, or necessary in the operation of any public school in this state unless there are fewer than three sources for such supplies or equipment within the county; provided, however, that any purchase pursuant to this subsection for supplies or equipment that is equal to or greater than $10,000.00 shall be approved by a majority of the members of the board in an open public meeting.

(a) No member of any county board of education in this state shall sell to any county board any supplies or equipment used, consumed, or necessary in the operation of any public school in this state unless there are fewer than three sources for such supplies or equipment within the county; provided, however, that any purchase pursuant to this subsection for supplies or equipment that is equal to or greater than $10,000.00 shall be approved by a majority of the members of the board in an open public meeting.

(b) Any member of any county board violating subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

(b) Any member of any county board violating subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-607 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-607
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-607
Status: in_force

(a) An advance tuition payment contract shall authorize a termination of the contract when any one of the following occurs: (1) The qualified beneficiary dies; (2) The qualified beneficiary is not admitted to a state institution of higher education after making proper application; (3) The qualified beneficiary certifies to the trust that he or she has decided to attend and has been accepted by a Georgia independent, degree-granting institution of postsecondary education recognized by the board of regents or, after he or she has a high school diploma or has reached the age of majority, he or she has decided not to attend a state institution of higher education and requests, in writing, before July 15 of the year in which the qualified beneficiary desires to terminate the contract, that the advance tuition payment contract be terminated; or (4) Other circumstances, determined by the trust and set forth in the advance tuition payment contract, occur.

(a) An advance tuition payment contract shall authorize a termination of the contract when any one of the following occurs:

(1) The qualified beneficiary dies;

(1) The qualified beneficiary dies;

(2) The qualified beneficiary is not admitted to a state institution of higher education after making proper application;

(2) The qualified beneficiary is not admitted to a state institution of higher education after making proper application;

(3) The qualified beneficiary certifies to the trust that he or she has decided to attend and has been accepted by a Georgia independent, degree-granting institution of postsecondary education recognized by the board of regents or, after he or she has a high school diploma or has reached the age of majority, he or she has decided not to attend a state institution of higher education and requests, in writing, before July 15 of the year in which the qualified beneficiary desires to terminate the contract, that the advance tuition payment contract be terminated; or

(3) The qualified beneficiary certifies to the trust that he or she has decided to attend and has been accepted by a Georgia independent, degree-granting institution of postsecondary education recognized by the board of regents or, after he or she has a high school diploma or has reached the age of majority, he or she has decided not to attend a state institution of higher education and requests, in writing, before July 15 of the year in which the qualified beneficiary desires to terminate the contract, that the advance tuition payment contract be terminated; or

(4) Other circumstances, determined by the trust and set forth in the advance tuition payment contract, occur.

(4) Other circumstances, determined by the trust and set forth in the advance tuition payment contract, occur.

(b) Except as provided in subparagraphs (a)(1)(B) and (a)(2)(B) of Code Section 20-3-606 , an advance tuition payment contract shall provide for a refund pursuant to this Code section to a person to whom the refund is payable under the contract upon termination of the contract. If the qualified beneficiary has a high school diploma or has reached the age of majority, and attends an institution of higher education, the amount of a refund, except as provided in subsection (d) of this Code section, shall be the lesser of the average tuition cost of all state institutions of higher education on the date of termination of the contract, or the face amount of the payment or payments and any accrued investment income attributable to the payment or payments, if he or she is covered by alternative one, as described in subsection (c) of Code Section 20-3-606 , or the lowest tuition cost of all state institutions of higher education on the date of termination of the contract if he or she is covered by alternative two or does not attend an institution of higher education. The amount of a refund shall be reduced by an appropriate percentage if the purchaser entered into an advance tuition payment contract that provided for a fixed number of credit hours less than the total number of credit hours required by a state institution of higher education for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, by the amount transferred to a community or junior college on behalf of a qualified beneficiary when the contract is terminated as provided in subsection (d) of Code Section 20-3-605 , and by the amount transferred to a state institution of higher education on behalf of a qualified beneficiary. Termination of a contract and the right to receive a refund shall not be authorized under the contract if the qualified beneficiary has completed more than one-half of the credit hours required by the state institution of higher education for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree. However, this provision shall not affect the termination and refund rights of a graduate of a community or junior college. Pursuant to this subsection and except as provided by subsection (c) of this Code section, the trust shall make refund payments in equal installments over four years and not later than August 15 of the year due.

(b) Except as provided in subparagraphs (a)(1)(B) and (a)(2)(B) of Code Section 20-3-606 , an advance tuition payment contract shall provide for a refund pursuant to this Code section to a person to whom the refund is payable under the contract upon termination of the contract. If the qualified beneficiary has a high school diploma or has reached the age of majority, and attends an institution of higher education, the amount of a refund, except as provided in subsection (d) of this Code section, shall be the lesser of the average tuition cost of all state institutions of higher education on the date of termination of the contract, or the face amount of the payment or payments and any accrued investment income attributable to the payment or payments, if he or she is covered by alternative one, as described in subsection (c) of Code Section 20-3-606 , or the lowest tuition cost of all state institutions of higher education on the date of termination of the contract if he or she is covered by alternative two or does not attend an institution of higher education. The amount of a refund shall be reduced by an appropriate percentage if the purchaser entered into an advance tuition payment contract that provided for a fixed number of credit hours less than the total number of credit hours required by a state institution of higher education for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree, by the amount transferred to a community or junior college on behalf of a qualified beneficiary when the contract is terminated as provided in subsection (d) of Code Section 20-3-605 , and by the amount transferred to a state institution of higher education on behalf of a qualified beneficiary. Termination of a contract and the right to receive a refund shall not be authorized under the contract if the qualified beneficiary has completed more than one-half of the credit hours required by the state institution of higher education for the awarding of a baccalaureate degree. However, this provision shall not affect the termination and refund rights of a graduate of a community or junior college. Pursuant to this subsection and except as provided by subsection (c) of this Code section, the trust shall make refund payments in equal installments over four years and not later than August 15 of the year due.

(c) An advance tuition payment contract shall authorize a person, who is entitled under the advance tuition payment contract to terminate the contract, to direct payment of the refund to an independent degree-granting college or university in this state or to a community or junior college located in this state. If directed to make payments pursuant to this subsection, the trust shall transfer to the designated institution an amount equal to the tuition due for the qualified beneficiary, but the trust shall not transfer a cumulative amount greater than the refund to which the person is entitled. If the refund exceeds the total amount of transfers directed to the designated institution, the excess shall be returned to the person to whom the refund is otherwise payable.

(c) An advance tuition payment contract shall authorize a person, who is entitled under the advance tuition payment contract to terminate the contract, to direct payment of the refund to an independent degree-granting college or university in this state or to a community or junior college located in this state. If directed to make payments pursuant to this subsection, the trust shall transfer to the designated institution an amount equal to the tuition due for the qualified beneficiary, but the trust shall not transfer a cumulative amount greater than the refund to which the person is entitled. If the refund exceeds the total amount of transfers directed to the designated institution, the excess shall be returned to the person to whom the refund is otherwise payable.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the amount of a refund paid upon termination of the advance tuition payment contract by a person who directs the trust pursuant to subsection (c) of this Code section to transfer the refund to an independent degree-granting college or university located in this state shall not be less than the prevailing weighted average tuition cost of state institutions of higher education for the number of credit hours covered by the contract on the date of termination. In calculating the amount of a refund for an advance payment contract containing the restrictions provided by subsection (c) of Code Section 20-3-606 , the prevailing weighted average tuition cost shall be based upon only those state institutions of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary could have received sufficient credit hours for a baccalaureate degree.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the amount of a refund paid upon termination of the advance tuition payment contract by a person who directs the trust pursuant to subsection (c) of this Code section to transfer the refund to an independent degree-granting college or university located in this state shall not be less than the prevailing weighted average tuition cost of state institutions of higher education for the number of credit hours covered by the contract on the date of termination. In calculating the amount of a refund for an advance payment contract containing the restrictions provided by subsection (c) of Code Section 20-3-606 , the prevailing weighted average tuition cost shall be based upon only those state institutions of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary could have received sufficient credit hours for a baccalaureate degree.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-87 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-87
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-87
Status: in_force

No student in a degree program in the university system shall be required to join a professional association as a condition of enrollment in such degree program.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-395-4 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-395-4
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-395.4
Status: in_force

A student is ineligible for any loan described in this subpart if the student:

(1) Is not a United States citizen or a permanent resident alien who meets the definition of an eligible noncitizen under federal Title IV requirements;

(1) Is not a United States citizen or a permanent resident alien who meets the definition of an eligible noncitizen under federal Title IV requirements;

(2) Has not complied with United States Selective Service System requirements for registration, if such requirements are applicable to the student;

(2) Has not complied with United States Selective Service System requirements for registration, if such requirements are applicable to the student;

(3) Is in default on a federal Title IV educational loan or a State of Georgia educational loan, provided that a student who is otherwise eligible and has fully repaid the defaulted loan will be eligible to obtain a loan under this subpart for future academic terms but not retroactively;

(3) Is in default on a federal Title IV educational loan or a State of Georgia educational loan, provided that a student who is otherwise eligible and has fully repaid the defaulted loan will be eligible to obtain a loan under this subpart for future academic terms but not retroactively;

(4) Owes a refund on a federal Title IV student financial aid program or a Georgia student financial aid program, provided that a student who is otherwise eligible and has fully paid the refund owed will be eligible to obtain a loan under this subpart for future academic terms but not retroactively;

(4) Owes a refund on a federal Title IV student financial aid program or a Georgia student financial aid program, provided that a student who is otherwise eligible and has fully paid the refund owed will be eligible to obtain a loan under this subpart for future academic terms but not retroactively;

(5) Has been convicted of a felony offense involving marijuana, a controlled substance, or a dangerous drug as set out in Code Section 20-1-23 or 20-1-24 of the “Drug-free Postsecondary Education Act of 1990,” provided that such ineligibility extends from the date of conviction to the completion of the next academic term;

(5) Has been convicted of a felony offense involving marijuana, a controlled substance, or a dangerous drug as set out in Code Section 20-1-23 or 20-1-24 of the “Drug-free Postsecondary Education Act of 1990,” provided that such ineligibility extends from the date of conviction to the completion of the next academic term;

(6) Is incarcerated; or

(6) Is incarcerated; or

(7) Does not meet each qualification listed in this subpart and applicable to the student.

(7) Does not meet each qualification listed in this subpart and applicable to the student.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-292 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-292
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-292
Status: in_force

(a) The State Board of Education shall provide sparsity grants to qualified local school systems beyond those funds to which they otherwise are entitled by the provisions of this article and other statutes, subject to appropriation by the General Assembly. To qualify for a sparsity grant, a local school system shall meet the following conditions: (1) The local school system is unable to offer its students or a portion of its students educational programs and services comparable to those which are typically being offered to students in this state under provisions of this article with the funds provided for this purpose; and (2) The inability to offer students comparable programs and services is attributable, at least in part, to the fact that the local school system has full-time equivalent counts less than base sizes specified pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 or the affected school or schools have full-time equivalent counts less than the base sizes referenced pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 ; and (3) The state board has found, based upon a study it has completed within the past five years, that merger of local school systems or the consolidation of schools pursuant to Code Section 20-2-291 , whichever applies to the specific situation, is unfeasible because consolidation of schools would result in a proportion of students whose travel time to such schools would be in excess of the state board prescribed criteria concerning travel time to and from assigned schools; or (4) The state board has concluded based upon a study pursuant to subsection (e) of Code Section 20-2-291 , that merger of local school systems and the resulting consolidation of schools is feasible and the local school system has met the state board prescribed criteria concerning efforts to effectuate such a merger of the local school systems, but officials or voters of the other local school system or systems party to such merger efforts have rejected the proposed merger; or (5) The adjoining local school system or systems have refused to participate in a study pursuant to subsection (e) of Code Section 20-2-291 to determine the feasibility of a merger; or (6) The state board has concluded that the local school system would still be unable to offer comparable educational programs and services to its students or a portion of its students even if the local school systems were merged or if schools were consolidated, since the resulting schools would still be smaller than the base sizes specified pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 .

(a) The State Board of Education shall provide sparsity grants to qualified local school systems beyond those funds to which they otherwise are entitled by the provisions of this article and other statutes, subject to appropriation by the General Assembly. To qualify for a sparsity grant, a local school system shall meet the following conditions:

(1) The local school system is unable to offer its students or a portion of its students educational programs and services comparable to those which are typically being offered to students in this state under provisions of this article with the funds provided for this purpose; and

(1) The local school system is unable to offer its students or a portion of its students educational programs and services comparable to those which are typically being offered to students in this state under provisions of this article with the funds provided for this purpose; and

(2) The inability to offer students comparable programs and services is attributable, at least in part, to the fact that the local school system has full-time equivalent counts less than base sizes specified pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 or the affected school or schools have full-time equivalent counts less than the base sizes referenced pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 ; and

(2) The inability to offer students comparable programs and services is attributable, at least in part, to the fact that the local school system has full-time equivalent counts less than base sizes specified pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 or the affected school or schools have full-time equivalent counts less than the base sizes referenced pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 ; and

(3) The state board has found, based upon a study it has completed within the past five years, that merger of local school systems or the consolidation of schools pursuant to Code Section 20-2-291 , whichever applies to the specific situation, is unfeasible because consolidation of schools would result in a proportion of students whose travel time to such schools would be in excess of the state board prescribed criteria concerning travel time to and from assigned schools; or

(3) The state board has found, based upon a study it has completed within the past five years, that merger of local school systems or the consolidation of schools pursuant to Code Section 20-2-291 , whichever applies to the specific situation, is unfeasible because consolidation of schools would result in a proportion of students whose travel time to such schools would be in excess of the state board prescribed criteria concerning travel time to and from assigned schools; or

(4) The state board has concluded based upon a study pursuant to subsection (e) of Code Section 20-2-291 , that merger of local school systems and the resulting consolidation of schools is feasible and the local school system has met the state board prescribed criteria concerning efforts to effectuate such a merger of the local school systems, but officials or voters of the other local school system or systems party to such merger efforts have rejected the proposed merger; or

(4) The state board has concluded based upon a study pursuant to subsection (e) of Code Section 20-2-291 , that merger of local school systems and the resulting consolidation of schools is feasible and the local school system has met the state board prescribed criteria concerning efforts to effectuate such a merger of the local school systems, but officials or voters of the other local school system or systems party to such merger efforts have rejected the proposed merger; or

(5) The adjoining local school system or systems have refused to participate in a study pursuant to subsection (e) of Code Section 20-2-291 to determine the feasibility of a merger; or

(5) The adjoining local school system or systems have refused to participate in a study pursuant to subsection (e) of Code Section 20-2-291 to determine the feasibility of a merger; or

(6) The state board has concluded that the local school system would still be unable to offer comparable educational programs and services to its students or a portion of its students even if the local school systems were merged or if schools were consolidated, since the resulting schools would still be smaller than the base sizes specified pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 .

(6) The state board has concluded that the local school system would still be unable to offer comparable educational programs and services to its students or a portion of its students even if the local school systems were merged or if schools were consolidated, since the resulting schools would still be smaller than the base sizes specified pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 .

(b) The State Board of Education shall conduct a sparsity grant needs study for each local school system meeting the conditions set forth in subsection (a) of this Code section. The needs study shall include at least the following: (1) The identification of all instructional, administrative, and support service resources essential to the provision of educational programs and services to all students in a manner comparable to those educational programs and services which are typically offered to students in this state under the provisions of this article with the funds provided for this purpose; (2) The identification of resources which will actually be provided under the provisions of this article; and (3) The assignment of cost to all such resources which are identified as needed under paragraph (1) of this subsection but not identified as being provided under paragraph (2) of this subsection. The sparsity grant to an eligible local school system shall be equal to the total cost assigned to resources needed but not being provided pursuant to paragraph (3) of this subsection, adjusted annually to reflect changes in the salaries and operational costs similar to those changes made under the provisions of this article.

(b) The State Board of Education shall conduct a sparsity grant needs study for each local school system meeting the conditions set forth in subsection (a) of this Code section. The needs study shall include at least the following:

(1) The identification of all instructional, administrative, and support service resources essential to the provision of educational programs and services to all students in a manner comparable to those educational programs and services which are typically offered to students in this state under the provisions of this article with the funds provided for this purpose;

(1) The identification of all instructional, administrative, and support service resources essential to the provision of educational programs and services to all students in a manner comparable to those educational programs and services which are typically offered to students in this state under the provisions of this article with the funds provided for this purpose;

(2) The identification of resources which will actually be provided under the provisions of this article; and

(2) The identification of resources which will actually be provided under the provisions of this article; and

(3) The assignment of cost to all such resources which are identified as needed under paragraph (1) of this subsection but not identified as being provided under paragraph (2) of this subsection.

(3) The assignment of cost to all such resources which are identified as needed under paragraph (1) of this subsection but not identified as being provided under paragraph (2) of this subsection.

The sparsity grant to an eligible local school system shall be equal to the total cost assigned to resources needed but not being provided pursuant to paragraph (3) of this subsection, adjusted annually to reflect changes in the salaries and operational costs similar to those changes made under the provisions of this article.

(c) Once a local school system receives a sparsity grant under the provisions of this Code section, it shall continue to be eligible for such grant; provided, however, that it meets the following conditions: (1) It continues to meet the conditions of subsection (a) of this Code section; (2) A feasibility study pursuant to subsection (e) of Code Section 20-2-291 concerning the merger of school systems has been done within the past five years by the State Board of Education if the local school system has a full-time equivalent count less than the base size specified pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 or the potential party local school system or systems have refused to participate in such a feasibility study or have refused to adopt its recommendations; and (3) A sparsity grant needs study pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section has been done within the past five years.

(c) Once a local school system receives a sparsity grant under the provisions of this Code section, it shall continue to be eligible for such grant; provided, however, that it meets the following conditions:

(1) It continues to meet the conditions of subsection (a) of this Code section;

(1) It continues to meet the conditions of subsection (a) of this Code section;

(2) A feasibility study pursuant to subsection (e) of Code Section 20-2-291 concerning the merger of school systems has been done within the past five years by the State Board of Education if the local school system has a full-time equivalent count less than the base size specified pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 or the potential party local school system or systems have refused to participate in such a feasibility study or have refused to adopt its recommendations; and

(2) A feasibility study pursuant to subsection (e) of Code Section 20-2-291 concerning the merger of school systems has been done within the past five years by the State Board of Education if the local school system has a full-time equivalent count less than the base size specified pursuant to Code Section 20-2-181 or the potential party local school system or systems have refused to participate in such a feasibility study or have refused to adopt its recommendations; and

(3) A sparsity grant needs study pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section has been done within the past five years.

(3) A sparsity grant needs study pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section has been done within the past five years.

(d) Beginning with the 2001-2002 school year, a school system may be eligible to receive a sparsity grant to supplement funding for alternative education programs operated pursuant to Code Section 20-2-154.1 . Funds shall be distributed based on rules and regulations adopted by the State Board of Education subject to appropriation by the General Assembly.

(d) Beginning with the 2001-2002 school year, a school system may be eligible to receive a sparsity grant to supplement funding for alternative education programs operated pursuant to Code Section 20-2-154.1 . Funds shall be distributed based on rules and regulations adopted by the State Board of Education subject to appropriation by the General Assembly.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1001 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-1001
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-1001
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “educator” means any principal, school administrator, teacher, school counselor, paraprofessional, school bus driver, volunteer assisting teachers in the classroom, tribunal members, or certificated professional personnel.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “educator” means any principal, school administrator, teacher, school counselor, paraprofessional, school bus driver, volunteer assisting teachers in the classroom, tribunal members, or certificated professional personnel.

(b) An educator shall be immune from criminal liability for any act or omission concerning, relating to, or resulting from the discipline of any student or the reporting of any student for misconduct, provided that the educator acted in good faith.

(b) An educator shall be immune from criminal liability for any act or omission concerning, relating to, or resulting from the discipline of any student or the reporting of any student for misconduct, provided that the educator acted in good faith.
O.C.G.A. § 20-4-14 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 4 / Section 20-4-14
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-4-14
Status: in_force

(a) There is established the Technical College System of Georgia, formerly known as the Department of Technical and Adult Education.

(a) There is established the Technical College System of Georgia, formerly known as the Department of Technical and Adult Education.

(b) The system shall exercise state level leadership, management, and operational control over schools, programs, and services authorized in this article and Article 3 of this chapter.

(b) The system shall exercise state level leadership, management, and operational control over schools, programs, and services authorized in this article and Article 3 of this chapter.

(c) The Technical College System of Georgia shall be empowered to: (1) Approve occupational programs below the baccalaureate level; provided, however, any courses to be transferable to units of the University System of Georgia shall be approved by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia; (2) Receive and hold title to property, equipment, money, and materials; (3) Operate instructional services projects, also known as student live work projects, in those occupational areas which require specific skills or competency mastery that can best be obtained or demonstrated in a laboratory environment with clients, real items, or projects, including, but not limited to, carpentry, child care, aviation, welding, and automotive repair, and, in connection with such projects: (A) Receive, retain, and utilize donations, fees, and moneys generated as a result of the sale of such services or projects; (B) Retain any unexpended student live work funds from year to year; (C) Expend retained student live work funds for any student live work project or for the benefit of instructional programs at the technical institute; and (D) Acquire, improve, and sell real or personal property in connection with student live work projects, provided that all acquisitions and sales of real property in connection with student live work projects shall be approved by the state board; (4) Solicit and receive funds from the general public, corporate underwriters, and foundations; (5) Contract with other state, federal, or local public or private schools and other entities, individuals, or other legal entities for the provision of programmatic or administrative services or activities the system deems necessary; and (6) Administer and supervise programs in accordance with standards, rules, regulations, and policies of the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(c) The Technical College System of Georgia shall be empowered to:

(1) Approve occupational programs below the baccalaureate level; provided, however, any courses to be transferable to units of the University System of Georgia shall be approved by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia;

(1) Approve occupational programs below the baccalaureate level; provided, however, any courses to be transferable to units of the University System of Georgia shall be approved by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia;

(2) Receive and hold title to property, equipment, money, and materials;

(2) Receive and hold title to property, equipment, money, and materials;

(3) Operate instructional services projects, also known as student live work projects, in those occupational areas which require specific skills or competency mastery that can best be obtained or demonstrated in a laboratory environment with clients, real items, or projects, including, but not limited to, carpentry, child care, aviation, welding, and automotive repair, and, in connection with such projects: (A) Receive, retain, and utilize donations, fees, and moneys generated as a result of the sale of such services or projects; (B) Retain any unexpended student live work funds from year to year; (C) Expend retained student live work funds for any student live work project or for the benefit of instructional programs at the technical institute; and (D) Acquire, improve, and sell real or personal property in connection with student live work projects, provided that all acquisitions and sales of real property in connection with student live work projects shall be approved by the state board;

(3) Operate instructional services projects, also known as student live work projects, in those occupational areas which require specific skills or competency mastery that can best be obtained or demonstrated in a laboratory environment with clients, real items, or projects, including, but not limited to, carpentry, child care, aviation, welding, and automotive repair, and, in connection with such projects:

(A) Receive, retain, and utilize donations, fees, and moneys generated as a result of the sale of such services or projects;

(A) Receive, retain, and utilize donations, fees, and moneys generated as a result of the sale of such services or projects;

(B) Retain any unexpended student live work funds from year to year;

(B) Retain any unexpended student live work funds from year to year;

(C) Expend retained student live work funds for any student live work project or for the benefit of instructional programs at the technical institute; and

(C) Expend retained student live work funds for any student live work project or for the benefit of instructional programs at the technical institute; and

(D) Acquire, improve, and sell real or personal property in connection with student live work projects, provided that all acquisitions and sales of real property in connection with student live work projects shall be approved by the state board;

(D) Acquire, improve, and sell real or personal property in connection with student live work projects, provided that all acquisitions and sales of real property in connection with student live work projects shall be approved by the state board;

(4) Solicit and receive funds from the general public, corporate underwriters, and foundations;

(4) Solicit and receive funds from the general public, corporate underwriters, and foundations;

(5) Contract with other state, federal, or local public or private schools and other entities, individuals, or other legal entities for the provision of programmatic or administrative services or activities the system deems necessary; and

(5) Contract with other state, federal, or local public or private schools and other entities, individuals, or other legal entities for the provision of programmatic or administrative services or activities the system deems necessary; and

(6) Administer and supervise programs in accordance with standards, rules, regulations, and policies of the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia.

(6) Administer and supervise programs in accordance with standards, rules, regulations, and policies of the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-272 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-272
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-272
Status: in_force

(a) Each regional educational service agency shall be governed by a board of control. On and after July 1, 2000, the school superintendent of each member school system, the president or highest administrator of each member postsecondary institution, and a local public or regional library director appointed by the director of the Office of Public Library Services of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia shall serve as the board of control.

(a) Each regional educational service agency shall be governed by a board of control. On and after July 1, 2000, the school superintendent of each member school system, the president or highest administrator of each member postsecondary institution, and a local public or regional library director appointed by the director of the Office of Public Library Services of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia shall serve as the board of control.

(b) All laws and the policies and regulations of the State Board of Education applicable to local school systems and local boards of education shall be applicable, when appropriate, to the regional educational service agencies and their boards of control unless explicitly stated otherwise in this part. No board of control shall levy or collect any taxes. No board of control shall expend or contract to expend any funds beyond the amount of funds that the board of control is legally authorized to receive and will, in fact, receive, except as otherwise provided in this part. Each board of control shall submit an annual report and an annual budget to the state board, in the manner prescribed by the state board, for review and approval.

(b) All laws and the policies and regulations of the State Board of Education applicable to local school systems and local boards of education shall be applicable, when appropriate, to the regional educational service agencies and their boards of control unless explicitly stated otherwise in this part. No board of control shall levy or collect any taxes. No board of control shall expend or contract to expend any funds beyond the amount of funds that the board of control is legally authorized to receive and will, in fact, receive, except as otherwise provided in this part. Each board of control shall submit an annual report and an annual budget to the state board, in the manner prescribed by the state board, for review and approval.

(c) The State Board of Education shall be responsible for assuring that the activities of each regional educational service agency and its board of control established under this part conform to both the Constitution and laws of Georgia, as well as the policies and regulations of the state board.

(c) The State Board of Education shall be responsible for assuring that the activities of each regional educational service agency and its board of control established under this part conform to both the Constitution and laws of Georgia, as well as the policies and regulations of the state board.

(d) Boards of control shall determine the assistance needed by local school systems and state charter schools in the area served by each regional educational service agency, establish priorities from those needs, and allocate resources accordingly. Boards of control shall annually review the effectiveness and efficiency of such agencies. Boards of control shall determine the procedures and activities by which each regional educational service agency achieves locally established objectives and shall establish job descriptions, personnel qualifications, and work schedules consistent with locally established priorities and objectives.

(d) Boards of control shall determine the assistance needed by local school systems and state charter schools in the area served by each regional educational service agency, establish priorities from those needs, and allocate resources accordingly. Boards of control shall annually review the effectiveness and efficiency of such agencies. Boards of control shall determine the procedures and activities by which each regional educational service agency achieves locally established objectives and shall establish job descriptions, personnel qualifications, and work schedules consistent with locally established priorities and objectives.

(e) In the event the State Board of Education adopts a policy to reorganize the service areas of regional educational service agencies pursuant to Code Section 20-2-270 effective July 1 of a fiscal year, members of boards of control during the preceding fiscal year shall constitute planning boards for the respective service areas to be established the ensuing July 1. Each planning board shall have the authority to establish the location or locations of the office or offices of its regional educational service agency effective the ensuing July 1, to issue contracts with a director and other agency staff to be employed effective the ensuing fiscal year, to assess the needs of all potential member local school systems and state charter schools, to prepare operational plans and budgets for the ensuing fiscal year, to establish the manner by which the local share of the budget will be assessed to potential member local school systems and state charter schools, and to make any other such decisions that the state board deems necessary for an orderly transition of service areas for regional educational service agencies. Such decisions shall be adopted by these planning boards prior to December 15 of the fiscal year preceding the effective date for reorganization of the service areas. Any such planning board shall be authorized to amend, prior to April 15 of that fiscal year, any such decisions which are necessary as the result of the actions of the General Assembly during its regular session during that fiscal year.

(e) In the event the State Board of Education adopts a policy to reorganize the service areas of regional educational service agencies pursuant to Code Section 20-2-270 effective July 1 of a fiscal year, members of boards of control during the preceding fiscal year shall constitute planning boards for the respective service areas to be established the ensuing July 1. Each planning board shall have the authority to establish the location or locations of the office or offices of its regional educational service agency effective the ensuing July 1, to issue contracts with a director and other agency staff to be employed effective the ensuing fiscal year, to assess the needs of all potential member local school systems and state charter schools, to prepare operational plans and budgets for the ensuing fiscal year, to establish the manner by which the local share of the budget will be assessed to potential member local school systems and state charter schools, and to make any other such decisions that the state board deems necessary for an orderly transition of service areas for regional educational service agencies. Such decisions shall be adopted by these planning boards prior to December 15 of the fiscal year preceding the effective date for reorganization of the service areas. Any such planning board shall be authorized to amend, prior to April 15 of that fiscal year, any such decisions which are necessary as the result of the actions of the General Assembly during its regular session during that fiscal year.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-423 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-423
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-423
Status: in_force

(a) For the purpose of considering nominations submitted under Code Section 20-3-422 , there is created a selection committee, the membership of which shall be as follows: (1) The chief executive officer of the University of North Georgia or his or her designated representative, who shall serve as chairperson of the selection committee; (2) The professor of military science at the University of North Georgia or his or her designated representative; (3) The director of admissions of the University of North Georgia; (4) A civilian faculty member of the University of North Georgia designated by the chief executive officer of the university; (5) A commissioned officer of the Army National Guard designated by the adjutant general; (6) The chairperson of the House Committee on Higher Education or his or her designee; (7) The chairperson of the Senate Higher Education Committee or his or her designee; and (8) The executive director of the Georgia Student Finance Authority or his or her designated representative.

(a) For the purpose of considering nominations submitted under Code Section 20-3-422 , there is created a selection committee, the membership of which shall be as follows:

(1) The chief executive officer of the University of North Georgia or his or her designated representative, who shall serve as chairperson of the selection committee;

(1) The chief executive officer of the University of North Georgia or his or her designated representative, who shall serve as chairperson of the selection committee;

(2) The professor of military science at the University of North Georgia or his or her designated representative;

(2) The professor of military science at the University of North Georgia or his or her designated representative;

(3) The director of admissions of the University of North Georgia;

(3) The director of admissions of the University of North Georgia;

(4) A civilian faculty member of the University of North Georgia designated by the chief executive officer of the university;

(4) A civilian faculty member of the University of North Georgia designated by the chief executive officer of the university;

(5) A commissioned officer of the Army National Guard designated by the adjutant general;

(5) A commissioned officer of the Army National Guard designated by the adjutant general;

(6) The chairperson of the House Committee on Higher Education or his or her designee;

(6) The chairperson of the House Committee on Higher Education or his or her designee;

(7) The chairperson of the Senate Higher Education Committee or his or her designee; and

(7) The chairperson of the Senate Higher Education Committee or his or her designee; and

(8) The executive director of the Georgia Student Finance Authority or his or her designated representative.

(8) The executive director of the Georgia Student Finance Authority or his or her designated representative.

(b) It shall be the duty of the selection committee to select, from the six nominees from each congressional district submitted to the committee pursuant to Code Section 20-3-422 , three persons from each congressional district to receive a scholarship under this subpart. In the event a congressional district does not have three qualified candidates, the committee may select a candidate or candidates at large from alternate nominees among the original candidates without regard to the congressional district of residence. Upon selecting the recipients of scholarships, the committee shall: (1) Notify each recipient of the scholarship; (2) Notify each member of the legislative delegation from each congressional district of the names of the recipients of the scholarships from that congressional district; and (3) Notify the authority of the names and addresses of the recipients of the scholarships.

(b) It shall be the duty of the selection committee to select, from the six nominees from each congressional district submitted to the committee pursuant to Code Section 20-3-422 , three persons from each congressional district to receive a scholarship under this subpart. In the event a congressional district does not have three qualified candidates, the committee may select a candidate or candidates at large from alternate nominees among the original candidates without regard to the congressional district of residence. Upon selecting the recipients of scholarships, the committee shall:

(1) Notify each recipient of the scholarship;

(1) Notify each recipient of the scholarship;

(2) Notify each member of the legislative delegation from each congressional district of the names of the recipients of the scholarships from that congressional district; and

(2) Notify each member of the legislative delegation from each congressional district of the names of the recipients of the scholarships from that congressional district; and

(3) Notify the authority of the names and addresses of the recipients of the scholarships.

(3) Notify the authority of the names and addresses of the recipients of the scholarships.

(c) The selection committee shall have the following additional duties: (1) To publish in print or electronically and maintain standards of academic excellence and conduct necessary for continued eligibility for a scholarship under this subpart; and (2) To monitor the performance of the recipients of scholarships under this subpart in accordance with the standards promulgated under paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(c) The selection committee shall have the following additional duties:

(1) To publish in print or electronically and maintain standards of academic excellence and conduct necessary for continued eligibility for a scholarship under this subpart; and

(1) To publish in print or electronically and maintain standards of academic excellence and conduct necessary for continued eligibility for a scholarship under this subpart; and

(2) To monitor the performance of the recipients of scholarships under this subpart in accordance with the standards promulgated under paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(2) To monitor the performance of the recipients of scholarships under this subpart in accordance with the standards promulgated under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-504 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-504
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-504
Status: in_force

County, independent, and area school systems shall have authority to contract for the transportation of pupils in accordance with the provisions of Code Section 20-2-506 .
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-989-10 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-989-10
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-989.10
Status: in_force

Nothing in this part shall be construed to permit or foster collective bargaining as part of the state rules or local unit of administration policies.
O.C.G.A. § 20-1-18 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 1 / Section 20-1-18
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-1-18
Status: in_force

(a) A kinship caregiver's affidavit shall be invalid unless it substantially contains, in not less than ten-point boldface type or a reasonable equivalent thereof, the form set forth in subsection (b) of this Code section. The warning statement shall be enclosed in a box with three-point rule lines.

(a) A kinship caregiver's affidavit shall be invalid unless it substantially contains, in not less than ten-point boldface type or a reasonable equivalent thereof, the form set forth in subsection (b) of this Code section. The warning statement shall be enclosed in a box with three-point rule lines.

(b) The kinship caregiver's affidavit shall be substantially in the following form: “KINSHIP CAREGIVER'S AFFIDAVIT Use of this affidavit is authorized by O.C.G.A. Section 20-1-16 . INSTRUCTIONS: Please print clearly. I hereby certify that the child named below lives in my home and I am 18 years of age or older. 1. Name of child: 2. Child's date of birth: 3. My full name (kinship caregiver giving authorization): 4. My home address: 5. [ ] I am a kinship caregiver. 6. I have assumed kinship caregiver status because of one or more of the following circumstances (check at least one): [ ] A parent being unable to provide care due to the death of the other parent; [ ] A serious illness or terminal illness of a parent; [ ] The physical or mental condition of the parent or the child such that proper care and supervision of the child cannot be provided by the parent; [ ] The incarceration of a parent; [ ] The loss or uninhabitability of the child's home as the result of a natural disaster; [ ] A period of active military duty of a parent exceeding 24 months; or [ ] I am unable to locate a parent or parents at this time to notify them of my intended authorization because (list reasons): . 7. Names of parent(s) or legal custodian(s): 8. Address of parent(s) or legal custodian(s): 9. Phone numbers and email addresses of parent(s) or legal custodian(s): 10. Kinship caregiver's date of birth: 11. Kinship caregiver's State of Georgia driver's license number or identification card number: WARNING: DO NOT SIGN THIS FORM IF ANY OF THE STATEMENTS ABOVE ARE INCORRECT OR YOU WILL BE COMMITTING A CRIME PUNISHABLE BY A FINE, IMPRISONMENT, OR BOTH. I recognize that if I knowingly and willfully make a false statement in this affidavit, I will be guilty of the crime of false swearing. _________________________ (Kinship caregiver's signature) ____________________________ (Kinship caregiver's printed name) Sworn to and subscribed before me this ________ day of ______________, ____. ___________________________ Notary public (SEAL) My commission expires: _____________. NOTICES: 1. This declaration does not affect the rights of the named child's parent or legal guardian regarding the care, custody, and control of the child and does not mean that the kinship caregiver has legal custody of the child. 2. A person who relies on this affidavit has no obligation to make any further inquiry or investigation. 3. This affidavit is not valid for more than one year after the date on which it is executed. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: TO KINSHIP CAREGIVERS: 1. If the child stops living with you for a period of more than 30 days, you are required to provide notice not later than 30 days after such period to anyone to whom you have given this affidavit as well as anyone of whom you have actual knowledge who received the affidavit from a third party. 2. If you do not have the information in item 11 of the affidavit (State of Georgia driver's license or identification card), you must provide another form of identification, such as your social security number. TO SCHOOL OFFICIALS: The school system may require additional reasonable evidence that the kinship caregiver resides at the address provided in item 4 of the affidavit. TO HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS AND HEALTH CARE SERVICE PLANS: 1. No person who acts in good faith reliance upon a kinship caregiver's affidavit to render educational services or medical services directly related to academic enrollment or any curricular or extracurricular activities, without actual knowledge of facts contrary to those stated in the affidavit, shall be subject to criminal prosecution or civil liability to any person, or subject to any professional disciplinary action, for such reliance if the applicable portions of the form are completed. 2. This affidavit does not confer dependency for health care coverage purposes.”

(b) The kinship caregiver's affidavit shall be substantially in the following form:

“KINSHIP CAREGIVER'S AFFIDAVIT

Use of this affidavit is authorized by O.C.G.A. Section 20-1-16 .

INSTRUCTIONS: Please print clearly.

I hereby certify that the child named below lives in my home and I am 18 years of age or older.

1. Name of child:

1. Name of child:

2. Child's date of birth:

2. Child's date of birth:

3. My full name (kinship caregiver giving authorization):

3. My full name (kinship caregiver giving authorization):

4. My home address:

4. My home address:

5. [ ] I am a kinship caregiver.

5. [ ] I am a kinship caregiver.

6. I have assumed kinship caregiver status because of one or more of the following circumstances (check at least one): [ ] A parent being unable to provide care due to the death of the other parent; [ ] A serious illness or terminal illness of a parent; [ ] The physical or mental condition of the parent or the child such that proper care and supervision of the child cannot be provided by the parent; [ ] The incarceration of a parent; [ ] The loss or uninhabitability of the child's home as the result of a natural disaster; [ ] A period of active military duty of a parent exceeding 24 months; or [ ] I am unable to locate a parent or parents at this time to notify them of my intended authorization because (list reasons): .

6. I have assumed kinship caregiver status because of one or more of the following circumstances (check at least one):

[ ] A parent being unable to provide care due to the death of the other parent;

[ ] A serious illness or terminal illness of a parent;

[ ] The physical or mental condition of the parent or the child such that proper care and supervision of the child cannot be provided by the parent;

[ ] The incarceration of a parent;

[ ] The loss or uninhabitability of the child's home as the result of a natural disaster;

[ ] A period of active military duty of a parent exceeding 24 months; or

[ ] I am unable to locate a parent or parents at this time to notify them of my intended authorization because (list reasons):

.

7. Names of parent(s) or legal custodian(s):

7. Names of parent(s) or legal custodian(s):

8. Address of parent(s) or legal custodian(s):

8. Address of parent(s) or legal custodian(s):

9. Phone numbers and email addresses of parent(s) or legal custodian(s):

9. Phone numbers and email addresses of parent(s) or legal custodian(s):

10. Kinship caregiver's date of birth:

10. Kinship caregiver's date of birth:

11. Kinship caregiver's State of Georgia driver's license number or identification card number: WARNING: DO NOT SIGN THIS FORM IF ANY OF THE STATEMENTS ABOVE ARE INCORRECT OR YOU WILL BE COMMITTING A CRIME PUNISHABLE BY A FINE, IMPRISONMENT, OR BOTH.

11. Kinship caregiver's State of Georgia driver's license number or identification card number:

WARNING: DO NOT SIGN THIS FORM IF ANY OF THE STATEMENTS ABOVE ARE INCORRECT OR YOU WILL BE COMMITTING A CRIME PUNISHABLE BY A FINE, IMPRISONMENT, OR BOTH.

I recognize that if I knowingly and willfully make a false statement in this affidavit, I will be guilty of the crime of false swearing.

_________________________ (Kinship caregiver's signature) ____________________________ (Kinship caregiver's printed name)

_________________________

(Kinship caregiver's signature)

____________________________

(Kinship caregiver's printed name)

Sworn to and subscribed

before me this ________

day of ______________, ____.

___________________________

Notary public (SEAL)

My commission expires: _____________.

NOTICES:

1. This declaration does not affect the rights of the named child's parent or legal guardian regarding the care, custody, and control of the child and does not mean that the kinship caregiver has legal custody of the child.

1. This declaration does not affect the rights of the named child's parent or legal guardian regarding the care, custody, and control of the child and does not mean that the kinship caregiver has legal custody of the child.

2. A person who relies on this affidavit has no obligation to make any further inquiry or investigation.

2. A person who relies on this affidavit has no obligation to make any further inquiry or investigation.

3. This affidavit is not valid for more than one year after the date on which it is executed.

3. This affidavit is not valid for more than one year after the date on which it is executed.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

TO KINSHIP CAREGIVERS:

1. If the child stops living with you for a period of more than 30 days, you are required to provide notice not later than 30 days after such period to anyone to whom you have given this affidavit as well as anyone of whom you have actual knowledge who received the affidavit from a third party.

1. If the child stops living with you for a period of more than 30 days, you are required to provide notice not later than 30 days after such period to anyone to whom you have given this affidavit as well as anyone of whom you have actual knowledge who received the affidavit from a third party.

2. If you do not have the information in item 11 of the affidavit (State of Georgia driver's license or identification card), you must provide another form of identification, such as your social security number. TO SCHOOL OFFICIALS: The school system may require additional reasonable evidence that the kinship caregiver resides at the address provided in item 4 of the affidavit. TO HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS AND HEALTH CARE SERVICE PLANS:

2. If you do not have the information in item 11 of the affidavit (State of Georgia driver's license or identification card), you must provide another form of identification, such as your social security number.

TO SCHOOL OFFICIALS:

The school system may require additional reasonable evidence that the kinship caregiver resides at the address provided in item 4 of the affidavit.

TO HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS AND HEALTH CARE SERVICE PLANS:

1. No person who acts in good faith reliance upon a kinship caregiver's affidavit to render educational services or medical services directly related to academic enrollment or any curricular or extracurricular activities, without actual knowledge of facts contrary to those stated in the affidavit, shall be subject to criminal prosecution or civil liability to any person, or subject to any professional disciplinary action, for such reliance if the applicable portions of the form are completed.

1. No person who acts in good faith reliance upon a kinship caregiver's affidavit to render educational services or medical services directly related to academic enrollment or any curricular or extracurricular activities, without actual knowledge of facts contrary to those stated in the affidavit, shall be subject to criminal prosecution or civil liability to any person, or subject to any professional disciplinary action, for such reliance if the applicable portions of the form are completed.

2. This affidavit does not confer dependency for health care coverage purposes.”

2. This affidavit does not confer dependency for health care coverage purposes.”
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-390 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 2 / Section 20-2-390
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-2-390
Status: in_force

The county boards of education of the several counties of this state shall have the power and authority, whenever they deem it necessary, to borrow sufficient amounts of money, and no more, to pay for the operation of the public schools of their counties, provided that no county board shall have authority under this part to borrow a sum of money greater in the aggregate than the sum which the county board may be entitled to receive from the state appropriation and from taxes levied for educational purposes during the year in which such loan is made.
O.C.G.A. § 20-3-238 — GA Code / Title 20 / Chapter 3 / Section 20-3-238
Georgia Code Title 20. Education § 20-3-238
Status: in_force

The commission shall maintain a system of accounts in accordance with generally acceptable accounting procedures and standard accounting procedures and systems established by the state, where applicable, which shall, among other things, properly identify and account for all funds received by the commission from the corporation and from the authority, respectively; the source of receipt of such funds by the corporation and by the authority, respectively; all expenditures of the commission made for or on behalf of the corporation or the authority, respectively; all expenditures of the commission, a pro rata part of which is properly chargeable as an expenditure made for or on behalf of the corporation or the authority, respectively; and the basis or method used by the commission in prorating ratable expenditures of the commission to the corporation and to the authority, respectively. No agency fund moneys received by the commission from the corporation shall be expended by the commission in payment of expenses incurred for or on behalf of the authority.