reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-57 - Organization of county boards; chairperson and secretary; quorum; record of proceedings

(a)
Unless otherwise provided by local law or, in the absence of local law, by local board policy, upon being called together by one of their number, the members of the local board shall organize by selecting one of their number as chairperson to serve as such during the term for which that person was chosen as a member of the local board. The local school superintendent shall act as secretary of the local board, ex officio. A majority of the local board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. The votes of a majority of the members present shall be necessary for the transaction of any business or discharge of any duties of the local board of education, provided there is a quorum present. Any action taken by less than a majority of the board members may be rescinded by a majority of the board members at the next regular meeting or within 30 days of such action, whichever is later. It shall be the duty of the superintendent as secretary to be present at the meetings of the local board, to keep the minutes of its meetings and make a permanent record of them, and to do any other clerical work it may direct the superintendent to do. The superintendent shall cause to be recorded in a book, to be provided for the purpose, all official proceedings of the local board, which shall be a public record open to the inspection of any person interested therein; and all such proceedings, when so recorded, shall be signed by the chairperson and countersigned by the secretary.
(b)
Pursuant to the authority of this subsection, any local board of education whose chairperson is required to be a member of that board who is elected at large from its school district, when such requirement is imposed by the terms of a local law which became effective before this subsection may become effective under the Voting Rights Act of 1965, as amended, shall continue to have as its chairperson that same member who is elected at large as designated by that local law, unless thereafter changed by local law.
Amended by 2010 Ga. Laws 463,§ 5, eff. 7/1/2010.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-58.1 - "Immediate family" defined; employment of family members

(a)
As used in this Code section, the term "immediate family" means a spouse, child, sibling, or parent or the spouse of a child, sibling, or parent.
(b)
No local board of education shall employ or promote any person who is a member of the immediate family of any board member unless a public, recorded vote is taken on such employment or promotion as a separate matter from any other personnel matter. Any board member whose immediate family member is being considered for employment shall not vote on such employment. Nothing in this Code section shall affect the employment of any person who is employed by a local school system on July 1, 2000, or who is employed by a local school system when an immediate family member becomes a member of the local board of education for that school system.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-59 - [Effective Until 6/30/2027] Rules

(a)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section, each local school superintendent and local board of education shall make rules to govern their respective local school systems.
(b)
(1)
No local board of education shall make or enforce any rule pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section that requires students to wear face masks or face coverings while present in any area of a school or school grounds or other property owned or operated by the local school system unless such rule provides that a parent or guardian of a child enrolled in such local school system may elect for his or her child to be exempt from such rule. A parent or guardian making such election shall not be required to provide a reason or any certification of the child's health or education status. No student shall suffer any adverse disciplinary or academic consequences as a result of such election by a parent or guardian.
(2)
No local school superintendent shall make or enforce any rule pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section that requires students to wear face masks or face coverings while present in any area of a school or school grounds or other property owned or operated by the local school system unless such rule provides that a parent or guardian of a child enrolled in such local school system may elect for his or her child to be exempt from such rule. A parent or guardian making such election shall not be required to provide a reason or any certification of the child's health or education status. No student shall suffer any adverse disciplinary or academic consequences as a result of such election by a parent or guardian.
(c)
This Code section shall not be subject to waivers pursuant to Code Section
20-2-82
for a strategic waivers school system, Code Section
20-2-244
for a local board of education, Code Section
20-2-2063.2
for a charter system, or Code Section
20-2-2065
for a charter school established pursuant to Article 31 or Article 31A of this chapter, a charter system, or schools within a charter system.
Amended by 2022 Ga. Laws 586,§ 2, eff. 3/29/2022, exp. 6/30/2027.
This section is set out more than once due to postponed, multiple, or conflicting amendments.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-59 - [Effective 6/30/2027] Rules

The county school superintendent and county board of education shall make rules to govern the county schools of their county.
Amended by 2022 Ga. Laws 586,§ 2, eff. 3/29/2022 exp. 6/30/2027.
This section is set out more than once due to postponed, multiple, or conflicting amendments.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-60 - Consolidation of county schools

The board of education of any county shall have the right, if, in its opinion, the welfare of the schools of the county and the best interests of the pupils require, to consolidate two or more schools into one school, to be located by the county board at a place convenient to the pupils attending the consolidated school.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 335,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-61 - Fundamental roles of local boards of education and local school superintendents

(a)
The fundamental role of a local board of education shall be to establish policy for the local school system with the focus on student achievement. The fundamental role of a local school superintendent shall be to implement the policy established by the local board. It shall not be the role of the local board of education or individual members of such board to micromanage the superintendent in executing his or her duties, but it shall be the duty of the local board to hold the local school superintendent accountable in the performance of his or her duties; provided, however, that requesting and reviewing financial data and documents shall not constitute micromanaging. No individual member shall discuss any individual personnel matter with the superintendent or other school personnel except as provided for in Code Section
20-2-943
, Code Section
20-2-989.7
, Code Section
20-2-989.8
, Code Section
20-2-1160
, Code Section
50-14-3
, or Code Section
50-14-4
or as otherwise authorized by law; provided, however, that the mere referral of a personnel matter to the superintendent shall not be prohibited. Local board of education members should work together with the entire local board of education and shall not have authority as independent elected officials but shall only be authorized to take official action as members of the board as a whole. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to alter, limit, expand, or enlarge any powers, duties, or responsibilities of local boards of education, local board members, or local school superintendents.
(b)
Except as may be allowed by law, no local board of education shall delegate or attempt to delegate its policy-making functions.
Amended by 2023 Ga. Laws 256,§ 3, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2020 Ga. Laws 389,§ 1-4, eff. 7/1/2021.
Added by 2010 Ga. Laws 463,§ 6, eff. 7/1/2010.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-62 - Employment of county agents and home demonstration agents to carry on extension work

Power is conferred upon the county tax levying authorities of the several counties, as well as the county boards of education, to carry on educational work for the promotion of the extension work in agriculture and home economics under the Act of Congress approved May 8, 1914 (
7 U.S.C.A., Sections 341
to
348
), and resolution of the General Assembly, under the date of August 14, 1914 (Ga. L. 1914, p. 1243), giving assent of the state to such Act of Congress, by employing county agricultural agents and home demonstration agents and supervising their work and paying therefor. The boards of education of the several counties may employ and pay county agents and home demonstration agents to carry on such extension work.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-64 - Establishment and maintenance of trusts or funds

(a)
Each local board of education is authorized to establish and maintain one or more funds or trusts for the purposes specified in this Code section and to designate one or more fund managers or trustees thereof. Each local board of education shall be deemed to be a person for the purposes of Chapter 12 of Title 53, known as "The Revised Georgia Trust Code of 2010," and may take any action which a natural person would be authorized to take and shall be subject to any duty imposed upon a natural person by the provisions of such chapter, except as provided in this Code section.
(b)
A local board of education shall appoint one or more managers or trustees for any separate fund or trust, respectively, created pursuant to the authority of this Code section and shall not act as trustee or manager of such a trust or fund.
(c)
A local board of education is authorized to accept and pay over to or place in such trust or fund any gifts, grants, bequests, and transfers of real or personal property and money made for the furtherance of such trust's or fund's purposes, as set forth in subsection (d) of this Code section. No funds or property of the local board of education derived from tax revenues or state grants or appropriations shall be placed in any such trust or fund or expended for the administration of such trust or fund.
(d)
Trust or fund property and the income therefrom may be expended, unless otherwise restricted by the donor thereof, for:
(1)
Scholarships, grants, loans, and other educational assistance programs for students or graduates, or both, of the school system;
(2)
Matching any matching grant given to such trust or fund or to the local board of education;
(3)
Any purpose specified by the donor of such trust property, unless limited by subsection (e) of this Code section;
(4)
Any other educational purpose; or
(5)
The cost of administering the trust.
(e)
Any such trust or fund shall be established under such further terms and conditions as may be deemed appropriate by the local board of education from time to time to the extent consistent with the uses of funds and purposes described in subsection (d) of this Code section. The local board of education, manager, or trustee may refuse to accept any gift, grant, bequest, or transfer which:
(1)
Contains any condition, restriction, or limitation that may jeopardize the tax exempt status of such trust or fund for federal or state income tax purposes;
(2)
Would cause the trust or fund to be treated as a private foundation under Section 509 or any corresponding provision of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended; or
(3)
Contains any condition, restriction, or limitation deemed by the local board of education, fund manager, or trustee to be inconsistent with the purposes, terms, or conditions of such fund or trust.
Amended by 2010 Ga. Laws 506,§ 13, eff. 7/1/2010.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-65 - Programs for care and supervision of students before school, after school, or during vacation periods

(a)
The General Assembly of Georgia, recognizing the need for providing school age children with programs outside the normal school curriculum that enable them to reach their full potential as students within that curriculum, hereby declares that programs which provide for the care and supervision of such students outside of normal school hours and during vacation periods serve an educational purpose, in that they are necessary or incidental to public education and can be an integral part of the total school program offered by public schools in this state.
(b)
The board of education of any county, area, or independent school system is authorized to establish and operate, contract for, or otherwise make provisions for programs that provide care and supervision before school, after school, or during vacation periods, or during any combination of these time periods, for school age children who are temporary or permanent residents of the geographical area served by such system.
(c)
Consistent with existing local rules, regulations, policies, or procedures, a local board of education shall conduct a needs assessment, the scope and methodology of which shall be determined solely by the board, before establishing, operating, contracting for, or otherwise making provisions for programs defined in subsection (b) of this Code section.
(d)
In accordance with the requirements of Code Section
50-14-1
, the local board of education shall notify the public of the board's intention to vote whether to provide programs as defined in subsection (b) of this Code section. A local board of education shall provide such additional notice or proceedings as deemed appropriate to solicit public comment and review of the board's actions regarding any programs defined in subsection (b) of this Code section.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-66 - School breakfast programs

(a)
Each local school system in this state is encouraged to establish and support a school breakfast program to make breakfast available to all students in kindergarten through grade eight. All school systems are required to establish and support a school breakfast program in all schools with kindergarten through grade eight if at least 25 percent of the student population is eligible for free or reduced price lunch under federal guidelines and in all schools not containing kindergarten through grade eight if at least 40 percent of the student population is eligible for free or reduced price lunch under federal guidelines. School breakfast programs shall be phased in over a period beginning September 1, 1994, and ending June 15, 1996, in all such schools. Each local school system operating a school breakfast program pursuant to this Code section shall be reimbursed by the state at the federal reimbursement rate per meal prepared and served. The school breakfast program reimbursement by the state shall be automatically terminated if federal funding for this program ceases.
(b)
The State Board of Education shall promulgate rules and regulations which:
(1)
Establish minimum nutritional requirements for school breakfast programs which meet or exceed the minimum federal regulations;
(2)
Utilize federal standards of income eligibility for free or reduced price meals for lower income students;
(3)
Prescribe uniform methods of determining eligibility for free or reduced price meals that are discreet and accessible. Each participating school system shall establish a method to regularly notify parents of the availability of the program;
(4)
Provide that each participating local board of education submit a plan of compliance;
(5)
Provide that compliance with the standards and regulations of the National School Lunch Act and Child Nutrition Act of 1966, as amended, shall be deemed compliance with the requirements promulgated by the board;
(6)
Assist the local school board in applying for and obtaining start-up grant money for such programs.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-68 - Information for verification of fund expenditure

The Office of Planning and Budget shall collect from local school systems and local school systems shall supply information sufficient for the Office of Planning and Budget to verify the proper expenditure of funds and employment of positions funded in the Quality Basic Education formula and categorical grants.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-69 - Requirements and procedures for issuing and awarding high school diplomas to honorably discharged World War II Veterans

Each local board of education shall issue high school diplomas to veterans who failed to receive diplomas due to an interruption of their education by service in World War II. The local board of education of the school district where the veteran attended high school shall award the high school diploma to such veteran. A veteran shall make application for a diploma to the appropriate local board of education and furnish proof that such person is a World War II veteran who had his or her education interrupted as a result of service in World War II. Honorably discharged veterans who served in World War II between September 16, 1940, and December 31, 1946, and who did not graduate from high school are eligible for a diploma; provided, however, that attendance in high school ranging from 1937-1946 with graduation class years ranging from 1941-1950 is required. Veterans who qualify under this Code section and who have earned a state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma are also eligible for a high school diploma. Diplomas may be awarded posthumously. The local board of education is encouraged to present such diplomas to World War II veterans on or near Veterans Day to bring to the attention of students the importance of such day and the great sacrifices made by World War II veterans.
Amended by 2022 Ga. Laws 726,§ 2, eff. 7/1/2022.
Added by 2001 Ga. Laws 192, § 1, eff. 7/1/2001.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-70 - Requirements and procedures for issuing and awarding high school diplomas to honorably discharged Korean Conflict and Vietnam Conflict veterans

Each local board of education shall issue high school diplomas to veterans who failed to receive diplomas due to an interruption of their education by service in the Korean Conflict or service in the Vietnam Conflict. The local board of education of the school district where the veteran attended high school shall award the high school diploma to such veteran. A veteran shall make application for a diploma to the appropriate local board of education and furnish proof that such person is a veteran of the Korean Conflict or the Vietnam Conflict who had his or her education interrupted as a result of service in the Korean Conflict or the Vietnam Conflict. Honorably discharged veterans who served in the Korean Conflict between June 25, 1950, and January 31, 1955, and honorably discharged veterans who served in the Vietnam Conflict between August 5, 1964, and May 7, 1975, and who did not graduate from high school are eligible for a diploma pursuant to this Code section; provided, however, that attendance in high school ranging from 1946 through 1955 with graduation class years ranging from 1951 through 1955 is required for veterans of the Korean Conflict and attendance in high school ranging from 1960 through 1975 with graduation class years ranging from 1964 through 1975 is required for veterans of the Vietnam Conflict. Veterans who qualify under this Code section and who have earned a state approved high school equivalency (HSE) diploma are also eligible for a high school diploma. Diplomas may be awarded posthumously. The local board of education is encouraged to present such diplomas to such veterans on or near Veterans Day to bring to the attention of students the importance of such day and the great sacrifices made by such veterans.
Amended by 2022 Ga. Laws 726,§ 2, eff. 7/1/2022.
Added by 2002 Ga. Laws 828, § 1, eff. 7/1/2002.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-71 - Placement of twins or higher order multiples in the same classroom

(a)
For purposes of this Code section, the term "higher order multiples" means triplets, quadruplets, quintuplets, or more.
(b)
A school must place twins or higher order multiples from the same family together in the same classroom if the children are in the same grade level at the same school and meet the eligibility requirements of the class, and the children's parent or legal guardian requests the placement, unless factual performance evidence shows proof that these specific students should be separated. The parent or guardian must request the classroom placement no later than five days before the first day of each school year or five days after the first day of attendance of the children during a school year if the children are enrolled in the school after the school year commences.
Amended by 2009 Ga. Laws 8,§ 20, eff. 4/14/2009.
Added by 2007 Ga. Laws 352,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2007.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-72 - Code of ethics for local board of education members

(a)
The State Board of Education shall adopt a model code of ethics for members of local boards of education by October 1, 2010. Such model code of ethics shall also include appropriate consequences for violation of a provision or provisions of such code. The State Board of Education may periodically adopt revisions to such model code as it deems necessary.
(b)
Within three months of adoption by the State Board of Education of a model code of ethics pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section, each local board of education shall adopt a code of ethics that includes, at a minimum, such model code of ethics. Each local board of education shall incorporate into its code of ethics any revisions adopted by the State Board of Education to the model code of ethics pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section within three months of adoption of such revisions.
Added by 2010 Ga. Laws 463,§ 8, eff. 7/1/2010.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-74 - Solicit and accept donations for educational purposes

Local boards of education shall be authorized to solicit and accept donations, contributions, and gifts of money from any source for the purposes of field trips for their students and for any other educational purposes.
Added by 2010 Ga. Laws 626,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2010.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 3 - LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-49 — 20-2-75) › Section 20-2-75 - [Repealed] Failure of board members to fulfill obligations; litigation expenses; role of Attorney General

Repealed by 2015 Ga. Laws 70,§ 6-1, eff. 7/1/2015.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 335,§ 2, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 4 - INCREASED FLEXIBILITY FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS (§§ 20-2-80 — 20-2-84.6) › Section 20-2-80 - Requests for increased flexibility; Title 20/No Waivers system

(a)
A local school system may request increased flexibility from certain state laws, rules, and regulations in exchange for increased accountability and defined consequences through a contract with the State Board of Education. Such contract shall establish a framework of accountability, flexibility, and consequences in accordance with this article.
(b)
A local school system may elect not to request increased flexibility in exchange for increased accountability and defined consequences and elect to remain under all current laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures, and such local school system, which shall be known as a Title 20/No Waivers system, shall:
(1)
Conduct a public hearing for the purpose of providing public notice that such local school system is electing to be a Title 20/No Waivers system and to remain subject to all state rules, regulations, policies, and procedures and the provisions of this title. The public hearing shall be advertised 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; and
(2)
Sign a statement on a form provided by the state board that such local school system is electing to be a Title 20/No Waivers system.
Amended by 2015 Ga. Laws 241,§ 1A, eff. 7/1/2015.
Added by 2008 Ga. Laws 394,§ 1, eff. 4/9/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 4 - INCREASED FLEXIBILITY FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS (§§ 20-2-80 — 20-2-84.6) › Section 20-2-81 - Strategic plan and proposed contract for local school systems requesting flexibility; strategic waivers school system

(a)
Each local school system which elects to request increased flexibility pursuant to this article shall develop a five-year strategic plan which sets out the school system's vision and mission for improving the performance of its schools and shall clearly delineate in a proposed contract the following for measuring the improvement and performance of its schools:
(1)
Current performance data, grade levels, and demographic data for each school within the school system;
(2)
Performance goals for each school, including both improvement and achievement; and
(3)
Performance measures and benchmarks for each school for evaluating improvement and achievement and monitoring progress toward yearly performance goals.
(b)
The proposed strategic plan shall incorporate, to the extent practicable, school improvement plans in effect for schools in the local school system.
(c)
The department shall provide an electronic template accessible through the Internet for local school systems to input their proposed contracts. The template shall be designed to include the information contained in subsection (a) of this Code section.
(d)
Prior to the submission of a proposed contract to the department, a local board of education shall schedule and hold a public hearing for the purpose of providing an opportunity for full discussion and public input on the strategic plan and proposed contract, including formal, written comments or suggestions regarding the local school system's flexibility requests and performance goals and their impact on each school. The public hearing shall be advertised 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.
(e)
The local school system shall submit the proposed contract to the department in accordance with time frames established by the department.
(f)
A local school system which elects to request increased flexibility pursuant to this article shall be known as a strategic waivers school system.
Amended by 2015 Ga. Laws 241,§ 1B, eff. 7/1/2015.
Added by 2008 Ga. Laws 394,§ 1, eff. 4/9/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 4 - INCREASED FLEXIBILITY FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS (§§ 20-2-80 — 20-2-84.6) › Section 20-2-83 - State board approval of local school board flexibility contract

(a)
Upon approval of a proposed contract of a local school system which has requested flexibility, the state board shall enter into such contract with the local board of education.
(b)
The terms of the contract shall include, but not be limited to, accountability, flexibility, and consequences components as negotiated pursuant to subsection (a) of Code Section
20-2-82
and in accordance with Code Section
20-2-84
.
(c)
The terms of the contract shall also include specific requirements relating to maintaining or achieving financial stability of the local school system, including ensuring that the local school system has not been designated as a high-risk local school system by the Department of Audits and Accounts pursuant to Code Section
20-2-67
, or if it has been designated as a high-risk local school system, that it has a written corrective action plan in place and that local school system board members and appropriate personnel participate in required training to address the deficiencies.
(d)
Each contract shall be for a term of six years. The terms of the contract may provide for automatic extension of such contract if a local school system has met its accountability requirements.
(e)
The terms of a contract may be amended during the term of the contract only upon approval of the state board and the local board of education.
Amended by 2020 Ga. Laws 389,§ 1-7, eff. 7/1/2021.
Amended by 2017 Ga. Laws 27,§ 3-2, eff. 7/1/2017.
Added by 2008 Ga. Laws 394,§ 1, eff. 4/9/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 4 - INCREASED FLEXIBILITY FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS (§§ 20-2-80 — 20-2-84.6) › Section 20-2-84.1 - Loss of governance for nonperforming schools

(a)
The State Board of Education shall, as provided for in the contract entered into with a local school system pursuant to Code Section
20-2-83
, mandate the loss of governance of one or more of its nonperforming schools as a consequence of failure pursuant to paragraph (2) of subsection (c) of Code Section
20-2-84
. Such loss of governance may include, but shall not be limited to:
(1)
Conversion of a school to charter status with independent school level governance and a governance board with strong parental involvement;
(2)
Operation of a school by a successful school system, as defined by the Office of Student Achievement, and pursuant to funding criteria established by the state board; or
(3)
Operation of a school by a private entity, nonprofit or for profit, pursuant to a request for proposals issued by the department.
(b)
Loss of governance shall be invoked upon the end of the fifth year of the contract if the school system is in noncompliance as set out in the terms of the contract.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 335,§ 4, eff. 7/1/2013.
Added by 2008 Ga. Laws 394,§ 1, eff. 4/9/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 4 - INCREASED FLEXIBILITY FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS (§§ 20-2-80 — 20-2-84.6) › Section 20-2-84.2 - State monitoring

(a)
The Office of Student Achievement shall revise the single state-wide accountability system established pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection (a) of Code Section
20-14-26
for submission to the state board for approval to integrate the requirements of this article, to the greatest extent practicable, including, but not limited to, the loss of governance consequences provided for in Code Section
20-2-84.1
.
(b)
The Department of Education shall monitor each local school system's progress toward meeting its performance goals in its contract and shall notify the State Board of Education if a local school system is not in compliance with such performance goals. The department shall provide support and guidance to school systems not meeting their yearly progress goals.
(c)
The department shall monitor each local school system's financial stability and provide support and guidance to local school systems that are designated as high-risk local school systems or moderate-risk local school systems by the Department of Audits and Accounts pursuant to Code Section
20-2-67
or are at risk of being designated as high-risk local school systems or moderate-risk local school systems.
Amended by 2020 Ga. Laws 389,§ 2-2, eff. 7/1/2021.
Amended by 2020 Ga. Laws 389,§ 1-8, eff. 7/1/2021.
Added by 2008 Ga. Laws 394,§ 1, eff. 4/9/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 4 - INCREASED FLEXIBILITY FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS (§§ 20-2-80 — 20-2-84.6) › Section 20-2-84.3 - Required notifications by local school systems

No later than June 30, 2015, each local school system shall either notify the department of its intention to become a strategic waivers school system pursuant to this article or shall comply with subsection (b) of Code Section
20-2-80
, electing to be a Title 20/No Waivers system.
Amended by 2015 Ga. Laws 241,§ 2A, eff. 7/1/2015.
Amended by 2011 Ga. Laws 227,§ 2, eff. 5/13/2011.
Added by 2008 Ga. Laws 394,§ 1, eff. 4/9/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 4 - INCREASED FLEXIBILITY FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS (§§ 20-2-80 — 20-2-84.6) › Section 20-2-84.4 - Other funding options

The department may offer other funding options for local school systems which choose to enter into a contract pursuant to this article and may also offer other funding options for charter systems.
Added by 2008 Ga. Laws 394,§ 1, eff. 4/9/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 4 - INCREASED FLEXIBILITY FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS (§§ 20-2-80 — 20-2-84.6) › Section 20-2-84.5 - Applicability to charter systems

Except as otherwise provided in Code Section
20-2-84.4
, this article shall not apply to a local school system which has become a charter system pursuant to Code Section
20-2-2063.2
or which is in the process of applying to become a charter system.
Added by 2008 Ga. Laws 394,§ 1, eff. 4/9/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 4 - INCREASED FLEXIBILITY FOR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS (§§ 20-2-80 — 20-2-84.6) › Section 20-2-84.6 - Establishment of rules, regulations, and guidelines

The State Board of Education shall be authorized to establish rules, regulations, and guidelines to effect the implementation of this article.
Added by 2008 Ga. Laws 394,§ 1, eff. 4/9/2008.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 4A - COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-85 — 20-2-86) › Section 20-2-85 - Legislative findings; role of local boards of education and school councils

(a)
The General Assembly recognizes the need to improve communication and participation of parents and the community in the management and operation of local schools. The General Assembly believes that parent and community support is critical to the success of students and schools. The intent of this article is to bring communities and schools closer together in a spirit of cooperation to solve difficult education problems, improve academic achievement, provide support for teachers and administrators, and bring parents into the school-based decision-making process. The establishment of school councils is intended to help local boards of education develop and nurture participation, bring parents and the community together with teachers and school administrators to create a better understanding of and mutual respect for each other's concerns, and share ideas for school improvement. School councils shall be reflective of the school community.
(b)
The management and control of public schools shall be the responsibility of local boards of education, and the school leader shall be the principal. School councils shall provide advice, recommendations, and assistance and represent the community of parents and businesses. Each member of the council, as a community representative, shall be accorded the respect and attention deserving of such election.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 5 - LOCAL SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS (§§ 20-2-100 — 20-2-113) › Section 20-2-100 - [Repealed] County school superintendent substituted for county school commissioner

Repealed by 2012 Ga. Laws 619,§ 5, eff. 7/1/2012.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 5 - LOCAL SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS (§§ 20-2-100 — 20-2-113) › Section 20-2-103 - Oath of local school superintendent

Before entering upon the discharge of his or her official duties, the local school superintendent shall take and subscribe to the following oath of office:
STATE OF GEORGIA
COUNTY OF __________________
I, __________________, do solemnly swear or affirm that I will truly perform the duties of local school superintendent of the __________________ School System to the best of my ability.
I do further swear or affirm:
(1)
That I am not the holder of any unaccounted for public money due this state or any political subdivision or authority thereof and that I will manage the finances of the local school system in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations;
(2)
That I am not the holder of any office of trust under the government of the United States, any other state, or any foreign state which I am by the laws of the State of Georgia prohibited from holding;
(3)
That I am otherwise qualified to hold said office according to the Constitution and the laws of Georgia; and
(4)
That I will support the Constitution of the United States and of this state.
__________________Signature of local school superintendent
__________________Typed name of local school superintendent
Sworn and subscribed
before me this __________________ day
of __________________, __________________.
(SEAL).
Amended by 2020 Ga. Laws 389,§ 1-9, eff. 7/1/2021.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 33,§ 20, eff. 4/24/2013.
Amended by 2012 Ga. Laws 619,§ 6, eff. 7/1/2012.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 5 - LOCAL SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS (§§ 20-2-100 — 20-2-113) › Section 20-2-104 - Superintendents' bonds

Each county and independent system school superintendent must give bond with an approved surety company payable to the county or independent system board of education, the amount to be decided by the board. Such bond must be filed with the judge of the probate court of the county and a copy recorded on the records of the judge of the probate court; and it shall be the duty of the superintendent to send a certified copy of such bond to the State School Superintendent, which copy shall be recorded and kept on file at the State Board of Education.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 5 - LOCAL SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS (§§ 20-2-100 — 20-2-113) › Section 20-2-108 - Certification and classification of local school superintendents; compensation

Each local school superintendent shall be certified and classified by the Professional Standards Commission as teachers are now classified and certified under Code Section
20-2-200
. The superintendents shall receive salaries according to a schedule of minimum salaries fixed by the state board based on classification and certification in the same manner teachers are paid under Code Section
20-2-212
; provided, however, that in no event shall the salary of a superintendent be less than $27,000.00 per year, such salary to be paid in equal monthly installments out of state funds; and in addition thereto, the local board of education shall allow additional compensation for the services to be rendered as may be in its judgment proper and just.
Amended by 2001 Ga. Laws 2, § 20, eff. 2/12/2001.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 5 - LOCAL SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS (§§ 20-2-100 — 20-2-113) › Section 20-2-109 - Duties of local school superintendents; reporting

(a)
The local school superintendent shall constitute the medium of communication between the State School Superintendent and subordinate local school officers. The local school superintendent shall be the executive officer of the local board of education; shall be the agent of the local board in procuring such school equipment and materials as it may order; shall ensure that the prescribed textbooks are used by students; shall verify all accounts before an application is made to the local board for an order for payment; and shall keep a record of all official acts, which, together with all the books, papers, and property appertaining to the office, shall be turned over to the successor. It shall be the local school superintendent's duty to enforce all regulations and rules of the State School Superintendent and of the local board according to the laws of the state and the rules and regulations made by the local board that are not in conflict with state laws; and to visit every school within the local school system to become familiar with the studies taught in the schools, observe what advancement is being made by the students, counsel with the faculty, and otherwise aid and assist in the advancement of public education.
(b)
The local school superintendent shall report monthly to the local board of education the financial status of the local school system in accordance with Code Section
20-2-58
. Each local board of education which governs a local school system that has been designated as a high-risk local school system or moderate-risk local school system by the Department of Audits and Accounts pursuant to Code Section
20-2-67
shall require the local school superintendent to complete training on financial management and financial governance of a local school system.
Amended by 2020 Ga. Laws 389,§ 1-10, eff. 7/1/2021.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 5 - LOCAL SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS (§§ 20-2-100 — 20-2-113) › Section 20-2-110 - [Repealed] Offices for county school superintendents

Repealed by 2013 Ga. Laws 335,§ 5, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 5 - LOCAL SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS (§§ 20-2-100 — 20-2-113) › Section 20-2-111 - Administration of oaths by county school superintendents and county board members

The county school superintendent and members of the county board of education are authorized to administer oaths necessary in transacting school business or in conducting investigations before the county boards when sitting as judicial tribunals for determining controversies arising under school laws.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 6 - QUALITY BASIC EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-130 — 20-2-329.2) › Part 1 - SHORT TITLE AND PURPOSE (§§ 20-2-130 — 20-2-133) › Section 20-2-130 - Short title

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Quality Basic Education Act."
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 20 - EDUCATION (§§ 20-1-1 — 20-18-7) › Chapter 2 - ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-1 — 20-2-2140) › Article 6 - QUALITY BASIC EDUCATION (§§ 20-2-130 — 20-2-329.2) › Part 1 - SHORT TITLE AND PURPOSE (§§ 20-2-130 — 20-2-133) › Section 20-2-132 - Primary goals of article

It is the intent of the General Assembly that the primary goals of this article shall be as follows:
(1)
A substantial reduction in the number of teachers who leave the teaching profession for reasons of job dissatisfaction;
(2)
A decrease in the percentage and number of students who enter school but drop out prior to graduation;
(3)
The elimination of emergency teaching certificates and waivers for teaching outside of specialty;
(4)
A decrease in the percentage of students who fail to attain passing scores on end-of-course assessments;
(5)
A significant increase in the test scores of Georgia students who take the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or the ACT Assessment (ACT);
(6)
An increase in the number of students mastering each skill in reading, mathematics, and other subject areas;
(7)
An accountability system for education programs that measures efficiency and effectiveness and ensures that programs produce improvement in student achievement scores for all students;
(8)
A comprehensive program and financial information system that provides data that allow for the accurate evaluation of program effectiveness;
(9)
A seamless education system that allows students to be served in the most effective and efficient way possible;
(10)
The elimination of school violence;
(11)
A decrease in the percentage of students who perform below grade level;
(12)
An increase in parental and community involvement in schools;
(13)
Better coordination between education agencies and other organizations providing instructional and related services to students;
(14)
A more competent school work force through the effective use of evaluation tools, training, and school improvement teams that promote best practices; and
(15)
More flexibility for high-performing schools so that services can be better adapted to student needs.
Amended by 2015 Ga. Laws 14,§ 2, eff. 3/30/2015.