Georgia Law and Homeschool Students

The Comprehensive Education Bill (HB 283) went into effect just two years ago, and simplified the way homeschool families report attendance and submit information about their children’s educational progress.

Previously, homeschool parents were required to submit attendance and other reports to the State Department of Education or to their local school superintendent. Today, families who homeschool are only required to inform the state that they will educate their children through a Home Study Program, and keep basic records about their children’s performance and progress.

According to the Georgia Home Education Association, parents should keep education records for a number of reasons:

• Universities, colleges, and technical colleges use the information for admissions
• The Department of Driver Services requires verification of attendance for driving permits and licenses
• To receive state or federal assistance
• To satisfy any state law or requirement in regard to verification of school attendance

The current program also requires an annual assessment of reading, language arts, math, social studies, and science. Homeschool students also must complete standardized tests every three years, beginning in the third grade, and maintain a record of the results.

A few highlights of the education law in regard to home study:

• Parents or guardians who homeschool their children must possess at least a high school diploma or GED
• Parents or guardians must submit to the State Department of Education an annual Declaration of Intent to use a home study program, and include the names and ages of the students enrolled
• Visit https://www.ghea.org/pages/resources/stateLaw.php for more information

The STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) programs offered through Living Science Homeschool Study Center meet or exceed the course requirements for these subjects, and allow parents to cater to the individual learning styles of their children.

In addition, parents feel comfortable infusing Christian values into the lessons, labs, and assignments, which allows families to practice and share their faith in all aspects of their lives.

When families choose homeschooling for their children’s education, they can count on Living Science to provide the guidance and support to empower parents as educators, and curriculums that encourage lifelong learning while complying with all required laws and educational guidelines.