Georgia Homeschool State Laws

Please note that laws and regulations may have changed since this update, so it’s always a good idea to consult the most recent and official sources or seek legal advice to ensure compliance. Here’s a summary of homeschooling regulations in Georgia:

• Declaration of Intent: In Georgia, families who choose to homeschool are required to submit a Declaration of Intent (DOI) to the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) within 30 days of starting homeschooling. The DOI should include basic information about the family and the intended curriculum.
• Qualifications: Parents or legal guardians who provide homeschooling in Georgia must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Curriculum: Homeschooling parents in Georgia are responsible for selecting and implementing an appropriate curriculum for their children. The curriculum should cover subjects such as math, English language arts, science, social studies, and health. There are no specific curriculum or testing requirements imposed by the state.
• Recordkeeping: Homeschooling families are required to maintain attendance records and submit an annual progress report by the end of the school year. The progress report can be a written narrative of the child’s educational progress or a standardized test administered by a certified teacher.
• Assessments: Although there are no mandatory assessments for homeschooled students in Georgia, the GaDOE allows parents to request their child to take the state’s standardized tests, such as the Georgia Milestones. This is optional and not required by law.
• Access to Extracurricular Activities: Homeschooled students in Georgia have the right to participate in extracurricular activities, including athletics, offered by the public school in their district. The specific requirements and procedures for participation may vary between school districts, so it’s important to contact the local school district for more information.
• Special Education Services: Homeschooled students with disabilities in Georgia may be eligible for special education services. Parents should contact their local school district or GaDOE for information on how to access these services.

Remember that homeschooling laws can be subject to change, so it’s crucial to verify the current regulations with the Georgia Department of Education or consult a homeschooling organization in the state for the most up-to-date information.

Updated October 2023