Yes, homeschooling is legal in Georgia under the Georgia Compulsory School Attendance Law (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690), provided families comply with state oversight. The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) does not directly regulate homeschools but mandates annual enrollment notifications and standardized testing for accountability. Local school districts enforce compliance, and recent 2026 legislative proposals may introduce stricter oversight mechanisms.
Key Regulations for Homeschooling in Georgia
- Annual Notification Requirement: Parents must submit a Declaration of Intent to Homeschool to the local superintendent by September 1 of each year, including the child’s name, birthdate, and address. Failure to file risks truancy penalties under O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690.1.
- Standardized Testing Mandate: Homeschooled students must participate in annual standardized testing (e.g., Iowa Assessments) by March 31, with results submitted to the local school district. GaDOE provides approved testing vendors, and districts may flag non-compliance for further review.
- Curriculum and Instruction Standards: Instruction must align with Georgia’s Quality Core Curriculum (QCC) or equivalent standards, covering core subjects (math, science, language arts, social studies). Local districts may request curriculum documentation during compliance checks, though GaDOE does not pre-approve materials.
Local school boards retain discretion to investigate suspected violations, including unannounced home visits under O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690.2. Homeschooling families should maintain records of testing, attendance, and curriculum for at least three years to demonstrate compliance. Non-compliance may result in court-ordered enrollment in public school or alternative disciplinary measures.