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The Intent Home Study form serves as a crucial document for parents and guardians in Georgia who opt for homeschooling their children aged six to sixteen. This form provides the state with official notice of a family's intent to create a home study program that adheres to specific guidelines established by Georgia law. These requirements ensure that the education provided at home aligns with foundational academic standards, including reading, mathematics, social studies, and science. The form stipulates that only parents or guardians may instruct their own children unless hiring a qualified tutor. Also, it sets forth the expectation of delivering a comprehensive educational curriculum equivalent to at least 180 days of instruction annually. Record-keeping plays a significant role in this program; families must maintain accurate attendance records and submit them yearly to the Georgia Department of Education. Additionally, evaluations of student progress through standardized testing are mandated every three years, ensuring that students are meeting educational benchmarks. Lastly, an annual progress report from the instructor is required to assess each child's learning journey. Parents or guardians must submit this Intent Home Study form within 30 days of starting their program and continue to provide annual updates as necessary, emphasizing the importance of accountability in home-based education.

Intent Home Study Example

Declaration of Intent to Utilize a Home Study Program

In accordance with provisions established by Georgia Law (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690.1) requiring that every parent, guardian, or other person(s) residing within this state having control or charge of any child(ren) between six and sixteen years of age shall enroll and send such child to a public school, a private school, or a home study program, I hereby give notice to the Georgia Department of Education of my intent to provide for the child(ren) named below a home study program that meets the following requirements:

1.Parents or guardians may teach only their own children in the home study program, provided the teaching parent or guardian possesses at least a high school diploma or a general educational development (GED) equivalency diploma, but the parents or guardians may employ a tutor who holds a high school diploma or a general educational development diploma to teach such children;

2.The home study program shall provide a basic academic educational program which includes, but is not limited to, reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science;

3.The home study program must provide instruction each 12 months to home study students equivalent to 180 school days of education with each school day consisting of at least four and one-half school hours unless the child is physically unable to comply with the rule provided for in this paragraph;

4.Attendance records for the home study program shall be kept and shall be submitted annually to the Georgia Department of Education. Attendance records and reports shall not be used for any purpose except providing necessary attendance information, except with the permission of the parent or guardian of a child, pursuant to the subpoena of a court of competent jurisdiction, or for verification of attendance by the Department of Driver Services for the purposes set forth in subsection (a.1) of Code Section 40-5-22 (Teenage and Adult Driver Responsibility Act).

5.Students in home study programs shall be subject to an appropriate nationally standardized testing program administered in consultation with a person trained in the administration and interpretation of norm reference tests to evaluate their educational progress at least every three years beginning at the end of the third grade and records of such tests and scores shall be retained but shall not be required to be submitted to public educational authorities; and

6.The home study program instructor shall write an annual progress assessment report which shall include the instructor’s individualized assessment of the student’s academic progress. Reports shall be retained by the parent(s) or guardian of children in the home study program for a period of at least three years.

*Special Ed.

Name of Student(s) Enrolled

Age of Student(s)

_________

_________________________________________

_______________

_________

_________________________________________

_______________

_________

_________________________________________

_______________

*Indicate by placing an “X” next to the name of any student who is identified as or suspected of needing special education services. Please note this section is optional.

The school year for this home study program is a 12-month period from ___/___/___ to ___/___/___. I will notify the Georgia Department of Education if my address changes or if I discontinue the home study program.

Signature of Parent/Guardian: ____________________________________ Date Submitted: ____________________________

Printed Name of Parent/Guardian: _________________________________ Phone (optional): ___________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Street Number)

(City/State/Zip)

A Declaration of Intent must be SUBMITTED TO THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION within 30 days after the establishment of a home study program and by September 1 annually thereafter.

File Breakdown

Fact Name Details
Governing Law This form is governed by Georgia Law O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690.1.
Purpose of the Form The form serves as a notification to the Georgia Department of Education regarding the intention to establish a home study program.
Eligibility to Teach Parents or guardians must have at least a high school diploma or GED to teach their own children but may hire qualified tutors.
Curriculum Requirements The home study program must include core subjects such as reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science.
Instruction Time Students must receive an equivalent of 180 school days of instruction with each day consisting of at least four and a half hours.
Attendance Records Annual attendance records must be kept and submitted to the Georgia Department of Education for verification purposes.
Standardized Testing Students must undergo standardized testing every three years starting from the end of third grade to assess educational progress.
Progress Assessment Instructors are required to create annual progress assessment reports to evaluate each student’s academic performance.
Submission Deadline The declaration of intent must be submitted to the Georgia Department of Education within 30 days of establishing the program.

Guide to Using Intent Home Study

After completing the Intent Home Study form, it will be necessary to submit it to the Georgia Department of Education. Ensure that you meet the deadlines for submission, as timely processing is essential for your home study program to be recognized. Below are the steps to fill out the form accurately.

  1. Obtain the Intent Home Study form. Access the form through the official Georgia Department of Education website or request a physical copy.
  2. Fill in the name(s) of your child(ren). Write the full names of all enrolled students in the designated area.
  3. Provide the age of each student. Next to each child’s name, enter their respective age.
  4. Indicate special education needs. If any child is identified as needing special education services, mark an “X” next to their name. This section is optional.
  5. Specify the school year. Fill in the start and end dates for the school year, using the format ___/___/___ to ___/___/___.
  6. Update on changes. Acknowledge that you will notify the Georgia Department of Education if there are any changes in your address or if you discontinue the home study program.
  7. Sign the document. The parent or guardian must sign and date the form in the appropriate sections provided.
  8. Print your name. Clearly write your printed name directly under your signature.
  9. Add optional contact information. You may include a phone number in the optional section, though it is not required.
  10. Fill in your address. Complete the full address where you reside, including street number, city, state, and zip code.
  11. Submit the form. Send the completed form to the Georgia Department of Education within 30 days of establishing your home study program or by September 1 annually thereafter.

Get Answers on Intent Home Study

What is the Intent Home Study form?

The Intent Home Study form is a declaration that notifies the Georgia Department of Education of a parent or guardian's intention to provide a home study program for their child or children. This form is a requirement for families residing in Georgia with children aged six to sixteen opting for home education instead of public or private schooling.

What are the key requirements of a home study program in Georgia?

A home study program in Georgia must meet specific criteria, including:

  1. The teaching parent or guardian must have at least a high school diploma or GED, although they can hire a qualified tutor.
  2. The program must include core subjects like reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science.
  3. Students must receive instruction equivalent to 180 school days each year, with a minimum of four and a half hours of instruction per day.
  4. Attendance records must be maintained and submitted to the Georgia Department of Education annually.
  5. Students must participate in standardized testing at least every three years starting from the end of third grade, though test scores are not submitted to educational authorities.
  6. Annual progress assessments must be provided by the instructor and retained for at least three years.

When should I submit the Intent Home Study form?

The form must be submitted to the Georgia Department of Education within 30 days of establishing the home study program. Additionally, it should be resubmitted by September 1 each year to maintain compliance.

Do I need to notify the Georgia Department of Education if my address changes?

Yes, you are required to notify the Georgia Department of Education if your address changes or if you decide to discontinue the home study program. Keeping your information updated ensures that you remain in good standing with state education requirements.

Can I teach my child if I don’t have a college degree?

Absolutely. As long as you hold at least a high school diploma or a GED, you can teach your child in a home study program. If you choose, you may also hire a tutor with the same qualifications to provide educational instruction.

What happens to attendance records and standardized test scores?

Attendance records and testing scores should be kept secure at home. These records will not be submitted to public educational authorities unless required by law or with parental consent. However, they are essential for demonstrating your child’s educational progress.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Intent Home Study form is a critical step for parents and guardians looking to educate their children at home. However, many people make common mistakes that can complicate the process. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure a smoother experience.

One mistake is failing to provide complete information about the student. The form requires basic details such as the name and age of each child enrolled. Incomplete fields can lead to delays or rejection of the application, making it essential to double-check that all necessary information is included.

Another frequent error is neglecting the signature of the parent or guardian. This is a required component that indicates agreement with all terms outlined in the form. Without a signature, the form is invalid, and the application process will not proceed.

A lack of awareness about the submission timeline can also cause issues. The declaration must be submitted within 30 days of starting a home study program, and parents should remain mindful of the annual September 1 filing. Missing these deadlines may lead to complications in maintaining compliance with state regulations.

Parents may also overlook the importance of maintaining accurate attendance records. The home study program requires a record equivalent to 180 school days. A failure to keep these records organized and updated can hinder the required annual reports submitted to the Georgia Department of Education.

Moreover, not consulting a qualified individual when administering and interpreting standardized tests can be a significant oversight. The law suggests that students undergo testing every three years, and having a trained person oversee this process is crucial. This ensures the results are valid and reliable, and not adhering to this can affect the evaluation of a child's educational progress.

It is essential to remember the requirement of an annual progress assessment report. This report should reflect the child's academic achievements and areas for development. Parents sometimes forget to create this, which can lead to a lack of evidence supporting the child's advancement over time.

Additionally, misidentifying students who may require special education services is a common issue. While this section is optional, accurately marking it can provide necessary support for children who may need additional resources or accommodations.

Lastly, parents may not update their contact information or notify the Georgia Department of Education of any changes. Keeping the department informed is mandatory and helps ensure that any important communication regarding the home study program reaches the right people.

Overall, being informed and attentive to the details of the Intent Home Study form can significantly ease the process. By avoiding these mistakes, parents can focus on providing a quality educational experience for their children.

Documents used along the form

The Intent Home Study form serves as a formal notice to the Georgia Department of Education regarding a family's decision to educate their children at home. Along with this form, several other documents are often required to ensure compliance with state regulations governing home education. Below are descriptions of four key forms that frequently accompany the Intent Home Study form.

  • Annual Attendance Record: This document tracks the number of days the child receives instruction during the school year. It must show evidence of at least 180 days of education and is submitted annually to the Department of Education. Keeping accurate attendance records is crucial, as they may be checked for compliance purposes.
  • Annual Progress Assessment Report: Instructors must prepare this report each year, outlining the student's educational progress. This assessment provides insights into the child's academic achievement and areas needing improvement. Parents should retain these reports for at least three years.
  • Standardized Test Results: Home-schooled students must participate in standardized testing every three years starting from the end of third grade. Parents are responsible for administering these tests and keeping the results, although they are not required to submit them to public educational authorities.
  • Tutoring Agreement: If parents choose to hire a tutor, a formal agreement outlining the tutor’s qualifications and responsibilities should be in place. This document supports compliance with the requirement that instruction be provided by someone who holds at least a high school diploma or GED.

These documents collectively contribute to a structured and compliant home education experience. Families engaging in home education must remain diligent and ensure that all necessary paperwork is accurately completed and submitted to adhere to Georgia's educational laws.

Similar forms

  • Homeschool Enrollment Form: This form is similar to the Intent Home Study form as it notifies the educational authority of a parent's or guardian's intent to homeschool their children. It also requires basic information about the students and their education plans.
  • Notice of Intent to Homeschool: This document serves as an official notification to the school district regarding a family's decision to homeschool. Like the Intent Home Study form, it often includes information on curriculum and educational philosophy.
  • Curriculum Plan: A curriculum plan outlines the subjects and materials that will be used during the home study program. Similar to the Intent Home Study form, it specifies educational goals and areas of focus for the students.
  • Annual Assessment Report: This report details the academic progress of students in a homeschool setting. It parallels the progress assessment report outlined in the Intent Home Study form, emphasizing the monitoring of educational growth.
  • Attendance Record: An attendance record tracks the days students are engaged in educational activities. It is a requirement in both documents to ensure compliance with educational laws and standards.
  • Educational Philosophy Statement: This statement provides insight into a family's approach to education. Similar to the Intent Home Study form, it allows families to express their educational values and objectives.
  • Testing Notice: A testing notice informs the local education authority about standardized testing plans. It shares similarities with the testing requirements found in the Intent Home Study form, particularly regarding assessment frequency.
  • Special Education Needs Notification: This document identifies students who require special education services. Like the section in the Intent Home Study form, it aims to ensure that necessary support is provided.
  • Withdrawal Form from Public School: This form officially withdraws a student from public school to begin homeschooling. It is akin to the Intent Home Study form as both signify a transition in educational arrangements.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the Intent Home Study form, it is crucial to approach the process with attention to detail and an understanding of the requirements. Below is a list of recommendations and pitfalls when filling out this important document.

  • Do ensure that you meet educational requirements: The instructor must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Do provide accurate information: Fill out all fields with precise details about the student(s) being enrolled.
  • Do keep organized records: Maintain attendance records and any assessment reports for at least three years.
  • Do submit the declaration on time: Ensure it is submitted within 30 days of starting your home study program.
  • Don't ignore special education needs: If applicable, indicate if any student requires special education services, even though this section is optional.
  • Don't forget to notify officials of changes: Inform the Georgia Department of Education if you change your address or discontinue the home study program.

Taking these actions can help ensure a smooth process for you and your family as you embark on your home study journey. Compliance with both the requirements and deadlines is essential for a successful home education experience.

Misconceptions

Here are seven common misconceptions about the Intent Home Study form, along with clarifications to help clear up any confusion.

  • Only licensed teachers can conduct home studies. Many believe that only certified teachers can educate children at home. However, parents or guardians can teach their own children as long as they have at least a high school diploma or a GED.
  • Home study programs don’t have to follow any curriculum. It is often thought that home study programs have no curriculum requirements. In reality, these programs must provide a basic academic education that includes subjects like reading, math, and science.
  • Annual attendance records do not need to be kept. Some people assume that attendance records are optional. In fact, keeping and submitting these records annually is a requirement.
  • Students in home study programs are not tested for progress. A misconception exists that home-schooled students don’t have to participate in standardized testing. However, home study students must undergo appropriate testing every three years after the third grade to assess their educational progress.
  • There is no need for a progress assessment report. Some people think that progress assessment reports are unnecessary. In truth, instructors must write these reports annually to evaluate each student’s academic growth.
  • Once established, home study programs do not need to notify the state. It may be believed that after notifying the Georgia Department of Education once, no further communication is necessary. However, parents must inform them of any changes in address or if the home study program is discontinued.
  • Registration deadlines are flexible. There’s a misconception that parents can submit the Intent Home Study form anytime. In reality, it must be submitted within 30 days of starting the program and by September 1 each year thereafter.

Key takeaways

Here are key takeaways regarding the Intent Home Study form:

  1. Purpose: The Intent Home Study form informs the Georgia Department of Education of the intention to provide a home study program for children ages six to sixteen.
  2. Eligibility: Parents or guardians teaching in the home study program must hold at least a high school diploma or GED. They can also hire a qualified tutor.
  3. Curriculum Requirements: The home study program must deliver a basic academic curriculum covering reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science.
  4. Instruction Hours: Each student must receive at least 180 days of education per year, with each instructional day comprising a minimum of four and a half hours.
  5. Attendance Records: Parents must maintain and submit annual attendance records to the Georgia Department of Education, with specific limitations on their use.
  6. Testing Requirement: Students must undergo standardized testing every three years, beginning at the end of third grade, to assess educational progress.
  7. Progress Assessment: Instructors must create an annual report evaluating each student’s academic progress, which parents must keep for a minimum of three years.
  8. Special Education: There is an optional section for noting students who may need special education services.
  9. Filing Deadlines: The completed form must be submitted within 30 days of establishing a home study program and annually by September 1 thereafter.
  10. Contact Information: Parents are required to provide their signature, date, printed name, and optional contact information on the form.

Understanding and following these guidelines will help ensure compliance with Georgia's home study program regulations.