Home School Position Paper

The School Social Workers Association of Georgia (SSWAG) is committed to promoting the rights, welfare and educational needs of all students. This can only be accomplished in a society which ensures that all students are given equal opportunity for the highest quality available education. SSWAG supports policies and practices which enhance the education of all students. SSWAG expresses concern regarding laws and policies which are potentially detrimental to the best interests of the child and the school system as a whole.

It is the position of SSWAG that the lack of oversight and quality control in the current law (20-2-690) contributes significantly to potential educational neglect in this state.

The following are viewed as negative:

• Teaching parent must only have a GED. No proof required.
• Monthly attendance form is the only accountability.
• Testing (if suggested) every three years, no parameters given.
• Annual progress reports suggested, may not be seen by schools.
• Maximum fine for non-compliance is only $100.
• Superintendents must report violations to courts.
• Parents could sue schools for educational deficiencies.

SSWAG believes the following amendments, already in place in some states, would reduce the potential for abuse of the intent of the home school law, and reduce the potential for educational neglect of Georgia's children.

The following are recommended changes:

• An annual social skills assessment of home schooling families.
• Teaching parent must show proof of degree (or highest level of education).
• Teaching parent with GED must pass a basic skills test.
• Must show proof of student's immunization.
• Semi-annual progress reports must be submitted to school officials.
• Students must submit to annual achievement testing with the results kept on file with the local school system.
• Students testing two years below expected grade level must return to public school.
• Submit their Home School Curriculum and monthly lesson plans to local school system.
• Fine equal for non-attendance in public school ($100 and 30 days).
• School social workers and visiting teachers shall report violations.
• Parents must sign waiver holding public schools harmless.
• Home school should not qualify for voucher reimbursements.

SSWAG recognizes that a large number of parents who are home schooling are sincere in their efforts, and are providing an education that will allow the child to be competitive in a rapidly changing and highly technical world. Those parents would hopefully not object to reasonable oversights. However, as professional social workers it is our charge to protect children who have no other voice, and to make every effort to ensure that all children have access to the highest level of their education ability. Ultimately the welfare of all students, their ability to compete on a national scale, and the welfare of our nation is at stake.