Board Policy IBB: Charter Schools
Status: ADOPTED/Approved
A representative from an existing school within the school district, a private individual, a private organization, or a state or local public entity may submit to the Schley Board of Education (LBOE) a written proposal (petition) to establish a charter school in accordance with the requirements set forth in the State Board of Education (SBOE) Rule 160-4-9-.05 and its accompanying Guidelines, as well as the requirements of the Georgia Office of Charter School Compliance (OCSC). Home study programs or schools, sectarian schools, religious schools, private for profit schools, existing private schools, or private educational institutions not established, operated or governed by the State of Georgia are prohibited by law from submitting charter petitions.
A charter petitioner shall contact the Superintendent or designee for a complete copy of information regarding the submission of charter petitions for approval in accordance with the timelines established by the OCSC, which are available on their website Office of Charter School Compliance Website.
Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 20-2-2064(b), the LBOE shall by a majority vote approve or deny a petition no later than ninety (90) days after its submission unless the petitioner consents to extend that period.
If the LBOE denies a charter petition, it shall within 20 business days provide to the charter petitioner, the OCSC, and the SBOE a written explanation setting forth its reasons for denial and a list of deficiencies in the petition. If the reason for denial includes that approval is not in the public interest, such explanation shall include a detailed explanation as to why. A denial does not prevent a petitioner from resubmitting a revised petition that addresses the deficiencies cited in the denial.
If the LBOE approves a charter petition, it shall within thirty (30) days provide a copy of the petition it approved to the OCSC for review by the SBOE.
The superintendent is authorized to develop and enforce administrative regulations needed to ensure compliance with state law and SBOE/SDOE requirements. Such regulations shall provide for an expedited review process for high quality charter school renewal, expansion, and replication.
To view Board Policy IBB: Charter Schools, please click here.
PUBLIC NOTICE
As required by law, the Schley County Board of Education (BOE) will hold three public hearings as part of its process for opting out of House Bill 581. The first hearing will be held on January 30, at 6:00 p.m. The second will be held February 6, at 6:00 p.m. A third public hearing will take place on February 11, at 4:30 p.m. All of the public hearings are scheduled to take place at Schley County Board of Education located at 161 Perry Drive, Ellaville, GA.
(HB-581) took effect January 1, 2025, and introduces a statewide homestead exemption that caps the annual increase in property values for tax purposes. This exemption impacts property taxes for cities, counties, and school districts. HB 581 does allow cities, counties, and school districts a one-time opt-out of the property tax cap. Regardless of financial circumstances, the homestead exemption is permanent if a jurisdiction does not opt out.
While designed to provide property tax relief, the legislation could result in significant funding reductions that would adversely affect school programs.
The Schley County Board of Education feels that opting out provides the best option for future financial stability. It would avoid issues created when more prevalent property gaps develop between actual and assessed values.
Citizens may address the Schley County Board of Education at any of the three public hearings. A sign-up sheet will be available at the hearings for those wishing to speak. There is no need to sign up in advance of the meeting date.