HB251 School Transfer Option Based on Space Availability

The 2009 Georgia General Assembly approved House Bill 251 (HB251), giving parents/guardians the option to request that their children attend any school within the school district based on space availability.  School districts determine available classroom space after all assigned students have been enrolled.

In accordance with the law, the Houston County School District created a process for parents to exercise this school transfer option and a process to determine space availability. Additional information about HB251 will be posted by July 1, 2022, to include a preliminary list of schools with available classroom space and an application to request a transfer. Openings are grade specific.  All high schools are expected to be at capacity.

Applications will be accepted July 1, 2022, through August 18, 2022. 

Applications will be approved based on the order which they are received.  Families that request a transfer will be notified of approval or denial by August 26, 2022. 

The list of schools with classroom space availability will be finalized based on enrollment on the tenth day of school, August 12, 2022.  This allows time for a more accurate enrollment number at each school based on new students and school withdrawals. 

All students are to begin the school year at their zoned school.  Approved transfers will be effective by September 6, 2022, following notification.  Parents who transfer their children under HB251 are required by law to assume all costs and responsibilities related to the transportation of the student to and from school as long as the child remains at that school. 

Once approved at a school, the student may attend for the rest of the grade band (K-5, 6-8, and 9-12).

For more information, contact School Operations at 478-988-6395.