The State Board of Education (SBOE) met Feb. 18 and 19.

The board approved multiple rule changes and received updates on school districts' financial audit. Matt Smith with the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE) presented the "Top 10 Issues to Watch in 2026" report. Finally, the board honored former member and chair, Stan DeJarnett.



A meeting agenda is available through the button below. 

Audit Committee

GaDOE staff updated the board on the ongoing Dublin City Schools situation, including the likelihood that the district will continue to need Quality Basic Education (QBE) allotment advances for two more years. Board members expressed concern about setting a precedent for advancing QBE allotments to rescue districts from fiscal mismanagement and wondered about the consequences should Dublin City fail to sufficiently improve its situation. Superintendent Woods reported that pending legislation provides additional guardrails and authority intended to prevent similar situations in the future. He also noted that cutting off allotment advances could negatively impact students.

The board also received an update on Talbot County's progress in meeting recommendations from a previous audit. It was noted that the district struggles with limited financial resources but had been exploring creative solutions.

Rules and Other Board Actions

The SBOE voted to repeal the current Rule 160-5-1-.28 Student Enrollment and Withdrawal and approved a replacement rule. The update incorporates changes approved in HB 268 regarding provisional enrollment definitions and details. Rule changes also update student records requirements for enrollment and withdrawal.

Board members also approved adoption of Rule 160-5-1-.14 Transfer of Student Records. The rule amendment also implements HB 268, including requirements for transferring student records and the timing of parent notification.

The board also granted approval to post Career, Technical, & Agricultural Education (CTAE) standards for new Junior Leadership Corps courses for public comment.

The board approved a change to the charter system contract for Atlanta Public Schools to explicitly state that the system will not waive portions of the Georgia Fair Dismissal Act.

All items on the consent calendar were approved.

2026 Top Ten Issues

 Matt Smith with the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE) provided an overview of the organization's "Top 10 Issues to Watch in 2026" report. Smith focused on the importance of whole-child supports, attendance, and student engagement. He emphasized the importance of students mastering the skills employers need and earning credentials of value, while also participating in work-based experiences that promote smoother transitions between training and employment

Other Presentations

On Feb. 18, Dr. Barbara Wall, deputy superintendent for CTAE, provided an update on the GaDOE CTAE division, and a CTAE student provided the inspiration Feb. 19

Later in the meeting, State School Superintendent Richard Woods presented the winners of the GLET Cybersecurity Awareness Poster Contest.

Finally, the board honored former SBOE member and chair, Stan DeJarnett. PAGE thanks DeJarnett for his leadership as well as his years of service to Georgia educators and students.