Panel approves bill letting public virtual-school students join resident-school athletics and activities

House Bill 1218 (LC610349), presented by Representative (Speaker 16), would extend to students enrolled in public virtual schools the ability to participate in athletics, fine arts and other extracurricular activities at the resident brick-and-mortar school when the virtual school does not offer those programs.

The presenter said the change aligns public virtual-school policy with the Dexter Moseley Act (which expanded extracurricular access for home-school students) and that the Georgia High School Association supports the provision. The bill requires a parent or guardian to provide notice to the resident school at least 30 calendar days before the semester in which the student intends to participate.

Members voiced support; the sponsor cited student testimony and the backing of virtual school providers and statewide athletics groups. A motion to 'do pass' was made and seconded, and the committee approved HB1218 by voice vote; the chairman read LC610349 to the record.