Student Question

What are the differences between the Georgia and U.S. constitutions regarding education?

Quick answer:

The Georgia Constitution explicitly guarantees the right to a free public education, unlike the U.S. Constitution. It mandates a State Board of Education and a Board of Regents, both appointed by the governor, to oversee educational policies. Local boards have control over public schools, and public funds can support grants and scholarships. The Georgia Constitution prohibits new independent school systems and allows the creation of tuition waiver programs, ensuring comprehensive educational governance at the state level.

Expert Answers

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The Georgia Constitution guarantees the individual's right to an education; the United States Constitution does not. More specifically, the Georgia Constitution stipulates that:

  • All citizens have the right to a free, public education prior to college that will be paid for by taxes.
  • There will be a State Board Education made up of one member from each of Georgia's congressional districts. Board members are appointed by the governor and serve seven-year terms.
  • The State Board of Education will be presided over by an elected State School Superintendent.
  • County and area boards of education have the right to establish, maintain, and consolidate public schools.
  • No new independent school systems can be established.
  • Public funds can be used to provide grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid for deserving students and employees.
  • There will be a Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia made up of one member from each of Georgia's congressional districts. They're also appointed by the governor.
  • The Board of Regents of the University System can create tuition waiver programs.

This, of course, is an incomplete list of what the Georgia Constitution has to say about education. For more details, check out Article VIII right here.

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