GA HB740

Extends Georgia's existing grade retention requirements (currently grades 3, 5, and 8) to kindergarten and grades 1 and 2, requiring students to meet promotional standards before advancing to the next grade level

Requires the Department of Education to develop promotional standards and criteria for first grade readiness by January 1, 2026, with local school boards adopting corresponding placement and promotion policies by July 1, 2026

Mandates end-of-grade reading assessments for grades 1 and 2, with students who fail to achieve grade level given retesting opportunities and accelerated instruction before retention decisions are made

Establishes phased implementation: kindergarten requirements begin 2026-2027 school year, first grade in 2027-2028, and second grade in 2028-2029

Preserves existing appeal process allowing parents, guardians, or teachers to challenge retention decisions through a placement committee, with promotion requiring a unanimous decision