Registering for School: Tips for Newcomers

Registering for School: Tips for Newcomers

Are you new to the Muscogee County School District? Have you have moved or had a change of address? Here are some tips to help you get your child registered and ready for the first day of school in August.

1. Visit the School District’s website.

Everything you need is right here — Seriously! Muscogee Co School District does a great job of keeping its website up to date with everything you need to know about getting your child ready for school. You can download a copy of the school calendar, find out the start and end times for elementary, middle and high schools, and research all 64 schools and alternative centers in the district.

If you are a military family, be sure to contact the Military Student Transition Consultant at 706-748-2254. She is available to answer your questions, direct you to the appropriate resources, and make sure your transition into our community goes as smoothly as possible.

2. Look up your school attendance zone.

You can find your attendance zone by clicking here. Then click the tab: MapNetWeb School Locator. School assignments are based on the residential address of the custodial parent or legal guardian.

Students requiring Special Education services may receive alternative placements, since these services are not available at every school. If you have any questions, contact the Program for Exceptional Students at [email protected] or call 706-748-2230.

3. Collect the required documents.

You will need the following documents to register your child:

• 2 proofs of residency (current utility bill and a sales, lease or rental contract)
• Birth certificate
• Social Security Card
• Withdrawal form or report card
• Affidavit (*Notarization is required if you live with someone)
• Copy of your child’s current or previous Individual Education Plan (IEP)

4. Update your child’s vaccinations.

Students entering Georgia schools for the first time are required to show a new Certificate of Immunization (Form 3231 revised) at registration. A list of shot requirements is posted on the district website.

Unless your child has an exemption, all students born on or after January 1, 2002 and entering 7th grade must have proof of having received an adolescent pertussis (whooping cough) booster shot (“Tdap”). For information about exemptions, click here.

5. Fill out a Vision, Hearing, and Dental Certificate form.

All new students must provide a completed Vision, Hearing, and Dental Certificate (DHR Form 3300) at registration. If your child is admitted to school without a completed form, you must present one within 120 calendar days. You can get the form at the local public health departments or your pediatricians’s office. For more information, click here.

6. Okay. NOW register your child!

Once you have all your ducks in a row, it’s time to register your child. Elementary students will need to report to the Central Registration Office, 2960 Macon Rd, Columbus. The office is open Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm. Middle School and High School students can register at the Zone School of Assignment.

This is also your opportunity to request a Hardship Transfer to another school within the district. 

Whatever you do, don’t delay! Register your child for school now. Last year, an average of 300 people per day waited to register the week before school started.

7. Don’t miss District Verification Day!

This is the day that students and parents report to their assigned school to verify attendance. Bring all of your documentation (See #3) and be prepared to fill out a gazillion forms. You may want to secure a babysitter or bring another adult along to mind your little ones!

You will be able to do the following on Verification Day:

• Verify your school assignment.
• Complete School Registration. (Medical Cards, Lockers, Bus Passes, Class Assignments, Dues & Fees, Parking Decals)
• Find out about bus transportation.
• Meet the staff and faculty.

For more information, contact your child’s school of assignment, the Central
Registration Office, (706) 748-2222, (706) 748-3217, or e-mail [email protected].