Frequently Asked Questions
For Parents
How do I enroll my child in school?
In order to enroll a child in a public school system in Virginia, state law requires a parent or guardian of a child to provide certain information to the child's school division. Go to Enrollment in Virginia Public Schools to ensure you have all the required information.
How do I provide home instruction for my child?
There are several options for alternative schooling. Visit Home Instruction for related information and required documentation.
How do I report teacher misconduct?
Teacher misconduct allegations may be emailed to Professional.Practices@doe.virginia.gov.
How do I report a local issue?
In Virginia, local school boards are responsible for the day-to-day governance of schools in each division. This includes decisions about the following:
- Personnel
- Student discipline
- Attendance boundaries
- Local textbook selection
- Dress codes
- Grading scales
Questions about these and other local matters should be directed to the appropriate school division. Contact information for Virginia school divisions and individual schools is available on the Virginia Schools Directory webpage.
For information about resolving issues related to special education services, visit the Resolving Disputes and For Parents pages.
For Teachers
How do I obtain a teaching license in Virginia?
The Virginia Department of Education licenses teachers and administrators according to regulations adopted by the Board of Education. Visit the Licensure page for information about the following:
- Licensure application
- Licensure renewal
- Licensure changes
- Approved teacher education programs
- Reciprocity
- Regulations
How do I pay my student loans?
Contact the U.S. Department of Education for information about obtaining or repaying loans.
For Students
How do I request a copy of my transcript?
- High School – To obtain copies of school records, contact your local school division’s administrative offices.
- College – Contact the college or university, or the Office of Private and Out-of-state Postsecondary Education at the State Council of Higher Education.
- GED – GED test takers who earned a credential can order duplicate copies of transcripts and official Virginia GED certificates online at the GED Credentialing website. Additional information is available on the High School Equivalency (HSE) Credential webpage or you may contact the Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education at cte@doe.virginia.gov, 804-225-3999, or 804-786-3347.
- Adult/Trade Schools – The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia is responsible for the certification of private and out-of-state postsecondary educational institutions operating in Virginia. Contact the Private Postsecondary Education (PPE) unit to obtain transcripts from adult and trade schools.