When it comes to the education of a child, it’s important to fully understand the requirements to ensure quality learning. In California, parents can choose to homeschool their child without registering through the local education agency.
If a parent chooses to homeschool their child, they are required to file an affidavit notifying the state of their decision. This article will discuss the process and requirements of filing an affidavit to homeschool a child and what to do after the affidavit has been filed.
What is an Affidavit?
An affidavit is a document that is sworn to be true by the person who is making the statement. It’s essentially a way to make a statement before a notary public or any other official.
A notary public is someone who is authorized to witness documents and administer oaths or affirmations. In the context of homeschooling, an affidavit tells the state that a parent is going to teach their child at home instead of sending them to school which is legally required in some states in the U. S.
Why is an Affidavit Required to Homeschool a Child in California?
In California, an affidavit is required for any child between the ages of 6-18 in order to inform the state of the parent’s decision to homeschool the child. The law states that if a parent is going to homeschool their child, they must submit the affidavit at least five days before the start of the homeschooling.
The affidavit can be submitted to the county superintendent, private school, or the California Department of Education.
What is the Process for Filing an Affidavit in California?
The first step to filing an affidavit is to obtain the affidavit form. These forms are available online and can be printed out or filled out digitally.
The form asks for basic information such as the name, address, and phone number of the parent or guardian who is responsible for the homeschooling. It also asks questions such as the period of homeschooling, the subject matter of instruction, and the curriculum to be used. It also requires the parent to sign the document and have it notarized by a notary public.
What Type of Documentation is Needed to Submit the Affidavit?
In addition to the affidavit form, a parent must also submit documentation such as a photograph of the parent or guardian and the student, proof of identity such as a driver’s license or passport, and a document that proves the parent’s right to file the affidavit such as a birth certificate or guardianship order. This documentation must be certified by a notary public before it can be submitted.
How Long Does it Take for an Affidavit to be Approved?
Once an affidavit is submitted to the appropriate agency, it can take up to 10 days for it to be approved. During this time the agency will confirm the information provided on the affidavit. If the information is correct, the affidavit will be approved.
What Happens After the Affidavit is Approved?
Once an affidavit is approved, the parent is expected to follow the basic requirements for homeschooling in California such as having annual tests or meetings with a teacher or mentor. The parent must also keep attendance records and documentation that their child is being educated at home.
Are there Other Requirements if the Child is Under Sixteen Years Old?
For children who are under 16 years old, there are additional requirements that must be met in order to homeschool them. These requirements include having the child assessed as capable of being homeschooled and providing evidence that they are being homeschooled in accordance with the California Educational Code.
What Maintenance is Expected After the Affidavit is Approved?
Once the affidavit is approved and the requirements are met, parents are required to maintain records, submit reports, and take part in a certain amount of meetings with a teacher or mentor. Parents must also re-submit the affidavit annually or anytime there is a change in the residence of the child or parents. Additionally, the child must be kept up-to-date on immunizations.
What Records Must be Maintained to Homeschool Legally in California?
To homeschool legally in California, parents must keep records of attendance, assessments, and progress. They must also keep records of textbooks, workbooks, materials, attendance sheets, and the curriculum used. Parents must also submit a report card at the end of the homeschool year.
What is the Process to Evaluate a Homeschooled Child’s Progress and Performance?
There are a few ways to evaluate a child’s performance and progress when homeschooling. Parents can utilize standardized tests and assessments to check the child’s progress. Additionally, the parent can require the child to complete coursework such as written essays or projects as evidence of progress and to assess their understanding of the material.
What is the Role of a Teacher or Mentor When Homeschooling a Child?
A teacher or mentor can provide guidance and support to a parent who is homeschooling a child. They can provide resources, advice, and tips on how to meet the needs of the individual child.
A teacher or mentor can also be of assistance in evaluating progress and performance. Additionally, they can offer advice and suggestions if a parent isn’t sure if their child is meeting the educational standards of the state.
Can a Homeschooled Child Participate in Extracurricular Activities?
Yes, homeschooled children can participate in extracurricular activities such as sports and clubs that are offered by the local school district. They may also qualify for activities offered by organizations outside of the school district.
What Resources are Available to Parents Who are Homeschooling a Child in California?
There are a variety of resources available to parents who are homeschooling a child in California. The California Department of Education provides helpful information and resources for parents who are homeschooling or considering homeschooling.
Additionally, there are many organizations and websites that provide support and advice to parents.
Are There Any Programs that Can Help if a Parent Wants to Switch From Traditional Education to Homeschooling?
Yes, there are programs that can provide assistance to families if they are looking to switch from traditional education to homeschooling. These programs offer resources, support, and guidance to families who are making the transition.
Are there Any Organizations or Associations to Join That Support Homeschooling?
Yes, there are a variety of organizations and associations that support homeschooling. These organizations provide support, advice, resources, and networking opportunities to help families make the transition from traditional education to homeschooling.
Are there any Legal Implications to Homeschooling in California?
Yes, there are legal implications to homeschooling in California. It’s important for any parent who is considering homeschooling to fully understand the laws and regulations in their state before starting.
Additionally, it’s important for parents to maintain records, assessments, and reports to prove that their child is meeting the standards of the state.
Conclusion
Homeschooling is an excellent way to provide a quality education to a child while allowing parents to be more involved in their learning experience. Filing an affidavit is an important step in the homeschooling process in California and comes with certain requirements that must be met.
It’s important for parents to understand the process and requirements before filing the affidavit and what to do after the affidavit is approved. There are also a variety of resources and organizations that can help families make the transition and provide support throughout the process.