Are you considering homeschooling your child in California? It is an important decision, so it is important that you understand what the requirements are. You need to make sure your child is receiving an education that meets California’s standards.
This article will provide an overview of what you will need to do to homeschool your child in California.
Do I Need to Notify the School District?
Yes, California requires you to notify the local school district of your intent to homeschool. You must do so within ten days of beginning the homeschool program.
It is important to note that you will need to fill out a form and provide proof of the child’s age. Additionally, the notification must include a statement of the instruction that will be provided and who will be providing it. There are various forms available from the local school district, which should be filled out and submitted according to the instructions provided by the district.
What Kind of Education Does My Child Need to Receive?
The state of California requires that children who are being homeschooled receive a minimum of instruction in the English language arts, math, science, history-social science, health and physical education. The curriculum should include education that is appropriate to the age and abilities of the individual child.
In addition, instruction should also include instruction in reading, language arts, mathematics, and social science. In terms of the type of educational materials used, the State of California does not specify the type of materials that should be used. However, it does require that the material used be ‘rigorous enough to provide material that is appropriate to the child’s age and ability.
‘ It is strongly encouraged that parents utilize a variety of materials, such as textbooks, online resources, and other activities that help the child stay engaged and continue learning.
What Types of Instruction Are Permitted?
California allows parents to provide a variety of forms of instruction for their homeschooled child. These include activities such as attending a museum, engaging in community service, and taking advantage of online learning opportunities.
Parents are also allowed to bring in outside instructors, such as tutors or coaches, to supplement their homeschooling program. Additionally, parents are allowed to include educational trips and other field experiences as part of their child’s education.
Do I Need to Be a Certified Teacher?
No, California does not require parents to be a certified teacher in order to homeschool their children. Parents are allowed to provide the instruction themselves, however they must have completed the equivalent of a high school education and demonstrate subject matter knowledge when evaluating their child’s progress and achievements.
Am I Required to Keep Records and Assessments?
Yes, California does require that parents complete and maintain records for their homeschooler. This includes attendance records and records of their child’s academic progress and assessment. It is recommended that records should be kept for at least two years, and that the parents provide the local school district with a copy of the student’s transcripts or portfolio every year.
What Are the Attendance Requirements?
In California, children who are being homeschooled must attend a minimum of 180 days of instruction per year and receive at least 1220 hours of total instruction in the various subjects. It is important to note that these hours do not necessarily have to be consecutive.
What Subjects Must Be Covered?
It is important to make sure that the instruction provided meets the State of California’s education requirements for student performance. This means that your child must be given instruction in basic courses such as English language arts, reading, math, science, and social science. In addition, instruction should also cover health, visual and performing arts, and physical education.
Do I Need to File an Affidavit?
Yes, California requires that an affidavit must be filled out and submitted to the local public school district within thirty days of the beginning of the school year. This affidavit must include the names and addresses of all family members who will be responsible for providing the instruction, and the signature of the person responsible for evaluating the student’s achievement.
Where Can I Get Additional Support and Advice?
Fortunately, there is a variety of resources available online to provide parents with information, support, and advice regarding homeschooling their child in California. These include websites like the HomeSchool Association of California and National Homeschool Legal Defense Association.
Additionally, many local libraries and community centers host homeschooling workshops and seminars for parents.
Are There Any Local Support Groups?
Yes, there are several local support groups that provide parents with helpful advice, resources, and networking opportunities. These support groups are great for connecting with other homeschooling families, hearing about events and activities in the area, and asking for help with curriculum and other issues.
Are Standardized Tests Required?
The State of California does not require homeschoolers to take standardized tests. However, it is important to remember that if parents choose to have their child take a standardized test, they will need to provide documentation of the results to the local public school district.
Are There Any Regulations About Curriculum?
California does not require homeschoolers to use a certain curriculum. However, the curriculum must be rigorous, relevant, and appropriate for the student’s age and ability levels. Additionally, parents are responsible for providing instruction in the basic courses such as English, math, science, and social science.
Are There Any Financial Assistance Programs for Homeschoolers?
Yes, some counties in California offer financial assistance programs for families that are homeschooling their children. These programs are designed to reduce the cost of purchasing educational supplies, such as textbooks and resource materials.
Additionally, some of these programs can provide assistance with transportation costs, field trip expenses and other costs associated with homeschooling.
Conclusion
Homeschooling your child in California can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it is important that you understand the requirements of the state. This article has provided an overview of the steps you will need to take in order to homeschool your child in California.
It is important that you familiarize yourself with the various requirements and regulations, such as notification requirements, curriculum regulations, and financial assistance programs. By taking the necessary steps, you can ensure that your child receives the education they need to be successful.