Homeschooling your child in Idaho can have many benefits, such as providing a safe and tailored learning environment, increased parental control over the curriculum, and more freedom to pick specific education methodologies. Although the rules surrounding homeschooling in Idaho are relatively simple, there are still plenty of important questions to ask before embarking on this educational journey. Below is a compilation of 15 questions to consider before you begin homeschooling your child in Idaho.
1. What are the state’s legal requirements for homeschooling?
In Idaho, homeschooling parents are not required to follow any specific curriculum or teach specific grades or classes. The only requirement for homeschooling a child in Idaho is that the parents must file a letter of intent with the local school district each year that their child is homeschooled.
This document must be signed by the parent or guardian of the child being homeschooled, and it must indicate that the child is receiving instruction in the areas of reading, language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies as required by Idaho state law.
2. How does a child return to public school after being homeschooled?
In Idaho, once a child has been homeschooled, they are eligible to return to public school if the parents wish. The public school district may require the parents to provide additional documentation, such as proof of the student’s academic progress while in homeschooling, in order to determine the student’s academic level.
If the student is not at the same academic level as their peers, the public school may require the student to take additional classes in order to catch up.
3. Are assessments such as standardized tests or other forms of assessment required for homeschooling?
In Idaho, homeschooling parents are not required to assess their children. If the parents choose to do so, however, the assessments must comply with state law. These assessments must be administered by a qualified professional and should include an appropriate grade level for the child being tested.
Parents may also submit progress reports or evaluations from an extracurricular or instructional program instead of assessments if they choose.
4. Are outside programs, such as a co-operative or hybrid schools, available for homeschooling a child in Idaho?
In Idaho, homeschooling parents may enroll their children in outside programs while still homeschooling. These programs must comply with Idaho state law, but they may include co-operative or hybrid schools, online programs, or group homeschooling programs.
In addition, many homeschooling social networks may provide support for homeschooling families.
5. Are there any Idaho support groups for homeschooling?
In Idaho, there are several support groups for homeschooling families, such as the Idaho Homeschool Network and Home School Legal Defense Association. These organizations provide meetings, seminars, resources, and information for homeschooling families.
Additionally, many cities also have local homeschooling support groups that parents can join.
6. What legal documents do I need to prepare before beginning to homeschool my child?
In Idaho, homeschooling parents must file a letter of intent with the local school district each year that their child is homeschooled. This document must be signed by the parent or guardian of the child being homeschooled, and it must indicate that the child is receiving instruction in the areas of reading, language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies as required by Idaho state law. Additionally, parents must also provide an immunization affidavit or exemption form and proof of the child’s birth date.
7. Are there any requirements for keeping a homeschooling portfolio and how to showcase it?
In Idaho, homeschooling parents are not required to keep a portfolio or showcase their child’s progress. However, many parents choose to do so in order to track their child’s progress and create a plan for the future. A portfolio may include tests or assessments, records of any extracurricular activities that your child participates in, and any special projects or presentations your child has completed.
There is no specific format for portfolios, so parents should create one that works best for them.
8. Is it possible to homeschool a child through elementary, middle, and high school in Idaho?
In Idaho, homeschooling is allowed for all age levels, from elementary to high school. Parents must follow state law requirements, such as filing an annual letter of intent and providing proof of immunization or exemption.
Additionally, homeschoolers must follow any applicable graduation requirements in order for their children to receive a diploma.
9. Are accommodations or modifications required for homeschooled children with special needs?
In Idaho, homeschooled children with special needs may be eligible for accommodations or modifications. Parents may submit an Individual Instructional Plan (IEP) to their local school district, outlining specific specialized instruction and services required for the student’s success. The local school district must evaluate and approve the IEP in order for the student to receive the necessary services.
10. Are there any restrictions on homeschooling children under 6 years old?
In Idaho, children under 6 years old may be homeschooled as long as their parents follow the state’s homeschooling requirements, such as filing an annual letter of intent. However, the Idaho State Board of Education does not require homeschoolers under the age of 6 to meet subject-specific requirements or follow a specific curriculum.
11. Are high school students required to complete a certain amount of coursework for graduation?
In Idaho, homeschooled high school students must complete the applicable coursework required for graduation, including coursework in core subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and social studies. Additionally, they must also pass any applicable state exams in order to receive a high school diploma.
The local school district has the final say in determining the student’s eligibility for graduation.
12. Are there any homeschooling laws that exempt a parent from needing to obtain a teaching certification?
In Idaho, homeschooling parents do not need to obtain a teaching certification in order to homeschool their children. The only requirements are that the parents file an annual letter of intent and provide proof of age, immunization, or exemption status.
The parents must also comply with any applicable graduation requirements for high school students.
13. Are there any government resources for homeschooling families in Idaho?
In Idaho, there are several government resources available for homeschooling families, including the Idaho State Board of Education and the Department of Education. The State Board of Education provides general information about homeschooling in Idaho and the Department of Education provides resources to help registered homeschooling families. Additionally, homeschoolers can also reach out to their local school districts for support and information.
14. What are some common homeschooling methods that can be used in Idaho?
In Idaho, homeschooling parents may use a variety of methods to provide instruction to their children. These methods may include traditional school-at-home methods, such as textbooks, worksheets, and lectures; more interactive methods, such as project-based learning or hands-on activities; or a combination of both. Additionally, many parents use online resources and extracurricular activities to supplement their home instruction.
15. Are there any state or local organizations that provide support for homeschooling families in Idaho?
In Idaho, there are several organizations that provide support for homeschooling families, such as the Idaho Homeschool Network, Home School Legal Defense Association, and local homeschooling support groups. Many of these organizations provide meetings, seminars, resources, and information for homeschooling families.
Conclusion
Homeschooling a child in Idaho can be a rewarding experience that allows families to create a safe and tailored learning environment, while still providing an education that meets the requirements of the local school district. Before beginning the homeschooling process, it is important to understand the legal requirements of Idaho, as well as any outside programs, accommodations, or methods that may be used. Additionally, parents should research support groups and government resources that can provide further assistance as needed.