Deciding to homeschool your child is an important decision that requires much thought and consideration. Fortunately, if you or your child reside in the state of Illinois, the process for pulling your child out of public school and transitioning to homeschooling is relatively straightforward. This article will provide an overview of the rules and regulations surrounding homeschooling in the state of Illinois, as well as provide step-by-step guidance on how to pull your child out of public school and begin homeschooling.
What is Homeschooling in Illinois?
Homeschooling in Illinois is defined as the provision of instruction by parents or legal guardians to their minor children in their own residence, instead of enrolling them in public school. Parents serve as their children’s teachers and are solely responsible for the instruction, methods, and curriculum they use. While homeschooling is a popular form of education nationwide, each state has its own set of regulations and requirements which parents must adhere to when registering their children for home instruction.
Understanding these requirements is key to ensure legal compliance.
What are the Regulations for Homeschooling in Illinois?
Illinois homeschooling regulations are fairly strict, but still somewhat straightforward. Parents who wish to homeschool must provide written notice to their local school district, which includes an outline of the curriculum they are using and a proof of immunization.
Parents must also employ a certified teacher who will evaluate the progress of their child’s education three times a year. All evaluations must be in writing, submitted to the school district, and signed by the certified teacher. Parents are also required to keep records of the hours, weeks, and/or months their child is being instructed and must submit a portfolio of the school year’s work each year.
How to Pull Your Child Out of Public School to Homeschool in Illinois
If you and your child currently reside in the state of Illinois and wish to transition to homeschooling, below is a step-by-step guide on how you can legally pull your child out of public school and begin the homeschooling process.
Step 1: Give Notice to Your Local School District
The first step for any parent wishing to transition to homeschooling in Illinois is to provide written notice to their local school district. This notice should include the intention to homeschool, a written statement of the curriculum you plan to use, and a copy of your child’s most recent immunization records. It is important to remember that the curriculum must meet the required academic standards set by the State Board of Education.
The written notice should also state the date by which you plan to commence homeschool instruction.
Step 2: Obtain a Teacher Evaluation
Parents in Illinois must employ the services of a certified teacher three times each school year in order to evaluate their child’s progress. This evaluation must be in writing and must include the teacher’s signature in order to be valid.
Additionally, a copy of the evaluation must be provided to the school district.
Step 3: Maintain Records of Instruction
Parents are responsible for maintaining detailed records of the time and hours spent homeschooling during the school year. This includes the days, weeks, and months that your child is being instructed.
This record of instruction must be kept for a period of two years and can be submitted to the school district upon request.
Step 4: Submit a Portfolio
At the end of each school year, parents are responsible for submitting a portfolio of their child’s academic work to their school district. This portfolio should include samples of the child’s academic work, including tests, assignments, published works, and other evidence of the activities in which the child has engaged while homeschooling.
Conclusion
Writing this article has been a great way to review the rules and regulations surrounding homeschooling in the state of Illinois. It is important for any parent or guardian looking to transition their child out of public school and into homeschooling to understand these rules and regulations, as ensuring legal compliance is key to having a successful homeschooling experience.
Following the above steps should help any parent get started in homeschooling in Illinois.