Homeschooling is becoming a more popular educational opportunity in recent years, with the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic likely to continue the trend. Knowing how to homeschool in Indiana is an important part of the decision-making process for parents, and having a thorough understanding of the paperwork required to withdraw a child from public school is vital to that success. This article outlines the important questions that need to be answered in order to legally withdraw a child from public school in Indiana for the purpose of homeschooling.
Do I need to provide proof of my child’s health records?
No, Indiana does not require that a child’s health records be turned in when enrolling in a home school program. However, it is important to note that Indiana State Law requires that all children, including those being homeschooled, receive regular medical assessments and immunizations as recommended by a physician.
Who do I contact to withdraw my child from public school?
The first step in withdrawing a child from public school in Indiana is contacting the public school district and speaking with the individual designated as the school district’s Home Education Liaison. This person will be able to provide details about withdrawing your child from school as well as answer any questions that you may have about Indiana’s local and state homeschooling laws.
Do I need to file anything with the state before beginning formal homeschooling?
Yes, all parents who are enrolling their children in a home school program in Indiana must complete and file a Notice of Intent to Establish a Home School with the Indiana Department of Education. This document can be found on the Indiana Department of Education website or obtained from the Home Education Liaison at the child’s public school.
The Notice of Intent must be submitted within 30 days of when the parent begins homeschooling their child.
What other paperwork do I need to provide in Indiana?
In addition to the Notice of Intent, Indiana requires that parents of homeschooled students file an Annual Progress Report (APR) with the Department of Education each year. The APR will be available from the Indiana Department of Education’s website and must be submitted no later than December 31 each year.
The APR is used to verify that the child is receiving an education with the goals of progress and advancement in skills, knowledge, and understanding of life in general. Parents must also provide documentation of assessments given at the end of the school year that are conducted by someone other than the parent.
Do I need to notify the school district that I am homeschooling?
Yes, parents must submit the Notice of Intent to the public school district in which the student is currently enrolled. The public school district in which the student is enrolling must also be notified of the student’s intention to homeschool.
Are there any fees associated with homeschooling in Indiana?
No, there are no fees associated with enrolling a student in a home school program in Indiana.
Do I need to use specific curriculum for homeschooling in Indiana?
No, parents are not required to use any specific curriculum when homeschooling in Indiana. However, it is recommended that parents choose a curriculum and/or materials that will ensure progress and advancement for the child and that meet the specific learning needs and preferences of the individual student.
Do I need to be an accredited teacher or have experience teaching to homeschool in Indiana?
No, you do not need to be an accredited teacher or have prior experience teaching in order to teach a student in a home school program in Indiana.
Do I need to provide proof of student attendance?
No, Indiana does not require parents to prove student attendance when homeschooling. However, it is strongly recommended that parents keep and maintain attendance records to be able to demonstrate to the Indiana Department of Education that the student is meeting the minimum 178 days of instruction requirement.
Are tests required in Indiana homeschools?
Yes, Indiana requires that students in a home school program take their required assessments annually. These assessments must be conducted by someone other than the parent, and evidence of the assessments must be provided to the Indiana Department of Education with the Annual Progress Report each year.
Do I need to register with a recognized learning institution when homeschooling in Indiana?
No, students enrolled in home school programs in Indiana are not required to be enrolled or registered with a recognized learning institution.
How do I hold transcripts or records for my child?
Parents may keep a portfolio of records and/or transcripts for their child’s homeschooling experience in Indiana. The portfolio should include but is not limited to, attendance records, test results, assignments, and assessments.
Are there resources available to learn more about homeschooling in Indiana?
Yes, the Indiana Department of Education provides resources and information on their website related to homeschooling in Indiana. Additionally, many homeschooling organizations and communities are available throughout Indiana to provide advice, support, and resources to those who are interested in homeschooling.
Conclusion
Homeschooling in Indiana has become a popular choice for many parents in recent years. Knowing what paperwork is needed to withdraw a child from public school in order to homeschool in Indiana is a vital part of this decision.
Parents need to be aware of and familiar with the documents required for withdrawal and for enrolling in a home school program, including the Notice of Intent, the Annual Progress Report, and any assessments that are conducted by someone other than the parent. Additionally, parents should be aware of the available resources and organizations that can provide help and advice on homeschooling. With a thorough and complete understanding of the paperwork needed and a knowledge of the resources available, parents will be well-prepared to start homeschooling in Indiana.