Homeschooling is becoming one of the more popular education options for children in California. Homeschooling presents many advantages over the traditional public school environment, such as individualized instruction and a longer school day that allows for more time for enrichment activities and projects.
If you are considering homeschooling your child in California, here are 15 things you need to know.
1. What Are the Requirements to Homeschool in California?
The State of California requires certain documents in order to homeschool legally. These include a Statement of Educational Rights and Privacy, an Immunization Record, Proof of Residency, and an Authorization of Homeschool Instruction. Additionally, you must identify a California-certified teacher to be your mentor or Homeschooling Coordinator.
Finally, you must submit an affidavit to your school district Office of Home Instruction, stating that your home instruction program is in compliance with all state requirements.
2. Does the State of California Require Test Scores?
Yes, the state requires public schools to administer standardized tests to measure student performance and progress. In the homeschooling environment, many parents choose to select their own curriculum and administer tests in February and May to track their child’s academic achievements.
These tests can be administered by a private testing company or developed in-house by the parents.
3. Do Homeschool Teachers Need to be Licensed in California?
No, parents in California who wish to homeschool their children do not need to have teaching credentials or licensure. However, the state does require that parents designate a certified teacher to be their Homeschooling Coordinator, and it is recommended that parents who wish to teach subjects beyond their own expertise hire tutors who have California teaching credentials.
4. Is Homeschooling Legal in California?
Yes, homeschooling is legal in the State of California. A homeschooling program can be started in California with the filing of a private school affidavit. Although somewhat labor-intensive, the process is relatively painless and straightforward.
5. What Are Some Examples of Homeschool Curricula Available in California?
There are many curricula options for homeschooling families in California. Examples include traditional structured curricula like Calvert Education, Alpha Omega, and time4learning, more holistic programs such as Connections Academy, and self-directed curriculums like Oak Meadow, which allows parents to customize individualized programs for their child.
6. Do California Homeschoolers Need to Follow a Specific Instructional Schedule?
No, homeschoolers in California are not required to follow a specific instruction schedule. However, parents should ensure that instruction is being faithfully provided and that the child is adequately prepared for the annual February and May tests.
7. Are There Regulations Concerning the Number of Instructional Hours in a School Day or Week?
No, there are no regulations concerning the number of instructional hours in a school day or week. For younger students, it may be beneficial to partially recreate the traditional school day by providing ample instruction and short breaks between subjects. For older students, an individualized schedule may be beneficial, featuring longer blocks of independent study followed by shorter instruction blocks.
8. What Activities Are Available to Homeschool Students in California?
Homeschoolers in California have access to many educational and recreational activities, from after-school and weekend programs to supervised field trips, co-operative learning opportunities, and even athletics. Local and regional homeschooling support groups are available to provide guidance and resources for parents seeking to supplement their homeschooling program with activities that are both educational and fun.
9. Are Record-Keeping Requirements the Same for Homeschool and Public School?
Yes, both homeschools and public schools need to keep records of student progress. California homeschoolers are required to keep a written log of instruction, including a description of the course of study, the books and materials used and any test scores received.
These records need to be kept for at least three years.
10. Can Homeschoolers in California Participate in College-level Courses?
Yes, the State of California permits homeschoolers to attend college courses on a case-by-case basis. Private homeschoolers can contact their local community college or university for information on course offerings and enrollment requirements.
11. Can Students Who Have Been Homeschooled Participate in Athletics in California?
Yes, students who have been homeschooled are eligible to participate in interscholastic athletics, provided they meet the requirements mandated by the California Interscholastic Federation. These include submitting an academic transcript and satisfactorily completing a college preparatory program.
12. Are California Homeschoolers Eligible for State Financial Aid?
Yes, the State of California provides financial aid to eligible students attending accredited post-secondary institutions, including homeschoolers. Students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet all other state eligibility requirements.
13. Are There Alternatives for Families Who Cannot Meet All of the Requirements to Homeschool Legally in California?
Yes, many families choose to enroll their child in an independent study program provided by a public school district. With these programs, a public school teacher reviews the child’s work and provides guidance and evaluation.
This option allows homeschooling families to have the freedom and flexibility of homeschooling without the legal paperwork required for a private homeschooling program.
14. Are Online Courses Available to Homeschoolers in California?
Yes, online courses are available to California homeschoolers. National online schools such as K12, provide interactive courses that can be used to supplement a homeschooling curriculum.
Additionally, many secular and faith-based private schools offer online programs tailored to the needs of homeschoolers.
15. What Other Resources Are Available to Homeschoolers in California?
The State of California provides many resources to help parents with their homeschooling program. The California Department of Education offers helpful information on establishing a homeschooling program, finding a teacher mentor, and administering assessments. Additionally, there are a variety of websites and support groups available for homeschoolers in California.
Conclusion
Homeschooling in California is regulated by state and local laws. In order to homeschool a child legally, families need to complete certain paperwork, including a Private School Affidavit, Immunization Record and Authorization of Homeschool Instruction, and designate a California-certified teacher to be their Homeschooling Coordinator. Additionally, the state requires homeschoolers to administer standardized tests in February and May and keep records of student achievements.
With the right resources and support, homeschooling parents in California can provide a high-quality educational experience for their children.