With most public schools, daycares and other educational institutions closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, families in Texas and nationwide may be considering homeschooling their children. Whether it’s for a traditional homeschool experience, a temporary solution amidst the pandemic, or just a family preference, here’s everything you need to know about Texas homeschooling.
What is Homeschooling?
Homeschooling is the practice of educating children in a home, either using parents or guardians as teachers or a combination of professional educators, tutors, and online coursework. It is an alternative form of education outside of traditional public and private schools, and is often seen as a better fit for certain children’s needs than the options offered by traditional schools.
Is Homeschooling Legal in Texas?
Yes, in Texas homeschooling is completely legal. The Texas Education Code, Sec. 2
086, allows any parent or guardian to teach their own children at home in Texas, provided that such instruction meets the educational requirements of the state.
What Are the Rules for Homeschooling in Texas?
In Texas, homeschooling is considered a form of private education. To enroll as a homeschooler in Texas, families must indicate their intent to do so with their local school district within 14 days of beginning homeschooling. In addition, families must provide information about their plans for attendance and instruction, lesson plans, and progress reports.
Finally, parents must ensure that their children are meeting the state’s educational standards, which includes learning in the areas of reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and good citizenship.
Do I Need a Teaching Certificate or College Degree to Homeschool in Texas?
No, you do not need a teaching certificate or college degree to homeschool in Texas. In Texas, parents are legally allowed to homeschool their own children without any formal training or certification.
What Happens if I Don’t Follow the Rules of Homeschooling?
In Texas, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) can investigate suspected violations of the state’s standards for homeschooling. The TEA may order a hearing, which may result in additional educational or tutoring requirements or even an order to enroll in a traditional school.
It is important to follow the rules of homeschooling to avoid any potential legal troubles.
Do I Need to Have All of the Materials?
No, you do not need to have all the materials to start homeschooling in Texas. The state has some basic requirements for instruction, but leaves room for parents and families to create their own curriculum.
It is important to remember, however, to make sure that your instruction meets the state’s educational requirements.
What Resources are Available for Homeschooling in Texas?
The Texas Education Agency offers a variety of resources for homeschooling families. This includes information about legal requirements, instruction standards, and resources for finding materials, curriculum kits, and educational software. The agency also provides a list of support groups for homeschoolers, and can help link families with legal support if needed.
Are There Virtual Homeschooling Options Available in Texas?
Yes. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many virtual homeschooling options have become available in Texas. Many online programs, such as Zoom, Google Classroom, and Khan Academy, offer homeschoolers the ability to use interactive instructional materials and work with teachers, tutors, and educators in a virtual environment.
These programs and courses can provide important instruction in the areas of reading, writing, math, science, social studies, and other subjects.
Are There Any Social Opportunities Available for Homeschoolers?
Yes. In Texas, there are a variety of social opportunities available for homeschoolers, including co-ops, clubs, sports teams, competitions, and extracurricular activities. Co-ops, in particular, are a great way for homeschoolers to connect with other parents and students who are also homeschooling and share materials, resources, and ideas.
Additionally, there are a variety of homeschool programs and organizations that offer social and educational opportunities, including the Texas Home School Coalition, Classical Conversations, and Texas Homeschoolers’ Circle.
Do Homeschoolers Need to Take Standardized Tests?
Yes. In Texas, all children aged 10 or older who are homeschooling are required to participate in standardized testing, although in some cases these tests can be waved. These tests are administered by an approved testing provider, and must be completed by April of each year.
Do Homeschoolers Have to be Vaccinated?
No. In Texas, homeschoolers are exempt from the state’s vaccine laws.
Parents who homeschool their children are not required to follow the vaccine requirements that would typically apply to traditional school settings.
Are There Any Other Things to Consider Before Starting Homeschooling?
Yes. Starting a homeschooling program for your family is a big decision, and it’s important to remember that homeschooling is not for everyone.
Before starting a homeschool program, it’s important to evaluate the needs of your family and consider the budget, schedules, resources available, and any other factors that may affect the success of your homeschooling. It’s also important to remember that homeschooling takes dedication and patience, and that it is not always easy.
Conclusion
Homeschooling can be a rewarding and meaningful experience for families in Texas. With the right resources and support, people in the Lone Star state can create a successful homeschooling experience that best aligns with their family’s needs.
It is important, however, to make sure that homeschoolers are meeting the state’s educational requirements and are following all of the guidelines laid out by the Texas Education Agency. With dedication and commitment, a quality homeschool experience is within reach.