Homeschooling is a viable educational option for parents in Kentucky who want to ensure their children receive the best possible schooling. Additionally, by removing your kids from the traditional school system, you gain more control over the type of curriculum your child will get.
However, homeschooling doesn’t come without its drawbacks. A common question parents ask is how much does it cost to homeschool in Kentucky?In this article, we’ll explore the cost of homeschooling in Kentucky by answering fifteen central questions.
1. How Does Homeschooling Work in Kentucky?
Homeschooling in Kentucky is governed by the Homeschool Law. This law outlines the criteria parents must meet in order to provide their children an alternative form of education free from the public school system. To homeschool, you must file a Notification of Intent with your local district and keep records of your children’s academic progress.
You also need to include periodic assessments and keep your children’s portfolios up to date. The assessment and portfolio are then reviewed by your local school district’s superintendent or designee and must meet overall educational standards as established by the Kentucky Department of Education.
2. What Are the Age Requirements for Homeschooling in Kentucky?
The Homeschool Law states that all children in Kentucky between the ages of five and eighteen must attend school, except if they are homeschooled. Homeschooled children must begin their studies no later than seven years of age.
A student must pass a competency test before they turn eighteen to be eligible to receive a diploma.
3. How Can Parents in Kentucky Start Homeschooling?
The first step to homeschooling in Kentucky is to file the Notification of Intent form with your local district office. This form will detail your intent to homeschool and your children’s academic goals.
You’ll also need to submit a copy of your students’ immunization records, evidence of vision and hearing tests, birth certificates, and proof of residence. Once the necessary documents are submitted, parents in Kentucky must also create a curriculum that meets the state’s educational standards. Parents then must adhere to their curriculum, provide regular assessments of their children’s progress, and keep detailed records of their children’s academic journey.
Lastly, the homeschooling parent must keep the portfolio of their children’s work updated and submit it annually to their local district office.
4. Is There Financial Assistance Available for Homeschooling in Kentucky?
Unfortunately, there is no financial assistance available for parents who choose to homeschool their children in Kentucky. While there are some organizations in the state that provide educational grants, these grants cannot be used to cover the costs of homeschooling.
5. What Are the Costs Associated with Homeschooling in Kentucky?
The cost of homeschooling in Kentucky depends on the type of curriculum chosen and the method of home instruction. Generally, homeschooling parents can expect to pay for books, materials, computers and/or software, supplemental materials, and subject-specific tutors if needed. The cost of curriculum varies depending on the method chosen.
The most common methods of homeschooling in Kentucky are a traditional textbook-based curriculum, an online curriculum, or a blend of the two. A traditional curriculum generally costs around $500-$800 per student, while an online curriculum can cost anywhere from $500-$5000 per student per year.
The most economical route is to use a combination of both types of instruction, as this can minimize the cost while providing a well-rounded education.
6. Are There Any Other Fees Associated with Homeschooling in Kentucky?
Besides the cost of curriculum, there are a few other fees associated with homeschooling in Kentucky. One fee is the homeschooling notification fee, which is a one-time fee of $50 required for all homeschooling parents in the state. Additionally, some homeschooling parents choose to enroll their children in extra-curricular activities at a local public or private school.
If this is the case, you’ll be required to pay participation fees for each activity.
7. Are There Any Savings or Discounts Available for Homeschool Supplies?
The good news is that there are a few ways to save money on supplies. One way is to purchase used items, such as books and curriculum materials.
Additionally, many homeschooling parents choose to join a homeschooling cooperative, which allows them to purchase supplies collectively at a discounted rate.
8. Are There Any Homeschool Support Groups in Kentucky?
There are a variety of homeschool support groups located throughout the state of Kentucky. These support groups offer advice, resources, and encourage parents who are new to homeschooling. Most support groups are free and are organized through local church groups, libraries, knowledge centers and other public organizations.
9. What Are the Benefits of Homeschooling in Kentucky?
There are several benefits to homeschooling in Kentucky. For one, it allows the child to learn at their own pace without the pressure of fitting in with traditional school schedules.
It also allows parents to customize the curriculum to their child’s individual needs, interests, and abilities. Additionally, homeschooling in Kentucky provides children with an opportunity to experience learning outside of the traditional classroom setting.
10. Are There Any Drawbacks to Homeschooling in Kentucky?
Homeschooling in Kentucky is not without its drawbacks. Parents must be prepared to devote time and resources to their children’s home education, and they must have the knowledge and skill to teach their children.
Additionally, some parents have concerns over their children not experiencing the socialization opportunities of traditional schools.
11. Are There Any Legal Issues to Consider Before Starting a Homeschool?
Yes. Before starting a homeschool, parents must make sure they’re aware of all legal requirements in the state of Kentucky.
Parents must file a Notice of Intent with the school district and adhere to the state’s educational standards. Additionally, parents must keep records of their children’s academic progress and submit a portfolio at the end of the school year.
12. What Are the Requirements for Getting a Diploma for a Homeschooled Student in Kentucky?
To be eligible for a diploma from a homeschool in Kentucky, a student must pass a Competency Exam that is given by the Kentucky Department of Education. Additionally, the student must complete their course of instruction and demonstrate a mastery of the material.
The diploma is only issued for completion of grades nine through twelve.
13. What Are Some of the Best Curriculum Choices for Homeschooling in Kentucky?
There are a variety of curriculum choices that are suitable for homeschooling in Kentucky. The most popular choices include the Abeka curriculum, Saxon Math curriculum, and the A Beka book curriculum.
Each of these curriculum choices is appropriate for homeschooling in Kentucky, as they offer a rigorous educational experience while ensuring students meet the state’s educational standards.
14. Are There Any Online Learning Opportunities for Homeschoolers in Kentucky?
Yes. There are a variety of online learning opportunities for homeschoolers in Kentucky.
Parents can choose from online classes, tutoring services, and other after-school activities. Additionally, some schools offer a virtual academy, in which students are able to take classes from the comfort of their own home while still participating in extracurricular activities at the school.
15. What Is the Overall Cost of Homeschooling in Kentucky?
The overall cost of homeschooling in Kentucky depends on the type of curriculum chosen and the method of instruction. Generally, homeschooling can cost anywhere between $500-$5000 per student per year. Additionally, there are other costs associated with homeschooling including a one-time notification fee, immunization and hearing/vision screenings, and supplementary materials.
Conclusion
Homeschooling in Kentucky can be both a rewarding and cost effective alternative to traditional schooling. While the overall cost associated with homeschooling varies depending on the type of curriculum and instruction, parents can expect to pay anywhere between $500-$5000 per student per year. Additionally, parents must be aware of the legal requirements associated with homeschooling and have the knowledge and skills to provide their children with a well-rounded education.
Overall, homeschooling in Kentucky can be an enriching educational experience while providing a more customized approach to learning.