Homeschooling has become increasingly popular in recent years, with both parents and students recognizing the potential benefits of this educational choice. While individual states have their own regulations regarding homeschooling, in New York, the homeschooling laws are unique. This article will explore how homeschooling works in NY, the regulations governing homeschooling, and how parents and homeschoolers can make the most of a homeschool education in the state.
Who Can Homeschool Their Child in NY?
In New York, only parents or legal guardians of a minor can provide instruction to that student in a home setting. This means that students cannot be taught solely by online schools, outside tutors, or other individual teachers. In addition, the parent or legal guardian must have a valid legal residence in the state of New York.
What Subjects Need to Be Taught?
The primary purpose of homeschooling in NY must be to provide the student with a full education in the areas of language, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education. Additionally, any student aged six years and older must also receive instruction in health education and the principles of moral and civic education, as outlined in the current Education Law.
What Records Are Required?
Parents who decide to homeschool their child in NY are required to maintain records of the student’s progress. This includes both academic and attendance records.
The records need to be detailed enough to show that the student has been receiving an education in the areas of language, math, science, social studies, physical education, health education, and the principles of moral and civic education. Records must be kept for at least five years after the student’s last recorded home instruction.
What Else Do I Need to Know?
In addition to the above requirements, parents of homeschooled students in NY must also adhere to all the applicable laws and regulations of the State Board of Education, the local school district, or both. Before beginning the homeschooling process, parents and students should familiarize themselves with the local schooling regulations to ensure that all legal requirements are being met. If a student and their parents choose to pursue homeschooling in NY, it is important to note that the student must still take the required New York State tests, pursuant to the state’s testing regulations.
The results of the state tests will be used to show that the student has obtained an acceptable level of learning, regardless of the home-instruction curriculum.
What is the Best Way to Go About Homeschooling in NY?
The best way to go about homeschooling in NY is to do so with the overall educational goals of the students in mind. When initially planning out a homeschooling program, parents and students should map out a full year’s curriculum and plan out the learning activities and assignments they wish to complete throughout the year. This will give parents and students an idea of what is necessary to complete and when, allowing everyone involved an easier way to track and stay on top of their academic progress.
Additionally, parents and students should familiarize themselves with the state guidelines, including information on the tests and records that are required. Making use of the resources available from the local school districts’ office is also extremely helpful when preparing for and following through with a homeschooling program in New York.
Can Home Educators Receive Financial Assistance?
One of the biggest concerns for some families considering homeschooling their child in NY is how can they manage to pay for their educational expenses. The good news is that the state does offer financial assistance for home educators.
Home educators can receive financial assistance in the form of tax deductions for educational expenses, tuition assistance for eligible students, and other educational aid programs. Parents should explore these options to maximize the benefits of homeschooling in New York.
Conclusion
When considering homeschooling in NY, it is important to look at all avenues to ensure that the student will receive the best learning experience. Parents should familiarize themselves with the state laws and regulations governing homeschooling, the educational goals of the student, and the options available for financial assistance.
With that said, having the right resources, information and time investment can greatly help both parents and students have a successful and fulfilling homeschooling journey in New York.