Homeschooling is an increasingly popular form of education in the US, with most states reporting steady growth. New York is no exception, as families move toward alternative methods of education. When it comes to homeschooling in New York, you have a few different options.
Whether you’re new to homeschooling or just looking for information on the subject, you’ll want to understand the regulations, financing options, and curriculum choices available in New York. By the end of this article, you will have a better idea of the process and whether homeschooling is the right choice for your family.
What is the Homeschooling Process in New York?
The homeschooling process in New York consists of four main steps. First, you need to register with the local or state Department of Education. Next, you must decide which New York-approved curriculum you want to use.
Third, you need to develop a plan for your child’s education, which can include subject area and unit goals. Finally, you must decide how you will assess your child and progress.
Before you begin the homeschooling process in New York, it’s important to understand the state’s regulations. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) requires that parents submit a notarized affidavit verifying that they are homeschooling their children and following an approved curriculum.
Depending on where you live, you may also need to report to a supervising teacher, a private school, or a board of education.
What is the Best Curriculum for Homeschooling in New York?
Choosing the right curriculum for homeschooling in New York is a personal decision. There are numerous options to choose from, and the best one for your child will depend on their age and learning style.
Luckily, most New York approved curricula offer a variety of options, so you can find one that best suits your goals and needs. For younger learners, the Core Knowledge foundation or Abeka curriculum are popular options. These curricula focus on building foundational skills and knowledge through reading, writing and language arts, math, science, and social studies.
For older learners, the Acellus Academy or the Thrive Homeschool Academy are two good choices. These curricula offer online classes and projects to help young people cultivate academic and life skills.
If your child has special educational needs, there are alternative curricula like PRIME Time, Choice Homeschooling and Homeschool Encouragement Network, which are designed to meet their needs. Finally, if you’re looking for a religious approach, there are Christian-based curricula like Alpha Omega Academy and BJU Homeschooling.
What are the Costs Involved in Homeschooling in New York?
The cost of homeschooling in New York depends on which materials and curricula you choose. Generally speaking, most curricula cost between $200-$400 annually.
In addition, there are other upfront costs such as books and learning materials, which can range from $50-$100. Some families also choose to invest in additional services such as tutoring, online classes, or assessments, which can be more expensive. It’s important to know that the cost of homeschooling is tax deductible in New York.
According to the Internal Revenue Service, parents can claim up to $4,000 per qualifying student. This tax break applies to expenses such as books, supplies, and tutoring fees.
Are There Parent Groups to Connect With?
Joining a parent group is a great way to connect with other homeschoolers and get support. Fortunately, there are numerous groups in New York that you can join. For example, the New York State Homeschooling Network is an informal group of parents and homeschoolers that provides advice, resources, and support.
The New York City Homeschoolers is another local organization dedicated to empowering parents in their homeschooling journey. Additionally, some counties in New York offer their own organizations.
For example, the Brooklyn Home Educators Network is a local organization that offers education and networking opportunities. Similarly, the Nassau County Parents Association is a group of parents dedicated to providing support and resources to those homeschooling in Nassau County.
Are There Options for Homeschool Enrichment?
Homeschool enrichment is an important part of any homeschooling program. Enrichment activities teach children valuable skills, such as artistic expression and life lessons, while also allowing them to have fun and make friends. Luckily, homeschoolers in New York have a variety of enrichment options available.
Many libraries in New York offer enrichment activities, such as storytelling and art projects, to homeschoolers. Additionally, there are a number of homeschooling organizations and co-ops that offer enrichment programs.
These programs often include courses and activities for children, such as language-learning classes, dance lessons, and cooking classes. Furthermore, there are online programs such as Time4Learning that provide resources and curriculum for students.
Can I Get Funding for Homeschooling in New York?
While homeschooling is a cost-effective educational option, many parents in New York look for ways to offset the cost of homeschool materials and curriculum. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to get funding for homeschooling in New York.
The most common option is to apply for the CHIP (Childhood Home Instruction Program) and receive up to $500 per year. This program enables parents and caretakers to apply for reimbursement of tuition and curriculum costs up to the maximum amount. Additionally, there are grants and scholarships available to homeschoolers in New York, such as the Take flight, New York Merit Scholarship, and NYHEN Charter School Awards.
What Services are Available for Homeschoolers?
Websites like HSLDA. org (Home School Legal Defense Association) and HomeschoolNewYork.
com provide resources, such as advice, forums, and advocacy services, to homeschoolers in New York. In addition, there are a number of homeschooling organizations in the state, such as the New York State Homeschool Network and The Parents Forum of New York State. These organizations provide support and resources for homeschoolers, such as legal advice, curriculum reviews, and parental support.
What Kind of Tests Should I Give My Homeschooled Child?
The type of test you give your homeschooled child depends on their grade level and individual needs. If a parent lies outside the scope of New York State’s basic curriculum requirements, they may choose to opt for a standardize assessment. These tests measure scholastic achievement and allow parents to compare their child’s performance to a nationwide average.
For homeschoolers in New York, the most commonly used test is the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS). It covers reading, math, language arts, science, and social studies.
Many parents also opt for the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT) or the California Achievement Test (CAT), both of which are nationally standardized tests.
Are There Laws that Govern Homeschooling in New York?
Yes, there are a few state laws that homeschoolers in New York must follow. These laws are designed to ensure that children are receiving a quality education. For example, homeschoolers must provide a notarized affidavit to the Department of Education, which verifies that the family is homeschooling and meets the minimum requirements.
Homeschooled children are also required to take a nationally standardized test at least every three years and submit the results to the Department of Education.
What Should I Do If My Child Struggles Homeschooling?
If your child is struggling to keep up with their coursework, it may be helpful to speak to a qualified teacher or school counselor. A teacher or counselor can help you develop a curriculum that is more appropriate for your child’s learning needs. Additionally, they can provide advice on how to support your child and make the learning process more enjoyable.
If your child is having behavioral issues, it may be beneficial to look into educational therapy. Educational therapists specialize in addressing learning and social issues, and can help children develop skills to succeed in their school work.
Finally, for children with special needs, the State of New York offers special education services to homeschooled students.
Are There Activities for My Homeschooled Child?
Yes, there are a variety of activities available for homeschoolers in New York. Many libraries, community centers, and museums offer educational and recreational programs for homeschoolers.
Additionally, there are homeschooling groups that organize activities and field trips. For example, the Private School Admissions Network offers an online program for homeschoolers, and the Brooklyn Home Educators Network organizes playgroups, field trips, and events for homeschoolers.
Are There Support Groups for Homeschoolers?
Yes, there are numerous support groups for homeschoolers in New York. For instance, the New York State Homeschool Network hosts monthly meetings, where homeschoolers can get advice from experienced homeschoolers and discuss relevant topics.
Additionally, groups like the Long Island Home School Network, the Hudson Valley Homeschoolers, and the Westchester Home Educators Network offer support and activities for homeschoolers in the area.
Conclusion
Homeschooling can be a rewarding and educational experience for parents and children. However, it’s important to understand the laws and regulations in New York, as well as the variety of curricula, activities, and support services available.
By following this guide, you can make the transition to homeschooling much smoother and more enjoyable.