If you are considering the idea of homeschooling your child, you may be overwhelmed with the idea of how to get started. The process is different in each state, though typically involves some form of application or registration before you can begin.
Trying to figure out the steps for signing up for homeschooling in your state can seem intimidating, but this guide can help you navigate the process. Keep reading for everything you need to know about signing up to homeschool your child.
What is Homeschooling?
In order to understand the process of signing up to homeschool your child, it’s important to first understand what homeschooling is. In general, homeschooling is when parents provide instruction and direct the education of their own children in the home, rather than at a public or private school.
This type of schooling is often more personalized to your child’s individual needs, as you are in charge of their instruction and can modify the curriculum to their interests and academic level. Homeschooling eliminates the need for long school days, classes, and transportation to and from school, and allows for a more intimate and personal education for your child.
How to Start Homeschooling Your Child
The first step to begin homeschooling your child is to make sure it’s legal in your state. Every state has different regulations, so research to find out the specific requirements you must meet in order to homeschool your child in your state. Next is deciding what type of curriculum you’ll use and how you’ll approach the instruction.
Curriculums range from pre-packaged programs you can purchase, to curriculums you create and tailor yourself. You can also combine several curriculums or find homeschool groups to gain access to resources and additional support while homeschooling your child.
How to Sign Up to Homeschool Your Child
Once you have decided to begin homeschooling your child, it’s time to sign up. Every state has different forms and requirements for signing up to homeschool, but there are some key steps to take for the process in general.
- Step One: Gather Required Documents.
In most states, you’ll need to have some form of birth certificate and immunization records for your child in order to register for homeschooling. There may be additional documents you must submit, so research your state and local school district carefully to find out what documents are required.
- Step Two: Create a Letter of Intent. Many states and districts require that you submit a letter of intent to officially indicate to them that you are beginning homeschooling your child.
This letter should include information like your child’s name, birthdate, your names and contact information, and your intent to begin homeschooling your child.
- Step Three: Submit the Required Forms. Now that you have all your documents, you can submit them to your local school district.
Submit a copy of the signed Letter of Intent and any other required documents like birth certificates. Depending on your state, you may submit your forms to a specific department or school board, or to your local homeschool association.
- Step Four: Comply With Any Requests.
Depending on your state’s regulations, you may be required to do additional steps or comply with certain requests from your school district in order to register. Common requests include following specific laws or ordinances, submitting a portfolio of your child’s work, or having your child be evaluated or tested in certain subjects.
- Step Five: Receive Official Notification. After you complete all the paperwork and other requirements, you should receive a letter or email from your school district with an official notification that your child’s registration has been approved. This letter will indicate the start date of your homeschooling and any other information you need to know.
Questions to Ask When Signing Up to Homeschool Your Child
Before signing up to homeschool your child, there are certain questions you should consider.
- What are my state’s specific homeschooling regulations? Make sure to research the exact requirements and regulations in your state for homeschooling before beginning the sign up process.
- What type of curriculum do I want to use? There are many types of homeschooling curriculums to choose from, so decide on the approach that works best for your child and family.
- What documents do I need to register? Most states require additional documents like birth certificates and immunization records in order to register, so make sure you have all your paperwork ready before submitting.
- What other requirements might my state have? Every state has different laws, so make sure you double check any rules and regulations in your state before beginning the process of registering for homeschooling.
- Am I willing to comply with any further requests from the school district?You may be asked to provide a portfolio of your child’s work, have your child evaluated or tested in certain subjects, or comply with certain laws and ordinances before submitting the official paperwork.
- What can I do if I get stuck at any point during the process? Make sure to reach out to your local homeschooling association for support if you have any questions about the paperwork or process for registering for homeschooling in your state.
Conclusion
Understanding the steps for signing up to homeschool your child may seem intimidating at first, but with the right guidance, it can be manageable. Researching your state’s regulations and deciding on the best curriculum for your child’s needs are important steps in the process. Gathering all the required documents for registration and submitting them to your school district will ensure you have permission to begin homeschooling.
As long as you are thorough and organized, registering to homeschool your child doesn’t have to be complicated.