Homeschooling can be an empowering way to foster your children’s education, offering them the opportunity to learn according to their own interests and abilities. Enrolling your children in a homeschool in Texas can be an exciting and rewarding experience.
Before jumping straight in, there are a few important things to consider and steps to take to make sure that all legal requirements are met and that the teaching process runs smoothly. In this guide, we answer essential questions about homeschooling in Texas, from the backgrounds and qualifications that Texas homeschool teachers need to have, to the procedure for withdrawing your child from public school and more.
What Is the Definition of Homeschooling in Texas?
Homeschooling in Texas, also known as ‘parent-directed education’, is a legal way in which parents or guardians can oversee the education of their children at home. Note that the responsibility of this education lies solely with the parents and does not require the services of licensed teachers, although parents may enlist teachers for more complex subjects such as math or science if they wish.
In Texas, homeschooling is regulated by Chapter 29, Title 19 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC), which sets out the rules and regulations for ‘Parent-Directed Home Schools’ in the state. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to follow these regulations if they wish to homeschool their child.
What Are the Qualifications for Homeschool Teachers in Texas?
Under Texas law, homeschool teachers do not need to be licensed or registered with the Texas Education Agency (TEA). According to the TAC, parents or guardians may homeschool their children provided they meet the following requirements:- They must be of sound mind and at least 18 years old- If a guardian, they must be appointed by a court – They must possess at least a high school diploma or GED- They may not be under indictment or on probation – They must provide subject matter and reading materials in compliance with the required TEA standards Parents and guardians who meet these requirements can freely homeschool their children without registering as a teacher with the TEA.
What Are the Procedure for Withdrawing Your Child from Public School?
Before officially enrolling your child in a homeschool program in Texas, you will need to first withdraw them from their current public school. To do this, you should contact your child’s school in writing and let the principal know your intention to homeschool.
At this stage, you should also acquire the official records from the school which certify that your child has met all the necessary criteria necessary to pass to the next grade level. This can prevent any confusion or issues later on, when you decide to withdraw your child from the school system. You may also need to file an affidavit of intent to homeschool with your local attendance officer.
To do this, you should contact the attendance office in your county and ask for the form. When filling out the form, you should also remember to include the names and birth dates for any children who will be participating in the homeschool program.
Once the affidavit has been returned to the school, your child will officially be withdrawn from the school system and be enrolled in a homeschool program.
Do You Need to Register Your Homeschool in Texas?
No. Unlike some other states, Texas does not require parents to register their homeschool with the TEA or any other government agency.
However, it is important to make sure that all the legal requirements for homeschooling in Texas are followed, including the filing of a correct affidavit of intent, by deadlines, and reporting the progress of students to the local or regional attendance officer.
Do You Need to Take Standardized Tests in Texas?
Yes. According to the TAC, the parent or guardian of a homeschooled child must have the child take a standardized test by the third week of May each year. This test must measure the student’s academic performance in line with the TEA standards.
The tests must be approved by the Texas Education Agency and can include tests such as the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT), or the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS). The results of this test must also be reported to the local or regional attendance officer.
Are Homeschooled Children Eligible for Special Services in Texas?
Yes. Homeschooled children are eligible to receive a set amount of publicly funded special services, such as gifted and talented instruction, tutoring, and speech and language services.
Children who are enrolled in a Parent-Directed Home School and who qualify under one of the state’s criteria can receive these special services. The services must be provided through a public school and taught by appropriately certified personnel.
Are There Any Requirements for Course Materials in Homeschooling?
Yes. According to the TAC, parents or guardians must provide their homeschooled student with materials, activities, and instruction that is in line with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards set by the TEA. It is the parent’s or guardian’s responsibility to ensure that these materials are appropriate for the child’s grade level and ability.
It is also important to note that if the parent chooses to teach in a language other than English, they must have the child’s reading and writing materials in that language as well.
Are Record Keeping Requirements for Homeschooling in Texas?
Yes. The TAC requires the parent or guardian to keep a portfolio of records that outlines the academic progress of their homeschooled student. The portfolio must include records of the student’s progress and performance in the various academic subjects they are studying, as well as special services they may receive.
The portfolio must also include records of standardized test scores and any activities or field trips they have taken part in.
Do Homeschooled Students in Texas Receive a Diploma?
Yes. According to the TAC, once students have reached Grade 8 and completed the curriculum requirements, they are eligible to receive their high school diploma. However, note that this diploma does not have to be granted by the state, and parents or guardians of the student may choose to grant the diploma themselves.
Are Homeschooled Students Allowed to Participate in Public School Activities in Texas?
Yes. Homeschooled students in Texas are allowed to participate in public school extracurricular activities such as sports, band, and other clubs.
Financially, the student may be required to pay the same fees and charges required of other public school participants. To participate in such activities, the student must meet the same enrollment and eligibility criteria as other students, and must also provide evidence that they are following the TAC requirements.
Are There Any Homeschooling Support Groups in Texas?
Yes. Homeschoolers in Texas are fortunate to have access to a range of support groups and resources to help them with their homeschooling experience.
These resources can provide much-needed advice and guidance on topics such as curriculum, course materials, and legal requirements. There are also a range of local and online networks and forums dedicated to connecting and supporting homeschool families in Texas.
Are There Any Fees for Homeschooling in Texas?
No. According to the TAC, there are no additional fees for homeschooling in Texas. The only costs associated with homeschooling will be the supplies and materials used for teaching the curriculum.
This can include textbooks, paper, and other materials that the parent or guardian may need to purchase in order to follow the TEA standards.
Conclusion
Homeschooling can be an enriching and rewarding experience for children, parents, and guardians alike. If you’re considering enrolling your child in a homeschool in Texas, it’s important to understand the background and legal requirements, including the qualifications for homeschool teachers, the procedure for withdrawing your child from public school, and any standard tests required for homeschooled students.
With the right knowledge and guidance, you can make sure that this experience is a positive one for your child and for yourself.