Homeschooling in Tennessee has grown significantly in recent years. Parents are increasingly interested in providing their children a better educational experience that meets their own specific needs more closely.
If you are a parent in Tennessee and are considering homeschooling your child, the following information provides an overview of the steps that you must take to legally homeschool your child and the resources available to help you on your homeschool journey.
What Are the Steps to Legally Homeschool in Tennessee?
The first step for legally homeschooling your child in Tennessee is to notify your local school district. The district will provide you with a letter of intent which outlines the specific tests and curriculum that your child will be taught. It is important to familiarize yourself with Tennessee’s homeschool laws, detailed in their state code, to ensure that your homeschooling is compliant.
Once your letter of intent has been submitted, you will need to establish a learning plan that meets the state’s general education requirements. This plan should cover areas like core subjects such as mathematics, science, and language, as well as electives such as foreign language or art.
You will also need to provide regular progress reports, standardized testing, and issues of an attendance record for all students you are homeschooling. Finally, you will need to evaluate your child’s progress periodically and either attend, or an administrator attend, a hearing if requested by the school district. These hearings are to assess how your child is progressing and the objectives they have achieved.
Following the periodic evaluations and hearings, parents who homeschool children in Tennessee must submit an annual statement each year.
What Resources Are Available To Parent Who Homeschool in Tennessee?
Fortunately, there are many programs and organizations who are dedicated to helping parents successfully homeschool their children in Tennessee. Here are some of the most popular organizations who can provide invaluable assistance for parents of homeschooling children:The Tennessee Parent Teacher Association, or TNPTA, is a helpful resource for Tennessee parents seeking out curricula, answers to legal and educational questions, and an online bookstore where parents can purchase material to aid in the homeschooling process.
The organization also runs a website offering advice from veteran homeschoolers and a blog with information on upcoming events, such as workshops and conferences. The Tennessee Unschoolers Network (TUN) is a popular resource for those looking to homeschool in an unstructured environment. The network provides support and advice for those considering a more natural approach to education and also hosts regular events in the area such as classes, camps and social gatherings.
Finally, Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) provides valuable legal advice and representation to homeschool families. The organization provides low-cost legal representation, access to legal information and support, and hosts conferences and workshops.
What Are The Advantages Of Homeschooling In Tennessee?
Homeschooling has advantages beyond the legal structure and available resources. Homeschooling allows your child to receive an education tailored to his or her unique learning style and encourages exploration of interests, like art, music, or theater, without the limits that traditional schools often place on instruction.
Additionally, homeschooling allows for a more relaxed, flexible learning environment in which children can learn at their own pace and does not include tests and finals that can cause stress. It also allows for more family bonding time, as children and parents can spend their days learning and exploring activities together. Finally, homeschooling allows a more freedom of the subjects and materials used.
Parents are allowed to choose the curriculum that suits their child best and can teach a variety of subjects that they may not find in a traditional school. For example, a focus on world religions or foreign language instruction is easily integrated into a homeschool curriculum.
Do Homeschooled Children Have Access To Sports?
Yes, homeschooled children still have access to sports. In Tennessee, homeschool associations like the Tennessee Elite Athletic League (TEAL) offer organized sport activities for homeschooled children.
Furthermore, your homeschool group can organize sports teams and join leagues or tournaments. You may have to acquire permission from the local school district in order to participate in sports at school.
Are Homeschools Exempt from Certain Requirements?
Yes, there are certain areas where homeschools are exempt from requirements. In Tennessee, homeschools are not required to comply with local school curriculum and course objectives, attendance limits, or teacher certification requirements.
Furthermore, homeschools are not required to provide transportation for students or provide a school lunch program. It is important to note, however, that these exemptions do not apply to certain activities that involve certain accreditation, such as a driver education.
Are Homeschooled Students Eligible to Take Standardized Tests?
Yes, in Tennessee homeschooled students are eligible to take standardized tests. Parents can arrange for their children to take the state-mandated tests, such as the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP).
Furthermore, homeschooled children can take special tests such as the Advanced Placement (AP) exams or the Pre-K Transitional Education Assessment (PKTEA).
Do Homeschooled Children Have Access to Extracurricular Activities?
Yes, homeschooled children have access to a variety of extracurricular activities. The Tennessee homeschool associations, like TEAL and TNPTA, provide homeschoolers with access to activities such as debate teams, theater groups, writing clubs, and robotics teams. Furthermore, numerous organizations offer classes, seminars, and camps that homeschooled children can participate in.
Are Homeschooled Children Eligible for Scholarships and Grants?
Yes, homeschooled children are eligible for scholarships and grants. The National Merit Scholarship and other similar scholarship competitions are open to homeschooled students.
Additionally, some foundations, such as the Home School Foundation, offer scholarships specifically designed for homeschooled students.
Are There Co-Ops Available For Homeschooling Families?
Yes, Tennessee homeschoolers have the opportunity to join a co-op or homeschool group. Co-ops allow members to participate in group activities together, as well as providing additional learning opportunities in a social setting.
Furthermore, homeschool groups can host field trips and other events to help homeschooled children expand their horizons beyond the four walls of the home.
Are There Any Homeschool Conferences or Events?
Yes, homeschool associations and organizations in Tennessee put on numerous conferences and workshops throughout the year. The events are great opportunities for both experienced and novice homeschoolers to get advice, connect with other homeschool families, and find out more about available resources and programs. Additionally, these conferences and workshops allow parents to speak with vendors to get a better understanding of the products, services, and curricula available.
What Are the Downsides to Homeschooling in Tennessee?
It is important to weigh the pros and cons before taking on the responsibility of homeschooling your child. The first potential downside to homeschooling is the potential social isolation your child may experience.
While it is possible for homeschooled children to be involved in activities outside of their homes, the lack of regular social contact can be a challenge. The second potential downside to homeschooling is the financial cost. Homeschooling can require an initial investment in books and materials, as well as costs for activities such as field trips and special classes.
Parents must also consider the cost for specialized tests, entry fees for competitions, and other expenses associated with homeschooling. Finally, homeschooling can be a difficult emotional and mentally draining experience that can cause burnout. Parents must be prepared to take on the responsibility and make tough decisions, have patience and understanding, and have the energy and energy to keep up with their homeschooling journey.
Conclusion
Homeschooling in Tennessee has become increasingly popular in recent years and provides parents with the opportunity to create a custom curriculum tailored to their children’s individual needs. However, there are several steps that need to be followed to legally homeschool and with access to many programs and organizations providing invaluable assistance to homeschoolers, parents have the opportunity to provide a quality education to their children.