Homeschooling is an educational option that is becoming increasingly popular in the United States. With the flexibility and autonomy it offers, it’s easy to see why many parents choose to homeschool their children.
Idaho is no different and has a number of homeschool regulations in place that parents should take note of. In this article, we will discuss 15 essential questions related to homeschooling your child in Idaho. These questions will help you understand the regulations and ensure that you are prepared to homeschool your child in a way that conforms to Idaho law.
1. How Do I Know If Homeschooling is Right for Me and My Child?
The first step in starting to homeschool your child in Idaho is deciding whether this type of education is the right choice for you and your child. There are a number of questions to consider when deciding whether homeschooling is appropriate for your family. Do you have the time and resources to regularly engage in educational activities with your child?
Do you feel confident that you can create a structured educational program? Will your family be able to continue to homeschool for the duration of your child’s school-aged years?
Answering these questions can help you decide whether homeschooling is the right choice for your family.
2. What Are the Different Types of Homeschooling in Idaho?
Once you have decided that homeschooling is the right choice for you and your child, it is important to understand the different types of homeschooling available in Idaho. Homeschooling in Idaho is regulated by the State Board of Education (SBOE) and is divided into four different types of instruction.
These types are described in Idaho Statute 33-202: public school alternative instruction, private school alternative instruction, private instruction, and group instruction. Public school alternative instruction includes homeschooling curriculum approved for use in public schools, private school alternative instruction includes curriculum and instruction modeled after traditional private schools, private instruction does not require the choice of an SBOE-approved curriculum but does require record-keeping of the student’s educational progress, and group instruction is instruction provided by a non-public provider of instruction for children in multiple homeschool families.
3. How Do I Register for Homeschooling in Idaho?
In order to legally homeschool your child in Idaho, you must register with the local school district in which you reside. The registration process typically involves submitting a signed and notarized registration form to the county superintendent of schools, and the form must be re-submitted each year. The registration form must include the student’s name, address, birthdate, and the names of all person responsible for the student’s education.
You can find the registration form on the Idaho State Department of Education website.
4. What Are the Requirements for Homeschooling in Idaho?
Homeschooling regulations in Idaho vary depending on the type of instruction you choose. However, there are some common requirements that all homeschoolers must meet.
These include having a qualified teacher associated with the homeschool, teaching an approved curriculum, maintaining records of academic progress and attendance, and submitting attendance records to the local school district. The Idaho State Board of Education website provides a comprehensive list of all the requirements for homeschooling in Idaho.
5. What Homeschool Resources Are Available in Idaho?
In Idaho, there are a number of resources available to help you with your homeschooling journey. The Idaho Homeschool Network (IHN) is a great place to start.
IHN provides support, resources, and information for Idaho homeschoolers. They have a website, blog, and listserv which provide helpful information and support. They also have a network of regional support groups for parents who need extra help and resources.
Additionally, the Idaho State Board of Education has a list of approved homeschool curriculum and online resources for parents.
6. What Are the Benefits of Homeschooling in Idaho?
Homeschooling offers many advantages for parents and children alike. It allows parents to have an intimate involvement in their child’s education, which can be incredibly beneficial. It also allows parents to tailor their child’s education to perfectly meet their individual needs and interests.
Additionally, homeschooling gives children the opportunity to explore unique interests that are not typically covered in traditional schools. Plus, homeschool curriculums often cover topics in greater depth, giving children a more in-depth understanding and appreciation for their studies.
7. Are There Any Social Opportunities for Homeschooled Children?
Homeschooled children in Idaho do have access to social opportunities. The Idaho Homeschool Network (IHN) has a variety of activities and events for children of all ages. These activities range from academic competitions and field trips to online groups and sports activities.
Additionally, there are a variety of online social networks for homeschoolers in Idaho that provide opportunities for educational and social interaction.
8. Are Homeschooled Students Eligible for College Scholarships?
The answer to this question is yes. Homeschooled students in Idaho can apply for and receive college scholarships just like any other student. Additionally, the Idaho State Board of Education provides a list of scholarships and grants specifically for homeschooled students.
It is important to note that scholarship eligibility and requirements may differ, so it’s important to research each opportunity carefully.
9. What Are the Requirements for Evaluating Homeschooled Students?
The Idaho State Board of Education requires that all homeschooled students are evaluated each year. These evaluations must be conducted by a qualified teacher and are used to measure the student’s progress and academic achievement against the state’s standards. The evaluations must include a written narrative, a portfolio of the student’s work, and standardized test scores.
10. Are Homeschooled Students Required to Take State Assessments?
Homeschooled students in Idaho are not required to take state assessments. However, they may choose to participate in the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS) or the Iowa Tests of Educational Development (ITED) if desired. Participation in these tests is optional and students who choose to participate must register in advance.
11. Are Homeschoolers Eligible to Participate in Extracurricular Activities?
Homeschooled students in Idaho can participate in extracurricular activities in public and private schools with permission from the school. The Idaho Code and the State Board of Education provide the necessary information on this subject. Students may also participate in sports and other extracurricular activities offered by homeschool groups.
12. What Are the Graduation Requirements for Homeschoolers?
Homeschooled students in Idaho are required to complete a minimum of 25 credits to graduate from high school.
These credits must include a minimum of four units of English, three units of mathematics, three units of science, three units of social studies, one unit of art, and one unit of health. Additionally, students must demonstrate competence in American Sign Language, American Indian Studies, or Career Preparation or a second arts or foreign language.
13. Are Homeschoolers Eligible to Receive a High School Diploma?
Yes, homeschooled students in Idaho are eligible to receive a high school diploma. However, the diploma must be issued by a public or private school.
The State Board of Education provides a list of diploma-issuing schools on their website.
14. Are There Any Issues Homeschoolers Should Be Aware Of?
Due to recent changes in Idaho law, homeschoolers may face some additional challenges. These include more rigorous recordkeeping requirements and increased scrutiny from local school districts. It’s important to make sure that you are aware of the latest homeschooling regulations in Idaho and that you are following all applicable laws.
Additionally, homeschoolers should be aware that they will need to obtain a GED certificate if they do not plan to apply to college or universities.
15. How Can I Find More Information About Homeschooling in Idaho?
The Idaho State Department of Education website is a great resource for homeschoolers. It provides information about homeschooling regulations, resources, and FAQs. Additionally, the Idaho Homeschool Network website offers a wealth of information and resources for homeschoolers in Idaho.