For the parents considering homeschooling, record keeping is one of the most daunting facts of their decision. Record keeping enables an individual to track the performance and progress of their child.
Similarly, maintaining records for homeschoolers provides them with evidence of course completion and student’s records in case of any future suggestions, including college admissions. Many parents have questions about how much record keeping is needed for homeschooling. This article tries to address this issue by providing a comprehensive overview of what goes into homeschool record keeping, the various categories of records that need to be maintained, and the main things to remember to make the process easier.
What Type of Record Keeping is Required for Homeschooling?
There are different levels of record keeping that are required for homeschooling. Depending on the state and the form of homeschool, the level of record keeping may differ.
Generally, there is a minimum level of record keeping that needs to be done. This would include student’s transcript, assessment results, attendance, coursework, and progress reports. Every state has its own set of requirements for homeschool record keeping.
It is important to understand what is required by the state so that all records can be maintained properly. Some states require more documentation than others, such as annual evaluations and portfolio documentation.
However, for most states, basic record keeping is all that’s required. It is also important to note that record keeping can also be done in a more organized way. Keeping detailed notes of every activity can help to provide a better understanding of the student’s progress and areas of growth.
This can also help make it easier to submit transcripts, evaluations, and assessments. It is important to keep copies of all records and documents, as this will come in handy if ever requested by the state or any other authority.
What Should Homeschoolers Record?
Homeschoolers will need to record a variety of documents, including both academic and non-academic records. Some of the most important documents to be recorded are as follows:
Student’s transcripts: A transcript should include a year-by-year record of all courses taken and any grades, diplomas or awards received. Assessment Results: Assessments should be taken regularly to measure the student’s learning and for comparison to state standards.
Attendance records: It is important to keep track of how long students are spending on each subject and their overall attendance.
Coursework: Keeping detailed records of all coursework completed is essential for academic progress. This should include all papers, projects, essays, and any other assignments.
Progress reports: In addition to assessment results, periodic progress reports should be written focusing on areas of improvement and growth.
Standardized Testing: If required by the state, standardized testing results should be recorded as well.
How Should Homeschoolers Maintain Records?
Homeschoolers can maintain records in several ways. They can opt for either digital or physical copies of documents.
It is important to keep all records in one place, such as a file, binder or spreadsheet, for easy accessibility. It is also important to keep hard copies of all records in case of any discrepancies. It is also important to keep detailed notes of each subject and activity, as well as assessment results, in order to better understand the student’s progress.
This helps to support any portfolio or other records required by the state. It is also important to keep a log of absences in case of any required attendance records. It is also important to note any field trips, co-ops, or other activities attended in order to provide evidence of home instruction.
What Are the Main Things to Remember?
When it comes to homeschool record keeping, there are some main things to remember. Firstly, it is essential to know the requirements of the state, as each state has different requirements for record keeping.
Secondly, it is important to review the requirements each year and update records accordingly. Thirdly, it is important to keep detailed notes and records of all activities, progress, and assessment results year by year. Additionally, it is essential to keep copies of all documents and records so that they can be provided if required.
Finally, it is important to periodically review all records to ensure that everything is up-to-date and accurate.
Conclusion
All in all, homeschoolers need to maintain records in order to demonstrate their academic progress and compliance with the state’s requirements. It is important to familiarize oneself with the state’s record keeping requirements and to keep detailed records of all activities and studies.
Keeping records of all activities and assessments can help to provide evidence of a student’s progress and compliance, while also making the process easier.