Homeschooling is an increasingly popular form of education that allows people to educate children on their own terms and according to their own schedule. In many states, homeschooling is relatively easy to commence, but Ohio is one state that takes it a step further and requires parents to notify the school district to begin homeschooling their children.
This article will cover the rules and regulations surrounding homeschooling in Ohio and will answer the question, “How old does my child need to be to notify school about homeschooling in Ohio?” According to Ohio’s homeschooling regulations, children who are five years of age or older must be registered with the school district at least 30 days before beginning homeschooling. Ohio is one of the few states that require parents to notify the school district to start homeschooling, which can take some time, so it is important to determine how old does my child need to be to notify school about homeschooling in Ohio in order to properly begin homeschooling.
What Does the Ohio Department of Education Require for Homeschoolers?
In order to comply with Ohio’s homeschooling regulations, parents must submit a notification form to the school district at least 30 days before beginning homeschooling. The form should include the child’s name, birthdate, grade level, and the parent’s name, address, and phone number.
In addition to the notification form, parents must also provide the school district with annual proof of educational attainment. This proof can be in the form of a portfolio review or standardized testing. The Ohio Department of Education also requires parents to provide instruction in the following core subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies.
The Ohio Department of Education does not require homeschoolers to follow the Ohio Learning Standards, but if parents wish to do so, they are encouraged to review the standards for their grade level. In addition to these core subjects, parents must provide instruction in health, physical education, and fine arts, depending on the student’s grade level.
What Other Requirements Do Homeschoolers in Ohio Need to Be Aware Of?
In addition to the requirements already mentioned, the Ohio Department of Education also requires parents to provide a minimum of 900 hours of instruction each school year. This should include a mix of direct instruction, field trips, and other interactive activities.
Parents are also expected to keep detailed records of their homeschooling program, including attendance, lesson plans, and samples of their child’s work. These records must be kept for at least one year and should include the name, address, and dates of instruction. Parents are also obligated to adhere to the immunization requirements set by the state.
Children who are enrolling in school for the first time must be immunized against the diseases that are required by the state. In addition, parents must make sure their child is up-to-date on all required immunizations before beginning homeschooling.
What If I Do Not Comply With Ohio’s Homeschooling Regulations?
Failure to comply with Ohio’s homeschooling regulations could result in fines and/or a criminal penalty. The Ohio Department of Education can impose civil penalties of up to $2,500 per violation of the law, while the state attorney general can bring criminal charges against parents who fail to comply with the law. Parents who are considering homeschooling should become familiar with the state’s homeschooling regulations before beginning instruction.
The Ohio Department of Education provides a wealth of information and resources for families who are interested in learning more about homeschooling in the state.
Conclusion
Homeschooling is a great way for families to provide their children with an education that is tailored to their individual needs. In Ohio, homeschooling requires a bit of extra paperwork, but it is worth it for the freedom and flexibility that it provides. It’s important for parents to be aware of the regulations regarding homeschooling in Ohio and to determine how old does my child need to be to notify school about homeschooling in Ohio before beginning instruction.