When it comes to providing To education to your child, parents have several different options to choose from. One gaining more and more popularity is homeschooling, where parents educate their children at home rather than in a public school.
If you live in Arkansas and are considering homeschooling for your child, you will need to know how to legally withdraw them from their current public school and enroll them in a homeschool education program. This guide will answer 15 common questions about how to withdraw your child from public school and become officially enrolled in homeschooling in Arkansas.
1. What is the Arkansas Compulsory Education Law?
The Arkansas Compulsory Education Law (Act 1090) requires all children between the ages of 6 and 18 to attend a public school or homeschool program unless an exemption applies. A homeschool program is also considered an approved educational program within the Act.
When enrolling their children in a homeschool program, parents must provide documentation regarding the planned curriculum and objectives of their homeschool program, as well as proof of the child’s age and immunization records.
2. What is the homeschool attendance policy in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, homeschoolers are required to enroll in an approved homeschool program and keep attendance records for their children. The Arkansas law does not specify minimum hours per day or days per week for attendance. Instead, it simply states that the homeschool program should provide “substantially equivalent instruction in the courses of study required in the public schools.
” The parents are responsible for determining what constitutes “substantially equivalent instruction. “
3. What is the homeschool curriculum in Arkansas?
The Arkansas Department of Education has outlined general education objectives that all parents should use as a guide when developing their homeschool curriculum. These objectives cover the following core academic areas: reading, writing, math, science, social studies, fine arts, health and physical education.
The Department of Education also requires that parents maintain documentation of the curriculum used throughout the homeschool program.
4. How do I officially withdraw my child from public school in Arkansas?
In order to withdraw your child from public school in Arkansas, you must first contact the school and inform them of your intention to do so. You may be asked to fill out paperwork and provide documentation of your child’s enrollment in a homeschool program.
Additionally, you should contact the school district’s superintendent in order to confirm the withdrawal and ensure that your child’s records are transferred to the homeschool program.
5. Are there any documents I need to enroll my child in a homeschool program in Arkansas?
Yes, there are a few documents you will need when enrolling your child in a homeschool program in Arkansas. First, you will need to provide proof of the child’s age verified by a birth certificate.
You will also need to show proof of immunization records and the curriculum that will be used throughout the homeschool program. Finally, you will need to provide a form of assessment each semester in order to track your child’s progress.
6. Are there any other requirements I need to meet in order to homeschool in Arkansas?
Yes, in addition to the requirements mentioned above, you will need to register your child in a state-approved homeschool program. You can do this online at the Arkansas Department of Education website. Additionally, and Arkansas-licensed teacher must be assigned by the Department of Education and act as your child’s instructional supervisor.
7. How do I find a state-approved homeschool program in Arkansas?
The Arkansas Department of Education provides a list of state-approved homeschool programs on their website. You can search this list based on the type of homeschool program you are looking for, such as an independent study program or a structured homeschool program. Additionally, you may be able to find more specific programs by searching online for homeschool programs in your city or county.
8. What is required in terms of assessment for a homeschool program in Arkansas?
Parents must administer an assessment for each of their children enrolled in a homeschool program in Arkansas every six months. This assessment must be submitted to the state, using an assessment form from the Arkansas Department of Education. The form must be completed and include detailed information about your child’s educational progress, including student performance in the core academic areas of reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.
9. Are there any resources if I need help or guidance with my homeschool program in Arkansas?
Yes, there are several resources available to parents in Arkansas who are looking for help or guidance with their homeschool programs. The Arkansas Department of Education provides a list of support groups, homeschool organizations, and contact information for parents of homeschoolers. Additionally, most homeschool programs will provide parents with access to lesson plans and guidance to ensure that your homeschool program is following the state requirements.
10. Are there taxes that I need to pay for homeschooling in Arkansas?
In most cases, homeschoolers in Arkansas are not required to pay additional taxes for their homeschool programs. Arkansas has a two-month sales tax holiday, which applies to educational materials purchased for homeschooling.
There are also other exemptions available for homeschoolers in the state, including property tax deductions for educational materials used for homeschooling.
11. Are there any fees associated with homeschooling in Arkansas?
Yes, there may be fees associated with homeschooling in Arkansas. For example, if you choose to use a structured homeschool program, there may be registration fees or tuition costs associated with the program. Additionally, you may have to pay fees in order to access special educational resources or services, such as tutoring.
12. Are homeschoolers allowed to participate in extracurricular activities in Arkansas?
Yes, homeschoolers in Arkansas are eligible to participate in extracurricular activities sponsored by public schools. However, each school district has its own policy about whether or not it is willing to welcome homeschoolers into activities.
Parents should check with the school district to determine if their child is eligible to participate in activities such as sports teams, student councils, etc.
13. Are there any additional requirements I need to meet in order to homeschool in Arkansas?
Yes, there may be additional requirements you need to meet in order to homeschool in Arkansas. The state requires homeschoolers to keep attendance records for their child and to provide evidence of progress throughout the year.
Additionally, a qualified instructor must be assigned by the Department of Education in order to supervise your homeschool program.
14. Are there any other educational options available in Arkansas?
Yes, there are several other educational options available to parents in Arkansas. In addition to homeschooling, parents may choose to enroll their children in a public school or a private school.
Additionally, parents may choose to enroll their children in an online learning program or an individualized instruction program offered by the state.
15. Are there any resources available if I have additional questions about homeschooling in Arkansas?
Yes, there are several resources available if you have additional questions about homeschooling in Arkansas. The Arkansas Department of Education offers a hotline for parents with homeschooling-related questions. Additionally, there are several online resources and support groups for parents of homeschoolers in the state.
Conclusion
Homeschooling can be an excellent learning option for parents in Arkansas who want to provide their children with a quality education that meets their individual needs. It is important for parents to understand the legal requirements for legally withdrawing their child from public school and enrolling them in a homeschool program.
Additionally, they should be familiar with the state requirements for homeschooling, such as curriculum and assessment. Finally, parents should be aware of the resources and support available to guide them through the homeschooling process.