Introducing a homeschool program for your child can come with a lot of questions about the requirements and regulations in Texas. Every state has different laws mandating homeschooling and the Lone Star State is no exception. In order to ensure a successful start to homeschooling in Texas, it’s essential to understand your rights as a parent.
The following questions (and answers) will explain what you need to do when homeschooling your child in the state of Texas.
1. Is Homeschooling Legal in Texas?
Yes, homeschooling is considered legal in the state of Texas. To further affirm the legality of homeschooling in the Lone Star State, the Texas Education Agency has created a Home School Information page that outlines the responsibilities of both parents and students. The website also provides a Home School Declaration Form that must be completed.
This declares your family’s commitment to homeschooling, and establishes that you’ve read and understand the legal requirements to homeschool in Texas. The Texas Supreme Court also claims that parents have a ratified a constitutional right to choose to teach their children at home in the state of Texas.
2. What are the Requirements for Homeschooling in Texas?
The state of Texas does not impose many requirements for homeschooling, but there are some key regulations to be mindful of. All Texas homeschools must be based on what is considered to be “bona fide” education. This includes instruction in reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and good citizenship.
The curriculum must also be suitable for the age, experience, and aptitude of the student, as determined by the parent or legal guardian. Furthermore, all students must receive at least the equivalent of 180 days of “instructive days” in their homeschooling education.
3. Is There an Age Requirement for Homeschooling in Texas?
No, the Lone Star state does not have an age requirement for homeschooling. Texas parents are encouraged to start homeschooling their children when they feel it is the best educational option for the student’s needs. Texas also does not require kindergarteners to be enrolled in public school, so it is acceptable for 5-year-olds to be enrolled in a homeschool program.
4. Do I Need a Degree or Education Credentials to Homeschool in Texas?
No, Texas does not require parents to have any form of teaching credentials or a degree in education. As long as the parent is the legal guardian of the student that the parent wants to homeschool, any adult over the age of 18 can teach the student at home.
5. Do I Need to Register My Homeschool in Texas?
Yes, all homeschools in Texas must register with the Texas Education Agency (TEA). You will need to include the full legal names of both the parent and the student, the address of the student, and the list of textbooks used by the students in the homeschool program. You will also need to provide a copy of the student’s birth certificate or equivalent proof of age.
6. What Is the Difference Between Private and Public Homeschools in Texas?
The major difference between private and public homeschools in Texas revolves around the fact that a private school has to be registered with the state, whereas a public school can be registered but does not have to be. Private schools are required to keep certain administrative and educational records such as attendance records and a student course of study.
This means that private homeschools may need more paperwork and accountability than public homeschools.
7. Do I Need to Notify Anyone of My Intent to Homeschool in Texas?
Yes, you must inform your local school district of your intent to homeschool. You will need to submit a letter before you begin homeschooling. This letter should include your name, the student’s name, and the address of the student.
You must also provide the school district with proof of of your student’s age.
8. Are There Any Limits on What I Teach My Child at Home in Texas?
The state of Texas does not place any limits on what parents can teach their children at home. Parents are encouraged to create the curriculum that best serves their homeschool student.
However, parents must be sure to comply with educational requirements set forth by the state and should also ensure that their homeschooling program is not discriminatory.
9. Is Testing Required for Homeschooled Students in Texas?
All homeschooled students in Texas must complete a standardized test every year. Parents can choose which standardized tests to give their student.
Most parents choose to administer the same tests used by public schools in the state, such as the Stanford 10 or Terra Nova.
10. Can I Create a Homeschool Co-op in Texas?
Yes, Texas parents are allowed to create homeschool co-ops. Co-ops are typically made up of several homeschool members who teach certain subjects within their curriculum area of expertise. If a co-op has 20 or more students, then the co-op must register to become a private school.
If a co-op has less than 20 students, then the parents do not need to register the co-op with the state as a private school.
11. Can I Get Financial Assistance for Homeschooling in Texas?
No, Texas does not offer any financial aid or assistance to parents who homeschool. Because homeschooling is considered a private education, parents are responsible for the entire cost of their homeschool program.
12. How Many Hours of Instruction Per Day Are Required by Texas?
Texas does not specify how many hours of instruction are required per day. All that is required in the state is that students receive an equivalent of at least 180 days of instruction every year. However, parents can divide the instruction time however they choose since the hours of instruction are up to the discretion of the parent.
13. What Are the Diploma Requirements for Homeschoolers in Texas?
Unlike many other states that allow homeschooling, the state of Texas does not issue diplomas or certificates to homeschoolers. Instead, Texas parents must issue a signed statement of graduation if their student intends to enter college and if their student graduated from a homeschool program.
14. Are There Any After School Activities for Homeschooled Students in Texas?
Yes, there are many after-school activities for homeschooled students in Texas. Most after-school activities and programs offered in the Lone Star State are open to homeschoolers. They include organizations such as 4-H, Future Farmers of America, Scouts and part-time classes offered by community or private organizations.
15. Is Sport Eligibility Different for Homeschoolers in Texas?
Yes, homeschooled students who participate in organized sports must meet different eligibility requirements than students who attend public schools in the state. The University Interscholastic League (UIL) requires homeschool students to have cumulated at least six credits during the past school year in order to be eligible for athletic competition. They must also have bought the UIL’s insurance and completed the UIL’s concussion form prior to the start of the season, and the homeschool student must not be the legal guardian of the coach.
Conclusion
Homeschooling can be a great opportunity for families living in Texas, but it’s important for parents to understand their rights as a homeschool parent in the Lone Star State. To homeschool legally in Texas, parents must understand the required curriculum, age requirements, diploma requirements, and other regulations. As long as parents are aware of the requirements and regulations, they will have the necessary knowledge and understanding to ensure a successful homeschooling journey in the state of Texas.