Introducing children to homeschooling in the state of Florida involves a process of understanding state regulations, requirements and qualifications. While many of the details are outlined by the Florida Department of Education, it can be difficult to figure out exactly which steps need to be taken by parents and guardians in order to begin homeschooling their children in the state. This article will provide an overview of the qualifications for Florida homeschooling and also offer a few tips for getting started.
What Are the Qualifications for Homeschooling Children in Florida?
In the state of Florida, homeschooling families are required to register with the Florida Department of Education. Before registering a family must determine who the “parent-in-charge” of the homeschooling program is and submit a Notification of Intent to Homeschool form.
In order to be considered a homeschooling in Florida, the parent-in-charge must have a high school diploma or an equivalent GED and must be responsible for all decisions in regards to planning and implementing an educational program for the child. The parent-in-charge may not be employed more than 30 hours per week, as this would disqualify them from meeting the qualifications for homeschooling in Florida. In addition to registering with the state and meeting the qualifications, homeschooling parents in Florida must also provide educational materials and resources, a learning environment (which can be in the home, but can also be somewhere else such as a library or tutor facility), and keep records of the student’s progress.
Lastly, in order to homeschool in Florida, any participating children must take an annual evaluation to ensure that the home education program is providing the child with an education substantially equivalent to that offered in public school districts.
What Are the Steps to Get Started with Homeschooling in Florida?
The first step in getting started with homeschooling in Florida is to determine who the parent-in-charge of the education program will be. This person must meet the prerequisites for being the parent-in-charge, such as having a high school diploma or its equivalent and no more than 30 hours of employment per week. Then, the parent-in-charge must draft the required Notification of Intent to Homeschool form for submission to the Florida Department of Education.
Next, homeschooling families must select the educational materials and resources that will be used in their program. Florida’s homeschooling regulations include a mandate for providing materials and resources, which can be acquired from a variety of sources, such as public libraries, bookstores, or online subscriptions.
After acquiring the necessary resources, homeschooling parents must establish a learning environment for their child, which can take place in the home, but can also take place outside the home at a library, tutor facility, or other such educational environment. Finally, in order to remain compliant with the state’s laws, parents must keep records of their child’s educational progress, such as attendance, test scores, and assessments.
Lastly, the child must complete an annual evaluation to ensure that the home education program is providing the child with an education substantially equivalent to that offered in public school districts.
Conclusion
Homeschooling children in Florida involves understanding the qualifications and taking the proper steps to get started. Parents must determine who the parent-in-charge will be, register with the Florida Department of Education, collect educational materials and resources, establish a learning environment, and keep records of the student’s progress.
Additionally, homeschooling children in the state must complete an annual evaluation to ensure that their home education program is providing them with an education substantially equivalent to that offered in the public school district. With these steps completed, homeschooling families in Florida will be able to provide their children with the educational opportunities they need to grow and succeed.