Homeschooling is becoming an increasingly popular choice among families, due to the flexible structure and the potential to tailor lessons to the child’s individual needs. Homeschooling can be especially beneficial to families living in San Bernardino County, since it is part of one of the largest homeschooling networks in California.
This article contains step-by-step instructions, a detailed overview of the homeschooling process and requirements, and answers to 15 frequently asked questions about homeschooling in San Bernardino County.
Steps for Homeschooling in San Bernardino County
The steps for homeschooling in San Bernardino County are relatively straightforward. To begin the homeschooling process, parents need to register with both their local school district and the San Bernardino County Office of Education (SBCOE).
Then parents need to create a plan for their homeschool, which should include a curriculum, teaching materials, and plans for assessment and progress monitoring. Lastly, once the homeschool year is over, parents need to file an annual report with the SBCOE, which includes information such as the subjects studied, hours of instruction, and scores from any standardized tests taken.
Requirements for Homeschooling in San Bernardino County
The requirements for homeschooling in San Bernardino County are minimal. The only requirements are that the curriculum be “in line with command of the basic branch of knowledge normally acquired in the public school” (Education Code 48222), and that parents/guardians file an annual report and provide proof of immunization when necessary. Parents/guardians also have to adhere to any additional requirements set forth by their local school district.
FAQs About Homeschooling in San Bernardino County
What documents do I need to register for homeschooling in San Bernardino County?
Answer: To register for homeschooling in San Bernardino County, you will need to complete the Home School Registration Form (COE-HSR) and submit it to both your local school district and the San Bernardino County Office of Education (SBCOE). You may also need to provide a copy of your child’s immunization records, if applicable.
Do I need to submit an annual report to the San Bernardino County Office of Education (SBCOE) to continue homeschooling in San Bernardino County?Answer: Yes, all parents/guardians who homeschool in San Bernardino County are required to submit an annual report to the SBCOE.
The report needs to include information such as the subject studied, hours of instruction, and scores from any standardized tests taken. The SBCOE also requires parents/guardians to provide proof of immunization, if necessary.
Are there any online resources that can help me with homeschooling my child?Answer: Yes, there are several online resources available to help parents/guardians with homeschooling in San Bernardino County. Many local school districts provide helpful resources such as lesson plans, tips and strategies, as well as curriculum and materials.
San Bernardino County also has multiple homeschooling support groups and organizations, such as the Inland Empire Home Educators and the San Bernardino County Home Schooling Network, which offer volunteer programs and resources.
Do I need to follow the traditional school calendar when homeschooling my child?Answer: No, when homeschooling your child in San Bernardino County you are not required to follow the traditional school calendar. Instead, you can choose to customize your own curriculum and schedule to meet the needs of your child. Are there any state laws that apply to homeschooling in San Bernardino County?Answer: Yes, the state of California has a set of laws that applies to homeschooling in San Bernardino County, which is covered in the California Education Code. These laws include requiring instruction to be in line with the basic branches of knowledge normally acquired in the public schools, parental/guardian filing of annual reports, and the submission of immunization records for those children who need them. Do I need to teach a certain number of hours each day when homeschooling?Answer: No, there is no specific hour requirement for homeschooling in San Bernardino County. The amount of instruction needed will vary depending on the curriculum and the child’s learning style. Parents/guardians should also ensure that they are meeting all other requirements set by the state and their local school district. Are there any assessment requirements for homeschooling in San Bernardino County? Answer: Yes, the state of California requires that homeschooled students in San Bernardino County take certain standardized tests. These tests include the California Standards Tests (CSTs), California Alternate Performance Assessment (CAPA), and the California Modified Assessment (CMA). Parents/guardians are required to submit the scores from these tests on their annual report to the SBCOE. Is there an age requirement for homeschooling in San Bernardino County?Answer: Yes, in San Bernardino County the homeschooling age requirement is 5-year-old or older. Parents/guardians who wish to homeschool children who are younger than 5 years of age must submit an application to the local school district. Do I need to be a certificated teacher to homeschool in San Bernardino County?Answer: No, you do not need to be a certificated teacher to homeschool in San Bernardino County. However, it is recommended that parents/guardians have some academic background in the topics that they are teaching. Are there support groups and organizations for homeschoolers in San Bernardino County?Answer: Yes, there are several support groups and organizations for homeschoolers in San Bernardino County. These include the Inland Empire Home Educators, which offers volunteer opportunities, resources and advice for homeschoolers, and the San Bernardino County Home Schooling Network, which provides support and resources for families in the county. 1 Does homeschooling cover all subject areas?Answer: Yes, when homeschooling in San Bernardino County you are required to cover most of the traditional academic subjects, including math, social studies, science, and language arts. Depending on the child’s interests and academic level, additional subjects such as art, music, and foreign language may be included in the curriculum. 1 Are private schools a viable option for homeschooling in San Bernardino County?Answer: Yes, private schools are a viable option for homeschooling in San Bernardino County if the parent/guardian is willing to pay the tuition costs. Private schools are generally more expensive than homeschooling, however, provide the benefit of having credentialed teachers, a structured curriculum, and traditional grading systems. 1 Are standardized tests mandatory for homeschoolers in San Bernardino County?Answer: Yes, standardized tests are mandatory for homeschoolers in San Bernardino County. The tests that are required to be taken include the California Standards Tests (CSTs), California Alternate Performance Assessment (CAPA), and the California Modified Assessment (CMA). The scores from these tests must be submitted on the annual report to the SBCOE. 1 Can I customize my own curriculum when homeschooling my child?Answer: Yes, parents/guardians who homeschool in San Bernardino County have the freedom to customize their own curriculum and set their own pace. Parents/guardians should make sure to adhere to the basic educational requirements set by both the state and their local school district, and to monitor their child’s progress on a regular basis. 1 How can I assess my child’s progress when homeschooling in San Bernardino County?Answer: One of the easiest and most effective ways to assess your child’s progress in homeschooling is by using standardized tests. The state of California requires that homeschoolers in San Bernardino County take the California Standards Tests (CSTs), California Alternate Performance Assessment (CAPA), and the California Modified Assessment (CMA). Parents/guardians can also assess their child’s progress by keeping records of their child’s activities and performances, evaluating their child’s work using grading rubrics, and using state court-approved testing services.
Conclusion
Homeschooling in San Bernardino County is a great option for families looking for a flexible education for their children. With a relatively simple registration process and minimal requirements, homeschooling can be a great choice for families with unique educational needs.
This article has provided step-by-step instructions, an overview of the homeschooling process and requirements, and answers to 15 frequently asked questions about homeschooling in San Bernardino County.