Homeschooling has become increasingly popular in recent years, and Florida is no exception. If you live in this Sunshine State and are thinking about homeschooling your child, you may be wondering what you need to do to get started. Read on for the answers to fifteen important questions about what you need to homeschool your child in Florida.
1. What Are the Requirements to Homeschool a Child in Florida?
In Florida, parents who wish to homeschool their children must file a Declaration of Intent form with the school district. This paper must include your name, the parents name, the student’s name, birthdate, and home address, the address of the homeschool, the name of the homeschool, and what curriculum you plan to use. The homeschool must also operate no less than five hours per day, 45 hours per week, and 180 days per year.
2. Is Homeschooling Legal in Florida?
Yes, homeschooling is legal in Florida. The state allows parents to homeschool their children in accordance with the Mandatory Instructional Time requirements as outlined in the Florida Statutes. All homeschools must meet the requirements of these laws.
3. What Kind of Curriculum Is Needed for Homeschooling in Florida?
Parents in Florida have wide discretion in the curriculum they choose to use for homeschooling their children. However, the core subjects – reading, language arts, mathematics, science, health, and history – must be taught for at least 250 hours a year.
Depending on the age of the student, other subjects may need to be added (such as physical education, art, music, and foreign language) in order to fulfill the mandatory instructional time requirements.
4. Who Decides What Curriculum Is Used for Homeschooling in Florida?
Parents have the final say in what curriculum and textbooks are used for homeschooling in Florida. There are many homeschool curricula available, so it is important to research and compare different options to find the best fit for your child.
5. Is It Necessary to Join a Homeschool Group in Florida?
Joining a homeschool group is not required in Florida, but many parents find it beneficial to have the support of other homeschoolers. Homeschool groups provide a great opportunity to connect with other families and find resources and social activities not available in the traditional school system.
6. What Kind of Assessment Is Needed for Homeschooling in Florida?
In Florida, homeschooling students are required to take a standardized test (such as the Stanford 10 or the Iowa Test of Basic Skills) once per year in the third, fifth, eighth, and tenth grades. The student’s score on these tests must be reported to the school district, which will then monitor the student’s progress to make sure he or she is meeting state education requirements.
7. Is Homeschooling in Florida Monitored by the Government?
Yes, homeschooling in Florida is monitored by the government. The Department of Education oversees all homeschools, and parents are required to submit progress reports and assessment scores to their local school district annually.
8. How Can Parents Connect With Other Homeschoolers in Florida?
The internet is a great resource for connecting with other homeschoolers in Florida. There are many online forums where parents can share resources, ask questions, and get advice from other homeschool families.
Additionally, many local and statewide homeschool organizations offer support, resources, and social activities.
9. Does Homeschooling in Florida Cost Money?
Yes, homeschooling in Florida typically requires some financial investment. Parents will need to purchase curriculum, textbooks, and other materials necessary for homeschooling their children.
Additionally, some homeschool groups charge membership fees.
10. Does Participating in Sports Count as Homeschooling in Florida?
No, participating in sports does not count as homeschooling in Florida. However, many counties and school districts in the state offer after-school sports programs and clubs which homeschooled students may participate in.
11. Are Homeschoolers in Florida Eligible for College Scholarships?
Yes, homeschooled students in Florida are eligible for college scholarships. Most colleges and universities require homeschooled students to complete the SAT or ACT in order to be eligible for scholarships.
12. Are There Extracurricular Activities Available for Homeschoolers in Florida?
Yes, there are plenty of extracurricular activities available for homeschoolers in Florida. Many public libraries offer classes and activities for homeschooling students, and some homeschool groups organize field trips, clubs, and sports teams.
13. Is There an Age Limit for Homeschooling in Florida?
No, there is no age limit for homeschooling in Florida. Students of all ages are eligible to be homeschooled in the state.
14. Is Homeschooling in Florida Required To Follow the Common Core State Standards?
Yes, homeschools in Florida are required to follow the Common Core State Standards. The standards set out expectations for core subjects such as math and reading, and parents must select curriculum that meets these standards.
15. Is It Possible to Get Financial Assistance for Homeschooling in Florida?
Yes, it is possible to get financial assistance for homeschooling in Florida. The state provides a scholarship program for students who meet certain criteria, and there are also organizations and businesses that offer grants and scholarships for homeschool families.
Conclusion
Homeschooling is an increasingly popular option for parents in Florida. If you are considering homeschooling your child, it is important to understand the requirements and legalities of homeschooling in the state. Be sure to research the curriculum options, connect with other homeschoolers, and take advantage of financial assistance programs.
With the right planning and preparation, homeschooling in Florida can be a rewarding experience.