Beginning to homeschool your child in Texas can be a daunting process, with many rules and regulations that need to be followed. The following article outlines what you need to do to successfully homeschool your child in Texas, from notifying the school district to filing paperwork and more.
Notifying Your School District
The first step to homeschooling your child in Texas is notifying your school district and filing the proper paperwork. This paperwork is known as a “Notice of Intent to Homeschool” and must be filed within 30 days of your choice to homeschool.
Your school district will then acknowledge your intent and inform you of the number of days your child must attend classes and test requirements if any. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) provides several forms that can be used to notify the school district of your intent to homeschool. The SCC form “Affidavit/Notice of Intent to Homeschool” must be completed and submitted to the school district.
You must make sure that the affidavit includes all the required information, including the student’s name, birthdate, address, name of parent/guardian, and contact information. Once the form is received, the school district must confirm your notice of intent via mail.
Home Education Programs
When homeschooling your child in Texas, you must choose a home education program that meets the minimum state requirements for instruction. The Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) has compiled a list of approved curricula that meet the standards for homeschooling.
These curricula include Abeka, BJU Press, Chalkboard Education Services, Christian Light Publications, Home Educators of Texas, K12, and many more. When selecting a program, it is important to choose one that meets the educational needs of your child. You may want to research various programs to determine which one will be most beneficial for your child.
Additionally, you can always create a custom curriculum tailored to your child’s individual learning needs.
Documenting Your Child’s Progress
Texas requires homeschool parents to document their child’s progress by providing records of courses completed and the grades or performance levels achieved. This documentation is known as the “Record of Course Completion and Performance Level” and must be kept for at least two years. These records must include any tests or requirements as dictated by the school district, as well as any courses and performances levels achieved.
Homeschooling parents must also maintain an attendance record for their child. This record must include the total number of days the child was in attendance and the hours spent learning each day.
This can be done either manually or by using electronic software.
State Assessments and Grade Reports
Each year, homeschoolers in Texas are required to submit a Certificate of Completion to the school district. This document must include the child’s name, birthdate, and list of courses completed, as well as any tests or requirements dictated by the school district. Additionally, the parent must submit a grade report that includes a record of the child’s performance in all courses.
Texas homeschoolers are also required to participate in state assessments. These assessments are known as the Texas Assessment of Academic Skills (TAAS) or the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS).
Depending on the grade level, homeschoolers may be required to participate in one or both at least once in either 5th, 8th, or 10th grade.
Additional Requirements
In addition to the requirements listed above, homeschoolers in Texas are subject to other laws and regulations. These include a mandated physical education course every two years, criminal background checks for adult educators, and adhering to any immunization requirements in your area.
It is important to be familiar with all of the laws and regulations regarding homeschooling in your area. Additionally, you may want to obtain the services of a certified teacher or other professional who can help you with any questions or concerns you may have.
Conclusion
In conclusion, homeschooling your child in Texas is a process that requires patience and understanding of the rules and regulations enforced by the school district. By filling out the proper paperwork and following the requirements outlined by the Texas Education Agency, you can successfully homeschool your child and provide them with a high-quality education.