With rising interest in homeschooling as an alternative to traditional schooling, the question of what happens if a child fails their homeschool state exam can be a confusing one. Recently, states have been introducing regulations on homeschooling that require students to take and pass an exam that is tailored to the state’s curriculum in order to satisfy various homeschool guidelines.
The regulations are built to ensure that a student is making satisfactory academic progress while with a homeschool system. But, what happens if a student doesn’t pass the particular state homeschooling exam? This article seeks to answer this question by exploring the steps a homeschooling parent and student can take if the exam is not passed.
What is the Purpose of the Homeschool State Exam?
The purpose of the homeschool state exam is to monitor the progress a student has made in their education. Homeschooling parents are often required to administer an exam that assesses the student’s knowledge of the material they have learned. In most cases, homeschooling parents will be required to annually administer a test which assesses the performance of the student and the quality of the instruction.
The exam is designed to assess where the student is with the core standards, including math, science, reading, and language arts. The exam also serves as a measuring stick that assesses any deficiencies in the instruction and curriculum of the homeschooled student.
Many states also require homeschooling parents to submit proof that their student has attained passing scores on the exam in order to maintain their registration as a homeschooling family.
What Happens if the Exam is Failed?
If a student fails the exam, it is important for the parent of the homeschooled student to contact their state’s specific department of education to understand the ramifications. Depending on the state, the consequences can vary from a lower grade to having to retake the exam. In some cases, a student may be required to be reenrolled in a regular school.
Other states may require the homeschooling parent and student to submit a plan on how to improve the student’s performance and work to retake the exam within a specified time period. It is important for the parent and student to understand the consequences of a failed exam and how to move forward.
Some states require the student to retake the exam the following school year. In other cases, the homeschooling parent and student may have to develop an individualized learning plan in order to address the deficiencies the exam has brought to light.
Many homeschooling parents will begin to research and incorporate other forms of supplemental learning material to help the student prepare for the exam.
What are Options for Preparing to Retake the Exam?
The exact options available to a student or parent may vary depending on the state, but there are several common strategies that can be used to help a student prepare to retake the exam. One of the most popular strategies is to avail the services of a homeschooling tutor, who can provide the student with extra support and guidance when preparing to retake the exam.
In addition, many homeschooling parents and students apply for test prep courses which help a student develop test-taking skills and review their content knowledge for the exam. Another effective strategy for improving a student’s chances of passing the exam is to develop an individualized learning plan. This is a structured plan that identifies a student’s strengths and weaknesses, and helps to ensure that the student is adequately prepared for the exam upon retake.
In addition, some states may require a review of the parent-led homeschooling curriculum to ensure it is meeting the student’s needs.
What Resources Are Available?
When a student needs to retake a state homeschool exam, there are a number of resources available to the parent that can help. Many states have set up online resources or helplines that have homeschooling experts who can provide guidance. Some states even provide online courses or online tutoring services that can be used by both parents and students.
Additionally, there are also a number of homeschooling support groups and associations which can provide further advice and guidance. Finally, parents can turn to the numerous homeschooling study guides and prep materials which are widely available for purchase.
These materials are designed to help parents and students navigate the complexities of specific exams and help to better prepare the student for their retake.
Conclusion
If a student fails their homeschool state exam, it is important to contact the state’s department of education to understand the ramifications and what steps are necessary. Depending on the state, the consequences can range from a lower grade to having the student retake the exam. Additionally, it is important that the parent and student understand the available options for preparing to retake the exam.
This may include using tutors or prep courses, developing an individualized learning plan, as well as using homeschooling resources and study guides. With the right preparation and support, a student can adequately prepare for their retake and retake the exam with confidence.