Homeschooling has become increasingly popular in recent years, and parents are now more comfortable with the idea of taking their children’s educational needs into their own hands. Depending on the state you live in, there are likely varying laws surrounding homeschooling, and one of the first steps necessary to beginning a homeschool program is filing a letter of intent. For those parents looking to homeschool their child born in November 2011, understanding when to file a letter of intent is crucial.
In this article, we’ll discuss fifteen questions to ensure you’re taking the right steps for filing your letter of intent in the correct year.
What is a Letter of Intent?
A letter of intent is a document that outlines the parent’s intention to provide educational instruction for their child at home. Depending on the state, the letter of intent or “notice of intent to provide instruction” needs to include information like the parent’s full name, the child’s full name, their birth date, the parent’s address, the curriculum to be used, and more.
Generally, this letter is filed with the Superintendent of the local school district and must be filed in a specific year.
When Should I File a Letter of Intent?
The exact year in which you should file your letter of intent will vary depending on the state in which you reside. For those homeschooling in the state of California, the letter of intent should be filed by August 1st of the school year in which you are beginning your homeschooling program, and each year thereafter that you plan to homeschool your child. In states like New York, the letter of intent should be filed by September 1st and renewed annually by July 1st.
What If I Miss the Deadline for Filing the Letter of Intent?
If you happen to miss the deadline for filing the letter of intent, it’s crucial that you file it as soon as possible in order to ensure that your child has a legal right to homeschooling in your state. Depending on the state you’re homeschooling in, you may have the option to file a retroactive letter of intent, which would be filed with the local school district in the year that it was due.
What Else Should Be Included in the Letter of Intent?
In addition to the basic information outlined above, it’s important to include other pertinent details such as the parent’s qualifications for providing instruction, the educational activities that will be conducted and the method of instruction, and any assessments or tests that will be taken by the child. Furthermore, some states may require a list of specific documents that need to be provided along with the filing of the letter of intent.
Should I File a Letter of Intent If I’m Planning on Homeschooling for Just One Year?
Yes. Depending on the state, you may be required to file a letter of intent even if you’re just planning on homeschooling for one year. In states like California, for example, the law states that an “original notice of intent must be filed each year that a person intends to provide home instruction.
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What Information Can I Get From My State About Filing a Letter of Intent?
If you’re unsure about the filing process for a letter of intent, your best bet is to contact your local school district. They should be able to provide you with detailed information about the filing process and any other pertinent information related to homeschooling in your state.
Additionally, you can find resources online to better understand the laws related to homeschooling in your state.
Are There Any Resources Available to Help Parents Understand State Homeschooling Laws?
Yes. There are numerous resources available to help parents understand state homeschooling laws.
Organizations like the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) provide an extensive resource library which includes helpful information about filing a letter of intent for each state. Additionally, there are many other organizations dedicated to helping parents homeschooling in their state, such as the North American Coalition for Home Education (NACHE) and the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI).
Which School District Should I File My Letter of Intent With?
Generally speaking, it’s best to file your letter of intent with the school district in which your child resides. If there is a question regarding the school boundary lines, you may want to contact your local school district to confirm which one you should be filing your letter of intent with.
Is There a Template Available for Filing the Letter of Intent?
Many states do offer a template or sample letter of intent that can be filled out and submitted to the local school district. The HSLDA website is a great place to find sample letters of intent for each state.
It’s important to keep in mind, however, that the sample letters should not be submitted as-is; it’s best to consult with a homeschooling lawyer in your state or with the school district for more detailed information on the letter of intent.
If I’m Homeschooling a High School Student, Does the Letter of Intent Differ?
In some states, yes. For example, some states may require you to submit additional documents when filing a letter of intent for a high school student, such as a list of major subjects, course descriptions, and customized assessment plans.
In addition, some states also offer a high school diploma if the student completes their homeschooling program. It’s important to contact your local school district or speak to a homeschooling lawyer in your state if you have any questions about homeschooling a high school student.
Does Filing a Letter of Intent Necessitate Me Taking Part in State Assessments?
No. Filing a letter of intent does not automatically require you to take part in state assessments or exams.
However, some states may require that you submit test scores in order to document your child’s progress or to qualify for an exemption from certain assessments.
What Are the Consequences of Filing an Incorrect or Incomplete Letter of Intent?
If you submit an incorrect or incomplete letter of intent, then the local school district has the right to reject your application. In some cases, they may even require that your child enroll in a traditional school. Therefore, it’s imperative that you make sure your letter of intent is accurate and complete, and in accordance with your state’s homeschooling laws.
Are There Any File-Related Fees Required for Filing a Letter of Intent?
In some states, there may be fees associated with filing a letter of intent for homeschooling. However, in other states, this fee may be waived. It’s best to contact your local school district to confirm what filing fees, if any, apply in your state.
Should I Keep a Record of My Letter of Intent Once it’s Filed?
Yes. It’s important to keep a copy of your letter of intent, as well as any other documents related to your homeschooling program, for your own records.
That way, if any questions arise or there is an issue with your program, you’ll have proof that you’ve properly notified your local school district of your intent to homeschool.
Conclusion
Filing a letter of intent is a crucial step for any parent looking to start a homeschooling program. It’s important to understand the exact year in which the letter needs to be filed in order to ensure that you’re in compliance with your state’s laws. Additionally, it’s important to understand the correct documents and information that should be included in the letter of intent, as well as any fees that may be associated with filing it.
With the tips and information provided in this article, you should now have a better understanding of when and how to file a letter of intent to homeschool a child born in November 201