All U.S. states and some territories provide parents the option of schooling their children at home. Nevertheless, there are different degrees of government involvement. Ten states don’t even ask for notice from homeschooling parents, while others go as far as requiring certified teachers for in home instruction. To sign up for homeschooling is a simple matter of giving written notice in most states. First you’ll have to do a little research on your place of residence.
Check on state registration requirements. Find out if there are any state obligations to meet before removing your child from school. Many states simply ask for written notice to the school board or a state school district. In any case it’s advised to notify your local school district to avoid truancy suspicion.
Check on teacher requirements. Verify teaching requirements. Some states do not impose qualifications on teachers for home instruction, but others require at least a high school diploma. There are states that require teachers to hold a bachelors degree, and some even insist on state teaching certification.
Check curriculum requisites. Find out exactly what subject matter is required for your child’s grade level. Generally states specify minimum standards for privately schooled children to be instructed in the same subjects on at least the same level as those in public schools. The exact subjects will be specified.
Prepare for testing or evaluations. Determine the state’s methods for evaluating in home education. Some states require testing or evaluation reports at regular intervals, while other states only test children when there is cause to believe their education is lacking.
Be ready to keep records. Keep a record of lessons by date and number of instructional hours. File a copy of all immunization records as well.
Tip
There's nothing difficult about signing up for homeschooling. Remember that this decision makes you responsible for your child's education.