Choosing to begin a Home Education Program

Home education is an option for a growing number of parents. Some parents prepare their own materials and design their own programs of study, while others use materials produced by companies specializing in homeschool materials. Some take advantage of virtual school programs or other educational resources available on the Internet. Of course, exercising this option may require major changes in your family schedule. Teaching your children at home is an ambitious undertaking, requiring time, planning, creativity, and commitment. 

Statutory requirements:

1. File the intent to homeschool with the school district

2. Maintain a portfolio of curriculum used and student work samples (see section on the portfolio for more information)

3. Submit a program evaluation annually (see other section on evaluation for more information)

4. Update the home education office of any address changes or to withdraw from home education

Questions to Consider about Home Education

• Have you identified curriculum materials for your child, and how much they will cost?

• Is there a suitable place for your child's study and instruction?

• Do you, your spouse, or another homeschooling parent have adequate free time to be available to your homeschooling child?

• Do other families in your area homeschool their children?

• Is there a support group of homeschoolers near you?

• If you are interested in some outside instructional support, have you checked your local library, parks department, scouting organizations, public and private schools, and similar resources?

• Have you searched the Web for resources on instruction, legal issues, support groups, and other matters?

• Have you identified other resources you will need?

Home Education High School Students Reminder

The school district cannot issue a high school diploma for home education program students, even if they take flex courses with CVA or at a brick and mortar school. The homeschool student’s record of educational activities/ portofolio, school transcripts (i.e. FLVS/CVA or credits earned in the zoned public school) or other correspondence type courses, and any standardized test scores are all part of the record a parent may keep documenting completion of a home education high school program. Check with the prospective postsecondary school for admission requirements and documentation needed to ensure your student is ready for whatever his or her goals are after high school. Home education students DO NOT participate in the public high school graduation ceremonies.