IS IT LEGAL to HOMESCHOOL?

[Kiter]

How is it legal to UNSCHOOL? How can you get away with not ever testing your kids? Public school tests and have to keep records? These are questions I hear. We do not keep records, do not test, do not follow a program- so I get these questions.

We do follow the state laws for homeschooling. We live in a fairly easy state to homeschool and are moving to an even easier state.

here are the Ohio Laws: (a link to homeschool laws in each state: CLICK HERE)

ATTENDANCE:900 hours per year learning is a daily thing. my kids are learning something all day everyday. we do not have to keep/report attendance- just agree that our child will receive 900 hours of education

SUBJECTS: Language, reading, spelling, writing, geography, history of the United States and Ohio, government, math, science, health, physical education, fine arts (including music), first aid, safety, and fire prevention- we are not told how or what to teach in each of these subjects or even how much for each subject. we just agree to teach something from these subjects.

QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma, GED, test scores showing high school equivalence, or work under a person with a baccalaureate degree until child’s test scores show proficiency or parent earns diploma or GED- I have my high school diploma. my husband as a degree in engineering.

NOTICE-Submit an annual notice of intent to the local superintendent.- Basically we just check boxes on a form that say we will teach 900 hours, what subjects, and that we have proper qualifications

Recordkeeping: none (So I do not have to keep records that I have done anything)

TESTING: Submit with renewal notification either: 1) standardized test scores, or 2) a written narrative showing satisfactory academic progress, or 3) an approved alternative assessment. We choose to do the assessment. I get together with a certified teacher and tell her/show her what we have done all year, she signs off ona piece of paper.

In Cali it is even easier when using option #1

Legal Option #1: Qualify as a private school- I fill out a form electronically (on the computer and email it).

ATTENDANCE: NONE

SUBJECTS:Same as the public schools and in the English language. It doesn't say it has to be the same level or same amount- just the same subjects.

QUALIFICATION:Must be "capable of teaching" - I think  it is an 'innocent until proven guilty' thing. IF someone comes asking and has a legal warrrant all I have to do is prove I am capable of teaching. Not a problem.

NOTICE:File an annual affidavit with the Superintendent of Public Instruction between October 1 and 15 -This is actually weird. in Ohio we file our notice the last 2 weeks of August- so have it all set for the start of the school year. I guess in Cali we will be homeschooling a month and a half without notice.....

RECORDKEEPING:Maintain an attendance register - This is weird too, as it clearly states there are no requirements for attendance.

TESTING: none

[crivi2725]

May. 20, 2008 at 9:03 AM I wish I lived in a state that has very easy homeschool laws.   My state is one of the most complicated states.   we have to keep a log and a portfolio, go to an evaluator, send our log and portfolio into the school district,  get tested in certain grades......etc.   Lots of work.   I don't really mind but sometimes its a pain in the butt.

[Fistandantalus]

May. 20, 2008 at 9:22 AM Texas rocks when it comes to homeschooling!

[Kiter]

May. 20, 2008 at 9:24 AM I dunno. I think I like having to do SOMETHING......LOL. I'm not sure if I can handle NO  rules. I like rules (esp when they are more like guidelines)

(Original Poster)

[InHisGrace]

May. 20, 2008 at 10:16 AM I love Texas homeschooling laws  :o) 

[NikkiPhoenix]

May. 20, 2008 at 10:23 AM I love being in Texas......especially when I compare it to NY.

[Kiter]

May. 20, 2008 at 10:26 AM NY is too strict, but I do like having some accountability. I guess having that paper there as proof. I think my husband would really have a hard time with NO regulations. he already has trouble with not having the kids tested...4 times a year...LOL

(Original Poster)

[katydid3]

May. 20, 2008 at 10:45 AM

You figure this country was founded on freedoms and rights.... we should have the right to educate our kids as we see fit.  Thank you for the info!

 

Kate

[SVSASHER]

May. 20, 2008 at 11:04 AM thanks for the information

[jeana]

May. 20, 2008 at 11:10 AM thanks for the info! i'm lovin texas!

[Countrygirlw3]

May. 20, 2008 at 11:38 AM I think its awesome that you have the ability to home school your kids!!!! I don't have a diploma or the patience to home school but greatly admire those who do. :)