{
 "source": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/",
 "note": "What each state's law says about homeschooling, checked against the statute and education department page linked in each record. Not legal advice. Null means not confirmed in our check.",
 "states": [
  {
   "state": "Alabama",
   "slug": "alabama",
   "abbr": "AL",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 17",
   "summary": "Alabama has no separate homeschool statute. The State Department of Education lists three legal routes: enrolling in a church school, enrolling in a private school, or instruction by a certified private tutor. State law says home-based education is not subject to licensure or regulation by the state, but each route carries its own enrollment and attendance reporting. A parent may delay school for a six-year-old until age seven by notifying the local board of education in writing.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Church school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who enroll their child in a school run as a ministry of a local church, group of churches, denomination, or association of churches, including church schools that operate home programs.",
     "steps": [
      "Choose a church school that meets the statutory definition: it offers instruction in any of grades K to 12 through on-site or home programs, is operated as a ministry of a church, group of churches, denomination, or association of churches, and receives no state or federal funding.",
      "Enroll your child in the church school.",
      "Get the enrollment and attendance form from your local public school superintendent, have the church school administrator countersign it, and return it to the superintendent yourself.",
      "At enrollment, give the church school your consent to notify the local superintendent if your child stops attending."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the local public school superintendent, on a form the superintendent provides, countersigned by the church school administrator",
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "None required by law",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "The church school's principal teacher keeps an attendance register showing enrollment and every absence of a half day or more.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-1(2)",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-1"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-3",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-3"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-7",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-7"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-8",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-8"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-1-11.2",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-1-11.2"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Private school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who enroll their child in a nongovernmental school, which state law says may run on-site or home programs.",
     "steps": [
      "Enroll your child in a private school established, conducted, and supported by a nongovernmental entity. The statute allows private schools to offer on-site or home programs.",
      "The school registers each year with the State Department of Education on or before October 10 and reports enrollment, attendance, course of study, and other statistics on department forms.",
      "By the end of the fifth day after the local public schools open, the school's principal teacher reports the names and addresses of enrolled children of compulsory age to the county or city superintendent, then reports unexcused absences at least weekly.",
      "Provide the school with your child's certificate of immunization (Blue Card) or a valid exemption."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the county or city superintendent of schools, reported by the school's principal teacher, with annual registration at the State Department of Education",
      "when": "enrollment report by the end of the fifth day after public schools open; annual registration on or before October 10",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "The statute requires private schools to carry out a physical education program that follows the Department of Education's outline. No other subject list for private schools was found in the statutes the department cites.",
     "time": "Compulsory attendance law requires attendance for the entire length of the school term. No separate day or hour count for private schools was found.",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "The principal teacher keeps an attendance register showing enrollment and every absence of a half day or more, and files the enrollment and weekly absence reports.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-1(1)",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-1"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-1-11",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-1-11"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-7",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-7"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-8",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-8"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-40-1",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-40-1"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-30-4",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-30-4"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Private tutor",
     "who_it_fits": "Families where the child is taught by a person who holds an Alabama teaching certificate issued by the State Superintendent of Education.",
     "steps": [
      "Arrange instruction by a tutor who holds a certificate issued by the State Superintendent of Education.",
      "Before instruction begins, the tutor files a statement with the county or city superintendent listing the children to be taught, the subjects, and the period of instruction.",
      "The tutor teaches in English at least three hours a day for 140 days each calendar year, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.",
      "The tutor keeps a daily register and files the enrollment and attendance reports the superintendent and State Board of Education require."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the county superintendent of education or city superintendent of schools, filed by the tutor",
      "when": "before instruction begins",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "The branches of study required to be taught in Alabama public schools.",
     "time": "At least three hours a day for 140 days each calendar year, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.",
     "teacher": "The tutor must hold a certificate issued by the State Superintendent of Education.",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "A register of work showing daily hours of instruction and each child's presence or absence, plus reports the State Board of Education requires.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-5",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-5"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-7",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-7"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-8",
       "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-8"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschool, Instructional Services, Alabama State Department of Education",
    "url": "https://instructional-services.alsde.edu/homeschool"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-3 (compulsory attendance)",
     "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-3"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-1 (private and church school definitions)",
     "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-1"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-5 (private tutor)",
     "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-5"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ala. Code 16-28-7 (enrollment reporting)",
     "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-28-7"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ala. Code 16-1-11.1 to 16-1-11.3 (autonomy of nonpublic schools)",
     "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=16-1-11.2"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/alabama/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Alaska",
   "slug": "alaska",
   "abbr": "AK",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "7 to 16",
   "summary": "Alaska's compulsory attendance law does not apply to a child being educated at home by a parent or legal guardian, and the statute attaches no notice, testing, or recordkeeping duty to that route. Families may also use a religious or other private school that follows the state's private school reporting rules, or enroll in a department-approved public correspondence program.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home education by a parent or legal guardian",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or legal guardians who teach their own child at home without enrolling in a district program.",
     "steps": [
      "Teach your child in your home. The compulsory attendance statute lists education in the child's home by a parent or legal guardian as an exemption.",
      "If your child is enrolled in public school, you decide when to begin home education. The statute sets no filing or approval step for this route."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "None required by law",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "None required by law",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Alaska Stat. 14.30.010(b)(12)",
       "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#14.30.010"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Religious or other private school (AS 14.45.100 to 14.45.130)",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who enroll in, or operate, a religious or other private school that elects to follow the state's private school reporting requirements.",
     "steps": [
      "Enroll your child in a religious or other private school that complies with AS 14.45.100 to 14.45.130.",
      "Each year, file a notice of enrollment with the local public school superintendent on the department's form, signed by you and the school's chief administrative officer.",
      "The school operates on a regular schedule for at least 180 days a year, keeps monthly attendance records, and reports the number of students per grade and its calendar to the commissioner each year.",
      "The school gives a nationally standardized test in grades 4, 6, and 8 that measures English grammar, reading, spelling, and math.",
      "The school keeps permanent student records and certifies to the department that it does so."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the local public school superintendent, on a form provided by the department, signed by the parent and the school's chief administrative officer",
      "when": "annually",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "AS 14.45.100 to 14.45.130 set no subject list. AS 14.30.010(b)(1) describes the exemption as an academic education comparable to that offered by the local public schools.",
     "time": "The school operates on a regular schedule, apart from reasonable holidays and vacations, for at least 180 days a year.",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "A nationally standardized test, chosen by the school's chief administrative officer, given at least once a year to students in grades 4, 6, and 8.",
     "records": "Monthly attendance records, plus permanent records of immunizations, physical exams, standardized testing, academic achievement, courses taken, and Alaska performance scholarship eligibility.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Alaska Stat. 14.30.010(b)(1)(C)",
       "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#14.30.010"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Alaska Stat. 14.45.100",
       "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#14.45.100"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Alaska Stat. 14.45.110",
       "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#14.45.110"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Alaska Stat. 14.45.120",
       "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#14.45.120"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Alaska Stat. 14.45.130",
       "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#14.45.130"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Correspondence study program",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want a district-supported public program completed at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Enroll your child full time in a correspondence study program approved by the department, either your district's program or the centralized program.",
      "Follow the enrolling program's requirements."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": null,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": null,
     "teacher": null,
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Alaska Stat. 14.30.010(b)(10)(B)",
       "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#14.30.010"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": "State law lets a full-time student in grades 9 to 12 in an alternative education program join interscholastic activities at a public school, subject to the school's and the statewide governing body's eligibility rules and documentation. The statute's definition of alternative education program includes a home school program accredited by a recognized accrediting body, so the statute does not reach an unaccredited home school.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Alternative Schooling Options, Alaska Department of Education and Early Development",
    "url": "https://education.alaska.gov/alaskan_schools/schooloptions"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Alaska Stat. 14.30.010 (compulsory attendance and exemptions)",
     "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#14.30.010"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Alaska Stat. 14.45.100 to 14.45.200 (religious and private schools)",
     "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#14.45.100"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Alaska Stat. 14.30.365 (interscholastic activities eligibility)",
     "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#14.30.365"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/alaska/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Arizona",
   "slug": "arizona",
   "abbr": "AZ",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 16",
   "summary": "To homeschool in Arizona, a parent files an affidavit of intent with the county school superintendent within 30 days of starting. The child must be taught reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies, and science. State law does not require testing of homeschooled children.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Homeschool",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents, guardians, or custodians who teach their child at home or run a nonpublic school conducted primarily by the parent.",
     "steps": [
      "Within 30 days of starting homeschool, file an affidavit of intent with your county school superintendent. It lists the child's name and date of birth, the current address of the school the child is attending, and the names, phone numbers, and addresses of the people who have custody.",
      "Provide instruction in at least reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies, and science.",
      "If you stop homeschooling, notify the county school superintendent within 30 days. If you resume, file a new affidavit within 30 days.",
      "If your child is under eight on September 1 and you do not want to start home instruction until age eight, you may file an affidavit stating that instead."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the county school superintendent",
      "when": "within 30 days after homeschool begins; not required again unless homeschooling stops and later resumes",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies, and science.",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law. A child who later enrolls in a public school in kindergarten to grade 12 is tested to determine grade placement.",
     "records": "None required by law",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Ariz. Rev. Stat. 15-802",
       "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/15/00802.htm"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ariz. Rev. Stat. 15-803",
       "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/15/00803.htm"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ariz. Rev. Stat. 15-745",
       "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/15/00745.htm"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": "A homeschooled child who lives in a public school's attendance area may try out for that school's interscholastic activities on the same terms as enrolled students. The person providing primary instruction submits written verification of whether the student is passing each subject and making satisfactory progress. A child who was enrolled in a public, private, or charter school earlier in the same school year is not eligible for the rest of that year.",
   "official_page": null,
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Ariz. Rev. Stat. 15-802 (school instruction, affidavit of intent, homeschool definition)",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/15/00802.htm"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ariz. Rev. Stat. 15-802.01 (interscholastic activities)",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/15/00802-01.htm"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ariz. Rev. Stat. 15-745 (testing)",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/15/00745.htm"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/arizona/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Arkansas",
   "slug": "arkansas",
   "abbr": "AR",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": null,
   "summary": "To homeschool in Arkansas, a parent or legal guardian files a notice of intent with the resident school district superintendent each year, by August 15 for the full year or five school days before withdrawing a child mid-year. The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education says homeschoolers outside the Education Freedom Account program are not required to take standardized tests, and parents do not submit student work unless the child enrolls in public school. Homeschooled students may take academic courses at their resident district and try out for interscholastic activities under state rules.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home school",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or legal guardians who will teach their child at home and accept responsibility for the child's education.",
     "steps": [
      "File a notice of intent with the superintendent of your resident school district, online through the state portal or on paper by mail, email, fax, or in person. The filing period for the next school year opens in June.",
      "Include each child's name, sex, date of birth, grade level, and last school attended, the home school's mailing address and phone number, the name of the parent or guardian teaching, whether the child plans to take part in public school interscholastic activities, whether the child plans to seek a high school equivalency diploma, and your signature.",
      "If your child is enrolled in public school, file at least five school days before withdrawing (the superintendent or school board may waive the wait), then follow the district's withdrawal process.",
      "Provide your own books, curricula, and materials. The state and district are not required to supply them.",
      "File a new notice of intent at the start of each school year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the superintendent of the resident school district",
      "when": "by August 15 each year for the full year, or five school days before withdrawing mid-year; within 30 calendar days of moving into a new district",
      "form_url": "https://noihs.ade.arkansas.gov/HomeSchoolIntent/Index"
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": null,
     "teacher": null,
     "assessment": "None required by law, unless the student participates in the Education Freedom Account program.",
     "records": "None required by law. A student who later enrolls in public school submits a transcript of courses and semester grades and a portfolio of academic progress, such as curricula, tests, and completed lessons.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "6 CAR 33-103",
       "url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Files/Home_Schools_6CARpt.33_Legal.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "6 CAR 33-104",
       "url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Files/Home_Schools_6CARpt.33_Legal.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "6 CAR 33-105",
       "url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Files/Home_Schools_6CARpt.33_Legal.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "DESE Home School Liaison FAQ (May 2026)",
       "url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Files/Frequently_Asked_Questions_-_Home_School_Liaison_May_2026_OSCPE.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "File the notice of intent at least five school days before withdrawing from public school; the superintendent or school board may waive the waiting period. A student under disciplinary action for violating a written school policy, including excessive unexcused absences, is not eligible to homeschool until the discipline is completed or the semester ends, unless the superintendent or board allows it or the student was expelled. Borrowed school property must be returned or paid for. After the waiting period, contact the district and follow its withdrawal process.",
   "high_school": "The Department of Education does not issue diplomas or transcripts to homeschoolers, and the state sets no graduation requirements for them. A homeschooled student who re-enrolls in public school must attend for at least nine months immediately before graduation to receive that school's diploma. Re-enrolled students may not be denied credits, grade placement, or a diploma solely because they were homeschooled. The notice of intent asks whether the student plans to seek a high school equivalency diploma.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. A homeschooled student may take part in interscholastic activities at the resident district school by giving notice before the signup or tryout deadline and meeting academic eligibility, which is a score at or above the 30th percentile on the Stanford Achievement Test, Tenth Edition, or another nationally recognized norm-referenced test within the previous 12 months, or a State Board approved test score. The student meets the same tryout, conduct, practice, drug testing, physical, and fee rules as enrolled students. Participation at a nonresident school requires agreement between the schools. A student who leaves an Arkansas Activities Association member school to homeschool waits at least 365 days before taking part in the resident district's interscholastic activities.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Schools, Office of School Choice and Parent Empowerment, Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education",
    "url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/office-of-school-choice-and-parent-empowerment/home-schools"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "6 CAR 33-101 to 33-108 (Rules Governing Home Schools)",
     "url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Files/Home_Schools_6CARpt.33_Legal.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ark. Code 6-15-501 to 6-15-509 (home schools)",
     "url": null
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ark. Code 6-18-201 (compulsory attendance)",
     "url": null
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/arkansas/"
  },
  {
   "state": "California",
   "slug": "california",
   "abbr": "CA",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 18",
   "summary": "California has no separate homeschool statute. The most common route is for a parent to establish a home-based private school by filing a Private School Affidavit with the California Department of Education each year, teaching in English the branches of study required in public schools, and keeping attendance and course records. Families may also use a credentialed tutor, an existing private school's independent study program, or a public charter school or public independent study program.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home-based private school",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who want to run their own private school at home and teach their own children.",
     "steps": [
      "Review the courses of study in Education Code 51210 (grades 1 to 6) and 51220 (grades 7 to 12) and choose your curriculum and materials.",
      "File a Private School Affidavit with the California Department of Education using the online system. The statutory filing period is October 1 to 15 each year, and the system is open from August 1 to June 30 for new schools and home schools.",
      "If your child is enrolled in public school, ask the district to withdraw your child. Districts may not require proof of a filed affidavit before withdrawal, but the exemption from public school attendance takes effect only after the district's attendance supervisor verifies the affidavit was filed.",
      "Teach in English, offer the branches of study required in public schools, and keep the required records at your school.",
      "File a new affidavit every school year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the California Department of Education, through the Private School Affidavit filed by the owner or head of the private school",
      "when": "annually, October 1 to 15 (the online system accepts filings from August 1 to June 30)",
      "form_url": "http://www3.cde.ca.gov/psa"
     },
     "subjects": "The several branches of study required to be taught in California public schools, taught in English. The department points to Education Code 51210 and 51220 for those courses of study.",
     "time": "The law refers to a private full-time day school but sets no specific day or hour count for private schools.",
     "teacher": "Instruction must be by persons capable of teaching. No credential is required for this route.",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "An attendance register showing every absence of a half day or more, the courses of study offered, the names and addresses of faculty with a record of each person's educational qualifications, and a copy of the affidavit.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Cal. Educ. Code 48222",
       "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48222"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Cal. Educ. Code 33190",
       "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=33190"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Cal. Educ. Code 48200",
       "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48200"
      },
      {
       "cite": "CDE Schooling at Home",
       "url": "https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ps/homeschool.asp"
      },
      {
       "cite": "CDE Schooling at Home FAQ",
       "url": "https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ps/schoolingathomefaq.asp"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Existing private school with an independent study or online program",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want their child enrolled in an established private school that offers home-based, online, or independent study options.",
     "steps": [
      "Find a private school that offers online learning, independent study, or home-based study. The California School Directory lists private schools that have filed affidavits.",
      "Enroll your child and follow the school's requirements.",
      "The private school, not the parent, files the annual Private School Affidavit and keeps the required records."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "The school must offer the branches of study required in public schools, taught in English.",
     "time": "The law refers to a private full-time day school but sets no specific day or hour count for private schools.",
     "teacher": "Instruction must be by persons capable of teaching.",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "The private school keeps the attendance register, courses of study, and faculty records required by law.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Cal. Educ. Code 48222",
       "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48222"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Cal. Educ. Code 33190",
       "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=33190"
      },
      {
       "cite": "CDE Homeschooling and Education Alternatives",
       "url": "https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ps/homeschoolingedualts.asp"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Credentialed private tutor",
     "who_it_fits": "Families where the child is taught by a person holding a valid California teaching credential for the grade taught, including a credentialed parent.",
     "steps": [
      "Arrange instruction by a tutor or other person who holds a valid state credential for the grade taught.",
      "Provide instruction in English in the branches of study required in public schools, at least three hours a day for 175 days each calendar year, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "The several branches of study required to be taught in California public schools, taught in English.",
     "time": "At least three hours a day for 175 days each calendar year, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.",
     "teacher": "The tutor must hold a valid state credential for the grade taught.",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "None required by law",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Cal. Educ. Code 48224",
       "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48224"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Public charter school or public independent study program",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want home-based learning while the child stays enrolled in a public school program.",
     "steps": [
      "Ask your school district, nearby districts, or your county office of education which independent study or home-based programs they offer, or look for a public charter school that offers home-based instruction.",
      "Enroll your child in the program and follow its requirements."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": null,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": null,
     "teacher": null,
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "CDE Homeschooling and Education Alternatives",
       "url": "https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ps/homeschoolingedualts.asp"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Department of Education tells districts to follow local procedures when a parent asks to withdraw a child to attend a private or home school, and says districts may not require proof of a filed Private School Affidavit before withdrawal. The child is not exempt from compulsory attendance until the district verifies the affidavit was filed. The Private School Affidavit system is closed in July, and parents may withdraw and begin homeschooling during July before filing once it reopens August 1.",
   "high_school": "The Department of Education says no law or regulation sets graduation or diploma requirements for California private schools. Parents running a home-based private school create their own diplomas and transcripts. The department notes that requirements set by an individual home school may not be generally recognized, and points to the GED test and the California Proficiency Program as alternatives. A public school district sets its own policy on placement and on accepting credits when a homeschooled child enrolls.",
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Schooling at Home, California Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ps/homeschool.asp"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Cal. Educ. Code 48200 (compulsory attendance)",
     "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48200"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Cal. Educ. Code 48222 (private school exemption)",
     "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48222"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Cal. Educ. Code 48224 (credentialed tutor exemption)",
     "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48224"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Cal. Educ. Code 33190 (private school affidavit)",
     "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=33190"
    },
    {
     "cite": "CDE Education Code for Private Schools (statute excerpts)",
     "url": "https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ps/psaffedcode.asp"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/california/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Colorado",
   "slug": "colorado",
   "abbr": "CO",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": null,
   "summary": "To homeschool in Colorado under the home-based education law, a parent sends written notice to any Colorado school district 14 days before starting and every year after. The program must provide at least 172 days of instruction averaging four hours a day in the required subjects, and the child is tested or evaluated in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. Parents keep permanent attendance, test, and immunization records.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Nonpublic home-based educational program",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents, or an adult relative the parent designates, who will teach the child at home outside the supervision of a school district.",
     "steps": [
      "Send written notice to any Colorado school district at least 14 days before you start. The notice lists each child's name, age, place of residence, and number of hours of attendance. The department advises also notifying your resident district if you send notice elsewhere.",
      "If your child was habitually truant at any time in the last six months of school attendance, include a written description of the curricula you will use with the notice.",
      "Teach at least 172 days a year, averaging four instructional contact hours a day, covering the required subjects.",
      "In grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11, have your child take a nationally standardized achievement test or be evaluated by a qualified person, and submit the results to the school district that received your notice or to an independent or parochial school in Colorado. If you use a school, give its name to the district.",
      "Keep permanent records and send a new notice every year you continue."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "any school district in Colorado",
      "when": "14 days before the program begins, and each year after while it continues. A parent need not give notice until the child is six, need not start the program until the child is seven, and need not continue notice after the child is sixteen.",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Communication skills of reading, writing, and speaking, mathematics, history, civics, literature, science, and regular courses of instruction in the United States Constitution.",
     "time": "At least 172 days of instruction a year, averaging four instructional contact hours per day.",
     "teacher": "The parent or an adult relative designated by the parent. No license or other qualification is required.",
     "assessment": "In grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11, either a nationally standardized achievement test or an evaluation by a qualified person (a licensed teacher, a teacher at an independent or parochial school, a licensed psychologist, or a person with a graduate degree in education). If a test composite score is at or below the 13th percentile, or an evaluation shows insufficient progress, the district requires the child to attend a public, independent, or parochial school until the next testing period. A retest on an alternate or different approved test is allowed first.",
     "records": "Permanent records kept by the parent, including attendance data, test and evaluation results, and immunization records. The district may require them on 14 days' written notice only if the superintendent has probable cause to believe the program is not in compliance.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Colo. Rev. Stat. 22-33-104.5",
       "url": "https://ed.cde.state.co.us/fs/pages/3454"
      },
      {
       "cite": "CDE Frequently Asked Questions about Home Schooling",
       "url": "https://ed.cde.state.co.us/fs/pages/3453"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": "The department says there is no state diploma, and district diplomas go only to students who attended a public high school in the district. A parent may issue a diploma, and the GED is optional. A school district must accept home-based program transcripts for credit when a child enrolls, but may reject them if district testing does not verify their accuracy. The district may test the child for grade placement and places the child with the parent's consent.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. A child in a home-based program may take part on an equal basis in extracurricular or interscholastic activities offered by a public school, and by a private school at its discretion, under the same rules of the governing association. The child may not be required to enroll in a course or earn course credit to be eligible, unless the activity is an extension of a course, such as a performing arts group. The district of attendance is the district that received the notice. A child who withdraws from a school more than 15 days after the school year starts uses that school or district for the rest of that year.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschool and Part-Time Programs in Colorado, Colorado Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.cde.state.co.us/choice/homeschool"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Colo. Rev. Stat. 22-33-104.5 (home-based education), as reprinted by the Colorado Department of Education",
     "url": "https://ed.cde.state.co.us/fs/pages/3454"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Colo. Rev. Stat. 22-33-104 (compulsory attendance)",
     "url": null
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/colorado/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Connecticut",
   "slug": "connecticut",
   "abbr": "CT",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "5 to 18",
   "summary": "Connecticut law requires a child of compulsory age to attend public school unless the parent can show the child is elsewhere receiving equivalent instruction in the studies taught in public schools. Current statute does not require a homeschool notice, but the State Department of Education asks parents to contact their local district's central office and give notice of their intent. A 2026 law (Public Act 26-37) adds an in-person withdrawal form starting in the 2027-28 school year and an annual intent to educate form starting in the 2028-29 school year. A parent may delay school entry at age five until six, and at six until seven, by signing an option form in person at the district office.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Equivalent instruction at home",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who will teach their child at home in place of public school attendance.",
     "steps": [
      "Contact your local school district's central office to learn its procedures and give notice of your intent to homeschool, as the State Department of Education asks. The statute itself does not require a notice.",
      "Plan instruction in reading, writing, spelling, English grammar, geography, arithmetic, United States history, and citizenship, including the town, state, and federal governments.",
      "Be prepared to show that your child is receiving instruction equivalent to the studies taught in the public schools."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Reading, writing, spelling, English grammar, geography, arithmetic, United States history, and citizenship, including a study of the town, state, and federal governments.",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "None required by law. The State Department of Education lists as best practice an attendance log of days and hours, and a portfolio for each child with work samples, a log of books and materials, and results of any national assessments.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Conn. Gen. Stat. 10-184",
       "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_168.htm#sec_10-184"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Conn. Gen. Stat. 10-184b",
       "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_168.htm#sec_10-184b"
      },
      {
       "cite": "CSDE Homeschooling in Connecticut",
       "url": "https://portal.ct.gov/sde/homeschooling/homeschooling-in-connecticut"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "Current statute sets an in-person withdrawal form only for a student 17 or older leaving school (or 17 and moving to adult education) and for a parent using the option to delay school entry at age five or six. Under Public Act 26-37, starting in the 2027-28 school year, a parent withdrawing a child from public school must go in person to the district office and sign a withdrawal form, and a child may not be withdrawn for parent-managed learning if Department of Children and Families records show an adult living with the child is on the child abuse and neglect registry or under investigation.",
   "high_school": "The State Department of Education does not accredit homeschooling programs and does not recognize credits or credentials earned through them. Districts are not required to award graduation credit for homeschool work in grades 9 to 12, so students who re-enroll in those grades are not guaranteed credit. The department says the route to an official high school diploma is passing the GED test. A child may return to public school at any time.",
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschooling in Connecticut, Connecticut State Department of Education",
    "url": "https://portal.ct.gov/sde/homeschooling/homeschooling-in-connecticut"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Conn. Gen. Stat. 10-184 (duties of parents, school attendance ages)",
     "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_168.htm#sec_10-184"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Conn. Gen. Stat. 10-184a (special education for children in home or private school)",
     "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_168.htm#sec_10-184a"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Conn. Gen. Stat. 10-221a (high school graduation credit)",
     "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_170.htm#sec_10-221a"
    },
    {
     "cite": "OLR Report 2026-R-0079, 2026 Acts Affecting Education (summary of PA 26-37)",
     "url": "https://prdext3.cga.ct.gov/olr/Documents/year/AA/2026AA-0079_2026%20Acts%20Affecting%20Education.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/connecticut/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Delaware",
   "slug": "delaware",
   "abbr": "DE",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "5 to 16",
   "summary": "Delaware treats a homeschool as a nonpublic school. A parent registers the homeschool with the Department of Education through the online Nonpublic School Application, then reports student enrollment each fall and end-of-year attendance by July 31. The law defines three types of homeschool: single-family, multi-family, and single-family coordinated with the local school district.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Single-family homeschool",
     "who_it_fits": "A parent or legal guardian teaching their own child, mainly in their own home.",
     "steps": [
      "Create an EdAccess account with the Department of Education, choosing a Nonpublic School Account.",
      "In the Nonpublic School Application, add a school, choose the homeschool type, enter the school's contact information, and add each student linked to a parent or guardian. Submit and wait for department review.",
      "Once approved, print the Acknowledgement Letter from the application's Records tab.",
      "If your child is in public school, give the Acknowledgement Letter to the school to withdraw your child. The department says the child should be enrolled in the open homeschool before withdrawal.",
      "Each year, submit the enrollment statement in the fall and the end-of-year attendance report by July 31."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Delaware Department of Education, through the Nonpublic School Application in EdAccess",
      "when": "register before withdrawing from public school; enrollment statement each fall and attendance report on or before July 31 each year",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "The law requires the annual enrollment and attendance reports. The department reports days the school was open, each student's days attended, withdrawal dates, and graduation dates for grade 12. It recommends, but does not require, keeping portfolios and records.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "14 Del. C. 2703",
       "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title14/c027/sc01/index.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "14 Del. C. 2703A(b)(2)",
       "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title14/c027/sc01/index.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "14 Del. C. 2704",
       "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title14/c027/sc01/index.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "DDOE Opening a Nonpublic School",
       "url": "https://education.delaware.gov/families/k12/homeschools-and-private-schools/opening-a-nonpublic-school"
      },
      {
       "cite": "DDOE Annual Reporting",
       "url": "https://education.delaware.gov/families/k12/homeschools-and-private-schools/annual-reporting"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Multi-family homeschool",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or guardians educating children who are not all siblings, in one or more homes or other facilities.",
     "steps": [
      "Join or form a multi-family homeschool. One person serves as the liaison to the Department of Education.",
      "The liaison registers the school, adds students, and handles annual enrollment and attendance reporting for all families, and gives each parent a copy of the acknowledgement.",
      "Contact the liaison for your family's specific steps, and use the acknowledgement to withdraw your child from public school if needed."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Delaware Department of Education, filed by the multi-family homeschool's liaison",
      "when": "enrollment statement each fall and attendance report on or before July 31 each year",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "The liaison files the annual enrollment and attendance reports for all participating families.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "14 Del. C. 2703A(b)(1)",
       "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title14/c027/sc01/index.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "14 Del. C. 2704",
       "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title14/c027/sc01/index.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "DDOE Opening a Nonpublic School",
       "url": "https://education.delaware.gov/families/k12/homeschools-and-private-schools/opening-a-nonpublic-school"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Single-family homeschool coordinated with the local school district",
     "who_it_fits": "A parent or guardian teaching their own child at home using a curriculum approved by the local superintendent.",
     "steps": [
      "Contact your local superintendent's office to have your curriculum approved by the superintendent or a designee.",
      "The superintendent determines in writing that your child is or will be given regular and thorough instruction in the subjects prescribed for Delaware public schools, suited to the child's age and stage of advancement."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": null,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "The subjects prescribed for Delaware public schools, using a curriculum approved by the local superintendent.",
     "time": null,
     "teacher": null,
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "14 Del. C. 2703A(b)(3)",
       "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title14/c027/sc01/index.html"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Department of Education says the student must be enrolled in an open homeschool before withdrawal, or the student may be considered truant. Public schools will not withdraw a student to a nonpublic school without the department's Acknowledgement Letter. Families new to Delaware and children entering kindergarten do not need to withdraw. Enrolling in a nonpublic school does not stop truancy charges already filed by the district.",
   "high_school": "The Department of Education does not issue, validate, or keep copies of diplomas. The nonpublic school, including a homeschool, issues the diploma, and colleges, employers, or licensing bodies decide whether to accept it. The department does not keep academic records or issue report cards; the homeschool administrator does. To qualify for the SEED and INSPIRE scholarships, a student must be registered in a public or nonpublic school at graduation.",
   "sports_access": "The department's FAQ says DIAA Regulations 1008 and 1009 require a student to be enrolled full time at a DIAA member school to play interscholastic sports for that school.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschools and Private Schools, Delaware Department of Education",
    "url": "https://education.delaware.gov/families/k12/homeschools-and-private-schools/"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "14 Del. C. 2702 (compulsory attendance)",
     "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title14/c027/sc01/index.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "14 Del. C. 2703 and 2703A (private school and homeschool exemption, homeschool types)",
     "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title14/c027/sc01/index.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "14 Del. C. 2704 (nonpublic school reports)",
     "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title14/c027/sc01/index.html"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/delaware/"
  },
  {
   "state": "District of Columbia",
   "slug": "district-of-columbia",
   "abbr": "DC",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "5 to 18",
   "summary": "To homeschool in the District of Columbia, a parent or legal guardian submits a Notification of Intent to Homeschool to the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) at least 15 business days before home instruction begins, and files a continuation notice by August 15 each following year. The program must give thorough, regular instruction in the required subjects, and the parent keeps a portfolio of the child's work that OSSE may review. Parents who teach must have a high school diploma or its equivalent, or obtain a waiver.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home schooling program",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or legal guardians with legal custody who will direct their child's education at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Confirm you have a high school diploma or its equivalent. If not, petition OSSE for a waiver with evidence that you can provide a thorough, regular education.",
      "Submit the Notification of Intent to Homeschool online at least 15 business days (not counting weekends or District holidays) before the first day of home instruction.",
      "If your child attends a public or public charter school, give the school the verification letter OSSE sends after approving your notice, and follow the school's exit process. Until the official withdrawal, your child stays enrolled and accrues unexcused absences.",
      "Teach language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education, and keep a portfolio of your child's current work.",
      "Each year you continue, file a Notification of Homeschool Continuation by August 15. To stop, file a Notification to Discontinue Homeschooling at least 15 business days before you stop."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE), on its official online form",
      "when": "at least 15 business days before home instruction begins; continuation notice by August 15 each year after",
      "form_url": "https://homeschool.dc.gov/"
     },
     "subjects": "Language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education. Programs need not follow public school methods or curricular frameworks.",
     "time": "Thorough, regular instruction of sufficient duration to carry out the program. No specific day or hour count is set.",
     "teacher": "The parent or legal guardian who teaches must have a high school diploma or its equivalent, or receive a waiver from OSSE.",
     "assessment": "None required by law. Homeschooled children may take the regularly scheduled public school standardized tests free of charge.",
     "records": "A portfolio for each child with evidence of current work, such as writing samples, worksheets, workbooks, creative work, and assessments, kept for at least one year. OSSE may ask in writing to review it, no more than twice a school year, at a mutually agreeable time and place.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "5-A DCMR 5202",
       "url": "https://osse.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/osse/publication/attachments/DCMR%205200%20Homeschooling.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "5-A DCMR 5203",
       "url": "https://osse.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/osse/publication/attachments/DCMR%205200%20Homeschooling.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "5-A DCMR 5204",
       "url": "https://osse.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/osse/publication/attachments/DCMR%205200%20Homeschooling.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "5-A DCMR 5205 and 5206",
       "url": "https://osse.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/osse/publication/attachments/DCMR%205200%20Homeschooling.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "5-A DCMR 5207",
       "url": "https://osse.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/osse/publication/attachments/DCMR%205200%20Homeschooling.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "5-A DCMR 5209",
       "url": "https://osse.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/osse/publication/attachments/DCMR%205200%20Homeschooling.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "D.C. Code 38-202",
       "url": "https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/38-202"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "OSSE says parents must notify the child's school of the intent to withdraw. After OSSE approves the Notification of Intent, it sends a verification letter to give the school to begin the official withdrawal, and the family follows the school's exit process. A student may not be registered to homeschool while attending a public or public charter school, and until officially withdrawn the student stays registered, accrues unexcused absences, and is subject to truancy reporting.",
   "high_school": "When a homeschooled child applies to enroll in a District public school, placement and any credits toward high school graduation are determined by evaluation, which may include standardized tests, other exams, and interviews.",
   "sports_access": "OSSE's family guide says homeschooled students may petition the DC State Athletic Association to take part in sports. No statute or regulation on this was confirmed.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschooling in the District of Columbia, Office of the State Superintendent of Education",
    "url": "https://osse.dc.gov/node/1637381"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "D.C. Code 38-202 (school attendance requirements)",
     "url": "https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/38-202"
    },
    {
     "cite": "5-A DCMR 5200 to 5299 (home schooling)",
     "url": "https://osse.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/osse/publication/attachments/DCMR%205200%20Homeschooling.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/district-of-columbia/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Florida",
   "slug": "florida",
   "abbr": "FL",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 16",
   "summary": "To homeschool in Florida, a parent files a signed written notice with the county school superintendent within 30 days of starting a home education program. The parent keeps a portfolio for two years and files an annual educational evaluation with the superintendent's office. The district may not require more documentation than the statute lists unless the student joins a district program.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home education program",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who will direct their child's sequentially progressive instruction at home. No Florida teaching certificate is required.",
     "steps": [
      "Within 30 days of starting, file a written notice of intent, signed by you, with the district school superintendent of the county where you live. List the full legal name, address, and birthdate of each child.",
      "Keep a portfolio for each child: a log of educational activities made at the time of instruction that names reading materials by title, and samples of writings, worksheets, workbooks, or creative materials.",
      "Each year, arrange an annual educational evaluation by one of the methods in the statute and file a copy with the superintendent's office in your county.",
      "Keep the portfolio for two years and make it available for inspection if the superintendent requests it with 15 days' written notice.",
      "When you end the program, file a written notice of termination with the superintendent, along with the annual evaluation, within 30 days."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the district school superintendent of the county where the parent lives",
      "when": "within 30 days of establishing the home education program; termination notice within 30 days of ending it",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "None required by law",
     "time": "None required by law. The statute excludes home education programs from the requirements of a school day.",
     "teacher": "None required by law. The parent is not required to hold a Florida teaching certificate.",
     "assessment": "An annual educational evaluation showing progress at a level matching the child's ability, by one of these methods chosen by the parent: review of the portfolio and discussion with the student by a Florida certified teacher; any nationally normed achievement test given by a certified teacher; a state student assessment used by the district, given by a certified teacher; an evaluation by a licensed psychologist or school psychologist; or another valid tool agreed on with the superintendent. If progress is not shown, the parent has one year of remedial instruction before reevaluation.",
     "records": "A portfolio with a contemporaneous log of educational activities naming reading materials by title, and samples of the student's writings, worksheets, workbooks, or creative materials. Keep it for two years.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Fla. Stat. 1002.41",
       "url": "http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=1000-1099/1002/Sections/1002.41.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Fla. Stat. 1002.01(1)",
       "url": "http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=1000-1099/1002/Sections/1002.01.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Fla. Stat. 1003.21(1)",
       "url": "http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=1000-1099/1003/Sections/1003.21.html"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Private tutoring program",
     "who_it_fits": "Families whose child is taught by a person holding a valid Florida teaching certificate for the subjects or grades taught.",
     "steps": [
      "Arrange instruction by a tutor who holds a valid Florida certificate to teach the subjects or grades involved.",
      "The tutor keeps the records and makes the attendance and other reports the state and district school board require.",
      "The student attends for the minimum length of time set by Fla. Stat. 1011.60(2)."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": null,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": "The minimum length of time prescribed by Fla. Stat. 1011.60(2).",
     "teacher": "The tutor must hold a valid Florida certificate to teach the subjects or grades in which instruction is given.",
     "assessment": null,
     "records": "The tutor keeps all records and makes all reports required by the state and the district school board, including regular attendance reports under Fla. Stat. 1003.23(2).",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Fla. Stat. 1002.43",
       "url": "http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=1000-1099/1002/Sections/1002.43.html"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": "The statute says home education students may take part in dual enrollment programs, may qualify for the Bright Futures Scholarship Program, and are eligible for admission to Florida College System institutions and, under Board of Governors policy, state universities. School districts must make industry certifications, national assessments, and statewide standardized assessments they offer available to home education students. The statute does not address diplomas or transcripts.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. Home education students may take part in interscholastic and intrascholastic extracurricular activities. A home education student may participate at a school in the district where the student lives, must meet the home education program requirements, and must show educational progress in all home education subjects during participation by a method agreed on by the parent and principal. The student meets the same acceptance, behavior, and performance standards as other students, pays only the fee enrolled students pay, and the parents provide transportation. District boards may not make participation less accessible to home education students than to others.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Education, Florida Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.fldoe.org/schools/school-choice/home-edu"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Fla. Stat. 1002.41 (home education programs)",
     "url": "http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=1000-1099/1002/Sections/1002.41.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Fla. Stat. 1003.21 (school attendance)",
     "url": "http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=1000-1099/1003/Sections/1003.21.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Fla. Stat. 1006.15 (extracurricular activities)",
     "url": "http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=1000-1099/1006/Sections/1006.15.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Fla. Stat. 1002.43 (private tutoring programs)",
     "url": "http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=1000-1099/1002/Sections/1002.43.html"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/florida/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Georgia",
   "slug": "georgia",
   "abbr": "GA",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 16",
   "summary": "Georgia families homeschool through a home study program. A parent files a Declaration of Intent with the Georgia Department of Education within 30 days of starting and by September 1 each year after that. The program must teach five core subjects for the equivalent of 180 days of 4.5 hours, the parent writes an annual progress report, and the student takes a nationally standardized test at least every three years starting at the end of grade 3.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home study program",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or guardians with at least a high school diploma or a state approved equivalency diploma who want to teach their own children at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Confirm that the teaching parent or guardian, or a hired tutor, holds at least a high school diploma or a state approved high school equivalency diploma.",
      "Submit a Declaration of Intent to the Georgia Department of Education within 30 days of starting the program, online or by mail, fax, or email. List each student's name and age, the program address, the local school system, and the 12-month period you will treat as your school year.",
      "Keep a copy of the submitted Declaration of Intent. It is needed for driver's permits, licenses, and youth work permits.",
      "Teach reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science for the equivalent of 180 school days of at least 4.5 hours each.",
      "Write an annual progress report for each student covering each required subject, and keep it for at least three years.",
      "Arrange a nationally standardized test at least every three years beginning at the end of grade 3, given in consultation with a person trained in norm-referenced testing, and keep the scores.",
      "File a new Declaration of Intent by September 1 each year, and tell the department if your address changes or you stop the program."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Georgia Department of Education (Declaration of Intent)",
      "when": "within 30 days after starting the program, then by September 1 each year",
      "form_url": "https://apps.gadoe.org/Pages/Home-Study-DOI.aspx"
     },
     "subjects": "A basic academic program that includes, at a minimum, reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science.",
     "time": "The equivalent of 180 school days per year, each with at least 4.5 school hours. Days a student spent in public or private school during the current school year may count toward the 180.",
     "teacher": "The teaching parent or guardian, or a hired tutor, must hold at least a high school diploma or a state approved high school equivalency diploma. Parents may teach only their own children.",
     "assessment": "A nationally standardized test at least every three years, beginning at the end of grade 3, given in consultation with a person trained in administering and interpreting norm-referenced tests. Scores are kept by the parent, not submitted.",
     "records": "An annual written progress report for each student covering each required subject, kept for at least three years. Standardized test scores must also be kept.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "O.C.G.A. 20-2-690, as summarized in GaDOE, Georgia Home School: Information about home study programs (August 2025)",
       "url": "https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/e89d40ff-e5e7-475a-99a1-e38a6f3afd2e/1/Home%20School%20Overview%20August%202025%20update.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "GaDOE Home Study Program Declaration of Intent Form (October 2025)",
       "url": "https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/e7f1e8c5-7d34-497f-b5b7-b28c2c0edb81/1/HomeSchool%20DOI%20updateOct2025.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Georgia Department of Education says local school systems must have proof of a student's enrollment in a home school program within 45 days of the student's withdrawal from a Georgia public school, and the Declaration of Intent meets this requirement. A student who withdraws from public school to homeschool is not eligible for public school extracurricular or interscholastic activities for 12 months from the date the Declaration of Intent is submitted.",
   "high_school": "The department does not provide a curriculum or diploma. If a home study student enrolls in a public school system, the local system decides academic placement and whether to award units of credit for homeschool courses, following at least State Board of Education Rule 160-5-1-.15. The parent has legal authority to sign documents showing the child's enrollment, status, and grades.",
   "sports_access": "Yes, for grades 6 to 12. Under the Dexter Mosely Act (O.C.G.A. 20-2-319.6), a home study student may join extracurricular and interscholastic activities at the resident public school. The parent must give written notice to the principal and superintendent at least 30 days before the semester, provide the most recent annual progress report with verification of passing grades, and the student must enroll in one qualifying course each semester of participation and meet the same rules and tryout requirements as other students. A student who withdraws from public school to homeschool must wait 12 months from the Declaration of Intent date.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home School, Georgia Department of Education",
    "url": "https://gadoe.org/parent-family-resources/home-school/"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "O.C.G.A. 20-2-690 (home study programs)",
     "url": "https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/e89d40ff-e5e7-475a-99a1-e38a6f3afd2e/1/Home%20School%20Overview%20August%202025%20update.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "O.C.G.A. 20-2-690.1 (compulsory attendance)",
     "url": "https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/e89d40ff-e5e7-475a-99a1-e38a6f3afd2e/1/Home%20School%20Overview%20August%202025%20update.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "O.C.G.A. 20-2-319.6 (Dexter Mosely Act)",
     "url": "https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/file/56c31133-0376-4498-88bd-c7a39072dfe6/1/Dexter%20Mosely%20Act%20-%20Guidance.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/georgia/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Hawaii",
   "slug": "hawaii",
   "abbr": "HI",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "5 to 18",
   "summary": "In Hawaii a parent homeschools by giving the principal of the local public school a notice of intent before starting, using Form 4140 or a letter. The parent keeps a record of the planned curriculum and submits an annual progress report to the principal. Test scores are required in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home schooling",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who will teach their own child at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Find your local public school, the school your child would attend if not homeschooled.",
      "Before you begin, give the principal a notice of intent on Form 4140 or in a letter with the child's name, address, phone number, birthdate, grade level, and your signature.",
      "Keep a record of the planned curriculum: start and end dates, hours of instruction per week, subjects, how you will judge mastery, and a list of textbooks and materials in standard bibliographic format.",
      "Arrange testing in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10, either at the local public school or privately at your own expense.",
      "Submit an annual progress report to the principal using one of the four methods the rules allow.",
      "Notify the new school's principal if your child moves to a different local public school, for example from elementary to intermediate.",
      "If you stop homeschooling, notify the principal. The child must be enrolled in a public or licensed private school within five school days unless a new alternative program is presented."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the principal of the local public school the child would otherwise attend",
      "when": "before starting home schooling. It need not be resubmitted each year once an annual progress report is on file, except when the child transfers to a new local public school.",
      "form_url": "https://hawaiipublicschools.org/wp-content/uploads/Exceptions4140.pdf"
     },
     "subjects": "The planned curriculum must be structured, cumulative, and sequential. The rules list subjects an elementary curriculum may include (language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, art, music, health, and physical education) and a secondary curriculum may include (social studies, English, mathematics, science, health, physical education, and guidance).",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "Test scores are required in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10, through the public school's statewide testing or comparable private testing at the parent's expense. An annual progress report is also required, using one of four methods: a nationally normed achievement test score showing grade level achievement, test progress of one grade level per year, a written evaluation by a teacher certified in Hawaii, or a written parent evaluation with a description of progress in each subject, work samples, and graded tests or assignments.",
     "records": "A record of the planned curriculum, including start and end dates, weekly instruction hours, subjects, the method for judging mastery, and a bibliographic list of materials. The principal may ask to see it if progress is not adequate.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Haw. Rev. Stat. 302A-1132(a)(5)",
       "url": "https://data.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol05_Ch0261-0319/HRS0302A/HRS_0302A-1132.htm"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Haw. Admin. Rules 8-12-13, 8-12-15, 8-12-16, 8-12-18, 8-12-19",
       "url": "https://boe.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12-Compulsory-Attendance-Exceptions.pdf"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Alternative educational program other than home schooling (for example, tutoring)",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want someone other than the parent, such as a tutor, to provide instruction outside a school.",
     "steps": [
      "Submit Form 4140 to the local public school along with a planned curriculum.",
      "Include program start and end dates, weekly instruction hours averaging about three hours per school day, subjects, the method for judging mastery, and a list of materials.",
      "Provide evidence that each instructor holds at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college, including official transcripts.",
      "Wait for approval from the superintendent or designee.",
      "Participate in statewide testing and submit a narrative progress report and report card to the principal at the end of each school year.",
      "Renew the request each year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the local public school, for approval by the superintendent or designee",
      "when": "before withdrawal is approved, renewed annually",
      "form_url": "https://hawaiipublicschools.org/wp-content/uploads/Exceptions4140.pdf"
     },
     "subjects": "A planned curriculum covering subject areas such as those listed for elementary and secondary levels in the rules.",
     "time": "Instruction averaging approximately three hours per school day.",
     "teacher": "Professional staff or tutors must hold at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.",
     "assessment": "Test scores for grades in the Statewide Testing Program, plus a narrative progress report and report card at the end of each school year.",
     "records": "The planned curriculum submitted with Form 4140 and annual progress reports.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Haw. Admin. Rules 8-12-8, 8-12-9, 8-12-10",
       "url": "https://boe.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12-Compulsory-Attendance-Exceptions.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Hawaii Department of Education says homeschooling begins when you submit the signed Form 4140 or letter of intent to the local public school, and birth certificates, proof of residency, and health records are not needed. The principal and complex area superintendent acknowledge the notice and the school returns a copy.",
   "high_school": "No course credits are granted for time spent homeschooling. To earn a diploma from a public high school, a homeschooled student must attend high school for at least three full years and meet graduation credit requirements. The department says a High School Equivalency Credential is available through the community school for adults with a valid Form 4140 and a passing GED or HiSET score. A homeschooled student may take any college entrance exam offered to all students, and the local high school principal will, on request, confirm in writing that the child was homeschooled in compliance with the rules.",
   "sports_access": "Haw. Admin. Rules 8-12-13(d) says a parent who files a notice to homeschool is responsible for the child's total educational program, including athletics and other co-curricular activities. No rule granting public school activity access was found.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschool, Hawaii State Department of Education",
    "url": "https://hawaiipublicschools.org/enrolling-in-school/homeschool/"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Haw. Rev. Stat. 302A-1132 (compulsory attendance and exceptions)",
     "url": "https://data.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol05_Ch0261-0319/HRS0302A/HRS_0302A-1132.htm"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Haw. Admin. Rules Title 8, Chapter 12 (compulsory attendance exceptions)",
     "url": "https://boe.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12-Compulsory-Attendance-Exceptions.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/hawaii/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Idaho",
   "slug": "idaho",
   "abbr": "ID",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "7 to 16",
   "summary": "Idaho lets a parent or guardian instruct a child privately at home. The state has no registration, notice, testing, or reporting requirement for homeschool families. The law asks that the child be taught the subjects commonly taught in Idaho public schools.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Private instruction by or at the direction of a parent or guardian",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want to direct their child's education at home without enrolling in a school.",
     "steps": [
      "If your child is enrolled in a public school, make sure the child is officially unenrolled from that school.",
      "Choose your own curriculum. The Idaho Content Standards are available for reference, and you decide which standards to teach.",
      "Teach the subjects commonly and usually taught in Idaho public schools.",
      "Keep your own records of attendance and completed work. The department recommends this, though the law does not require it."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Subjects commonly and usually taught in the public schools of Idaho.",
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "None required by law",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Idaho Code 33-202",
       "url": "https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/Title33/T33CH2/SECT33-202/"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Idaho Department of Education, Homeschool FAQ",
       "url": "https://www.sde.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Home-School-FAQ.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Idaho Department of Education says the first step is to make sure your child is officially unenrolled from any public school. It does not describe a specific form or deadline.",
   "high_school": "The Idaho Department of Education says homeschooled children will not graduate with an official diploma from an accredited high school, that colleges may have added entry requirements for homeschoolers, and that a receiving public school decides grade placement if the child re-enrolls. Under Idaho Code 33-203, credits a dually enrolled student earns at an accredited postsecondary institution count toward state high school graduation requirements.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. Under Idaho Code 33-203, a home school student counts as a nonpublic student and may dually enroll in a public school and take part in its programs, including nonacademic activities. The student must meet the same eligibility and conduct standards as other students, show academic eligibility through a state board recognized test, portfolio, or a qualifying score on a nationally normed test, and live within the attendance boundaries of the school.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschool, Idaho Department of Education",
    "url": "https://sde.idaho.gov/school-choice/home-school"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Idaho Code 33-202 (compulsory attendance)",
     "url": "https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/Title33/T33CH2/SECT33-202/"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Idaho Code 33-203 (dual enrollment)",
     "url": "https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/Title33/T33CH2/SECT33-203/"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Idaho Code 33-201 (school age)",
     "url": "https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/Title33/T33CH2/SECT33-201/"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/idaho/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Illinois",
   "slug": "illinois",
   "abbr": "IL",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 17",
   "summary": "Illinois treats homeschooling as a form of private school. A parent must teach, in English, the branches of education taught in public schools at the same age and grade. There is no state registration, testing, or reporting requirement.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home school as a private school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want to teach their children at home and meet the private school standard of the compulsory attendance law.",
     "steps": [
      "If your child is enrolled in a school, notify the school, preferably in writing, that you are withdrawing your child to homeschool so the child is not marked truant. Keep a copy.",
      "Plan instruction in English covering language arts, mathematics, biological and physical science, social science, fine arts, and physical development and health.",
      "Choose your own materials, schedule, and methods. The state sets no number of days or hours.",
      "Keep your own records, such as report cards, syllabi, attendance logs, or test results, in case you are asked for proof of your child's education."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "The branches of education taught to children of corresponding age and grade in public schools, taught in English. ISBE lists these as language arts, mathematics, biological and physical science, social science, fine arts, and physical development and health.",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": null,
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "None required by law",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "105 ILCS 5/26-1 (as amended by Public Act 98-0544)",
       "url": "https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/publicacts/view/098-0544"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Illinois State Board of Education, Illinois Homeschooling",
       "url": "https://www.isbe.net/Documents/Illinois-Homeschooling.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "ISBE says there is no formal withdrawal procedure in state law, but recommends notifying the child's current school, preferably in writing, so the child is not reported missing or truant. The school may have its own withdrawal form. ISBE no longer collects homeschool forms, and some Regional Offices of Education and Chicago Public Schools offer voluntary notification forms.",
   "high_school": "ISBE says the parent sets graduation requirements and that homeschooled students have no legal right to a public school diploma or graduation ceremony unless enrolled full time and meeting all state graduation requirements. A public high school may not grant credit for classes that did not come from an accredited program, and districts decide grade placement for students who re-enroll.",
   "sports_access": "ISBE says public schools have no obligation to open extracurricular activities to homeschooled students, except for a required extracurricular part of a course the student takes part time. ISBE says interscholastic sports are governed by Illinois High School Association and Illinois Elementary School Association bylaws, which limit homeschool participation. ISBE also cites 105 ILCS 5/10-20.24 for part-time attendance at the local public school if requested by May 1 of the prior school year, space is available, and the child lives in the attendance zone, and 105 ILCS 5/27-24.2 for driver's education with notice to the district by April 1.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschool, Illinois State Board of Education",
    "url": "https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Homeschool.aspx"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "105 ILCS 5/26-1 (compulsory attendance and private school exception)",
     "url": "https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/publicacts/view/098-0544"
    },
    {
     "cite": "105 ILCS 5/27-1 (required branches of study), as cited by ISBE",
     "url": "https://www.isbe.net/Documents/Illinois-Homeschooling.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "105 ILCS 5/10-20.24 (part-time attendance), as cited by ISBE",
     "url": "https://www.isbe.net/Documents/Illinois-Homeschooling.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/illinois/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Indiana",
   "slug": "indiana",
   "abbr": "IN",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "7 to 18",
   "summary": "Indiana treats a homeschool as a non-public, non-accredited school. A parent must provide instruction equivalent to that given in public schools and keep an accurate daily attendance record. Registration with the state is optional, and there is no testing requirement.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Non-public, non-accredited school (homeschool)",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who withdraw from public or accredited non-public schools to educate their children themselves at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Tell your child's current school that you are withdrawing to homeschool. A phone call may be enough, but the department recommends writing.",
      "If your child is in high school, sign the school's Withdrawal to Non-accredited Non-public School Located in Indiana form so the student is removed from the graduation cohort rather than counted as a dropout.",
      "Optionally register your homeschool with the Indiana Department of Education. Registration is one time and covers all your students.",
      "Choose your curriculum and materials. The law does not set curriculum content for homeschools.",
      "Keep an accurate daily attendance record and provide it if the Secretary of Education or your local superintendent asks for it."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": "https://www.in.gov/doe/students/homeschool-information/"
     },
     "subjects": "Instruction equivalent to that given in public schools. State law does not define this, and homeschools are not bound by Indiana curriculum or content requirements.",
     "time": "The department says parents should provide 180 days of instruction in each academic year, running July 1 to June 30. Days in a public or accredited school count toward the 180. Public school daily hour requirements do not apply.",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "An accurate daily record of attendance, to be provided on request of the Secretary of Education or the public school superintendent where the student lives. No specific form is required.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "IC 20-33-2-12, 20-33-2-20, 20-33-2-27, 20-33-2-28",
       "url": "https://iga.in.gov/laws/2025/ic/titles/20"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Indiana Department of Education, Indiana Homeschool Laws FAQ (August 2025)",
       "url": "https://www.in.gov/doe/files/Homeschool-FAQ-1.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The department says parents must inform the school of the decision to withdraw, and recommends doing so in writing. For elementary and middle school students, the school cannot require a specific form, registration, or proof of a homeschool program before withdrawal. For high school students, IC 20-33-2-28.6 requires the Withdrawal to Non-accredited Non-public School Located in Indiana form. If a parent does not sign it, the student is treated as a dropout and may be reported to the BMV for license action.",
   "high_school": "Homeschool students do not receive a diploma accredited by the State Board of Education and state graduation requirements do not apply. The department says that under HEA 1348, a diploma or credential issued by a nonaccredited non-public school is legally sufficient to show the person completed high school, and Indiana state and local agencies and colleges may not reject it based only on its source. The person running the homeschool may sign documents on enrollment, status, grades, and transcripts. Students may also take the High School Equivalency exam through the Department of Workforce Development.",
   "sports_access": "The department says participation in public school extracurricular activities is a local decision of the school corporation. No statute granting access was confirmed.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschool Information, Indiana Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.in.gov/doe/students/homeschool-information/"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "IC 20-33-2 (compulsory school attendance)",
     "url": "https://iga.in.gov/laws/2025/ic/titles/20"
    },
    {
     "cite": "IC 20-33-2-28.6 (high school withdrawal form)",
     "url": "https://iga.in.gov/laws/2025/ic/titles/20#20-33-2-28.6"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/indiana/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Iowa",
   "slug": "iowa",
   "abbr": "IA",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 16",
   "summary": "Iowa calls homeschooling private instruction and offers several routes. Under competent private instruction a parent may teach with no reporting at all, or may file Form A and complete an annual evaluation in order to dual enroll in the public school. Independent private instruction is another no reporting route that must answer a written request for basic information from the district or department.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Competent private instruction by a parent, with no reporting (CPI Option 2 opt out, the Private Instruction Exemption)",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want no contact with the school district and do not need public school classes, activities, or special education services.",
     "steps": [
      "If your child is enrolled in a school, consider telling the district you are withdrawing to homeschool and the last day of attendance. The department says this is not required by law but helps avoid truancy concerns.",
      "Choose your curriculum and teach reading and language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.",
      "Provide instruction daily for at least 148 days during the school year, with at least 37 days each quarter.",
      "Do not file Form A. Note that this route gives up dual enrollment for academics, activities, and special education."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Reading and language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, per the Iowa Department of Education.",
     "time": "At least 148 days during the school year, with at least 37 days each school quarter.",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "None required by law",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Iowa Code 299A.1(2)(a) and 299A.3",
       "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/299A.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Iowa Department of Education, Private Instruction Handbook",
       "url": "https://educate.iowa.gov/media/7743/download?inline"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Competent private instruction by a parent, with reporting or dual enrollment (CPI Option 2)",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents without an Iowa teaching license who want their child to take public school classes, join activities, or receive special education services through dual enrollment.",
     "steps": [
      "Complete Form A for each child and file it with your resident school district by September 1, or within 14 calendar days of moving or removing the child from an accredited school. It must be fully completed within 30 days.",
      "On Form A, give the child's name and age, the period of instruction, an outline of the course of study, texts used, and the instructor's name and address. A child placed under this route for the first time also needs evidence of required immunizations and, at elementary age, a blood lead test.",
      "Request dual enrollment by the same deadline if you want public school classes or activities.",
      "Provide instruction daily for at least 148 days, at least 37 days per quarter.",
      "Have your child evaluated by May 31 using an approved standardized assessment, or submit a portfolio reviewed by an Iowa licensed teacher you select and the superintendent approves. A child who is 7 or new to this route takes a baseline evaluation.",
      "Report the evaluation results to the district and the department by August 1 of the year after the school year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the resident school district (Form A)",
      "when": "by September 1, or within 14 calendar days of moving or leaving an accredited school",
      "form_url": "https://educate.iowa.gov/media/3767/download?inline"
     },
     "subjects": "Reading and language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, with an outline of the course of study listed on Form A.",
     "time": "At least 148 days during the school year, with at least 37 days each school quarter.",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "An annual evaluation by May 31, either an approved standardized assessment or a portfolio review by a licensed Iowa teacher. Adequate progress means scores above the 30th national percentile in reading, mathematics, and language arts (plus science and social studies from grade 6) and either six months of progress or at or above grade level. A district or area education agency must give the evaluation at no cost if asked.",
     "records": "Form A each year, and the evaluation results reported by August 1.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Iowa Code 299.4",
       "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/299.4.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Iowa Code 299A.3, 299A.4, 299A.6, 299A.8",
       "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/299A.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Iowa Department of Education, Summary of CPI Timelines and Procedures",
       "url": "https://educate.iowa.gov/media/7732/download?inline"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Competent private instruction by or under a licensed practitioner (CPI Option 1)",
     "who_it_fits": "Families where a parent holds an Iowa teaching license, who hire a licensed teacher, or who join the district's home school assistance program if one is offered.",
     "steps": [
      "Choose a licensed Iowa teacher appropriate to your child's age and grade: yourself if licensed, a privately retained teacher, or the district's home school assistance program.",
      "If not in a home school assistance program, file Form A with your resident district by September 1, or within 14 calendar days of moving or leaving an accredited school.",
      "To join a home school assistance program, request enrollment by September 15 or within 14 calendar days of moving or leaving an accredited school. Districts are not required to offer one.",
      "Provide instruction daily for at least 148 days, at least 37 days per quarter, by or under the supervision of the licensed practitioner."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the resident school district (Form A), unless the child is in a home school assistance program, which files its own report",
      "when": "by September 1, or within 14 calendar days of moving or leaving an accredited school",
      "form_url": "https://educate.iowa.gov/media/3767/download?inline"
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": "At least 148 days during the school year, with at least 37 days each school quarter.",
     "teacher": "Instruction must be given or supervised by a teacher with a valid Iowa license appropriate to the ages and grade levels taught. A licensed practitioner may serve no more than 25 families or 50 children a year unless exempted.",
     "assessment": "The annual evaluation and reporting rules in 299A.4 through 299A.7 do not apply to this route.",
     "records": "Form A each year when filed with the district.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Iowa Code 299A.1(2)(a)(1) and 299A.2",
       "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/299A.2.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Iowa Admin. Code 281-31.3(2)",
       "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/iac/chapter/281.31.pdf"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Independent private instruction (IPI)",
     "who_it_fits": "Families or small groups who want a non-accredited private or religious-based program with no routine reporting.",
     "steps": [
      "Set up instruction whose primary purpose is private or religious-based instruction, that is not accredited and is not a nonpublic school.",
      "Teach mathematics, reading and language arts, science, and social studies at all grade levels.",
      "If the district superintendent or the director of the department asks in writing, provide a report naming the primary instructor, the location, the responsible authority, and the students."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Mathematics, reading and language arts, science, and social studies.",
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "A report on the instructor, location, responsible authority, and students, only when requested in writing by the superintendent or department director.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Iowa Code 299A.1(2)(b)",
       "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/299A.1.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Iowa Department of Education, Homeschool Technical Assistance Based on 2026 Legislation (HF 2754)",
       "url": "https://educate.iowa.gov/media/13089/download?inline"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Iowa Department of Education says families using the no reporting or IPI routes are not required to notify the district, but are encouraged to tell the district they are withdrawing and the last day of attendance so prolonged absence is not treated as truancy. Families using CPI with reporting file Form A within 14 calendar days of removing the child from an accredited school.",
   "high_school": "The department summarizes 2026 legislation (HF 2754, new Iowa Code 299A.13 and 299A.14): a student who completes secondary education under CPI or IPI is deemed to have completed high school, the parent or instructor may issue a diploma and final transcript, and these must be accepted the same as public school documents for college admission, jobs, licensing, and state programs. The parent may sign documents verifying enrollment, status, and grades. A resident district may also choose to issue its own diploma if the student meets its graduation requirements.",
   "sports_access": "Yes, for children under competent private instruction who dual enroll. Iowa Code 299A.8 says a dually enrolled child may take part in district extracurricular activities on the same basis as public school children. The department says students must meet extracurricular eligibility rules, including taking at least four courses as documented on Form A, and that the no reporting route gives up dual enrollment.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschooling (Private Instruction), Iowa Department of Education",
    "url": "https://educate.iowa.gov/pk-12/educational-choice/homeschooling"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Iowa Code chapter 299A (private instruction)",
     "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/299A.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Iowa Code 299.1A (compulsory attendance age)",
     "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/299.1A.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Iowa Code 299.4 (reports as to private instruction)",
     "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/299.4.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Iowa Admin. Code 281 chapter 31 (private instruction and dual enrollment)",
     "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/iac/chapter/281.31.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/iowa/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Kansas",
   "slug": "kansas",
   "abbr": "KS",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "7 to 18",
   "summary": "In Kansas a homeschool operates as a nonaccredited private school. The parent registers the school's name and address once with the State Board of Education, and instruction must be given by a competent instructor for a period substantially equivalent to the local public school term.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Nonaccredited private school (homeschool)",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want to run their own home-based private school.",
     "steps": [
      "Choose a name for your school.",
      "Register the school's name and address with the Kansas State Board of Education using the online form. You register once. There is no approval process or fee.",
      "Keep a copy of your registration, since no confirmation is sent. You can request a registration letter from KSDE if needed.",
      "If your child is leaving a public school, notify that school so the child is not reported as truant.",
      "Provide instruction by a competent instructor for a period substantially equivalent to the time the public school in your district is in session.",
      "If the homeschool closes, mark it non-active using the same online form."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Kansas State Board of Education (name and address registration)",
      "when": "once, when the school is established. No deadline is stated.",
      "form_url": "https://apps.ksde.gov/naps_form/default.aspx"
     },
     "subjects": "None listed by law. The department recommends, but does not require, the public school graduation units for high school: 4 English, 3 history and government, 3 science, 3 math, 1 physical education, 1 fine arts, 6 electives.",
     "time": "A period substantially equivalent to the period the public school is maintained in the district. KSDE notes public schools must provide at least 186 days, or 1,116 hours per year for grades 1 to 11.",
     "teacher": "Instruction must be by a competent instructor. KSDE says state teacher licensure is not required.",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "Not required by law. The department advises keeping accurate progress records in case your child transfers to an accredited school or applies to college.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "K.S.A. 72-3120(a)(2)",
       "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch72/072_031_0020.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "K.S.A. 72-4345 and 72-4346",
       "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch72/072_043_0046.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Kansas State Department of Education, Homeschooling in Kansas fact sheet (revised Feb 12, 2024)",
       "url": "https://www.ksde.gov/docs/default-source/csas/factsheet-homeschool.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "KSDE says the parent must notify the school the student previously attended when transferring to a nonaccredited private school. If this is not done, the school is required to report the student as truant.",
   "high_school": "Non-accredited private schools, including homeschools, issue their own diplomas. The state does not issue them, and the department says these diplomas are not recognized by the state as meeting its requirements. Colleges set their own admission rules.",
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Nonaccredited Private Schools, Kansas State Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.ksde.gov/student-success/learning-alternatives/nonaccredited-private-schools"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "K.S.A. 72-3120 (compulsory school attendance)",
     "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch72/072_031_0020.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "K.S.A. 72-4345 (nonaccredited private schools, definitions)",
     "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch72/072_043_0045.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "K.S.A. 72-4346 (registration of name and address)",
     "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch72/072_043_0046.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Kansas State Department of Education, Homeschooling in Kansas fact sheet (revised Feb 12, 2024)",
     "url": "https://www.ksde.gov/docs/default-source/csas/factsheet-homeschool.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/kansas/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Kentucky",
   "slug": "kentucky",
   "abbr": "KY",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 16 (local districts may extend to 18)",
   "summary": "Kentucky treats a homeschool as a private school. A parent names the school and notifies the local superintendent of the children in attendance within the first two weeks of each school year, or within two weeks of withdrawing from public school. The homeschool must keep attendance records and scholarship reports open to inspection.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Homeschool as a private school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who provide education to their own children at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Establish a bona fide school by giving your homeschool a name, such as your family name plus School or Academy. No business registration is needed.",
      "Send the superintendent of your local school district a letter of intent listing the name, age, and home address of each child, within the first two weeks of the school year or within two weeks of withdrawing from public school. The district must accept it.",
      "Keep attendance records in any paper or digital form.",
      "Keep scholarship reports showing the courses each student completed and the grades awarded.",
      "Make your records available for inspection by the district's Director of Pupil Personnel and Kentucky Department of Education officials.",
      "Send a new notification letter every year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the superintendent of the local board of education where you live",
      "when": "within the first two weeks of the school year, or within two weeks of withdrawing from public school, every year",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "None required by law",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "Attendance records and scholarship reports documenting courses completed and grades awarded, open to inspection by the Director of Pupil Personnel and Kentucky Department of Education officials. The department accepts attendance kept in any paper or digital form.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "KRS 159.030(1)(b)",
       "url": "https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=53714"
      },
      {
       "cite": "KRS 159.040",
       "url": "https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=3631"
      },
      {
       "cite": "KRS 159.160",
       "url": "https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=3644"
      },
      {
       "cite": "KRS 158.080",
       "url": "https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=56395"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Kentucky Department of Education, Homeschool Information Packet (May 2026)",
       "url": "https://www.education.ky.gov/federal/Documents/Kentucky%20Homeschool%20Information%20Packet.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Kentucky Department of Education says families must notify the local superintendent of their intent to homeschool within two weeks of withdrawing from the public school. The notice lists each child's name, age, and home address, and the district may not reject it.",
   "high_school": "The department says Kentucky has no statewide diploma, so homeschools issue their own diplomas. The department cannot verify homeschool diplomas and recommends students consider the GED or an equivalent exam. When a student moves into a public school, 704 KAR 3:307 has the district place the student and award prior credit by exam or by earning at least a C in a higher sequential course by the 12th week.",
   "sports_access": "The department says participation in public school extracurricular activities is decided by the local school district. No statute granting access was confirmed.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschool Information Packet, Kentucky Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.education.ky.gov/federal/Documents/Kentucky%20Homeschool%20Information%20Packet.pdf"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "KRS 159.010 (compulsory attendance ages)",
     "url": "https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=46050"
    },
    {
     "cite": "KRS 159.030 (exemptions, private school)",
     "url": "https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=53714"
    },
    {
     "cite": "KRS 159.040 (private school attendance and scholarship reports)",
     "url": "https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=3631"
    },
    {
     "cite": "KRS 159.160 (attendance reports to superintendent)",
     "url": "https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=3644"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/kentucky/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Louisiana",
   "slug": "louisiana",
   "abbr": "LA",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "5 to 18",
   "summary": "Louisiana families usually educate at home through a BESE approved home study program or a nonpublic school not seeking state approval. Home study requires an application to the state board within 15 days of starting and a yearly renewal with evidence of progress. A nonpublic school not seeking approval submits enrollment information each year.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "BESE approved home study program",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who want state recognized home study, including a diploma with the same rights as a state approved nonpublic school diploma and possible TOPS eligibility.",
     "steps": [
      "Apply to the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education through the Louisiana Department of Education online application within 15 days after starting the program. Include a certified copy of the child's birth certificate and certify that the program will offer a sustained curriculum of quality at least equal to public schools at the same grade level.",
      "Choose your curriculum and decide your child's grade level for the year.",
      "Teach the program. A parent or tutor may teach, and there are no teacher qualifications.",
      "Before renewal, gather evidence of progress: a packet of materials, a standardized test showing grade level work or one grade level of progress per year, or a statement from a certified teacher.",
      "Submit a renewal application by October 1 of the school year, or within 12 months of initial approval, whichever is later, or when the child moves to the next grade level."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, through the Louisiana Department of Education",
      "when": "within 15 days after starting the program, then a renewal by October 1 or within 12 months of approval, whichever is later",
      "form_url": "https://webapps.doe.louisiana.gov/publicapps/homestudy_app/homestudy_app.aspx"
     },
     "subjects": "A sustained curriculum of quality at least equal to that offered by public schools at the same grade level. No specific subjects are listed in statute.",
     "time": "The department says a child must participate in the home study program for at least 180 days in the school year to comply with compulsory attendance.",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "At each renewal, one of: a packet of materials such as subject outlines, book lists, work samples, test copies, and third party statements; a standardized test score at or above grade level or showing one grade level of progress per year; or a statement from a teacher certified at the child's grade level. State testing is not required but may be arranged through the local school board.",
     "records": "The materials needed to support each renewal application.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "La. R.S. 17:236.1",
       "url": "https://legis.la.gov/legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=80346"
      },
      {
       "cite": "La. R.S. 17:236(A)",
       "url": "https://legis.la.gov/legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=80345"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Louisiana Department of Education, BESE Approved Home Study Program Guidelines",
       "url": "https://doe.louisiana.gov/docs/default-source/school-choice/guidelines---bese-approved-home-study-program.pdf"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Nonpublic school not seeking state approval",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who prefer to operate or enroll in a private school that does not seek state approval and do not need TOPS or a diploma with state standing.",
     "steps": [
      "If your child is leaving a public school, withdraw the child. No documentation is required and the public school cannot refuse.",
      "Submit enrollment information each year through the department's online attendance submission form. The confirmation is valid for one year.",
      "If the child withdrew from public school during the year, or attended public school the year before, the nonpublic school sends a written notice of enrollment to that public school within 10 days of enrollment, with the student's legal name, date of birth, gender, and race."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Louisiana Department of Education (annual attendance submission), plus the former public school when required",
      "when": "annually, and within 10 days of enrollment for the former public school notice",
      "form_url": "https://doe.louisiana.gov/topic-pages/louisiana-school-choice/nonpublic-schools-not-seeking-state-approval"
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "For a nonpublic school that receives no public funds, instructional staff must meet requirements prescribed by the school or church.",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "La. R.S. 17:236(A)",
       "url": "https://legis.la.gov/legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=80345"
      },
      {
       "cite": "La. R.S. 17:221.3, as described by the Louisiana Department of Education",
       "url": "https://doe.louisiana.gov/topic-pages/louisiana-school-choice/nonpublic-schools-not-seeking-state-approval"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Louisiana Department of Education says no documentation is required to withdraw a child and a public school cannot refuse to let a parent withdraw. For home study, it suggests applying before withdrawing when possible, and sending a copy of the approval letter to the prior school. School districts receive monthly copies of home study approval letters. For a nonpublic school not seeking approval, the school must notify the former public school within 10 days of enrollment.",
   "high_school": "Under La. R.S. 17:236.1(G), a diploma from a BESE approved home study program has the same rights and privileges as a diploma from a state approved nonpublic school for public colleges and state and local agencies. Parents create and issue the diploma, without state seals. TOPS eligibility requires enrollment in approved home study for grades 11 and 12 and meeting TOPS ACT requirements. A diploma from a nonpublic school not seeking approval does not carry the same weight as a state issued diploma, and its students are not TOPS eligible. Public schools evaluate returning students to set grade level and credits.",
   "sports_access": "Yes, for approved home study students. The department says that under Act 715 a public school may not disqualify a student from extracurricular activities or interscholastic athletics solely because the student is in approved home study, if the student lives in the school's attendance zone. The student tries out in the same manner as other students and must meet the same grade point average and discipline requirements.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "BESE-Approved Home Study Program, Louisiana Department of Education",
    "url": "https://doe.louisiana.gov/schools/home-study"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "La. R.S. 17:221 (compulsory ages)",
     "url": "https://legis.la.gov/legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=80276"
    },
    {
     "cite": "La. R.S. 17:236 (definition of a school)",
     "url": "https://legis.la.gov/legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=80345"
    },
    {
     "cite": "La. R.S. 17:236.1 (approval of home study programs)",
     "url": "https://legis.la.gov/legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=80346"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/louisiana/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Maine",
   "slug": "maine",
   "abbr": "ME",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 17",
   "summary": "Maine families homeschool through a home instruction program. A parent files a notice of intent with the local school officials and the Commissioner of Education within 10 calendar days of starting, and files a letter with an annual assessment by September 1 of each later year. The program must provide at least 175 days of instruction in the subjects listed in the law.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home instruction program",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or guardians who want to teach their children at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Within 10 calendar days of starting, file a written notice of intent with the school officials of your administrative unit and the Commissioner. The online Home Instruction Portal sends it to both. A paper form goes to the superintendent's office only.",
      "Include your name, signature, and address, your child's name and age, the start date, and statements of assurance about the 175 days, the required subjects, and an annual assessment.",
      "If you plan to use a test given by the school unit, a locally developed test, or a local advisory board review, get the school officials' agreement before you file the notice.",
      "Provide at least 175 days of instruction each year in the required subjects.",
      "Complete one of the five allowed annual assessments.",
      "By September 1 of each later year, file a letter with the school officials and the Commissioner stating that you will continue, with a copy of the assessment.",
      "Keep copies of everything you file until the program ends."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the school officials of the administrative unit where the student lives and the Commissioner of Education, at the same time",
      "when": "within 10 calendar days of beginning home instruction, then by September 1 each later year",
      "form_url": "https://neo.maine.gov/DOE/neo/HomeInstruction/HomeSchools/Schools/ParentGuardianForm"
     },
     "subjects": "English and language arts, math, science, social studies, physical education, health education, library skills, fine arts, and Maine studies in at least one grade from 6 to 12. The student must show proficiency in using computers at one grade level from 7 to 12.",
     "time": "At least 175 days of instruction each year.",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "Each year after the first, one of: a standardized achievement test through the school unit or another approved arrangement; a test developed by the school unit; review and acceptance by a person with a current Maine teacher's certificate; a portfolio review by a local homeschool support group that includes a certified Maine teacher or administrator; or review by a local advisory board of one school unit employee and two home instruction tutors. The department says no assessment is required with a first time filing.",
     "records": "Copies of the information filed must be kept by the parent until the home instruction program ends and made available to the Commissioner on request.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "20-A M.R.S. 5001-A(3)(A)(4)",
       "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/20-A/title20-Asec5001-A.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Maine Department of Education, Home Instruction Requirements",
       "url": "https://www.maine.gov/doe/schools/schoolops/homeinstruction/requirements"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Maine Department of Education says to file the notice of intent within 10 days of withdrawing from school. For later changes such as an address change or leaving home instruction, notify the superintendent's office. If home instruction ends, a child of compulsory age must be enrolled in a public school or another equivalent instruction alternative.",
   "high_school": "Under 20-A M.R.S. 5022, a homeschooled student entering a public high school earns credit for public school courses and may earn credit for home instruction coursework if the principal approves the course both in advance and on completion, possibly with tests. A local diploma requires meeting all course credit and other requirements set by the local school board, which may set resident credit requirements. Under 5021, a home instruction student who takes specific public school classes earns credit by meeting the same standards as other students.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. Under 20-A M.R.S. 5021, home instruction students may try out for extracurricular activities sponsored by the local school unit by applying in writing. They must follow the same participation, physical exam, immunization, insurance, age, semester, academic, and transportation rules as enrolled students. They may also join cocurricular activities and enroll in specific classes with written approval, which may not be unreasonably withheld.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Instruction Requirements, Maine Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.maine.gov/doe/schools/schoolops/homeinstruction/requirements"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "20-A M.R.S. 5001-A (compulsory attendance and home instruction)",
     "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/20-A/title20-Asec5001-A.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "20-A M.R.S. 5021 (participation in public schools)",
     "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/20-A/title20-Asec5021.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "20-A M.R.S. 5022 (admission to regular program)",
     "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/20-A/title20-Asec5022.html"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/maine/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Maryland",
   "slug": "maryland",
   "abbr": "MD",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "5 to 17 (attendance is required from age 5 until age 18)",
   "summary": "Maryland excuses a child from public school attendance if the child receives regular, thorough instruction in the studies usually taught in public schools to children of the same age. A parent can do this under a portfolio review by the local school system, or under the supervision of a church-run education program or a state-approved nonpublic school. For the portfolio route, the parent signs a state form and gives it to the local superintendent at least 15 days before starting.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home instruction with local school system portfolio review",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want to run their own program and have the local school system review a portfolio.",
     "steps": [
      "Get the home instruction consent form prescribed by the Maryland State Department of Education from your local school system.",
      "Sign the form and give it to the local superintendent at least 15 days before home instruction begins.",
      "Teach English, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education regularly during the school year.",
      "Keep a portfolio of materials that shows regular, thorough instruction.",
      "Meet with a local school system representative for portfolio reviews at a mutually agreed time and place, no more than three times per school year.",
      "Before each new school year, verify with the local superintendent that home instruction is continuing, and tell the superintendent if the child's status changes during the year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the local superintendent",
      "when": "at least 15 days before home instruction begins, then verified before each school year",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "English, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education",
     "time": "Regular instruction during the school year, of enough length to deliver the instruction. No set number of days or hours.",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "A local school system representative reviews the portfolio, generally at the end of each semester, no more than three times per school year. If deficiencies are found, the department says the parent has 30 calendar days from written notice to show they have been corrected.",
     "records": "A portfolio of instructional and reading materials and samples of the child's writing, worksheets, workbooks, creative work, and tests. For college courses, a report card or transcript from each semester may stand in for the portfolio.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Md. Code, Educ. 7-301(a)(3)",
       "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ged&section=7-301&enactments=false"
      },
      {
       "cite": "COMAR 13A.10.01.01",
       "url": "https://dsd.maryland.gov/regulations/Pages/13A.10.01.01.aspx"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Home instruction supervised by a church education program or approved nonpublic school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want a supervising school or ministry, instead of the local school system, to oversee their program.",
     "steps": [
      "Choose a supervising entity: a school or institution offering an education program run by a bona fide church organization, or a nonpublic school holding a State Board of Education certificate of approval. The department keeps a list of registered entities.",
      "Enroll with the supervising entity. A church program must hold a preenrollment conference with the parent.",
      "Provide regular, thorough instruction during the school year in the studies usually taught in public schools to children of the same age, using the materials and support the supervising entity provides.",
      "Verify each year with the supervising entity that home instruction is continuing, and tell it of any change in status during the year. The supervising entity reports its students to the local superintendent."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the supervising entity, which reports enrolled students to the local superintendent",
      "when": "annually, and whenever status changes during the school year",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "The studies usually taught in public schools to children of the same age",
     "time": "Regular instruction during the school year. No set number of days or hours.",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Md. Code, Educ. 7-301(a)(3)",
       "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ged&section=7-301&enactments=false"
      },
      {
       "cite": "COMAR 13A.10.01.05",
       "url": "https://dsd.maryland.gov/regulations/Pages/13A.10.01.05.aspx"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The department says to contact your local school system about withdrawal. It warns that a parent may be held responsible for unexcused absences if a child is withdrawn before the consent form is filed and instruction begins.",
   "high_school": "The department says only public schools issue the Maryland High School Diploma, so a home-instructed student earns it by transferring to a public school and meeting its requirements. A student in a nonpublic or church-exempt school that meets that school's graduation requirements can receive that school's diploma. Home-instructed students 16 or older may take the GED test to earn a Maryland High School Diploma by examination. When a home-instructed student enters public school, the local superintendent decides placement and credit, which may include tests and interviews.",
   "sports_access": "The department says local school system courses and activities, other than standardized testing, are not available to home-instructed students under the regulations. A private school may choose to let a home-instructed student play on its team against MPSSAA member schools if the student meets MPSSAA standards.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Maryland State Department of Education, Home Instruction",
    "url": "https://www.marylandpublicschools.org/about/pages/dee/npsa/home-instruction.aspx"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Md. Code, Educ. 7-301",
     "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ged&section=7-301&enactments=false"
    },
    {
     "cite": "COMAR 13A.10.01",
     "url": "https://dsd.maryland.gov/regulations/Pages/13A.10.01.01.aspx"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/maryland/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Massachusetts",
   "slug": "massachusetts",
   "abbr": "MA",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 16",
   "summary": "In Massachusetts, a child of compulsory school age may be home schooled only with advance approval from the school district where the child lives. The parent notifies the district, gets its home schooling policy, and submits a proposed plan. The child should stay enrolled until the plan is approved, since removal without approval makes the child truant.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home schooling approved in advance by the local superintendent or school committee",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want to teach their own children at home instead of enrolling them in a public or private school.",
     "steps": [
      "Notify the school district where the child lives, preferably in writing.",
      "Get the district's home schooling policy and process, which the district must provide after you notify it.",
      "Submit a proposed home schooling plan following the district's policy. Districts typically review content, instructional materials, how long and how often instruction happens, teaching methods, and how progress will be evaluated.",
      "Wait for the district's decision. It may approve the plan, ask for changes or more information, or disapprove it.",
      "Begin home schooling once the plan is approved."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the school district where the child lives (the superintendent or school committee)",
      "when": "in advance, and approval must be granted before home schooling begins",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "No statewide subject list for home schooling. The district reviews whether the child can make adequate progress in the areas the state identifies as essential.",
     "time": "None required by law. Public school structured learning time rules do not apply, though the district reviews duration and frequency of instruction in the plan.",
     "teacher": "None required by law. Educator licensing rules for public schools do not apply.",
     "assessment": "No statewide test. Evaluation is part of the plan the district reviews, and the method is set through the district's policy and approval.",
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 76, sec. 1",
       "url": "https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXII/Chapter76/Section1"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Approved private school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who enroll their child in a private day school approved by the local school committee.",
     "steps": [
      "Choose a private day school approved by the school committee of your town.",
      "Enroll the child and have the child attend for the number of days the state Board of Education requires."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": null,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "The school committee approves a private school when instruction in all studies required by law equals the public schools in the same town in thoroughness and efficiency.",
     "time": "The number of days required by the state Board of Education",
     "teacher": null,
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 76, sec. 1",
       "url": "https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXII/Chapter76/Section1"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The department says removing a child of compulsory school age without an approved home schooling plan would make the child truant. Notify the district and wait for approval before withdrawing.",
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": "No statute was found. The department says districts may, but are not required to, let home schooled students take part in courses, programs, or extracurricular activities, including athletics. Each district decides, and the department does not review those decisions.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Home Schooling",
    "url": "https://www.doe.mass.edu/homeschool/"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 76, sec. 1",
     "url": "https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXII/Chapter76/Section1"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/massachusetts/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Michigan",
   "slug": "michigan",
   "abbr": "MI",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 18 (until the 18th birthday, for children who turned 11 on or after December 1, 2009)",
   "summary": "Michigan exempts a child from public school attendance when a parent or legal guardian educates the child at home in an organized educational program covering reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar. No notice to the state or the school district is required for this route. A family may also register with the Michigan Department of Education as a nonpublic school, which is optional unless the child will receive public school services.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home education by parent or legal guardian, MCL 380.1561(3)(f)",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or legal guardians teaching their own children in the child's home who do not plan to use public school services.",
     "steps": [
      "Confirm the instruction will be given by the child's parent or legal guardian in the child's home.",
      "Set up an organized educational program covering reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar.",
      "If the child is enrolled in a school, the department suggests notifying that school of your intent to homeschool to avoid truancy reporting. This is a suggestion, not a legal requirement.",
      "Keep your own records, such as grades, progress reports, and later transcripts."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "Must be the child's parent or legal guardian. No degree or certification required for this route.",
     "assessment": "None required by law. The department says standardized testing at the local public school is available as an option.",
     "records": "None required by law. The department says parents are solely responsible for any records they keep, including grades, progress reports, transcripts, and diplomas.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "MCL 380.1561(3)(f), (4)",
       "url": "https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-380-1561"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Home school registered and approved as a nonpublic school, MCL 380.1561(3)(a)",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want the child to receive public school services, such as special education through a Nonpublic School Service Plan, nonessential courses like band or choir, or dual enrollment.",
     "steps": [
      "Register the home school with the Michigan Department of Education through its Homeschool Membership Report.",
      "Meet the department's approval condition: the teaching parent holds at least a bachelor's degree, or claims a religious objection to teacher certification.",
      "Teach subjects comparable to those taught in the local public schools to children of the same age and grade.",
      "Contact the local district to arrange services or enrollment in nonessential courses."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Michigan Department of Education, through the Homeschool Membership Report",
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Subjects comparable to those taught in the public schools of the district to children of corresponding age and grade",
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "The department says approval requires the parent to hold at least a bachelor's degree (teacher certification not required), or to claim a religious objection to teacher certification.",
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "MCL 380.1561(3)(a), (4)",
       "url": "https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-380-1561"
      },
      {
       "cite": "MCL 388.1766b (nonessential courses)",
       "url": "https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-388-1766b"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The department says notifying the current school is not required, but suggests telling the school of your intent to homeschool to avoid truancy reporting. Parents have no right to the physical copy of the school's student file. Each district has its own policy on access and copies.",
   "high_school": "The department says parents are solely responsible for records, including transcripts and diploma issuance for high school completion.",
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Michigan Department of Education, Homeschooling in Michigan",
    "url": "https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/mde/Flexible-Learning-Options/homeschool/Homeschooling-in-Michigan.pdf"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "MCL 380.1561",
     "url": "https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-380-1561"
    },
    {
     "cite": "MCL 388.1766b",
     "url": "https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-388-1766b"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/michigan/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Minnesota",
   "slug": "minnesota",
   "abbr": "MN",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "7 to 17",
   "summary": "Minnesota requires every child between 7 and 17 to receive instruction, and a home school counts as a school when it follows the compulsory instruction laws. The person in charge of instruction reports to the resident district superintendent by October 1, then files a letter of intent each year. The child must be taught the required subject areas, take a nationally norm-referenced achievement test each year, and the parent must keep documentation.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home school under the compulsory instruction law",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents, or other instructors who meet the state's instructor rules, teaching a child at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Make sure each instructor meets at least one requirement in 120A.22, subd. 10. A parent qualifies if the child is assessed under subd. 11.",
      "Send the resident district superintendent the child's name, birth date, and address, the annual test you plan to use, each instructor's name, and evidence the instructor qualifies. Do this by October 1 of the first school year after the child turns 7, or within 15 days of withdrawing a child 7 or older from public school.",
      "Teach the required subject areas in English: reading, writing, literature, and fine arts; mathematics and science; social studies including history, geography, economics, government, and citizenship; and health and physical education.",
      "Agree with the superintendent on which nationally norm-referenced achievement test the child will take, and how and where it is given. Test the child each year.",
      "Keep documentation: class schedules, copies of instructional materials, descriptions of how you assess achievement, and proof the tests were given.",
      "By October 1 of each school year, send the superintendent a letter of intent to continue, with any changes to the earlier information. Report again within 15 days of moving out of a district, and by October 1 after a new resident district is established."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the superintendent of the resident school district",
      "when": "by October 1 of the first school year after the child turns 7, or within 15 days of withdrawing a child 7 or older from public school, then a letter of intent by October 1 each year",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Basic communication skills including reading and writing, literature, and fine arts; mathematics and science; social studies including history, geography, economics, government, and citizenship; and health and physical education. Instruction and materials must be in English, with limited exceptions.",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "Each instructor must meet one of these: a valid Minnesota teaching license for the field and grade; direct supervision by a licensed teacher; teaching in an accredited or commissioner-recognized school; a bachelor's degree; or being the parent of a child who is assessed under 120A.22, subd. 11.",
     "assessment": "Each year, children 7 through 16 take a nationally norm-referenced standardized achievement test agreed on with the superintendent. A parent who is not licensed or supervised by a licensed teacher must also assess any required subject the test does not cover. If the total battery score is at or below the 30th percentile, or one grade level below, the parent must get an additional evaluation to check for learning problems.",
     "records": "Documentation that the required subjects are taught and proof the tests were given, including class schedules, copies of instructional materials, and descriptions of assessment methods. It must be made available to the county attorney if a truancy or related case is started.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Minn. Stat. 120A.22, subds. 4, 5, 9, 10, 11",
       "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/120A.22"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Minn. Stat. 120A.24, subds. 1, 2",
       "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/120A.24"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Accredited or commissioner-recognized nonpublic school or instructor",
     "who_it_fits": "Families whose child is taught by a nonpublic school, person, or institution accredited by a state-recognized agency or recognized by the commissioner.",
     "steps": [
      "Confirm the school, person, or institution is accredited by an agency recognized under 123B.445, or recognized by the commissioner.",
      "The person or school in charge of instruction files the initial report and annual letter of intent with the resident district superintendent."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the superintendent of the resident school district",
      "when": "by October 1 of the first school year after the child turns 7, then a letter of intent by October 1 each year",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Basic communication skills including reading and writing, literature, and fine arts; mathematics and science; social studies including history, geography, economics, government, and citizenship; and health and physical education",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "Teaching in an accredited or recognized school satisfies the instructor requirement.",
     "assessment": "None required by law. Accredited or recognized providers are exempt from the annual test requirement.",
     "records": "None required by law. Accredited or recognized providers are exempt from the documentation requirement.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Minn. Stat. 120A.22, subds. 10, 11(d)",
       "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/120A.22"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Minn. Stat. 120A.24, subds. 1, 3",
       "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/120A.24"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "When a parent withdraws a child age 7 or older from public school to teach the child in a nonpublic school that is not accredited, which includes a home school, the initial report is due to the superintendent within 15 days of withdrawal. A 17 year old who withdraws from school entirely must attend a meeting with school staff and sign a written election with the parent.",
   "high_school": "When a child who was taught in an unaccredited nonpublic or home school enrolls full time in public school, the parent must give the school the child's annual test scores and other education documents the district requires to decide placement and course requirements.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. Minn. Stat. 123B.49, subd. 4 requires the school board to let resident home school students participate fully in extracurricular activities on the same basis as public school students.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": null,
    "url": null
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Minn. Stat. 120A.22",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/120A.22"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Minn. Stat. 120A.24",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/120A.24"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Minn. Stat. 123B.49",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/123B.49"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/minnesota/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Mississippi",
   "slug": "mississippi",
   "abbr": "MS",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 16 (a child who turns 6 on or before September 1, until the child turns 17 on or before September 1)",
   "summary": "Mississippi law treats a home instruction program as a nonpublic school. A parent files a certificate of enrollment with the school attendance officer for the district where the child lives by September 15 each year. The statute says it gives no state agency authority to control a home instruction program's operation, curriculum, or management.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home instruction program",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who want to teach their children at home as a nonpublic school.",
     "steps": [
      "Contact the school attendance officer for the district where the child lives. The Office of Compulsory School Attendance Enforcement at the Mississippi Department of Education is the only entity that distributes and collects the certificate of enrollment.",
      "Complete the certificate of enrollment with the child's name, address, phone number, and date of birth, the parent's name, address, and phone number, and a short description of the child's education.",
      "Sign and return the certificate to the school attendance officer by September 15 of each year.",
      "Run a home instruction program that is not set up to avoid the compulsory attendance law."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the school attendance officer for the district where the child lives",
      "when": "on or before September 15 of each year",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "None required by law",
     "time": "None required by law for home instruction programs",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Miss. Code Ann. 37-13-91(2)(i), (3), (9)",
       "url": "https://sos.ms.gov/ACProposed/00019904b.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Mississippi Board of Education Home School Guidelines (Policy 3107)",
       "url": "https://sos.ms.gov/ACProposed/00019904b.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Board of Education guidelines say district staff may not hand out or fill in the certificate of enrollment and must notify the state school attendance officer when a parent seeks to enroll a child in home school. If a parent is found out of compliance, the parent has 10 days after written notice to comply.",
   "high_school": "The Board of Education guidelines say a certificate of enrollment is accepted for a student over compulsory school age only if the student is or was already in a home instruction program. A student over compulsory age registering for home instruction for the first time is not accepted.",
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Mississippi Department of Education, Office of Compulsory School Attendance Enforcement",
    "url": "https://www.mdek12.org/OCSAE"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Miss. Code Ann. 37-13-91",
     "url": "https://sos.ms.gov/ACProposed/00019904b.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/mississippi/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Missouri",
   "slug": "missouri",
   "abbr": "MO",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "7 to 17 (or until the student has completed 16 credits toward high school graduation)",
   "summary": "Missouri lets a parent meet the compulsory attendance law by enrolling a child in a home school. The parent must provide at least 1,000 hours of instruction a year, including 600 hours in core subjects, and keep records such as a log, a portfolio of work samples, and a record of evaluations. A parent who withdraws a child from a public school gives the district written notice so the child is dropped from its rolls.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home school",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents teaching their own children, with no more than four unrelated children enrolled and no tuition or fees charged for instruction.",
     "steps": [
      "Confirm your home school fits the legal definition: its main purpose is private or faith-based instruction, it enrolls children from 7 to the compulsory attendance age with no more than four unrelated within the third degree, and it charges no tuition or fees for instruction.",
      "If the child is enrolled in a public school, give the district where the child lives written notice that you are pursuing another educational option and ask that the child be dropped from its rolls.",
      "Plan at least 1,000 hours of instruction for the school year, which runs July 1 to June 30. At least 600 hours must be in reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, or closely related academic subjects, and at least 400 of those 600 hours must take place at the home school's regular location.",
      "Keep a plan book, diary, or other written log of subjects and activities, a portfolio of samples of the child's work, and a record of evaluations of academic progress, or other written evidence that is equivalent."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the public school district where the child lives",
      "when": "when withdrawing a child from the district, to ask that the child be dropped from its rolls",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "At least 600 of the 1,000 hours in reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, or closely related academic subjects suited to the child's age and ability. The state may not set a statewide curriculum for home schools.",
     "time": "At least 1,000 hours per school year, with at least 600 core hours, 400 of them at the home school's regular location. These hour rules do not apply to students 16 or older.",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law. Records must include a record of evaluations of the child's academic progress.",
     "records": "A plan book, diary, or other written log of subjects and activities, a portfolio of the child's academic work samples, and a record of academic evaluations, or other written or credible evidence that is equivalent. A daily log showing compliance is a defense to prosecution for truancy or educational neglect.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "RSMo 167.031",
       "url": "https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=167.031"
      },
      {
       "cite": "RSMo 167.012",
       "url": "https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=167.012"
      },
      {
       "cite": "RSMo 167.042",
       "url": "https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=167.042"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "RSMo 167.042 requires a parent who intends to pursue another educational option to give written notice to the public school district where the child lives asking that the child be dropped from its rolls. The school must comply promptly.",
   "high_school": "For home school students, a completed credit toward graduation means 100 or more hours of instruction in a course. The hour and subject requirements do not apply to students 16 or older.",
   "sports_access": "Yes, with conditions. RSMo 167.790 lets students taught at home or in an FPE school try out for and join events and activities of the district or charter school where they live. The district may not require them to attend classes to take part, with some exceptions for fine arts, career and technical student organizations, and integrated cocurricular activities. Students must prove residency, provide a sports physical, and meet the same conduct, performance, and financial requirements as other students.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": null,
    "url": null
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "RSMo 167.031",
     "url": "https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=167.031"
    },
    {
     "cite": "RSMo 167.012",
     "url": "https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=167.012"
    },
    {
     "cite": "RSMo 167.042",
     "url": "https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=167.042"
    },
    {
     "cite": "RSMo 167.790",
     "url": "https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=167.790"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/missouri/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Montana",
   "slug": "montana",
   "abbr": "MT",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "7 to 16 (from age 7 before the first day of school until the later of the 16th birthday or completion of 8th grade)",
   "summary": "Montana exempts a child from public school enrollment when the child attends a home school, meaning a parent teaching the parent's own child, stepchild, or ward in the parent's home. The parent notifies the county superintendent of schools each school year, keeps attendance records, provides the minimum instructional hours, and teaches an organized course of study in the subjects required of public schools. The parent is responsible for curriculum, schedule, method, and evaluation.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home school",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents teaching their own child, stepchild, or ward in the parent's residence.",
     "steps": [
      "Notify the county superintendent of schools in the county where the home school is located that the child attends your home school. Do this each school fiscal year, which runs July 1 to June 30.",
      "Plan an organized course of study that includes the subjects required of public schools as the basic instructional program under 20-7-111.",
      "Provide at least the minimum aggregate hours of instruction each school fiscal year: 720 hours for grades 1 to 3 and 1,080 hours for grades 4 to 12.",
      "Keep attendance records and make them available to the county superintendent on request."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the county superintendent of schools in the county where the home school is located",
      "when": "each school fiscal year (July 1 to June 30)",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "An organized course of study that includes the subjects required of public schools as the basic instructional program under MCA 20-7-111",
     "time": "Minimum aggregate hours each school fiscal year: 360 hours for half-time or 720 hours for full-time kindergarten, 720 hours for grades 1 to 3, and 1,080 hours for grades 4 to 12. 1,050 hours may be enough for graduating seniors.",
     "teacher": "Must be the child's parent, instructing the parent's own child, stepchild, or ward. No other qualification required by law.",
     "assessment": "None required by law. The parent is solely responsible for evaluating the home school instruction.",
     "records": "Attendance records, made available to the county superintendent on request.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "MCA 20-5-102(2)(e)",
       "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/MCA/title_0200/chapter_0050/part_0010/section_0020/0200-0050-0010-0020.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "MCA 20-5-109(2)",
       "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/MCA/title_0200/chapter_0050/part_0010/section_0090/0200-0050-0010-0090.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "MCA 20-5-111",
       "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/MCA/title_0200/chapter_0050/part_0010/section_0110/0200-0050-0010-0110.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "MCA 20-1-301",
       "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/MCA/title_0200/chapter_0010/part_0030/section_0010/0200-0010-0030-0010.html"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Nonpublic school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families enrolling a child in a parochial, church, religious, or private school.",
     "steps": [
      "Enroll the child in a nonpublic school that meets 20-5-109(1): it keeps attendance and immunization records, provides the minimum instructional hours, is housed in a building meeting local health and safety rules, and teaches the subjects of the public school basic instructional program."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "An organized course of study that includes the subjects required of public schools as the basic instructional program under MCA 20-7-111",
     "time": "The minimum aggregate hours under MCA 20-1-301 and 20-1-302",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "The school keeps pupil attendance and immunization records and makes them available to the county superintendent on request.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "MCA 20-5-109(1)",
       "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/MCA/title_0200/chapter_0050/part_0010/section_0090/0200-0050-0010-0090.html"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": "A child in a nonpublic or home school may enroll part time in a public school. When a child from a nonaccredited nonpublic school enrolls in a district school, the district places the child using its own assessment policy, and parents who disagree may request a hearing before the board of trustees.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. MCA 20-5-112 bars school districts and athletic associations from refusing a home school student who meets 20-5-109 the chance to join extracurricular activities in the resident district only because the student is not enrolled or does not attend enough hours. Citizenship and Montana residency may be considered. The student meets the same participation standards as full-time students, and academic eligibility is attested in writing by the instructing educator with verification by the principal, without any student assessment.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Montana Office of Public Instruction, Home School Packet",
    "url": "https://opi.mt.gov/Portals/182/Page%20Files/Just%20for%20Parents/Home%20School%20Packet.pdf"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "MCA 20-5-102",
     "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/MCA/title_0200/chapter_0050/part_0010/section_0020/0200-0050-0010-0020.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "MCA 20-5-109",
     "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/MCA/title_0200/chapter_0050/part_0010/section_0090/0200-0050-0010-0090.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "MCA 20-5-111",
     "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/MCA/title_0200/chapter_0050/part_0010/section_0110/0200-0050-0010-0110.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "MCA 20-5-112",
     "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/MCA/title_0200/chapter_0050/part_0010/section_0120/0200-0050-0010-0120.html"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/montana/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Nebraska",
   "slug": "nebraska",
   "abbr": "NE",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 17 (a child who turns 6 before January 1 of the school year, until age 18)",
   "summary": "In Nebraska, a home school is called an exempt school: a private school that elects not to meet state approval or accreditation requirements. One parent files a signed statement of election and assurances with the Commissioner of Education by July 15 each year, and the department notifies the resident school district. The program must lead to basic skills in language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and health.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Exempt school (private school electing not to meet approval or accreditation requirements)",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who want to teach their children at home, alone or with other families, without state approval or accreditation.",
     "steps": [
      "Choose a name for your exempt school and designate one parent representative.",
      "Complete the Statement of Election and Assurances, signed by one parent, legal guardian, or educational decisionmaker. It states that approval and accreditation rules violate your sincerely held religious beliefs or interfere with your decisions in directing your child's education.",
      "File with the Nebraska Department of Education by July 15 of each year, online through the Exempt School Program or by mail. Include a certified copy of each child's birth certificate the first year.",
      "Wait until the department has received your filing before beginning, and if withdrawing mid-year, before withdrawing the child. The department issues an acknowledgement letter and notifies your resident district.",
      "Maintain a sequential program of instruction leading to basic skills in language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and health.",
      "Provide the minimum instructional hours the department lists: 1,032 hours for elementary grades and 1,080 hours for secondary grades between July 1 and June 30."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Commissioner of Education (Nebraska Department of Education, Exempt School Program Office)",
      "when": "by July 15 of each year the school operates, or promptly when starting mid-year",
      "form_url": "https://exemptschool.education.ne.gov/"
     },
     "subjects": "A sequential program of instruction leading to basic skills in language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and health",
     "time": "The department lists 1,032 hours for elementary grades (K to 8) and 1,080 hours for secondary grades (9 to 12) per school year, July 1 to June 30. Hours may be prorated for a mid-year start.",
     "teacher": "No certification required. The parent must be satisfied that those monitoring instruction are qualified to monitor the basic skills. Anyone monitoring or providing instruction must not have been convicted of certain listed felony offenses.",
     "assessment": "None required by law. The department says testing is not required and the state may not use achievement testing to evaluate exempt school students.",
     "records": "None required by law. The department advises keeping attendance records and a transcript of classes and grades.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Neb. Rev. Stat. 79-1601",
       "url": "https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=79-1601"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Neb. Rev. Stat. 79-201",
       "url": "https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=79-201"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Neb. Rev. Stat. 43-2007",
       "url": "https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=43-2007"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The department says a parent may file mid-year and should file before withdrawing the child, since instruction may begin once the department has received the filing. It advises talking with local school officials first. The department, not the parent, gives official notice to the resident district. A parent who lets a child 16 or 17 stop attending must file a withdrawal form with the Commissioner promptly.",
   "high_school": "The department says the state does not issue diplomas to exempt school students. Some exempt schools create their own diploma, and the receiving school or employer decides whether to accept it. A child under 18 who completes the exempt school's program is reported to the Commissioner on a completion form. A student who passes the GED may request a diploma issued by the department.",
   "sports_access": "No statute was confirmed. The department says interscholastic sports for grades 9 to 12 follow Nebraska School Activities Association bylaws. Public school districts must allow part-time enrollment of resident exempt school students under 79-2,136.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Nebraska Department of Education, Exempt School [Home School] Program",
    "url": "https://www.education.ne.gov/fos/exempt-schools/"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Neb. Rev. Stat. 79-1601",
     "url": "https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=79-1601"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Neb. Rev. Stat. 79-201",
     "url": "https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=79-201"
    },
    {
     "cite": "92 NAC 13 (Rule 13)",
     "url": "https://www.education.ne.gov/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Rule13_2016.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/nebraska/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Nevada",
   "slug": "nevada",
   "abbr": "NV",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 18",
   "summary": "Nevada excuses a child from public school when a parent files a notice of intent to homeschool with the superintendent of the school district where the child lives. The notice uses a standard state form and includes an educational plan covering English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. The district must accept a complete notice and give the parent a written acknowledgment.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Homeschool with notice of intent",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who want to direct their own child's education at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Get the standard Notice of Intent to Homeschool form developed by the Nevada Department of Education. Districts may only use this form.",
      "Prepare an educational plan of instruction in English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies (including history, geography, economics, and government), suited to the child's age and skill level as you determine.",
      "Complete the notice with the child's full name, age, and gender, the name and address of each filing parent, a signed and dated statement from each filing parent, the educational plan, and the name of the public school the child last attended if any. You may add the optional statement prohibiting release of information.",
      "File the notice with the superintendent of the school district where the child lives before you begin homeschooling. If the child is withdrawn from public school, file within 10 days of withdrawal. If you move to Nevada, file within 30 days of establishing residency.",
      "Keep the written acknowledgment the district sends you. It is proof of compliance with the compulsory attendance law.",
      "If the parent's or child's name or address changes, file a new notice within 30 days."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the superintendent of schools of the school district where the child lives",
      "when": "before beginning to homeschool, or within 10 days after formal withdrawal from public school, or within 30 days after establishing Nevada residency",
      "form_url": "https://webapp-strapi-paas-prod-nde-001.azurewebsites.net/uploads/notice_of_intent_to_homeschool_8639c5ac4f.pdf"
     },
     "subjects": "An educational plan in English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, including history, geography, economics, and government. Each subject need not be taught every year.",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "None required by law beyond the educational plan. The parent must be ready to present the educational plan and proof of the child's identity to a court if required.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "NRS 392.070",
       "url": "https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-392.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "NRS 388D.020",
       "url": "https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-388D.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "NRS 388D.050",
       "url": "https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-388D.html"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Private school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families enrolling a child in a private school licensed or exempt under chapter 394 of NRS.",
     "steps": [
      "Enroll the child in a private school operating under chapter 394 of NRS."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": null,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": null,
     "teacher": null,
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "NRS 392.070(1)",
       "url": "https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-392.html"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "If a child is formally withdrawn from public school, the notice of intent to homeschool must be filed within 10 days of the withdrawal. The district must process a written request for the child's records within 5 days.",
   "high_school": "A homeschooled child entering a public high school must, on first enrollment, show completion of the courses required for promotion to high school through an accredited homeschool program recognized by the district, pass a district exam, or give other proof of competency the district accepts. Schools may use only commonly used practices to place a homeschooled child. Districts must let homeschooled children take college entrance exams offered in Nevada, including the SAT, ACT, PSAT, and National Merit qualifying test.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. NRS 392.074 says a homeschooled child must be allowed to take part in Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association events and other interscholastic activities, including sports, through the zoned public school in the district of residence, under the same rules as enrolled students. The parent must file a current Notice of Intent of a Homeschooled Child to Participate with the district for the school year (NRS 388D.070). Districts may also allow classes and other extracurricular activities when space is available and the child is qualified.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Nevada Department of Education, Nevada Homeschooling",
    "url": "https://doe.nv.gov/offices/craleo/nevada-homeschooling"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "NRS 392.040",
     "url": "https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-392.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "NRS 392.070",
     "url": "https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-392.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "NRS 388D.010 to 388D.070",
     "url": "https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-388D.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "NRS 392.033",
     "url": "https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-392.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "NRS 392.074",
     "url": "https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-392.html"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/nevada/"
  },
  {
   "state": "New Hampshire",
   "slug": "new-hampshire",
   "abbr": "NH",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 17 (at least 6 and under 18)",
   "summary": "Since July 1, 2026, New Hampshire parents have a legal right to home educate their own child with no required notice, records, evaluations or set subjects. A written declaration is needed only when you withdraw a child from public school or want your child to use public school classes or activities.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home education program",
     "who_it_fits": "Any New Hampshire parent teaching their own child at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Decide to home educate. No approval is needed, and your schedule does not have to match the district calendar.",
      "If your child is enrolled in a public school, give the school a declaration of home education when you withdraw: a signed statement with your child's name, date of birth and address, saying the child is home educated.",
      "If you want your child to take public school classes or join activities, file the same declaration with your district.",
      "When your child finishes, you may sign a certificate of completion and send it to the commissioner of education, who issues a state certificate within 30 days."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "None required by law",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "None required by law",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "N.H. Laws 2026, ch. 297 (HB 1268, Home Education Freedom Act), effective July 1, 2026",
       "url": "https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/billinfo.aspx?id=1715&inflect=2"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "A declaration of home education is required upon withdrawal from a public school. The program ends if the child enrolls full time in a public, charter or nonpublic school or joins the Education Freedom Account program.",
   "high_school": "Parents may issue an optional certificate of completion. If sent to the commissioner of education, the commissioner issues a certificate within 30 days stating the student completed a home education program in New Hampshire.",
   "sports_access": "Home educated students may use public school courses and programs under RSA 193:1-c. A declaration of home education is required to do so, and district policies for those programs apply.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "New Hampshire Department of Education, Home Education Rules and Regulations",
    "url": "https://www.education.nh.gov/education-pathways/home-education/home-education-rules-and-regulations"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "N.H. Laws 2026, ch. 297 (HB 1268, Home Education Freedom Act), effective July 1, 2026",
     "url": "https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/billinfo.aspx?id=1715&inflect=2"
    },
    {
     "cite": "RSA 193-A",
     "url": "https://gc.nh.gov/rsa/html/NHTOC/NHTOC-XV-193-A.htm"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/new-hampshire/"
  },
  {
   "state": "New Jersey",
   "slug": "new-jersey",
   "abbr": "NJ",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 16",
   "summary": "New Jersey's compulsory education law lets a child receive equivalent instruction elsewhere than at school, which includes the home. The Department of Education says the law does not require approval of the home program, teacher certification, or testing, and the local board of education is not authorized to review the curriculum. The department encourages, but in most cases does not require, a letter telling the local board of education that the child is being educated at home.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Equivalent instruction elsewhere than at school",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or guardians who will provide their child with instruction at home that is academically equivalent to the local public school.",
     "steps": [
      "Plan instruction that is academically equivalent to what the local public school provides for children of similar grades and attainments.",
      "The department encourages you to notify the local board of education in writing that you will educate your child elsewhere than at school, so questions do not arise about compliance.",
      "If you remove an enrolled student from high school, complete the district's transfer form, which asks about your intent to provide instruction elsewhere than at school.",
      "If a district refuses to enroll your child and you do not appeal, provide a statement saying whether the child will attend another district, a nonpublic school, or receive instruction elsewhere than at school.",
      "Keep your own records of the instruction you provide. The board of education may ask for documentation, such as a letter of intent, if it has credible evidence a child is not being educated."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "N.J. Stat. Ann. 18A:38-25, as quoted by the New Jersey Department of Education",
       "url": "https://www.nj.gov/education/safety/nontraditional/faq_homeschool.shtml"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.J. Admin. Code 6A:22-4.2(d), as cited by the New Jersey Department of Education",
       "url": "https://www.nj.gov/education/safety/nontraditional/faq_homeschool.shtml"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The department says a parent who removes an enrolled student from high school must complete a transfer form that includes the intent to provide instruction elsewhere than at school. For other grades, the department encourages, but does not require, notifying the local board of education. It also says that withdrawing a child to homeschool is not, by itself, credible evidence of a violation of the law.",
   "high_school": "The department says a child educated at home does not receive a state-endorsed high school diploma from the local board of education. A student may re-enroll in public school and be assessed for diploma eligibility, or may earn a New Jersey State High School Diploma by passing the GED test or by other routes the department lists.",
   "sports_access": "The department says the local board of education is not required by law to let a child educated at home take part in the school curriculum, extracurricular activities, or sports. The board may allow it at its discretion.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Frequently Asked Questions: Homeschooling, New Jersey Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.nj.gov/education/safety/nontraditional/faq_homeschool.shtml"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "N.J. Stat. Ann. 18A:38-25 (compulsory education, equivalent instruction elsewhere than at school), as quoted by the department",
     "url": "https://www.nj.gov/education/safety/nontraditional/faq_homeschool.shtml"
    },
    {
     "cite": "N.J. Stat. Ann. 18A:38-31 (penalty), as quoted by the department",
     "url": "https://www.nj.gov/education/safety/nontraditional/faq_homeschool.shtml"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/new-jersey/"
  },
  {
   "state": "New Mexico",
   "slug": "new-mexico",
   "abbr": "NM",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": null,
   "summary": "In New Mexico a home school is a parent-run home study program that covers reading, language arts, math, social studies, and science. Parents register the home school with the Public Education Department within 30 days of starting it, and again by August 1 each year. The person teaching must have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent, and the parent keeps immunization records or a waiver.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home school",
     "who_it_fits": "A parent, guardian, or person with legal custody who will run a home study program for their school-age child.",
     "steps": [
      "Confirm that the person who will teach has at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.",
      "Plan a basic academic program that includes reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science.",
      "Within 30 days of establishing the home school, register it with the Public Education Department through the online Home School System, or on the paper Notification of a Home School form if online registration is not possible. If mailing, the department suggests certified mail with return receipt.",
      "Keep records of your child's immunizations, or a waiver of that requirement.",
      "Renew the registration by August 1 of each year the home school operates."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "New Mexico Public Education Department",
      "when": "within 30 days of establishing the home school, then by August 1 of each following year",
      "form_url": "https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Homeschool-Notification-Form-with-Statutes-20230614.pdf"
     },
     "subjects": "Reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science",
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "At least a high school diploma or its equivalent",
     "assessment": null,
     "records": "Records of the student's disease immunizations, or a waiver. The department says other records, such as instructional hours and portfolios of work, are encouraged but not required.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "N.M. Stat. Ann. 22-1-2(E) (home school definition), as reproduced by the Public Education Department",
       "url": "https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Homeschool-Notification-Form-with-Statutes-20230614.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.M. Stat. Ann. 22-1-2.1 (home school requirements), as reproduced by the Public Education Department",
       "url": "https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Homeschool-Notification-Form-with-Statutes-20230614.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.M. Stat. Ann. 22-12A-4 (school attendance), as reproduced by the Public Education Department",
       "url": "https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Homeschool-Notification-Form-with-Statutes-20230614.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Schooling, New Mexico Public Education Department, Options for Parents and Families",
    "url": "https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/?p=2104"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "N.M. Stat. Ann. 22-1-2(E) and 22-1-2.1 (home school definition and requirements)",
     "url": "https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Homeschool-Notification-Form-with-Statutes-20230614.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "N.M. Stat. Ann. 22-12A-4 (compulsory school attendance)",
     "url": "https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Homeschool-Notification-Form-with-Statutes-20230614.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/new-mexico/"
  },
  {
   "state": "New York",
   "slug": "new-york",
   "abbr": "NY",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 16",
   "summary": "New York parents who teach at home send a written notice of intent to their school district superintendent by July 1 each year, or within 14 days of starting home instruction. They then file an Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP), submit four quarterly reports, and file an annual assessment with the fourth report. Instruction must be substantially equivalent to public school, given by a competent teacher, and cover required subjects for set hours.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home instruction",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or persons in parental relation who will teach a child of compulsory attendance age at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Send written notice of intent to teach at home to the superintendent of your school district of residence by July 1 for the school year, or within 14 days of starting home instruction or moving into the district. In New York City, the district for elementary and middle grades is the community school district where you live.",
      "Within 10 business days, the district must send you a copy of the regulation and an IHIP form for each child.",
      "Submit an IHIP for each child within four weeks of receiving the form or by August 15, whichever is later. List the child's name, age, and grade, the materials or plan of instruction for each required subject, the dates of your four quarterly reports, and the names of the people providing instruction.",
      "If the district finds the IHIP deficient, it must tell you in writing, and you have 15 days, or until September 15 if later, to revise it. You may contest a final finding before the school board and appeal to the Commissioner of Education.",
      "Provide the equivalent of at least 180 days of instruction, with 900 hours a year in grades 1 to 6 and 990 hours a year in grades 7 to 12, and keep attendance records.",
      "File a quarterly report for each child on the dates in your IHIP.",
      "File an annual assessment with the fourth quarterly report.",
      "Send a new notice of intent by July 1 each year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "superintendent of the school district of residence",
      "when": "by July 1 each school year, or within 14 days after starting home instruction in the district",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Grades 1 to 6: arithmetic, reading, spelling, writing, English, geography, U.S. history, science, health, music, visual arts, physical education, and bilingual education or ESL where needed. Grades 7 to 8: two units each of English, history and geography, science, and math, a half unit each of art and music, and regular physical education, health, practical arts, and library skills. U.S. history, New York State history, and the U.S. and New York constitutions at least once in grades 1 to 8. Grades 9 to 12: four units of English, four of social studies (including American history, participation in government, and economics), two of math, two of science, one of art or music, a half unit of health, two of physical education, and three electives. Also patriotism and citizenship, substance abuse education, highway and bicycle safety, and fire and arson prevention.",
     "time": "The equivalent of at least 180 days a year, with 900 hours a year in grades 1 to 6 and 990 hours a year in grades 7 to 12",
     "teacher": "Instruction must be given by a competent teacher. The regulation sets no specific credential for the parent.",
     "assessment": "An annual assessment filed with the fourth quarterly report. Either a norm-referenced achievement test from the approved list, given by a qualified person agreed under the regulation, with a composite score above the 33rd percentile or one year of academic growth counting as adequate, or a written narrative by a certified teacher, peer review panel, or other qualified person approved by the superintendent. The narrative may be used every year in grades 1 to 3 and every other year in grades 4 to 8. A deficient result places the program on probation for up to two years with a remediation plan.",
     "records": "Attendance records, made available to the district on request. Quarterly reports showing hours of instruction, material covered in each subject, a grade or written narrative for each subject, and an explanation for any subject where less than 80 percent of the planned material was covered.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "8 NYCRR 100.10",
       "url": "https://www.p12.nysed.gov/part100/pages/100_10.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.Y. Educ. Law 3204",
       "url": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/EDN/3204"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.Y. Educ. Law 3205",
       "url": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/EDN/3205"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Part 100.10 Home Instruction, New York State Education Department",
    "url": "https://www.p12.nysed.gov/part100/pages/100_10.html"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "N.Y. Educ. Law 3204 (instruction required, substantial equivalence)",
     "url": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/EDN/3204"
    },
    {
     "cite": "N.Y. Educ. Law 3205 (attendance ages)",
     "url": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/EDN/3205"
    },
    {
     "cite": "8 NYCRR 100.10 (home instruction regulation)",
     "url": "https://www.p12.nysed.gov/part100/pages/100_10.html"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/new-york/"
  },
  {
   "state": "North Carolina",
   "slug": "north-carolina",
   "abbr": "NC",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "7 to 16",
   "summary": "In North Carolina a home school is a type of nonpublic school. Parents file a Notice of Intent with the Division of Non-Public Education, and the person teaching must hold at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. The school must run on a regular schedule for at least nine calendar months a year, keep attendance and immunization records, and give each student a nationally standardized test every year.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home school (nonpublic school)",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or guardians who will set the scope and sequence of instruction for the children of no more than two families or households.",
     "steps": [
      "Confirm that each person providing instruction holds at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.",
      "Choose a name for the home school and decide whether it will operate as a religious school or a non-religious school. The law has you elect one of the two nonpublic school parts of the statute.",
      "File a Notice of Intent to Operate a Home School with the Division of Non-Public Education (DNPE) through its online portal, with the school's name and address, the chief administrator's name, and proof of the teacher's diploma.",
      "Wait for DNPE to acknowledge the notice before withdrawing your child or starting school. DNPE asks for the notice at least five business days before you begin and does not accept notices in May or June.",
      "Run the school on a regular schedule for at least nine calendar months of the year, excluding reasonable holidays and vacations.",
      "Keep annual attendance and immunization records, and give each student a nationally standardized test each school year.",
      "Notify DNPE if your address or enrollment changes, and when the home school closes."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "North Carolina Division of Non-Public Education, Department of Administration",
      "when": "before the home school begins operating. DNPE asks for at least five business days' notice and accepts notices July through April. The notice does not need to be renewed each year.",
      "form_url": "https://www.doa.nc.gov/divisions/non-public-education/home-schools/file-notice-intent-operate-home-school"
     },
     "subjects": "None required by law",
     "time": "A regular schedule for at least nine calendar months of the year, excluding reasonable holidays and vacations",
     "teacher": "Each person providing academic instruction must hold at least a high school diploma or its equivalent",
     "assessment": "A nationally standardized test or equivalent measurement, chosen by the school's chief administrator, given every school year. It must measure English grammar, reading, spelling, and mathematics. Results are kept for at least one year and made available to the state for inspection.",
     "records": "Annual attendance records, disease immunization records, and standardized test results for each student",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. 115C-563",
       "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/ByArticle/Chapter_115C/Article_39.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. 115C-564",
       "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/ByArticle/Chapter_115C/Article_39.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. 115C-548, 115C-549, 115C-552 (religious schools, Part 1)",
       "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/ByArticle/Chapter_115C/Article_39.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. 115C-556, 115C-557, 115C-560 (qualified nonpublic schools, Part 2)",
       "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/ByArticle/Chapter_115C/Article_39.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. 115C-378 (compulsory attendance)",
       "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_115C/GS_115C-378.html"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "DNPE says not to withdraw your child from their current school or begin home schooling until DNPE has acknowledged your completed Notice of Intent. DNPE also says records from the previous school are not needed to begin, other than the student's immunization record.",
   "high_school": "DNPE says the home school's chief administrator designs and keeps all transcripts and issues graduation verification, since a home school is a nonpublic school. DNPE does not keep student transcripts or diplomas. Its guidance lists what a transcript should include, such as subjects and grades by year, credits, annual test scores, and the month and year of graduation. The statute for nonpublic schools also calls for an 11th grade test of verbal and quantitative skills with a school-set minimum score for graduation.",
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Schools, NC Department of Administration, Division of Non-Public Education",
    "url": "https://www.doa.nc.gov/divisions/non-public-education/home-schools"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. Chapter 115C, Article 39 (nonpublic schools, including home schools at 115C-563 to 115C-565.1)",
     "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/ByArticle/Chapter_115C/Article_39.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. 115C-378 (compulsory attendance)",
     "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_115C/GS_115C-378.html"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/north-carolina/"
  },
  {
   "state": "North Dakota",
   "slug": "north-dakota",
   "abbr": "ND",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "7 to 16",
   "summary": "North Dakota parents who supervise home education file a statement of intent with their school district superintendent at least five days before starting, and again each year. Instruction must cover the subjects required in public schools for at least four hours a day and 175 days a year. Children take a standardized achievement test in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10 unless the parent qualifies for an exemption, and a parent without a high school diploma or GED is monitored for the first two years.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home education",
     "who_it_fits": "A parent or legal guardian who will select materials and oversee the method and delivery of instruction for their own child.",
     "steps": [
      "Check your qualification. A parent with a high school diploma or GED may supervise home education. A parent without one may still do so but must be monitored by a licensed or approved teacher for the first two years.",
      "At least five days before beginning, or within 14 days of moving into a school district, file a statement of intent with the superintendent of your school district of residence. If the district has no superintendent, file with the county superintendent.",
      "Include your child's name, address, date of birth, and grade, your name, address, and qualifications, and any public school courses or extracurricular activities your child plans to join.",
      "Attach a copy of your child's immunization record and proof of identity.",
      "If you plan to claim a testing exemption, file the notice and documentation with the district at the same time as the statement of intent.",
      "Teach the subjects required in public schools for at least four hours a day and 175 days a year, and keep an annual record of courses and academic progress.",
      "File a new statement of intent each year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "superintendent of the child's school district of residence, or the county superintendent if the district has no superintendent",
      "when": "at least five days before beginning home education, or within 14 days of establishing residence in a district, and once each year after that",
      "form_url": "https://www.nd.gov/dpi/sites/www/files/documents/SFN%20Forms/SFN16909.pdf"
     },
     "subjects": "The subjects required by law to be taught to public school students",
     "time": "At least four hours a day for at least 175 days a year",
     "teacher": "A high school diploma or GED. A parent without one may supervise home education if monitored for the first two years by a person licensed or approved to teach by the Education Standards and Practices Board, who reports progress to the superintendent twice a year. Monitoring continues past two years if the child scores below the 50th percentile.",
     "assessment": "A standardized achievement test in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10, given by a licensed or approved teacher, with results filed with the district superintendent. The test is not required if the parent notifies the district of a philosophical, moral, or religious objection, or if the parent is licensed or approved to teach, holds a bachelor's degree, or has met the cutoff score on a national teacher exam. A composite score below the 30th percentile leads to an assessment for a learning problem and, if no disability is found, a remediation plan.",
     "records": "An annual record of courses taken and academic progress assessments, including any standardized test results. The parent must provide it to the district on request if the child transfers to public school.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "N.D. Cent. Code 15.1-23-02",
       "url": "https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t15-1c23.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.D. Cent. Code 15.1-23-03 to 15.1-23-07",
       "url": "https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t15-1c23.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.D. Cent. Code 15.1-23-09 to 15.1-23-12",
       "url": "https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t15-1c23.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "N.D. Cent. Code 15.1-20-01",
       "url": "https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t15-1c20.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": "The child's school district of residence, an approved nonpublic high school, or the Center for Distance Education may issue a high school diploma to a home educated student who meets that entity's graduation requirements, or who has completed at least 22 units from the state's minimum required curriculum. The parent submits a description of the course material and objectives for each high school subject and a transcript for grades 9 to 12. The department notes that state graduation requirements include one credit in computer science or cybersecurity.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. A home educated child may take part in extracurricular activities through their school district of residence, or through an approved nonpublic school if its administrator allows it, under the same standards as full-time students. The parent lists the activities on the statement of intent, and the child is then subject to the North Dakota High School Activities Association transfer rules.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Education, North Dakota Department of Public Instruction",
    "url": "https://www.nd.gov/dpi/familiescommunity/families/home-education"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "N.D. Cent. Code Chapter 15.1-23 (home education)",
     "url": "https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t15-1c23.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "N.D. Cent. Code Chapter 15.1-20 (school attendance)",
     "url": "https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t15-1c20.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/north-dakota/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Ohio",
   "slug": "ohio",
   "abbr": "OH",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 18",
   "summary": "Ohio parents who direct their child's education at home send a notice to the superintendent of their school district of residence within five calendar days of starting, and again by August 30 each year. The child must receive instruction in English language arts, math, science, history, government, and social studies. Since the 2023 change to the law, there is no state testing, evaluation, or teacher qualification requirement for home education.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home education",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who want to direct their child's education at home without enrolling the child full time in a public or chartered nonpublic school.",
     "steps": [
      "Plan instruction that covers English language arts, mathematics, science, history, government, and social studies.",
      "Within five calendar days after starting home education, moving into a new school district, or withdrawing from a public or nonpublic school, send a notice to the superintendent of your school district of residence.",
      "Include your name and address, your child's name, and an assurance that your child will be taught the required subjects. The department offers a recommended notification form.",
      "The exemption from school attendance takes effect when the district receives the notice. The superintendent must send you a written acknowledgment within 14 calendar days.",
      "Send a new notice by August 30 of each following year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "superintendent of the child's school district of residence",
      "when": "within five calendar days after starting home education, moving into a new district, or withdrawing from school, then by August 30 each year",
      "form_url": "https://education.ohio.gov/getattachment/Topics/Ohio-Education-Options/Home-Schooling/Home-Education-Notification-Form.pdf.aspx?lang=en-US"
     },
     "subjects": "English language arts, mathematics, science, history, government, and social studies",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": "None required by law",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Ohio Rev. Code 3321.042",
       "url": "https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3321.042"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Ohio Rev. Code 3321.01(A)(1)",
       "url": "https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3321.01"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The notice to the superintendent of the district of residence is due within five calendar days after withdrawing the child from a public or nonpublic school. The exemption is effective when the district receives the notice. A child who returns to public school after home education is placed in the appropriate grade under the district's policies, without discrimination or prejudice.",
   "high_school": "A student who completes the final year of home education and fulfills the high school curriculum that applies to them may be granted a high school diploma by their parent or guardian. State law says this diploma serves as proof of completing high school, including for job applications, whether or not the student took the state assessments. Home educated students in grades 7 to 12 may take part in College Credit Plus, and must notify the Department of Education and Workforce to do so.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. The superintendent of the district where the student is entitled to attend must give a home educated student the chance to join any extracurricular activity offered at the school the student would be assigned to. The student must meet the same nonacademic and financial requirements as other participants, and the district may not add extra rules or higher fees. Another district may allow participation if the home district does not offer the activity. Eligibility for a student who leaves mid-year is based on an interim academic assessment from the district they left.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Schooling, Ohio Department of Education and Workforce",
    "url": "https://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ohio-Education-Options/Home-Schooling"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Ohio Rev. Code 3321.042 (home education, effective October 3, 2023)",
     "url": "https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3321.042"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ohio Rev. Code 3321.01 (compulsory school age)",
     "url": "https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3321.01"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ohio Rev. Code 3313.5312 (extracurricular activities)",
     "url": "https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3313.5312"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Ohio Rev. Code 3313.6110 (diplomas)",
     "url": "https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3313.6110"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/ohio/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Oklahoma",
   "slug": "oklahoma",
   "abbr": "OK",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "5 to 18",
   "summary": "Oklahoma's compulsory attendance law allows a child to be educated by other means instead of attending school, as long as that education is provided for the full term the local schools are in session. The State Department of Education says home schools are not regulated and that state law does not require parents to register with or seek approval from the state. The department lists recommended practices, such as notifying the local school, that it says are not required by law.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Education by other means (home instruction)",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or guardians who will educate their child at home instead of enrolling the child in a public or private school.",
     "steps": [
      "Provide your child's education at home for the full term the schools of your district are in session.",
      "Consider the department's recommendations, which it says are not required by law: tell the principal of your local school that you plan to home school, follow a defined curriculum, and plan for the equivalent of 180 days a year.",
      "Keep records of your child's instruction and progress. The department says a parent must show documentation of the home instruction if the child later re-enters public school."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": "For the full term the schools of the district are in session",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "None required by law",
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "70 Okla. Stat. 10-105(A)",
       "url": "https://www.oklegislature.gov/OK_Statutes/CompleteTitles/os70.rtf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home School, Oklahoma State Department of Education",
    "url": "https://oklahoma.gov/education/services/school-governance/osde-compliance-services/school-choice/home-school.html"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "70 Okla. Stat. 10-105 (compulsory attendance and the other means of education exception)",
     "url": "https://www.oklegislature.gov/OK_Statutes/CompleteTitles/os70.rtf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/oklahoma/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Oregon",
   "slug": "oregon",
   "abbr": "OR",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 18",
   "summary": "Oregon parents who teach their child at home notify their education service district in writing within 10 days of starting or of withdrawing the child from school. Children are tested in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10 with an approved test given by a neutral qualified person, and the parent keeps the results and submits them if the education service district asks. The law sets no required subjects, hours, or parent qualifications for this route.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Instruction by a parent or legal guardian",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or legal guardians who will educate their child at home.",
     "steps": [
      "Within 10 days of starting home instruction, or of withdrawing your child from a public or private school, send written notice to the education service district (ESD) that contains your school district of residence.",
      "Include your child's name and birth date, your name and address, and the name of the school your child attends or last attended, or your school district if your child has never attended school.",
      "Keep the ESD's written acknowledgment of your notice.",
      "Arrange testing in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10 with a test from the state's approved list, given by a neutral qualified person who is not related to your child, no later than August 15 of the testing year.",
      "Keep the test results and submit them to the ESD if the ESD superintendent asks.",
      "If you move to a new ESD, notify the new ESD in writing within 10 days."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the education service district that contains the child's school district of residence",
      "when": "within 10 days of beginning home instruction or withdrawing the child from school, and within 10 days of moving to a new education service district",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "None required by law",
     "time": "None required by law",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": "An approved comprehensive test in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10, given by a neutral qualified person and completed by August 15 of the testing year. A child withdrawn from school takes the first test at least 18 months after withdrawal. A child who never attended school takes the first test before the end of grade 3. A composite score below the 15th percentile requires another test within a year, and continued decline can lead the ESD superintendent to require supervision by a licensed teacher or a return to school for up to 12 months. A child with a disability who has an IEP or private plan is evaluated according to that plan.",
     "records": "None required by law beyond submitting test results to the ESD on request",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Or. Rev. Stat. 339.010",
       "url": "https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors339.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Or. Rev. Stat. 339.030(1)(e)",
       "url": "https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors339.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Or. Rev. Stat. 339.035",
       "url": "https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors339.html"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Or. Admin. R. 581-021-0026",
       "url": "https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/view.action?ruleNumber=581-021-0026"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "When a child is withdrawn from a public or private school to be taught at home, the parent must notify the education service district in writing within 10 days. The ESD must acknowledge the notice in writing within 90 days.",
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": "Yes. A school district may not deny a homeschooled student the chance to take part in interscholastic activities, including athletics, music, and speech, offered within the attendance boundaries where the student lives. The student must meet district eligibility rules other than attendance requirements, and must show academic eligibility either by scoring at or above the 23rd percentile on an approved test taken before the school year, or by meeting alternative requirements the district adopts, such as a portfolio review.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Schooling in Oregon, Oregon Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.oregon.gov/ode/learning-options/HomeSchool/Pages/default.aspx"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Or. Rev. Stat. Chapter 339 (school attendance, including 339.010, 339.030, 339.035, 339.460)",
     "url": "https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors339.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Or. Admin. R. 581-021-0026 (examination of children taught at home)",
     "url": "https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/view.action?ruleNumber=581-021-0026"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/oregon/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Pennsylvania",
   "slug": "pennsylvania",
   "abbr": "PA",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 18",
   "summary": "Pennsylvania parents run a home education program by filing a notarized affidavit with their school district superintendent before starting and every August 1 after that. The supervising parent needs a high school diploma or its equivalent, must teach the required subjects for 180 days or 900 hours (990 hours at the secondary level), and must keep a portfolio. Each year a qualified evaluator reviews the portfolio and interviews the child, and the parent sends the evaluator's certification to the superintendent by June 30.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home education program",
     "who_it_fits": "A parent, guardian, or person with legal custody who holds a high school diploma or its equivalent and will supervise the child's instruction.",
     "steps": [
      "Check your school district's board policy on which forms to file. The department posts sample affidavits for elementary (K to 6) and secondary (7 to 12) levels, and unsworn declarations that may be used instead.",
      "Before starting, file a notarized affidavit with the superintendent of your school district of residence. It names the supervisor, each child and their age, the program address and phone, states that the required subjects are taught in English, includes an outline of proposed educational objectives by subject, and gives evidence of immunizations and required health services.",
      "Sign the certification in the affidavit that you, all adults in the home, and anyone with legal custody have not been convicted of the listed offenses in the past five years.",
      "Teach the required subjects for at least 180 days or 900 hours a year at the elementary level, or 990 hours at the secondary level.",
      "Keep a portfolio for each child: a log made as you go listing reading materials by title, samples of the child's work, and standardized test results in grades 3, 5, and 8. The test may not be given by the child's parent.",
      "Near the end of the school year, have a qualified evaluator interview your child and review the portfolio, then send the evaluator's certification that an appropriate education is occurring to the superintendent by June 30.",
      "File a new affidavit by August 1 each year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "superintendent of the child's school district of residence",
      "when": "before the home education program begins, then annually on August 1",
      "form_url": "https://www.pa.gov/agencies/education/programs-and-services/instruction/elementary-and-secondary-education/home-education-and-private-tutoring"
     },
     "subjects": "Elementary: English (spelling, reading, writing), arithmetic, science, geography, history of the United States and Pennsylvania, civics, safety education including fire prevention, health and physiology, physical education, music, and art. Secondary: English (language, literature, speech, composition), science, geography, social studies (civics, world history, history of the United States and Pennsylvania), mathematics (general math, algebra, geometry), art, music, physical education, health, and safety education including fire prevention.",
     "time": "At least 180 days or 900 hours of instruction a year at the elementary level, or 990 hours a year at the secondary level",
     "teacher": "The supervisor must hold a high school diploma or its equivalent",
     "assessment": "Nationally normed standardized tests in reading or language arts and math, or the statewide tests, in grades 3, 5, and 8, chosen from the department's list and not given by the parent. An annual written evaluation by a licensed clinical or school psychologist, a Pennsylvania certified teacher, or a qualified nonpublic school teacher or administrator, based on an interview and portfolio review. The evaluator may not be the supervisor or the supervisor's spouse. The evaluator's certification is due to the superintendent by June 30.",
     "records": "A portfolio for each student with a log made at the time of instruction listing reading materials by title, samples of writings, worksheets, workbooks, or creative work, and test results for grades 3, 5, and 8",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "24 P.S. 13-1327.1 (Public School Code section 1327.1)",
       "url": "https://www.palegis.us/statutes/unconsolidated/law-information/view-statute?10&iFrame=true&txtType=HTM&SessYr=1949&SessInd=0&ActNum=0014.&chpt=013.&subchpt=000.&sctn=027.&subsctn=001."
      },
      {
       "cite": "24 P.S. 13-1326 (compulsory school age)",
       "url": "https://www.palegis.us/statutes/unconsolidated/law-information/view-statute?10&iFrame=true&txtType=HTM&SessYr=1949&SessInd=0&ActNum=0014.&chpt=013.&subchpt=000.&sctn=026.&subsctn=000."
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Properly qualified private tutor",
     "who_it_fits": "Families whose child is taught by a person certified to teach in Pennsylvania public schools who is paid to provide most of the instruction to children of one family.",
     "steps": [
      "Confirm the tutor holds a Pennsylvania teaching certification, teaches children of a single family, provides the majority of instruction, and receives a fee or other payment.",
      "The tutor files a copy of the Pennsylvania certification and the required criminal history record with the superintendent of the student's district of residence.",
      "The tutor provides regular daily instruction in English for the time the law requires."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "superintendent of the student's district of residence",
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "Certified by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to teach in its public schools, and not disqualified from school employment under section 111(e)",
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "24 P.S. 13-1327(a) (Public School Code section 1327)",
       "url": "https://www.palegis.us/statutes/unconsolidated/law-information/view-statute?10&iFrame=true&txtType=HTM&SessYr=1949&SessInd=0&ActNum=0014.&chpt=013.&subchpt=000.&sctn=027.&subsctn=000."
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": null,
   "high_school": "Graduation from a home education program requires at least four years of English, three of math, three of science, three of social studies, and two of arts and humanities in grades 9 to 12. A diploma may be awarded by the supervisor on the department's standard form (PDE 6008), signed by the 12th grade evaluator, or by a diploma-granting organization approved by the department. Either diploma carries the same rights and privileges with Commonwealth agencies, including PHEAA, as a public school diploma.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. The school district of residence must let a home education student take part in activities such as clubs, musical ensembles, athletics, and theater if the student meets the same eligibility and tryout criteria and follows the rules of the activity's governing organization. Since the 2023 to 2024 school year, districts must also allow home education students into cocurricular activities, academic courses up to at least one quarter of the school day, and career and technical education programs, under district policy.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Education and Private Tutoring, Pennsylvania Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.pa.gov/agencies/education/programs-and-services/instruction/elementary-and-secondary-education/home-education-and-private-tutoring"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "24 P.S. 13-1327.1 (home education program)",
     "url": "https://www.palegis.us/statutes/unconsolidated/law-information/view-statute?10&iFrame=true&txtType=HTM&SessYr=1949&SessInd=0&ActNum=0014.&chpt=013.&subchpt=000.&sctn=027.&subsctn=001."
    },
    {
     "cite": "24 P.S. 13-1327 (compulsory school attendance, private tutors)",
     "url": "https://www.palegis.us/statutes/unconsolidated/law-information/view-statute?10&iFrame=true&txtType=HTM&SessYr=1949&SessInd=0&ActNum=0014.&chpt=013.&subchpt=000.&sctn=027.&subsctn=000."
    },
    {
     "cite": "24 P.S. 13-1326 (definitions, compulsory school age)",
     "url": "https://www.palegis.us/statutes/unconsolidated/law-information/view-statute?10&iFrame=true&txtType=HTM&SessYr=1949&SessInd=0&ActNum=0014.&chpt=013.&subchpt=000.&sctn=026.&subsctn=000."
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/pennsylvania/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Rhode Island",
   "slug": "rhode-island",
   "abbr": "RI",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 18",
   "summary": "In Rhode Island, at-home instruction must be approved by the school committee of the town where the child lives before the child is removed from public school. To be approved, home instruction must provide attendance substantially equal to public schools, keep attendance registers like public schools do, and teach required subjects in English. The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) does not supervise home instruction itself, and it hears appeals when a school committee denies a plan.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "At-home instruction approved by the school committee",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who want to teach their child at home under a plan approved by their local school committee.",
     "steps": [
      "Contact your local superintendent's office to learn the district's process. RIDE says the process can begin with a letter of intent to homeschool sent to the superintendent.",
      "If your child is new to the district, enroll the child in the district first. RIDE says this comes before the home instruction plan is approved.",
      "Prepare an at-home instruction plan that meets the state requirements for attendance, attendance registers, and required subjects taught in English. Include any online programs you plan to use, since RIDE says those must also be approved by the school committee.",
      "Agree with the school committee on how your child's progress will be evaluated. RIDE says this is decided during plan approval.",
      "Wait for the school committee's approval before removing your child from public school.",
      "Keep attendance registers in the same form as public schools and return them as the law requires.",
      "If the school committee denies your plan, you may appeal to RIDE, which holds a hearing at no cost to the parties."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "school committee of the city or town where the child resides, which must approve the plan",
      "when": "before the child is removed from public school, according to RIDE",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Reading, writing, geography, arithmetic, United States history, Rhode Island history, and the principles of American government, taught in English substantially to the same extent as in public schools. Other subjects and other languages may be added.",
     "time": "A period of attendance substantially equal to that required by law in public schools",
     "teacher": "None required by law",
     "assessment": null,
     "records": "Attendance registers kept the same way as public school registers and returned to the school committee, the superintendent, truant officers, and RIDE",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "R.I. Gen. Laws 16-19-1",
       "url": "https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE16/16-19/16-19-1.htm"
      },
      {
       "cite": "R.I. Gen. Laws 16-19-2",
       "url": "https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE16/16-19/16-19-2.htm"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "RIDE says school committee approval must come before a parent removes a child from public school. A child removed earlier may be treated as out of compliance with the compulsory attendance law.",
   "high_school": "RIDE says some districts issue a certificate of completion for a home instruction program and others issue certificates for individual courses. Students may take the GED for a high school equivalency diploma. No statute on home instruction diplomas was confirmed.",
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Schooling, Rhode Island Department of Education",
    "url": "https://ride.ri.gov/Home-Schooling"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "R.I. Gen. Laws 16-19-1 (attendance required)",
     "url": "https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE16/16-19/16-19-1.htm"
    },
    {
     "cite": "R.I. Gen. Laws 16-19-2 (approval of private schools and at-home instruction)",
     "url": "https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE16/16-19/16-19-2.htm"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/rhode-island/"
  },
  {
   "state": "South Carolina",
   "slug": "south-carolina",
   "abbr": "SC",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "5 to 17",
   "summary": "South Carolina offers three home schooling options. Parents can seek approval from their school district board, join the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools, or join another home school association with at least 50 members. Each option requires a parent with at least a high school diploma or GED, a 180 day year, and instruction in core subjects.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Option 1: District-approved home school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want to home school under the oversight of their local school district.",
     "steps": [
      "Apply through your district board of trustees' application process, describing your program, texts and materials, evaluation methods, and place of instruction.",
      "Attend the board meeting where your application is considered; you must be told the date, place, and time in advance and may be heard.",
      "Sign a written agreement holding the district harmless for educational deficiencies from home instruction.",
      "Keep the required records and send the district a semiannual progress report.",
      "Have your child take the annual statewide tests, given by a certified district employee."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "your school district board of trustees, through its home schooling application",
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies, plus composition and literature in grades 7 to 12.",
     "time": "At least 4.5 hours per instructional day, not counting lunch and recess, and at least 180 days per year.",
     "teacher": "A high school diploma or GED, or a bachelor's degree. The statute also refers to a basic skills examination for parents without a bachelor's degree.",
     "assessment": "Participation in the annual statewide testing program and Basic Skills Assessment Program for the child's grade, given by a certified school district employee, with the district or at the place of instruction at the parent's option and expense. Children eligible for first grade take a readiness test within the first 15 instructional days.",
     "records": "A plan book, diary, or other written record of subjects and activities; a portfolio of the student's work; and a record of evaluations, all open to district inspection on reasonable notice. A semiannual progress report with attendance and assessments in each basic area goes to the district. Students must have access to library facilities.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "S.C. Code 59-65-40",
       "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/statmast.php?title=59&chapter=65"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Option 2: South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want to home school under SCAIHS rather than the district.",
     "steps": [
      "Become a bona fide member of the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools.",
      "Follow the association's academic standards on a continuing basis."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies, plus composition and literature in grades 7 to 12.",
     "time": "At least 180 days per year.",
     "teacher": "At least a high school diploma or GED.",
     "assessment": "None set by statute. The association's academic standards apply.",
     "records": "None set by statute. The association's standards apply. SCAIHS reports the number and grade level of its students to their districts by January 30 each year.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "S.C. Code 59-65-45",
       "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/statmast.php?title=59&chapter=65"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Option 3: Home school association with at least 50 members",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who join another home school association that meets the statute's requirements.",
     "steps": [
      "Join a home school association with no fewer than 50 members that meets the statute's requirements. The Department of Education posts a yearly Option 3 list.",
      "Follow the association's academic standards on a continuing basis.",
      "Keep the required educational records."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies, plus composition and literature in grades 7 to 12.",
     "time": "At least 180 days per year.",
     "teacher": "At least a high school diploma or GED.",
     "assessment": "None set by statute. The association's academic standards apply.",
     "records": "A plan book, diary, or other record of subjects and activities; a portfolio of the student's work; and a semiannual progress report with attendance records and documentation of progress in each basic area. Associations report the number and grade level of students to their districts by January 30 each year.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "S.C. Code 59-65-47",
       "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/statmast.php?title=59&chapter=65"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "A Department of Education memo tells districts which documents show a student has left for home school: the district's approval letter (Option 1), SCAIHS membership documentation (Option 2), or membership documentation from a qualifying association (Option 3). The memo says other documentation will not be accepted.",
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": "Yes. A home school student taught under any of the three options for a full academic year may not be denied participation in interscholastic activities, including athletics, music, and speech, if the student meets district eligibility rules other than attendance and enrollment rules, lives in the school's attendance zone, and notifies the superintendent in writing before the season begins (S.C. Code 59-63-100).",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Schooling, South Carolina Department of Education",
    "url": "https://ed.sc.gov/districts-schools/state-accountability/home-schooling/"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "S.C. Code 59-65-10 to 59-65-47",
     "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/statmast.php?title=59&chapter=65"
    },
    {
     "cite": "S.C. Code 59-63-100",
     "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/statmast.php?title=59&chapter=63"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/south-carolina/"
  },
  {
   "state": "South Dakota",
   "slug": "south-dakota",
   "abbr": "SD",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 18",
   "summary": "South Dakota calls homeschooling alternative instruction. A parent files a notification with the Department of Education or the local district within 30 days of starting, and files again only after certain changes. Instruction must cover language arts and mathematics, and the instructor does not need to be certified.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Alternative instruction",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or other instructors teaching up to 22 children.",
     "steps": [
      "File the Alternative Instruction Notification with the South Dakota Department of Education or your local district, online or on the standard form.",
      "File within 30 days of the first time your child begins alternative instruction while of school age.",
      "Keep the signed or stamped copy you receive as proof of notification.",
      "Teach the basic skills of language arts and mathematics in a way that leads to mastery of English.",
      "File an updated notification within 30 days if your child enrolls in a public or nonpublic school or moves to a different district."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the South Dakota Department of Education or your local school district",
      "when": "within 30 days of first beginning alternative instruction; again within 30 days if your child enrolls in a school or moves to a different district",
      "form_url": "https://altinstructionnotification.appssd.sd.gov/"
     },
     "subjects": "The basic skills of language arts and mathematics, taught so as to lead to mastery of the English language.",
     "time": "None required by law.",
     "teacher": "Not required to be certified. No person may instruct more than 22 children.",
     "assessment": "None required by law. The Department of Education says alternative instruction students no longer have to take and submit standardized tests.",
     "records": "None required by law.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "SDCL 13-27-3",
       "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/13-27-3"
      },
      {
       "cite": "SDCL 13-27-7",
       "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/13-27-7"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The notification is due within 30 days after alternative instruction begins (SDCL 13-27-7). A student who leaves an accredited school during the school year for alternative instruction is ineligible for interscholastic activities for the rest of the current season of the activity in which the student is participating (SDCL 13-36-7).",
   "high_school": "If a secondary age student who received alternative instruction enrolls in a public school, the student is placed in English and math by one or two standardized tests and in other subjects by transcript review under school board policy (SDCL 13-27-29). The Department of Education FAQ says a child at least 16 may be approved to take a high school equivalency test.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. Each public school district must allow a child receiving alternative instruction to take part in athletics, fine arts, or activities in the district where the child lives. The parent submits proof of age and, before the season, a parent-issued transcript of the previous semester's coursework, and the student follows the same training and eligibility rules as enrolled students (SDCL 13-36-7).",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschooling (Alternative Instruction), South Dakota Department of Education",
    "url": "https://doe.sd.gov/oatq/homeschooling.aspx"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "SDCL 13-27-1",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/13-27-1"
    },
    {
     "cite": "SDCL 13-27-3",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/13-27-3"
    },
    {
     "cite": "SDCL 13-27-7",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/13-27-7"
    },
    {
     "cite": "SDCL 13-36-7",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/13-36-7"
    },
    {
     "cite": "SDCL 13-27-29",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/13-27-29"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/south-dakota/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Tennessee",
   "slug": "tennessee",
   "abbr": "TN",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": null,
   "summary": "Tennessee families can run an independent home school, enroll in a church-related umbrella school, or use an accredited online school. For an independent home school, the teaching parent needs a high school diploma or equivalent, files a notice of intent with the local district each year, teaches 4 hours a day for 180 days, reports attendance, and has the child tested in grades 5, 7 and 9.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Independent home school",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who will be the primary teacher under the supervision of the local school system superintendent.",
     "steps": [
      "Make sure the teaching parent has a high school diploma or a state-approved equivalency credential.",
      "File the Intent to Home School form with your local school district, along with proof of your diploma. You can register at any time of year, including mid-year.",
      "Choose and buy your own curriculum. The district will ask you to identify it.",
      "Teach at least 4 hours a day for 180 days a year.",
      "Send attendance records to the director of schools (usually the district's home school coordinator) at the end of each school year.",
      "Have your child take a standardized test in grades 5, 7 and 9.",
      "File a new intent form before the start of each school year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "your local school district (its home school coordinator)",
      "when": "anytime for the first year, then before the start of each school year",
      "form_url": "https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/nonpublic/Intent_to_Home_School_Form_updated.pdf"
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": "At least 4 hours a day for 180 days a year",
     "teacher": "High school diploma or a state board approved equivalency credential, with proof sent in with the intent form",
     "assessment": "A standardized test in grades 5, 7 and 9: either a nationally normed test the parent picks, proctored by someone not related to the child, or the same state test public school students take. Results go to the parent, the director of schools and the state board.",
     "records": "Attendance records, sent to the director of schools at the end of each year and open to inspection. The parent keeps grades, transcripts and all student records.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Tenn. Code Ann. 49-6-3050, as cited on the state Notice of Intent form",
       "url": "https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/nonpublic/Intent_to_Home_School_Form_updated.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Tennessee Department of Education, Independent Home School Requirements, Grades K-12 (revised June 2026)",
       "url": "https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/nonpublic/Independent_Home_School_Requirements.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Tennessee Department of Education, Home School page",
       "url": "https://www.tn.gov/education/families/school-options/home-schooling-in-tn.html"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Church-related umbrella school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who enroll their child in an approved church-related umbrella school.",
     "steps": [
      "Enroll your child in an approved church-related umbrella school.",
      "Follow the umbrella school's requirements."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": null,
     "teacher": null,
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Tennessee Notice of Intent to Home School form",
       "url": "https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/nonpublic/Intent_to_Home_School_Form_updated.pdf"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Category III accredited online school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who enroll their child in an approved Category III accredited online school.",
     "steps": [
      "Enroll your child in an approved Category III accredited online school.",
      "Follow the online school's requirements."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": null,
     "teacher": null,
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Tennessee Notice of Intent to Home School form",
       "url": "https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/nonpublic/Intent_to_Home_School_Form_updated.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "Parents may withdraw a child to an independent home school at any point in the school year by filing the intent form with the district.",
   "high_school": "The parent-teacher creates the high school diploma and transcript. The department, the state board and the local district do not issue diplomas to home school students. Students who later enroll in a public or approved private school may be tested for placement, and students in grades 9 to 12 may be tested for credit.",
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home School, Tennessee Department of Education",
    "url": "https://www.tn.gov/education/families/school-options/home-schooling-in-tn.html"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Tenn. Code Ann. 49-6-3050",
     "url": "https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/nonpublic/Intent_to_Home_School_Form_updated.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Tennessee Department of Education, Independent Home School Requirements, Grades K-12 (revised June 2026)",
     "url": "https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/nonpublic/Independent_Home_School_Requirements.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Tennessee Department of Education, Home School page",
     "url": "https://www.tn.gov/education/families/school-options/home-schooling-in-tn.html"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/tennessee/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Texas",
   "slug": "texas",
   "abbr": "TX",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 until the 19th birthday",
   "summary": "In Texas a home school is treated as a private school, which is exempt from compulsory public school attendance. The exemption statute requires that a private school include a study of good citizenship. Texas has no state notice requirement, and the Texas Education Agency says withdrawing takes only written notice to the school.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Private school (home school)",
     "who_it_fits": "Families teaching at home, which Texas law treats as a private school.",
     "steps": [
      "If your child is enrolled in public school, give the school a written withdrawal letter or sign its withdrawal form. TEA says a signed, dated letter stating the child is being homeschooled and the start date is sufficient.",
      "Teach a curriculum that includes a study of good citizenship.",
      "If the district later asks in writing, you may provide a letter of assurance that your curriculum covers reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and good citizenship. TEA says this letter is not required each year."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "The exemption statute requires a study of good citizenship. TEA says a district may ask for an assurance that the curriculum is designed to meet basic education goals including reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and good citizenship.",
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "None required by law.",
     "assessment": "None required by law.",
     "records": "None required by law.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Tex. Educ. Code 25.086(a)(1)",
       "url": "https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/ED/htm/ED.25.htm"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Tex. Educ. Code 33.0832(b)",
       "url": "https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/ED/htm/ED.33.htm"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "TEA says school officials should disenroll a student when they receive written notice, either a signed withdrawal form or a letter of withdrawal. Parents do not need to appear in person, present curriculum, or meet other requirements to withdraw.",
   "high_school": "TEA says students transferring from home schools must be treated the same as students from unaccredited private schools when awarding credit, which a district may decide by reviewing the curriculum and work or by assessment (19 TAC 74.26(a)(2)). Districts must let home school students take the PSAT/NMSQT and AP tests they offer enrolled students (Tex. Educ. Code 29.916).",
   "sports_access": "Yes, in most districts. A public school that takes part in UIL activities must let a non-enrolled home school student who meets UIL eligibility participate in the same manner as enrolled students, at the school the student would attend by address. A district board or charter may adopt a policy declining, in which case the student may participate at the closest school without such a policy. To be eligible in the first six weeks, the student must show grade-level proficiency on a nationally recognized norm-referenced test, and parents provide periodic written verification afterward (Tex. Educ. Code 33.0832).",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Schools (To the Administrator Addressed letter), Texas Education Agency",
    "url": "https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/news-and-multimedia/correspondence/taa-letters/home-schools"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Tex. Educ. Code 25.085",
     "url": "https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/ED/htm/ED.25.htm"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Tex. Educ. Code 25.086",
     "url": "https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/ED/htm/ED.25.htm"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Tex. Educ. Code 33.0832",
     "url": "https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/ED/htm/ED.33.htm"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/texas/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Utah",
   "slug": "utah",
   "abbr": "UT",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 18",
   "summary": "Utah lets parents run a home school with very few state rules. A parent sends a one-time notice to the local school board when withdrawing a child to homeschool or choosing not to enroll one. The parent alone decides materials, schedule, and evaluation, and the school board may not require records, teacher credentials, inspections, or testing.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home school",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want to teach their own children, alone or together with other homeschooling families.",
     "steps": [
      "Write a one-time notice to the local school board of your district of residence. The law says it may be a letter of intent.",
      "Send it when you withdraw your child from school to homeschool, or when you choose not to enroll your child.",
      "Watch for the board's acknowledgment. The board must record the notice and acknowledge it to you within 30 days.",
      "Choose your materials, schedule, place, and method of instruction, and decide how you will evaluate progress."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the local school board of your child's district of residence",
      "when": "once, when you withdraw your child to homeschool or decide not to enroll your child; not required if you already notified the board on or before May 7, 2025, including by affidavit",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "None required by law. The parent alone selects instructional materials and textbooks.",
     "time": "None required by law. The parent decides the time, place, and method of instruction.",
     "teacher": "None required by law. A school board may not require credentials for people giving home school instruction.",
     "assessment": "None required by law. A school board may not require standardized or other testing. On request, the board must share recommended grade level skills by subject.",
     "records": "None required by law. A school board may not require records of instruction or attendance.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Utah Code 53G-6-204(2) to (6)",
       "url": "https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title53G/Chapter6/53G-6-S204.html"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "When a parent withdraws an enrolled child to homeschool, the parent gives the one-time notice to the local school board of the district of residence. Once the board receives it, the board and the school are no longer liable for the child's education or services (Utah Code 53G-6-204(3) and (5)).",
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": "Yes. A home school student may take part in extracurricular activities at the public school whose boundaries include the custodial parent's home, or at the school the student left to homeschool. Other schools may allow participation if the student meets eligibility rules (Utah Code 53G-6-703).",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home School, Utah State Board of Education",
    "url": "https://schools.utah.gov/curr/homeschool"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Utah Code 53G-6-204",
     "url": "https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title53G/Chapter6/53G-6-S204.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Utah Code 53G-6-201(15) (school-age child)",
     "url": "https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title53G/Chapter6/53G-6-S201.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Utah Code 53G-6-202",
     "url": "https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title53G/Chapter6/53G-6-S202.html"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Utah Code 53G-6-703",
     "url": "https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title53G/Chapter6/53G-6-S703.html"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/utah/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Vermont",
   "slug": "vermont",
   "abbr": "VT",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 16",
   "summary": "Vermont calls homeschooling a home study program. A parent sends an enrollment notice to the Agency of Education at least 10 business days before starting and renews it each year. The parent attests to teaching the minimum course of study for the equivalent of 175 days and to assessing progress at the end of each year, and keeps those assessment records.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home study program",
     "who_it_fits": "Families teaching children who live in the home, plus up to two other children or children from one other family.",
     "steps": [
      "Submit the Agency of Education Notice of Intent form at least 10 business days before home study begins.",
      "For a child not previously enrolled in a Vermont public school or home study program, include independent professional evidence on whether the child has a documented disability. The Agency also accepts a Vermont public school report card, an IEP or 504 plan, or other disability documentation.",
      "Wait for the Agency's written acknowledgment, which counts as enrollment. The Agency says a child already in school should keep attending until enrollment is confirmed.",
      "Teach the minimum course of study for the equivalent of at least 175 days.",
      "Assess the child at the end of the school year and keep the record.",
      "File the annual notice at least 10 business days before each following year's start date."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Vermont Secretary of Education, through the Agency of Education Home Study office",
      "when": "at least 10 business days before home study begins, then each following year at least 10 business days before the start date",
      "form_url": "https://www.cognitoforms.com/VermontAgencyOfEducation/HomeStudyEnrollmentNoticeOfIntent"
     },
     "subjects": "Under age 13: basic communication skills (reading, writing, use of numbers); citizenship, history, and government of Vermont and the United States; physical education and comprehensive health education; English, American, and other literature; natural sciences; and fine arts. Age 13 and older: basic communication skills, citizenship and government, literature, and natural sciences. Children with documented disabilities must be given adaptations.",
     "time": "The equivalent of at least 175 days of instruction per year.",
     "teacher": "None required by law.",
     "assessment": "An end of year assessment using one of: a standardized test, a review by a person with a current Vermont teacher's certificate, a parent report and portfolio with at least four work samples, grades from an online academy or school, or passing the GED. The Agency says not to send it unless you want it reviewed.",
     "records": "Keep the record of each annual assessment. The Agency also advises keeping a copy of your curriculum.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "16 V.S.A. 166b",
       "url": "https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/16/003/00166b"
      },
      {
       "cite": "16 V.S.A. 906",
       "url": "https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/16/023/00906"
      },
      {
       "cite": "16 V.S.A. 11(a)(21)",
       "url": "https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/16/001/00011"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The Agency of Education says a child in school should keep attending until the Agency confirms home study enrollment by email and letter, and the family may then withdraw the child from school. To end home study, the statute requires written notice to the Secretary within 10 business days after the child is withdrawn from the program.",
   "high_school": "The Agency of Education does not issue diplomas to home study students. Families may request a verification letter showing home study enrollment dates. A family seeking a diploma from a local school must work with that school's guidance department on credits.",
   "sports_access": "Yes, per the Agency of Education. Its public school FAQ says Act 119 lets home study students take part in public school academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular programs, and State Board rules require equal treatment on enrollment procedures, deadlines, and capacity.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Study, Vermont Agency of Education",
    "url": "https://education.vermont.gov/vermont-schools/school-operations/home-study"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "16 V.S.A. 166b",
     "url": "https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/16/003/00166b"
    },
    {
     "cite": "16 V.S.A. 1121",
     "url": "https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/16/025/01121"
    },
    {
     "cite": "16 V.S.A. 906",
     "url": "https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/16/023/00906"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/vermont/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Virginia",
   "slug": "virginia",
   "abbr": "VA",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "5 to 18",
   "summary": "Most Virginia homeschoolers use the home instruction statute. A parent notifies the division superintendent by August 15 each year with a list of subjects and proof of meeting one of four qualification options, then submits evidence of progress by August 1 after the school year. Virginia also allows a religious exemption granted by the school board and instruction by an approved tutor.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home instruction",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents who meet one of the four qualification options and are willing to file an annual notice and yearly evidence of progress.",
     "steps": [
      "Confirm you meet one qualification option: a high school diploma, teacher qualifications set by the Board of Education, a program of study or curriculum (including correspondence or distance learning), or other evidence of ability to provide an adequate education.",
      "By August 15, send the division superintendent your notice of intent, a list of subjects for the coming year, and evidence of your qualification option.",
      "If you start after the school year begins or move into the division, notify the superintendent as soon as practicable and complete the requirements within 30 days.",
      "By August 1 after each school year, submit test results or an evaluation showing adequate progress."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the division superintendent of your school division",
      "when": "every year by August 15; if you begin after the school year starts or move in, as soon as practicable, with the other requirements due within 30 days",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "None named by law. The notice must include a list of the subjects to be studied during the coming year.",
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "One of four options: a high school diploma; teacher qualifications set by the Board of Education; providing a program of study or curriculum, which may be a correspondence or distance learning program; or evidence of ability to provide an adequate education. The VDOE handbook says a GED does not meet the diploma option.",
     "assessment": "By August 1 after the school year: a composite score at or above the fourth stanine on a nationally normed achievement test, or an equivalent ACT, SAT, or PSAT score; or an evaluation the superintendent accepts, such as a letter from a licensed teacher or someone with a master's degree who knows the child's progress, or a report card or transcript from a college, distance learning program, or correspondence school. Not required for children under 6 as of September 30. Missing or insufficient evidence can lead to one probationary year with a remediation plan.",
     "records": "None required by law.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Va. Code 22.1-254.1",
       "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title22.1/chapter14/section22.1-254.1/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Religious exemption",
     "who_it_fits": "Families whose bona fide religious training or belief makes the child and parents conscientiously opposed to school attendance.",
     "steps": [
      "Petition your local school board for an excuse from attendance on religious grounds.",
      "Be prepared to show that the objection rests on religious training or belief. The statute says political, sociological, or philosophical views or a merely personal moral code do not qualify."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "your local school board",
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "None required by law.",
     "time": "None required by law.",
     "teacher": "None required by law.",
     "assessment": "None required by law.",
     "records": "None required by law.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Va. Code 22.1-254(B)(1)",
       "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title22.1/chapter14/section22.1-254/"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Va. Code 22.1-254.1(D)",
       "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title22.1/chapter14/section22.1-254.1/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Tutor or teacher",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who will have the child taught by a tutor or teacher who meets Board of Education qualifications.",
     "steps": [
      "Arrange a tutor or teacher who meets Board of Education qualifications. The VDOE handbook says the tutor must hold a valid Virginia teaching license.",
      "Get the tutor approved by the division superintendent."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the division superintendent, who must approve the tutor",
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": "The compulsory attendance statute calls for the same number of days and hours per day as the public schools.",
     "teacher": "Qualifications prescribed by the Board of Education and approval by the division superintendent. The VDOE handbook says this means a valid Virginia teaching license.",
     "assessment": null,
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Va. Code 22.1-254(A)",
       "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title22.1/chapter14/section22.1-254/"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "Under the home instruction statute, a parent who begins home instruction after the school year has started must notify the division superintendent as soon as practicable and meet the other requirements within 30 days of that notice (Va. Code 22.1-254.1(B)).",
   "high_school": "The VDOE handbook says school boards generally do not award diplomas to students not enrolled in their schools, and home instructed students may earn diplomas only through a correspondence or other program that awards them. By statute, school boards must make AP, PSAT/NMSQT, and PreACT exams available to home instructed students (Va. Code 22.1-254.1(F)).",
   "sports_access": "No statute confirmed. The VDOE handbook says varsity sports follow Virginia High School League policies and other activities follow local school board policies.",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home Instruction Handbook: Information for Parents, Virginia Department of Education (revised November 1, 2023)",
    "url": "https://doe.virginia.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/2702/638345380629230000"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Va. Code 22.1-254",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title22.1/chapter14/section22.1-254/"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Va. Code 22.1-254.1",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title22.1/chapter14/section22.1-254.1/"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/virginia/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Washington",
   "slug": "washington",
   "abbr": "WA",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "8 to 18",
   "summary": "Washington parents providing home-based instruction file a declaration of intent with the school district each year by September 15. The parent must meet one of several qualifications, teach the listed subjects for the hours set for private schools, and have the child tested or assessed every year. Families may also enroll in an approved private school's extension program.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home-based instruction",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents teaching only their own children who meet one of the parent qualification options.",
     "steps": [
      "Confirm you qualify: supervision by a certificated teacher, 45 college quarter credits or the semester equivalent, a course in home-based instruction at a postsecondary or vocational-technical institution, or approval by your local superintendent.",
      "File a signed declaration of intent with your resident district superintendent by September 15, or within two weeks of the start of any public school quarter, trimester, or semester.",
      "Teach the required subjects for the required annual hours.",
      "Each year, arrange an approved standardized achievement test or a written assessment by a certificated person working in education.",
      "Keep test scores, assessments, and immunization records, and forward them if your child transfers to another school."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the superintendent of your resident school district, or a nonresident district that accepts a transfer",
      "when": "every year by September 15, or within two weeks of the start of any public school quarter, trimester, or semester",
      "form_url": "https://ospi.k12.wa.us/sites/default/files/2023-08/2.pdf"
     },
     "subjects": "Occupational education, science, mathematics, language, social studies, history, health, reading, writing, spelling, and the development of an appreciation of art and music.",
     "time": "Hours equal to the annual program hours set for approved private schools, which RCW 28A.195.010 sets as a 1,000 hour average for grades 1 to 12 and at least 450 hours for kindergarten.",
     "teacher": "One of: supervision by a certificated person (joint planning, an average of one contact hour per week each month, and evaluation of progress); 45 college-level quarter credit hours or the semester equivalent; a completed course in home-based instruction at a postsecondary or vocational-technical institution; or being deemed qualified by the local superintendent.",
     "assessment": "Every year, either a State Board of Education approved standardized achievement test given by a qualified person, or a written annual assessment by a certificated person currently working in education. If the child is not making reasonable progress, the parent must make a good faith effort to remedy it.",
     "records": "The annual test or assessment becomes part of the child's permanent records. Test scores, assessments, immunization records, and any other instructional records kept must be forwarded to a school the child transfers to.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "RCW 28A.225.010(4)",
       "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=28A.225.010"
      },
      {
       "cite": "RCW 28A.200.010",
       "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=28A.200.010"
      },
      {
       "cite": "RCW 28A.195.010(1)",
       "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=28A.195.010"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Approved private school extension program",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who want to teach at home while enrolled in an approved private school that runs an extension program.",
     "steps": [
      "Enroll your child in an approved private school's extension program.",
      "Plan objectives with the school's certificated employee, who supervises your teaching.",
      "Meet with the certificated employee an average of one contact hour per week each month and have progress evaluated by that person."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": null,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": null,
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "Parent works under the supervision of a certificated employee of the approved private school, who may supervise no more than 30 extension students.",
     "assessment": "Each student's progress must be evaluated by the certificated person.",
     "records": null,
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "RCW 28A.195.010(4)",
       "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=28A.195.010"
      },
      {
       "cite": "RCW 28A.225.010(1)(a)",
       "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=28A.225.010"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "The declaration of intent may be filed within two weeks of the start of any public school quarter, trimester, or semester, as well as by September 15 (RCW 28A.200.010(1)(a)). On a later return to public school, the district may require a standardized test and decides grade and course placement after consulting the parents (RCW 28A.200.010(1)(b)).",
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": "Yes. Students in home-based instruction may enroll part time in their resident district and receive courses and ancillary services the same as other students (RCW 28A.150.350). State rules define ancillary services to include sports activities (WAC 392-134-005 and 392-134-010).",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home-Based Instruction, Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction",
    "url": "https://ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/learning-alternatives/home-based-instruction"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "RCW 28A.225.010",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=28A.225.010"
    },
    {
     "cite": "RCW 28A.200.010",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=28A.200.010"
    },
    {
     "cite": "RCW 28A.200.020",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=28A.200.020"
    },
    {
     "cite": "RCW 28A.150.350",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=28A.150.350"
    },
    {
     "cite": "WAC 392-134-005",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=392-134-005"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/washington/"
  },
  {
   "state": "West Virginia",
   "slug": "west-virginia",
   "abbr": "WV",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 17",
   "summary": "West Virginia parents can homeschool by giving a one-time notice of intent to the county superintendent, showing a high school diploma or equivalent, and arranging an annual assessment. Assessment results go to the county for grades 3, 5, 8, and 11. Families may instead seek county board approval for home instruction, or use the learning pod or microschool exemption.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home instruction by notice of intent",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents with a high school diploma or equivalent who want a notice-based option.",
     "steps": [
      "Send a notice of intent to the county superintendent or county board with each child's name, address, and age, and an assurance of instruction in the required subjects and annual assessment.",
      "If your child is enrolled in public school, give the notice on or before the day home instruction begins.",
      "Submit evidence of your high school diploma or equivalent, or a qualifying postsecondary degree or certificate.",
      "Teach reading, language, mathematics, science, and social studies.",
      "Arrange an annual assessment and send results for grades 3, 5, 8, and 11 to the county superintendent by June 30.",
      "Notify the county superintendent when home instruction ends, and file a new notice if you move to another county."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "your county superintendent or county board of education",
      "when": "once, when you begin; if your child is enrolled in public school, on or before the day home instruction begins; file a new notice if you move to another county",
      "form_url": "https://wvde.us/media/3205/homeschool-letter-intent"
     },
     "subjects": "Reading, language, mathematics, science, and social studies.",
     "time": "None required by law. The WVDE says home instruction has no set instructional year.",
     "teacher": "Submit evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent, or a postsecondary degree or certificate from a regionally accredited institution or one authorized to grant it in West Virginia.",
     "assessment": "Each year, assess the prior school year by one of: a nationally normed achievement test (normed within 10 years) in reading, language, mathematics, science, and social studies, given by a qualified person; the state public school testing program at a county public school; a portfolio review with a written narrative by a certified teacher; or an alternative assessment agreed with the county superintendent. Submit results to the county superintendent for grades 3, 5, 8, and 11 by June 30. Acceptable progress means a mean at or above the fourth stanine, or improvement over the prior year if below it.",
     "records": "Keep copies of each annual academic assessment for three years. If progress is not acceptable, start a remedial program; after a second year without acceptable progress, submit additional evidence of appropriate instruction.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "W. Va. Code 18-8-1(c)(2)",
       "url": "https://code.wvlegislature.gov/18-8-1/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Home instruction approved by the county board",
     "who_it_fits": "Families who prefer to request county board approval instead of using the notice option.",
     "steps": [
      "Request approval for home instruction from the county board.",
      "If denied, the board must give its reasons in writing.",
      "Provide attendance, instruction, and progress information when the county superintendent asks."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "your county board of education, for approval",
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "The subjects required to be taught in public elementary schools.",
     "time": "A time equal to the instructional term set in W. Va. Code 18-5-45.",
     "teacher": "A person the county superintendent and county board judge qualified to teach the subjects required in public elementary schools.",
     "assessment": null,
     "records": "On request of the county superintendent, provide information and records on attendance, instruction, and progress.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "W. Va. Code 18-8-1(c)(1)",
       "url": "https://code.wvlegislature.gov/18-8-1/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "name": "Learning pod or microschool",
     "who_it_fits": "Families whose children study in a learning pod (a voluntary group of parents) or a tuition-charging microschool.",
     "steps": [
      "Give the county superintendent or county board a notice of intent to participate, with each child's name, address, and age, and the same subject and assessment assurances.",
      "If your child is enrolled in public school, give the notice on or before the day participation begins.",
      "The person providing instruction submits evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent, or a qualifying postsecondary credential.",
      "Arrange the annual assessment; results may be sent individually or as school composite results."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "your county superintendent or county board of education",
      "when": "when participation begins; if your child is enrolled in public school, on or before the day participation begins; file a new notice if you move to another county",
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "Reading, language, mathematics, science, and social studies.",
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "The person providing instruction submits evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent, or a qualifying postsecondary degree or certificate.",
     "assessment": "Each year, assess the prior school year by one of: a nationally normed achievement test (normed within 10 years) in reading, language, mathematics, science, and social studies, given by a qualified person; the state public school testing program at a county public school; a portfolio review with a written narrative by a certified teacher; or an alternative assessment agreed with the county superintendent. Results go to the county superintendent for grades 3, 5, 8, and 11 by June 30. Acceptable progress means a mean at or above the fourth stanine, or improvement over the prior year if below it. A pod or microschool may submit composite results.",
     "records": "Keep copies of each annual academic assessment for three years, with the same remedial steps as home instruction.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "W. Va. Code 18-8-1(n)",
       "url": "https://code.wvlegislature.gov/18-8-1/"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "If the child is enrolled in public school, the notice of intent must be given on or before the date home instruction is to begin (W. Va. Code 18-8-1(c)(2)(A)).",
   "high_school": "A person who runs a secondary program in a home school setting may issue a diploma to a student who completes it. The WVDE says that diploma is legally sufficient as a high school diploma, and no state agency or in-state college may treat a person differently solely because of its source (W. Va. Code 18-8-12, as described by WVDE). The WVDE also lists homeschool requirements for the PROMISE Scholarship, including a grade verification form and transcript.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. The Secondary School Activities Commission must consider home instruction, Hope Scholarship, and learning pod or microschool students eligible at the public secondary school serving their attendance zone if they show yearly academic progress with average test results at or above the fourth stanine in all subjects, are under 19 by August 1, are amateurs, and follow the commission's and county's rules. Reasonable fees may be charged (W. Va. Code 18-2-25(d)).",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschool State Code, West Virginia Department of Education",
    "url": "https://wvde.us/academics/school-choice/homeschool-state-code"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "W. Va. Code 18-8-1",
     "url": "https://code.wvlegislature.gov/18-8-1/"
    },
    {
     "cite": "W. Va. Code 18-8-1a",
     "url": "https://code.wvlegislature.gov/18-8-1a/"
    },
    {
     "cite": "W. Va. Code 18-2-25",
     "url": "https://code.wvlegislature.gov/18-2-25/"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/west-virginia/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Wisconsin",
   "slug": "wisconsin",
   "abbr": "WI",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "6 to 18",
   "summary": "Wisconsin parents run a home-based private educational program by filing the online PI-1206 report with the Department of Public Instruction every school year by October 15. The program must give at least 875 hours of instruction a year in a sequentially progressive curriculum of six subjects. The state does not approve programs and requires no testing.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home-based private educational program",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents teaching their own family's children, or having someone they designate do so. A program serving more than one family unit does not qualify.",
     "steps": [
      "File the online PI-1206 Homeschool Enrollment Report with DPI. The earliest a report can be filed for a new school year is July 1.",
      "File it on or before October 15 each school year. If you withdraw your child from a school after October 15, file or update it on or before the day your child stops attending.",
      "Provide at least 875 hours of instruction in the required subjects.",
      "Keep copies of your submitted PI-1206 reports. DPI keeps them for seven years."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": true,
      "to": "the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, using the online PI-1206 Homeschool Enrollment Report",
      "when": "every school year on or before October 15; if you withdraw after October 15, on or before the day your child stops attending school",
      "form_url": "https://dpi.wi.gov/sms/home-based"
     },
     "subjects": "A sequentially progressive curriculum of fundamental instruction in reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, and health. Concepts that conflict with the program's religious doctrines are not required.",
     "time": "At least 875 hours of instruction each school year.",
     "teacher": "None required by law. Instruction may be given by the parent or a person the parent designates.",
     "assessment": "None required by law. DPI says Wisconsin homeschooling law requires no testing or assessment.",
     "records": "None required by law. DPI recommends keeping records of instruction and says parents are responsible for keeping copies of their PI-1206 reports.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Wis. Stat. 118.165(1)",
       "url": "https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/118/165"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Wis. Stat. 115.30(3)",
       "url": "https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/115.30(3)"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Wis. Stat. 115.001(3g)",
       "url": "https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/115.001(3g)"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "DPI says a child is officially enrolled in the home-based program on the date the PI-1206 is submitted online. A district may not require the form before October 15, and a parent's notice of intent to the district counts as sufficient notice until then. A parent withdrawing after October 15 should submit or update the PI-1206 on or before the day the child stops attending. A child already enrolled in 5K must keep attending through the term, per Wis. Stat. 118.15(1)(am).",
   "high_school": "DPI says a home-based program does not lead to a traditional Wisconsin high school diploma. Parents may create a diploma when the program is complete. Students may pursue a GED or HSED. A school the student later enrolls in decides grade placement and how many credits to grant.",
   "sports_access": "Yes. A school board must let resident home-based students take part in interscholastic athletics on the same basis as enrolled students. On request, the program gives the board a written statement that the student meets age, academic, and disciplinary requirements, and the board may not question it. DPI says the same applies to extracurricular activities, and the usual fees may be charged (Wis. Stat. 118.133, as described by DPI).",
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Home-Based Private Education Program (Homeschooling), Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction",
    "url": "https://dpi.wi.gov/parental-education-options/home-based"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Wis. Stat. 118.165",
     "url": "https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/118/165"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Wis. Stat. 118.15",
     "url": "https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/118.15"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Wis. Stat. 115.30(3)",
     "url": "https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/115.30(3)"
    },
    {
     "cite": "Wis. Stat. 118.133",
     "url": "https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/118.133"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/wisconsin/"
  },
  {
   "state": "Wyoming",
   "slug": "wyoming",
   "abbr": "WY",
   "checked": "2026-11-08",
   "compulsory_ages": "7 to 16",
   "summary": "Wyoming treats a home-based educational program as a private school for compulsory attendance. Since July 1, 2025, parents no longer submit a curriculum to the school board each year. The program must provide a basic academic educational program in seven subjects.",
   "options": [
    {
     "name": "Home-based educational program",
     "who_it_fits": "Parents or guardians teaching their own children, or having a person they designate teach them.",
     "steps": [
      "Provide a sequentially progressive curriculum in reading, writing, mathematics, civics, history, literature, and science.",
      "If your child is enrolled in a public school, tell the district you are enrolling the child in a home-based program. Without that notice, the law requires an in-person meeting and written consent to withdraw a child under 18."
     ],
     "notice": {
      "required": false,
      "to": null,
      "when": null,
      "form_url": null
     },
     "subjects": "A sequentially progressive curriculum of fundamental instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, civics, history, literature, and science. Concepts that conflict with the program's religious doctrines are not required.",
     "time": null,
     "teacher": "None required by law. Instruction may be given by the parent, legal guardian, or a person they designate.",
     "assessment": "None required by law.",
     "records": "None required by law.",
     "cites": [
      {
       "cite": "Wyo. Stat. 21-4-101(a)(iii), (v), (vi)",
       "url": "https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title21.pdf"
      },
      {
       "cite": "Wyo. Stat. 21-4-102(b)",
       "url": "https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title21.pdf"
      }
     ]
    }
   ],
   "withdrawing": "A parent of a child under 18 who has not notified the district of enrolling the child in another district, a private school, or a home-based program must meet in person with a district counselor or administrator and give written consent to the withdrawal. That consent must include a separate release of the student's name and address to the Wyoming National Guard Youth Challenge Program (Wyo. Stat. 21-4-102(c)).",
   "high_school": null,
   "sports_access": null,
   "official_page": {
    "name": "Homeschooling, Wyoming Department of Education",
    "url": "https://edu.wyoming.gov/parents/homeschooling"
   },
   "statute_index": [
    {
     "cite": "Wyo. Stat. 21-4-101 and 21-4-102 (Title 21 PDF)",
     "url": "https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title21.pdf"
    },
    {
     "cite": "2025 HB0046, Homeschool freedom act (enrolled)",
     "url": "https://www.wyoleg.gov/2025/Enroll/HB0046.pdf"
    }
   ],
   "page": "https://homeschoolhaul.com/start-homeschooling/wyoming/"
  }
 ]
}