Homeschooling is legal in all 50 US states, but regulations vary dramatically from state to state. Some states require no notification and minimal oversight, while others mandate detailed reporting, standardized testing, and curriculum approval.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Research your state's homeschool laws. Visit the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) website at hslda.org/legal for a detailed breakdown of your state's requirements. States fall into cat...
- No notification required: Alaska, Idaho, Texas, and others allow you to start without notifying anyone.
- Notification only: Many states require you to file a notice of intent with your local school district or state education department.
- Notification with requirements: Some states require submission of curriculum plans, teacher qualifications, or annual assessments.
- High regulation: States like New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts require notice of intent, approved curriculum, regular testing, and quarterly progress reports.
- File required paperwork. If your state requires it, submit a letter of intent or declaration of homeschool to the appropriate authority (school district superintendent, state education department, ...
- Withdraw your child from school (if currently enrolled). Write a formal withdrawal letter to the current school. Some states require this step before beginning homeschool.
- Choose a curriculum or educational approach. Options include:
- Structured packaged curricula (Abeka, Sonlight, Saxon)
- Online programs (Khan Academy, Time4Learning, Outschool)
Common Mistakes
- Not checking state law first
- Trying to replicate traditional school at home
- Overbuying curriculum
- Neglecting socialization planning
- Failing to keep records
Pro Tips
- Connect with your state's homeschool association
- Use the library
- Take advantage of dual enrollment
- Document everything with photos and portfolios
- Budget realistically