ESA Programs and State Scholarships

Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states, but each state has its own rules for registering as a homeschooler and the requirements for studying, testing, and record-keeping. Some states require specific subjects to be taught or outline how many days and hours your child should study. You can find many online guides to help you understand the specific rules in your state.

For example, in Florida, the primary way to homeschool is by sending a letter to your school district to inform them of your intent to homeschool. You can do this at the beginning or even in the middle of the school year. Afterward, you must maintain a student portfolio with records of your child’s studies. These records are not open to the public. You also need to have your child assessed annually, either by standardized tests or, more commonly, by a licensed teacher reviewing the portfolio or meeting with your child for an hour. An alternative in Florida is to enroll in a cover school, which acts as a private school to meet legal requirements and offers advice to homeschoolers. These schools typically charge a small annual fee, and enrolling in a cover school means you don’t need to notify your school district.

In Texas, homeschooling is even simpler as there are no paperwork requirements. The law states:

• There must be genuine instruction for the student.
• The curriculum should be visual in nature (e.g., textbooks, workbooks, online programs).
• The subjects that must be covered are reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and citizenship.
• When considering transitioning your child back to a traditional school, it’s important to make sure the curriculum you choose aligns with state educational standards. Each state sets standards for what students should learn at each grade level, and these are available online. Following these standards can make the transition smoother if your child returns to school.

For high school students, homeschooling parents are free to sign the homeschool diploma once the high school program is complete. However, it’s important to ensure that the curriculum meets the requirements for your student’s post-high school plans. If your child is aiming for college, check the minimum entrance requirements for the specific schools they’re interested in. Some students even pursue a dual enrollment program, earning both a high school diploma and an associate's degree, giving them a head start in their college education. Websites like Homeschool.com offer guides to help with dual enrollment.

Supercharged Science & Math provides curriculum options that can be used for math and science, including those required by state laws, and offers homeschoolers the flexibility to design their own educational plan while meeting legal requirements.