Homeschooling offers families the unique opportunity to tailor education to fit their children's needs, but navigating the legal requirements can be daunting.
Nearly 25,000 students reported homeschooling in Pennsylvania (PA) in 2016, an increase of almost 43,000 at the height of the pandemic.
Pennsylvania allows families to homeschool, but they must comply with specific documentation and regulatory guidelines to preserve this freedom.
You may be concerned about whether you need approval from your school district or how to handle things if a disagreement arises.
This blog aims to clarify these issues and provide a comprehensive guide to help you confidently manage homeschooling in Pennsylvania.
Understanding PA Homeschooling Laws
Homeschooling in Pennsylvania has a long history of challenges, including unclear laws and school resistance. In 1988, Act 169 officially legalized homeschooling, providing clarity and protection for families. Since then, legal battles and amendments have shaped the state's current homeschooling laws.
Today, Pennsylvania’s homeschooling laws are based on Act 169. If you choose to homeschool, you must follow specific rules, such as teaching your child between 6 and 18 and submitting annual evaluations to show progress. The law recognizes homeschooling as a legitimate form of education, and the Pennsylvania Department of Education monitors compliance to ensure quality education for homeschooled children.
Homeschooling in PA: A Step-by-Step Guide to Rights and Requirements
In Pennsylvania, homeschooling is more than just an alternative education option. According to Ray, 2017, 78% of peer-reviewed studies on academic achievement show that homeschooled students perform statistically significantly better than those in institutional schools.
In Pennsylvania, there are three main homeschooling options.
PA Home Education Law (Act 169) requires parents to file an affidavit, provide instruction in required subjects, and submit an annual evaluation by a certified evaluator.
Private Tutoring: A certified tutor provides instruction, eliminating the need for an evaluator or portfolio submission.
Online Schools/Cyber Charter Schools: While not considered homeschooling by law, these virtual programs allow students to receive education at home with oversight from public or private entities. Each option offers different levels of flexibility and oversight.
No matter which homeschooling option you choose, parents must make sure their program follows state regulations to keep their right to homeschool. To stay within the law, follow the steps below for a better understanding.
Step 1: Beginning the Homeschooling Program
The first task is submitting a notarized affidavit to the superintendent's office in the school district where your child resides. You must file the affidavit before the education program starts, and it is critical for legally beginning homeschooling.
Deadlines for Affidavit Submissions
Families already homeschooling in PA must submit the affidavit by August 1st each year. However, if you are transitioning to homeschooling for the first time, you can submit your affidavit any time during the school year without delay, even starting immediately after filing.
Required Components of the Affidavit
The affidavit has several mandatory components. It must include:
Name of the Supervisor: The parent or guardian overseeing the homeschooling.
Name and Age of Each Child: Basic identification details of homeschooled children.
Address and Telephone Number: Contact information for the supervising adult.
Subjects and Educational Objectives: This is a list of subjects to be taught and the educational goals for each subject. For elementary grades, this covers basics like English and arithmetic, extending to history and physical education. For secondary levels, the requirements are more comprehensive.
Immunization and Health Services: You must provide proof of vaccination, or you can submit exemptions based on valid medical, religious, or philosophical grounds. A medical certificate outlining any remaining immunization doses is also necessary.
Compliance Certification: A statement affirming that the education aligns with Pennsylvania law, including the minimum instructional days - 180 days or 900 hours for elementary students and 990 hours for older students.
Additional Requirements
You must provide additional documentation for children needing special education services. A qualified special education teacher or psychologist must review and approve the educational program for these students to ensure it meets their needs.
Unsworn Declaration Alternative
Since April 2020, Pennsylvania has offered a more straightforward route: an unsworn declaration. You do not need notarization for the unsworn declaration, but you must include a signature under penalty of perjury and a specific state-provided statement. This option can be handy for families who find obtaining notarization challenging.
Process of Submission
You should submit your affidavit or declaration in person or send it via Certified Mail with the Return Receipt Requested to ensure proof of delivery. The Pennsylvania Department of Education supplies sample affidavits on their website, which can help ensure compliance with state requirements.
Check out this helpful Reddit thread for more insights on notarizing and filing homeschooling affidavits in Pennsylvania. Many parents recommend using resources like HSLDA.org, which provides detailed forms and guides to simplify the process for new homeschoolers.
Step 2: Documenting the Homeschooling Program
When documenting your homeschooling program, you must create a comprehensive record to verify compliance with state guidelines. Here's a closer look at what this entails.
Assembling and Maintaining a Portfolio
It would help if you had a well-organized portfolio to show that your child is meeting the educational requirements set by the state. The portfolio must contain:
Samples of Student Work: To show sustained progress in different subjects, you should include examples from various points throughout the school year, from the beginning to the middle and the end.
Instructional Logs: Record the hours of instruction, reading materials, academic work, and other educational activities.
Reading Material Log: You should track the books and reading materials your child has engaged with to offer a clear picture of their learning journey.
Standardized Testing Requirements
Pennsylvania mandates homeschooled students take standardized tests in grades 3, 5, and 8. Here are the key points:
Test Options: Parents can choose between statewide tests (PSSAs) or nationally normed standardized achievement tests approved by the Department of Education.
Test Results: You must include the results in the student's portfolio to support educational progress.
Accommodations: If your child takes the statewide tests, the school district must provide accommodations such as allowing the test to be taken at the local school building or other agreed-upon locations.
Yearly Evaluations
Each year, a qualified home education evaluator reviews the portfolio. This involves interviewing the student and examining the materials to certify that your child receives an appropriate education. The portfolio should be detailed and comprehensive to satisfy the evaluator's requirements.
Staying Organized
Organization is key. Use tracking sheets or digital tools to log daily activities, reading materials, and hours of instruction. This will make it easier to maintain the portfolio and ensure you can provide an accurate and thorough record during the annual evaluation.
Stay organized and compliant with homeschooling guidelines using The School House Anywhere's portfolio tools. Track student progress, maintain instructional logs, and ensure seamless yearly evaluations with ease. Sign up today to access everything you need to document your homeschooling program and meet state requirements for K to 6 grade students!
Step 3: Evaluations and Closing Out the School Year
As a homeschooling parent in Pennsylvania, part of your annual task is to ensure that your child's progress is adequately evaluated. It involves reviewing work and interviewing for progress assessment. Here's how you can navigate this process effectively.
Portfolio Review and Student Interview Process
By Pennsylvania law, the evaluation must be performed by a qualified home education evaluator who will review your student's portfolio. Your portfolio should include samples of your child's work, a list of reading materials, a log of instructional time, and standardized test results for grades 3, 5, and 8.
The evaluator interviews your child to assess curriculum engagement. The goal is for the student to make 'sustained progress in the overall program' for the required time.
Finding and Scheduling an Evaluator
Evaluators can include:
Licensed clinical or school psychologists.
Certified PA teachers with at least two years of grading experience.
Non-public school teachers or administrators with recent PA teaching experience.
Individuals approved by the district superintendent.
To avoid last-minute stress, it is advisable to identify and schedule your evaluator early in the school year. You can often find evaluators through homeschooling networks, online searches, or recommendations from your school district.
Submitting Evaluations to the Superintendent
Your responsibility doesn't end with the evaluation. Each year, submit the written assessment to the superintendent by June 30. Missing the deadline may result in scrutiny or a hearing. Superintendents can request a portfolio and evaluation before June 30.
Special Considerations for Twelfth Grade
If you have a twelfth-grader, the stakes are even higher. Evaluators must confirm students meet graduation requirements. The evaluator also co-signs the home education high school diploma, ensuring the student's achievements meet state standards.
You must use a form the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) provides for the diploma. Evaluators should keep meticulous records of evaluations and courses reviewed yearly to support this final graduation assessment.
If the twelfth-grade evaluator has yet to review all of the student's high school portfolios, they must gather enough evidence to confirm the completion of required courses.
Final Steps
Remember, as the homeschooling parent, it is your responsibility to ensure that the evaluation process is completed and all documentation is submitted correctly. A rigorous evaluation ensures that your child is receiving a high-quality education. Staying organized and aware of deadlines can provide a smooth end to your homeschooling year.
Keep track of your child's progress effortlessly with Transparent Classroom through The School House Anywhere's personalized reporting system. This user-friendly tool allows you to manage records, maintain portfolios, and stay organized easily. Join now to simplify your homeschooling documentation!
Step 4: Curriculum and Instruction
Once you've established and documented your homeschooling program, the next step is to focus on curriculum and instruction.
For elementary students (grades K-6), the mandatory subjects are English (spelling, reading, writing), arithmetic, civics, US and Pennsylvania history, health and physiology, physical education, music, art, geography, science, and safety education (including fire safety).
Secondary students (grades 7-12) have an expanded curriculum that includes English (language, literature, speech, composition), general math, algebra, geometry, civics, US and Pennsylvania history, world history, health, physical education, music, art, geography, science, and continued safety education.
Fortunately, many curriculum resources are available for parents. Schools must let homeschoolers borrow courses and materials. State-sponsored textbooks and resources are also available free of charge, ensuring they align with academic standards. Include detailed subjects, materials, and hours in the affidavit.
Use online platforms, local organizations, and libraries for materials. Packages like Sonlight help meet education requirements and budgets.
This video on “How to HOMESCHOOL in Pennsylvania” offers additional resources and insights into homeschooling in Pennsylvania. It includes useful links and connections to other homeschooling parents, which can further help readers navigate the state's homeschooling laws.
Step 5: Health and Attendance Requirements
You need to be familiar with Pennsylvania's health and attendance rules for homeschooling. Understanding these guidelines will ensure you stay compliant. Here's what you need to know:
Required Immunizations and Health Screenings
Before starting, submit a notarized affidavit for immunization. You must update your child's immunization record yearly by August 1. Exemptions for medical or religious reasons must be documented—record health screenings like vision, hearing, and tuberculosis. Exams by nurses or providers must be within four months.
Mandatory Physical and Dental Exams
Homeschoolers need medical exams at entry, grades six and eleven. Homeschool students must also undergo dental exams when entering school and again in the third and seventh grades. Submit exam results by the start of homeschooling or August 1.
Meeting Attendance Laws
Pennsylvania requires compulsory attendance for ages six to eighteen. Notify the district and submit an affidavit if your child turns six. Non-compliance may lead to legal repercussions, including hearings and potential suspension of your home education program.
Step 6: Graduation Requirements
In Pennsylvania, graduation requirements for homeschooling students are set by state law. To graduate, students must complete specific subjects. These include:
Four years of English (reading, writing, and literature)
Three years of mathematics
Three years of science
Three years of social studies (including history, geography, and civics)
One year of art and one year of physical education
In addition to these subjects, students must also learn health, safety education, and fire prevention, although there are no specific year requirements.
Earning a Home Education Diploma
One unique benefit of homeschooling in PA is obtaining a state-recognized diploma. To do so, you must submit a 12th-grade affidavit and meet graduation requirements.
An approved evaluator must evaluate students. This evaluation includes an interview and a review of the student's portfolio, certifying sustained academic progress. You finalize the diploma using a standardized form developed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE), and the approved evaluator must co-sign it.
In addition to the supervisor-issued diplomas, homeschooled students can receive diplomas from state-approved diploma-granting organizations, providing them another route to obtain state recognition.
Step 7: Other Benefits of Homeschooling by Law
Access to Public School Resources
Homeschooled students in Pennsylvania can participate in public school activities, including clubs, musical ensembles, athletics, and even theatrical productions. From 2023-24, homeschoolers can join in cocurricular and CTE activities, academic courses, and career and technical education (CTE) programs.
Joining Extracurricular Activities
Under Pennsylvania's homeschool laws, precisely 24 PS § 13-1327.1 and 24 PS § 5, homeschooled students can participate in extracurricular activities if they meet the same eligibility criteria as public school students.
This also means abiding by the rules and regulations of relevant governing bodies such as the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA). Each school district can have its policies for integrating homeschooled students into these activities. Homeschooling parents must familiarize themselves with these policies to facilitate seamless participation for their children.
Dual Enrollment Opportunities
Act 55 of 2022 has paved the way for more significant public school involvement by homeschooled students. Schools must let homeschoolers join co-curricular and CTE programs. Homeschoolers can take up to 25% of school-day classes. Dual enrollment enables homeschoolers to earn credits for graduation.
Pennsylvania Homeschooling Support and Resources
Homeschool associations and co-ops are great places to start. Popular groups like Pennsylvania Homeschoolers and CHAP (Christian Homeschool Association of Pennsylvania) offer resources, community, and guidance.
Organizations like the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) are valuable sources of legal support. They provide guidance on filing paperwork, navigating regulations, and handling any legal challenges that may arise.
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Conclusion
Navigating the homeschooling laws in Pennsylvania might seem daunting at first, but breaking down the steps and requirements makes it manageable.
Understanding the details, such as what subjects need to be taught, how to prove educational progress, and what kinds of records need to be kept, will help you avoid legal pitfalls and ensure a smooth homeschooling experience.
Remember the broader implications of compliance. By adhering to the laws and regulations, you safeguard your right to homeschool and contribute to the legitimacy and protection of homeschooling in Pennsylvania. Your vigilance ensures that homeschooling remains viable for families seeking to harness its advantages, such as enhanced academic performance and long-term success into adulthood.
Looking for the right tools and support to enhance your homeschooling experience? The School House Anywhere ) has you covered! With access to over 300 instructional films, custom AEC worksheets, and a comprehensive online progress management tool, Transparent Classroom, you’ll have everything you need to stay organized. Plus, enjoy live educator gatherings, weekly Q&A sessions, and a supportive community of homeschool parents. Start simplifying your journey today!
FAQs
What initial steps do I need to take to start homeschooling in Pennsylvania?
To begin homeschooling, submit a notarized affidavit to your local school district's superintendent. This affidavit should include information about the supervisor, the homeschooled children, and the subjects you plan to teach.
Are there deadlines for submitting the homeschooling affidavit in Pennsylvania?
Yes, if you're already homeschooling, the affidavit must be submitted by August 1 each year. If you’re new to homeschooling, you can file your affidavit anytime during the school year, even immediately after filing.
What should be included in the homeschooling affidavit?
The affidavit must include the name of the supervising adult, the names and ages of each child, contact information, and a list of subjects, along with educational objectives for each subject. This ensures compliance with state regulations.
What happens if there is a disagreement with the school district regarding homeschooling?
If a dispute arises, the school district cannot arbitrarily deny your right to homeschool. Parents should be aware of their legal rights and may seek clarification or support from local homeschooling organizations to resolve any issues.
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