Do you wish your child had more say in what and how they learn? Many parents feel frustrated with the limitations of traditional schooling. They see their child struggling to keep up, feeling bored and unchallenged, or even facing social pressures that make learning difficult.
If this sounds familiar, homeschooling in Arkansas might be the perfect solution! Arkansas has some of the most homeschool-friendly laws in the country, giving you the freedom and flexibility to create a learning experience that truly fits your child's needs and interests. You can ditch the one-size-fits-all approach and design an education that allows your child to thrive.
This blog will help you understand everything you need to know about homeschooling in Arkansas. We'll explain the simple steps you need to take to start homeschooling, and we'll talk about the things you need to keep in mind as you plan your child's education.
We'll also share some helpful resources that can make your homeschooling journey easier and more enjoyable. By the end of this blog, you'll feel confident and prepared to provide your child with a wonderful homeschooling experience in Arkansas.
First, let’s look at the homeschool laws and requirements in Arkansas.
Arkansas Homeschool Laws and Basic Requirements Information
Arkansas is a really good place to homeschool because it has simple laws and gives families a lot of freedom. Let's take a closer look at what you need to know to get started.
1. Homeschooling is Easy to Start in Arkansas
Freedom and Flexibility: Arkansas is a great place to homeschool! The state has laws that give parents a lot of freedom to choose how they want to teach their children. You don't have to worry about having a teaching degree or following a specific curriculum.
No Extra Paperwork: You don't have to send in lots of reports or get permission from the state to homeschool. This makes it easier for parents to focus on teaching their children.
2. Notice of Intent
Telling the State: There's one important thing you need to do each year: send a "Notice of Intent" to the state. This is a simple form that tells the state you're planning to homeschool your child.
No Other Rules: Once you send in that form, you don't have to follow any other rules about what or how you teach!
3. Choosing Your Curriculum
Lots of Choices: You can choose any curriculum you want for your homeschool. You can use textbooks, online programs, or even create your own lessons. You can also choose the subjects you want to teach and how much time you want to spend on each one.
What to Teach: It's a good idea to teach your child basic subjects like reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. But you have a lot of freedom to decide how you want to teach those subjects.
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Engaging and Flexible
Our curriculum isn’t one-size-fits-all. You can adapt each lesson to fit your child’s learning style and pace, so they stay engaged and excited about learning.
Project-Based and Hands-On Learning
TSHA emphasizes hands-on projects and real-world applications to make learning meaningful. Your child can learn through art, nature, and creative activities that make education an adventure.
Support and Community for Parents
With TSHA, you’re not alone. We provide resources and support to help you stay organized and confident. Plus, you can connect with other TSHA families and educators for tips, ideas, and encouragement.
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4. Homeschooling and the Arkansas LEARNS Act
New Law: Arkansas recently passed a new law called the LEARNS Act. This law has some changes that affect homeschooling, but it still supports homeschooling families and gives them a lot of freedom.
Different Opinions: Some people like the new law, and some people don't. It's important to learn about the law and how it might affect your homeschooling.
Overall, Arkansas is a homeschool-friendly state that gives families a lot of freedom to create a personalized education for their children.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the Notice of Intent to Homeschool.
Understanding the Notice of Intent to Homeschool in Arkansas
One of the most important things you need to do when you start homeschooling in Arkansas is to let the state know about your plans. Let's take a closer look at this form and why it's so important.
1. What is the Notice of Intent?
Telling the State: In Arkansas, you need to let the state know that you're homeschooling your child. You do this by filling out a form called a "Notice of Intent to Homeschool." It's like an official announcement that you'll be teaching your child at home.
Why it's important: This form is important because it lets the state know that your child is getting an education, and it also protects you from any legal problems related to homeschooling.
2. When to Submit the Notice
Deadline: You need to send in your Notice of Intent by August 15th each year. If you miss that deadline, you might have to wait a few days before you can officially start homeschooling.
Starting Mid-year: If you move to Arkansas during the school year, you have 30 days to submit the form after you move.
3. How to Submit the Notice
Different Ways to Send It: You can send the form online, by mail, or even drop it off in person at your local school district's office. Some school districts might even let you email it to them.
4. What to Include in the Notice
Important Information: Make sure you include your child's name, their birthday, what grade they're in, and the name of the last school they went to. You also need to say if your child plans to participate in any activities with the public school, like sports, or if they plan to take a test to get a high school equivalency diploma (like the GED).
5. If You're Late
Waiting Period: If you send in your Notice of Intent after August 15th, you might have to wait up to five days before you can officially start homeschooling.
Talking to the School: If you're going to be late, it's a good idea to talk to your school district. They might be able to let you start homeschooling right away.
Need more help?
You can find more information about homeschooling in Arkansas on the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education website. They have all the details about the Notice of Intent and other homeschooling rules.
Once you’re set up with your Notice of Intent, it’s time to consider record-keeping. Good records can help you track your child’s progress and meet Arkansas’s expectations for homeschooling families.
Record-Keeping Requirements for Homeschooling in Arkansas
Even though Arkansas doesn't have a lot of rules about record-keeping, it's still a good idea to keep track of your child's learning! It can help you see how much they've grown and learned. It can also be useful if they ever want to go back to public school or apply for college.
1. No Rules, But Good Records Are Helpful
Freedom to Choose: Arkansas doesn't have any rules about what records you have to keep for your homeschool. This gives you a lot of freedom to decide how you want to track your child's learning.
Why Keep Records? Even though it's not required, keeping good records is still a really good idea! It can help you see how much your child is learning and be prepared for anything they might need in the future, like applying for college or a job.
2. What to Keep in a Homeschool Portfolio
A Special Collection: A homeschool portfolio is like a big scrapbook or folder where you keep all the important things related to your child's education.
What to Include:
Test Scores: If your child takes any standardized tests, like the SAT or ACT, you can keep their scores in their portfolio.
Schoolwork: You can also include examples of your child's work, like worksheets, projects, essays, and artwork.
Attendance: It's also a good idea to keep track of the days your child is learning, just like in a regular school. You can use a calendar or a special notebook to mark off the days.
Why It's Helpful: Having a portfolio helps you keep everything organized and shows how much your child has learned and grown over time.
3. Keeping Your Records Organized
Digital or Physical: You can keep your homeschool records on your computer or in a file folder. It's a good idea to have both digital and physical copies, just in case.
Stay Organized: Create a system for organizing your records, like putting them in folders by subject or by year. This will make it easier to find what you need when you need it.
Update Regularly: It's a good idea to update your child's portfolio regularly, maybe every few weeks or months. This might mean adding new samples of their work or any new activities or experiences they've had.
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4. Other Records to Keep
Health Records: Even though Arkansas doesn't require you to keep health or immunization records for your homeschooler, it's still a good idea to do so for your own records.
Why It's Important: Keeping good records can help your child in the future, especially if they want to go to college or get a job. It shows that they've received a good education and can be helpful for things like applying for scholarships or financial aid.
Another aspect to consider is Arkansas’s immunization policy for homeschoolers.
Homeschooling and Immunizations in Arkansas
You might have heard that homeschoolers don't have to follow the same rules about shots (immunizations) as kids in public or private schools. That's true in Arkansas! Let's take a closer look at how homeschooling and immunizations work in this state.
1. No Shots Required
Different Rules: In Arkansas, if you homeschool your child, they don't have to get the same shots (immunizations) that are required for kids in public or private schools.
Why? This is because homeschools aren't considered public or private schools under the law.
2. Attendance Rules
When to Start: Even though you don't have to worry about shots, you still have to follow the rules about when your child needs to start homeschooling. In Arkansas, children have to start school or homeschooling by the time they turn five years old.
When to Finish: They have to keep learning until they turn eighteen or graduate from high school.
3. Joining Public School Activities
No Extra Shots (for now): Right now, your child doesn't have to get any extra shots if they want to join a public school activity, like a sports team or a club.
Stay Informed: But it's a good idea to keep an eye on the rules, because they might change in the future. Public schools have their own rules about shots, so it's good to be aware of those.
4. Exemptions for Public and Private Schools
Special Cases: Even in public and private schools, some kids don't have to get all the shots. This might be for medical reasons (if a doctor says it's not safe for them) or for religious or personal reasons (if their family doesn't believe in getting certain shots).
How to Get an Exemption: If you want to get an exemption for your child in a public or private school, you usually have to fill out a form and sometimes get a note from a doctor.
5. Staying Healthy
Important Information: Even though your child might not need certain shots for homeschooling, it's still important to learn about how to keep them healthy. You can talk to your doctor or look for information online about different diseases and how to prevent them.
It's exciting to think about your child graduating from homeschooling! But you might be wondering how graduation works in a homeschool setting.
Graduation and Course Requirements in Arkansas Homeschooling
In Arkansas, graduating from homeschooling is actually pretty flexible and gives you a lot of control as a parent. Let's take a look at what you need to know about homeschool graduation in Arkansas.
1. No Rules from the State
You Decide: In Arkansas, there are no rules about when your child has to graduate from homeschooling. You, as the parent, get to decide when they're ready to receive their diploma.
Flexibility for Your Family: This means you can create a homeschooling program that fits your child's needs and goals. If they want to go to college, you can make sure they learn the subjects that colleges look for. If they want to learn a trade or start a business, you can focus on those skills instead.
2. Creating a Transcript
Important for College: If your child wants to go to college, you'll need to create a transcript for them. This is like a list of all the classes they took and the grades they earned in your homeschool.
Showcasing Your Child's Strengths: You can make the transcript really special by including details about what your child learned in each class and any special projects or achievements they had.
3. Getting Ready for College
Checking Requirements: It's a good idea to check with the colleges your child is interested in to see what their requirements are. This can help you make sure your child is learning the right things in their homeschool.
Standardized Tests: Arkansas doesn't require homeschoolers to take standardized tests, but taking some tests can be helpful for getting into college.
4. The GED
Another Option: If your child wants to, they can take the GED test instead of getting a traditional high school diploma. This test shows that they have the same knowledge and skills as someone who graduated from high school.
5. Keeping Records
Not Required, But Helpful: Arkansas doesn't require you to keep detailed records of your homeschooling, but it's still a good idea to keep track of your child's work and progress. This can be helpful if your child ever wants to go to college or apply for a job.
Homeschooling in Arkansas gives you a lot of freedom to create a personalized education for your child. You can help them reach their goals, whether they want to go to college, start a career, or follow their own unique path.
Lastly, support is essential on the homeschooling journey. Arkansas offers various resources and communities to help you along the way.
Resources and Support for Arkansas Homeschoolers
Homeschooling can be a wonderful adventure, but it's always helpful to have support and resources along the way. Luckily, Arkansas has a lot to offer homeschooling families!
1. Arkansas Department of Education
The Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) website has a special section just for homeschoolers. You can find information about Arkansas homeschooling laws, graduation requirements, and other helpful resources.
It's a good place to start if you have any questions about homeschooling in Arkansas. They also have links to forms and documents you might need, as well as information about homeschooling events and conferences.
2. Homeschooling Organizations
There are some great organizations in Arkansas that are specifically designed to support homeschooling families. These organizations offer things like conferences, workshops, and local meetups where you can connect with other homeschoolers and learn more about homeschooling.
They can also provide you with information about curriculum options, legal issues, and other homeschooling topics. Some examples of homeschooling organizations in Arkansas are the Arkansas Education Alliance and Central Arkansas Homeschoolers Group.
3. Local Support Groups
Connecting with other homeschooling families in your area can be a great way to build a support network and find out about local resources. Many communities have homeschooling groups that organize field trips, co-op classes, and other fun activities.
These groups can also be a great source of advice and encouragement. You can often find local groups through online directories, social media, or by asking at your local library or community center.
4. Online Communities
The internet is a fantastic resource for homeschoolers! There are many online forums and communities where you can connect with other homeschooling families in Arkansas and beyond. These online communities can be a great place to ask questions, share experiences, and find support and encouragement.
You can also find helpful information about curriculum options, homeschooling methods, and local resources. Some popular online communities for Arkansas homeschoolers include Facebook groups like "Arkansas Homeschoolers" and online forums like the "Arkansas Homeschool Forum."
Join the TSHA Community Network – Your Hub for Homeschool Support and Connection!
At The School House Anywhere (TSHA), we believe in the power of community to enrich your homeschooling journey. That’s why we’ve created a supportive and engaging Member Site where you can connect, learn, and grow with other homeschooling families.
Here’s How TSHA’s Community Network Can Support You
Live Online Gatherings with Experts
Join our LIVE weekly sessions with TSHA educators and founders! Get your questions answered in real time, or catch up later with recorded sessions available anytime.
Scheduled Office Hours
Have a question? Pop into our live office hours for personalized guidance. Our team is here to help you feel supported and confident.
Private Social Media Community
Connect with other TSHA parents and educators in a dedicated, supportive network. Share experiences, swap resources, and find encouragement every step of the way.
Weekly Podcasts and Updates
Enjoy exclusive TSHA podcasts on homeschooling insights and receive weekly email updates to keep you informed and inspired.
Bi-Weekly Newsletters
Our newsletters are packed with practical tips, upcoming events, and community highlights to keep you connected and motivated.
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Wrapping Up
Homeschooling in Arkansas is a fantastic way to give your child a unique education that fits their needs and interests. Arkansas has very few rules about homeschooling so you have a lot of freedom to choose how you want to teach and what you want your child to learn.
Just remember to send in your "Notice of Intent" each year to let the state know you're homeschooling. And even though it's not required, it's a good idea to keep track of your child's learning and progress.
There are lots of resources available to help you on your homeschooling journey, like homeschooling groups, online communities, and different curriculum options. You can even find free or low-cost materials to help you teach your child.
Arkansas is always working to improve its homeschooling laws and support, so stay informed about any changes. With a little planning and a lot of love, you can create an amazing homeschooling experience for your child in Arkansas!
Ready to Make Homeschooling Easier and More Enriching?
At The School House Anywhere (TSHA), we’re committed to making homeschooling simpler, more organized, and deeply engaging for every family. With tools, resources, and a supportive community, we help you give your child a memorable and impactful learning experience.
Why Choose The School House Anywhere?
TSHA offers a unique approach to homeschooling that combines flexibility with structure, allowing your child to learn in a way that fits their pace and interests. Here’s what you get when you join:
Comprehensive Curriculum
Whether you’re looking for a full curriculum or supplemental materials, TSHA has flexible curriculum options that cover core subjects, hands-on projects, arts, and nature-focused learning. The curriculum is designed to support both traditional and creative learning styles so you can personalize your child’s educational experience.
Record-Keeping Made Simple
Keep track of your child’s progress effortlessly with TSHA’s record-keeping tool, Transparent Classroom. This tool allows you to organize portfolios, track assignments, and document achievements. It’s an easy way to stay organized and confident that your child’s educational records are in order.
Weekly Support and Guidance
Our community keeps you connected to other homeschooling families and expert educators. With live online gatherings, scheduled office hours, and Q&A sessions with TSHA’s founder, you’ll have the support you need to answer questions, get feedback, and share experiences.
Regular Updates and Newsletters
Stay informed and inspired with TSHA’s weekly email updates and bi-weekly newsletters. Each edition includes tips, resources, and curriculum ideas to keep your homeschooling journey engaging and up-to-date.
Access to a Growing Community
Homeschooling doesn’t have to feel isolating. Connect with our online parent and educator network, join social media groups, and enjoy a space where you can ask questions, share advice, and find encouragement every step of the way.
Join The School House Anywhere Today!
Ready to get started? Visit The School House Anywhere website today to see how we can support you on this exciting journey!
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