Starting Homeschooling In Wyoming: Laws and Requirements

Homeschooling gives you the ability to shape your child’s education in a way that reflects their needs, interests, and pace of learning. It can be a rewarding option if you’re looking for more flexibility, a tailored curriculum, or a closer connection to your child’s academic growth. If you are considering homeschooling in Wyoming, you’ll be glad to know that the state offers a supportive and straightforward environment. The regulations are not overly restrictive, but there are still important steps you need to follow to stay in compliance with the law.

In this blog, we will guide you through the essential aspects of homeschooling in Wyoming, including the legal framework, necessary steps for compliance, and available resources. By the end of this blog, you will have a clearer understanding of the process, enabling you to start or refine your homeschooling journey with confidence.

Overview of Homeschooling in Wyoming

Homeschooling in Wyoming is pretty straightforward, which is great news if you're just getting started. The state gives you plenty of flexibility to teach your kids at home while still making sure they’re getting a solid education. It’s designed to put you, the parent, in the driver’s seat when it comes to your child’s learning and growth.

There are two main ways to legally homeschool in Wyoming: you can either operate as a non-public school or homeschool under the state’s homeschooling statute. Both options give you a good amount of freedom, but they do come with different rules and expectations. Figuring out which path fits your family best is the first step to setting up your homeschool with confidence.

The number of homeschooling families in Wyoming has been steadily increasing, reflecting national trends. Parents appreciate the control over curriculum, teaching methods, and the ability to customize the learning experience. In Wyoming, the state encourages educational diversity, ensuring parents have the flexibility to create an environment that works for their child.

With this general overview, let’s dive deeper into the specific legal requirements that must be followed to homeschool in Wyoming.

Legal Requirements for Homeschooling in Wyoming

Wyoming is one of the more homeschool-friendly states, offering flexibility while still ensuring that children receive a quality education. To homeschool legally in Wyoming, you must choose one of two pathways:

In Wyoming, homeschooling is allowed under two main legal options, each offering flexibility while ensuring compliance with state requirements. Here’s a breakdown of these options:

Option 1: Homeschool Under Wyoming’s Homeschool Statute

Wyoming law allows parents to homeschool their children by following the homeschool statute, which requires you to provide a curriculum that is sequentially progressive in fundamental subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics, civics, history, literature, and science. This option offers flexibility in how you structure your child's education, allowing you to tailor lessons to their individual needs and learning style.

Important Note: If your child is currently enrolled in public school and you plan to withdraw them to homeschool, you must provide a written withdrawal notice. For ease, HSLDA members can use a Sample Letter of Withdrawal to notify the school.

Option 2: Homeschool as a Parochial, Church, or Religious School

Under this option, you may homeschool your child through a parochial, church, or religious school. The homeschool must be under the control or auspices of a local church, denomination, or religious organization. This option allows you to provide instruction at home while receiving the support and oversight of a religious institution.

Both options are designed to ensure parents can homeschool their children legally while still meeting Wyoming’s educational standards. Understanding which pathway aligns with your educational goals and beliefs is crucial for a smooth homeschooling experience.

Let’s now move on to practical steps for ensuring compliance with Wyoming’s homeschooling laws.

How to Comply with Wyoming’s Homeschooling Laws

Ensuring that your homeschooling is legal in Wyoming involves taking a few straightforward steps. Whether you choose to homeschool under the homeschool statute or as a non-public school, here’s how to stay compliant with state laws.

1. Choose Your Homeschooling Option

As mentioned earlier, Wyoming offers two primary options for homeschooling: under the homeschool statute or as a non-public school. Decide which route best fits your family’s educational goals and level of desired administrative involvement.

2. Notify Your Local District (If Required)

While not mandatory under the homeschool statute, it’s a good idea to notify your local school district if you are choosing this route. A simple letter indicating your intent to homeschool will help avoid any potential truancy issues. If you are choosing to operate as a non-public school, you will need to submit an annual report to the local school district, detailing your child’s information and educational plan.

3. Design Your Curriculum

In Wyoming, your homeschooling curriculum must include the required subjects, but the flexibility lies in how you deliver the content. You can create your curriculum from scratch, use pre-designed lesson plans, or combine resources like online courses, textbooks, and hands-on activities. It’s important to ensure that your curriculum meets state standards while remaining engaging and tailored to your child’s learning needs.

Suppose you prefer not to create a curriculum from scratch. In that case, The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers the American Emergent Curriculum (AEC), which is designed to foster curiosity and critical thinking through hands-on, inquiry-based learning. AEC’s customizable lesson plans, such as math puzzles or storytelling projects, align with Wyoming’s standards, saving you time while keeping your child engaged. 

4. Keep Organized Records

Though not required under the homeschool statute, maintaining records is always a good practice. For families choosing the non-public school option, records are mandatory and should include attendance, enrollment, and proof of your educational plan. It’s also a good idea to keep a log of completed assignments, tests, and projects. 

This will not only help you stay organized but also ensure that your child’s progress is documented. TSHA’s Transparent Classroom record-keeping tool allows you to securely store lesson plans, work samples, and progress reports, simplifying compliance with state requirements. 

5. Regularly Assess Your Child’s Progress

Although Wyoming doesn’t require standardized testing, you’ll want to assess your child’s academic progress regularly. This can be done informally with quizzes, projects, or informal assessments. Documenting these assessments can help you identify any gaps in learning and adjust your curriculum accordingly.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your homeschooling experience in Wyoming is legal and fulfilling. Next, let’s explore the key educational content and curriculum standards that should guide your homeschooling journey.

Educational Content and Curriculum Standards in Wyoming

Homeschooling in Wyoming allows flexibility in curriculum design, but there are key subjects that must be covered. Ensuring that your curriculum includes these core subjects while allowing for creativity and hands-on learning is essential. Here’s an overview of what you should include:

Required Subjects

Wyoming law requires that homeschooling programs include the following subjects:

• Language Arts (reading, writing, spelling)

• Mathematics

• Science

• Social Studies (history, geography, civics)

• English Grammar

You have the flexibility to teach these subjects in any order or format that works best for your child. Some parents prefer using textbooks, while others incorporate a mix of online resources, field trips, and project-based learning. The goal is to ensure your child receives instruction in all required subjects while keeping the learning process engaging.

Curriculum Design

When designing your curriculum, keep in mind your child’s interests, strengths, and weaknesses. Some families opt for structured, pre-packaged curricula, while others design their lessons around specific themes or topics. The key is to create an organized educational program that ensures your child is exposed to the subjects required by Wyoming law.

If you’re looking for a structured, research-based curriculum, TSHA’s American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) provides an excellent solution. With its customizable lessons, engaging activities, and comprehensive materials, it aligns with Wyoming’s curriculum standards, making it an ideal choice for homeschooling families.

Resources and Support for Homeschooling Families in Wyoming

While homeschooling can be a rewarding experience, it’s important to know that you don’t have to do it alone. Wyoming offers several resources and support networks to help you navigate the homeschooling journey. Here are some valuable resources:

Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)

As a member, HSLDA provides legal advice, updates on state-specific homeschooling laws, and access to expert consultations. Their website also offers valuable resources on homeschooling laws in Wyoming and nationwide.

Also Read: Homeschooling in Louisiana: Your Guide to Homeschooling

Wyoming Homeschooling Support Groups

Many families in Wyoming participate in local homeschooling groups. These groups offer support, opportunities for group learning, and socialization activities. They can be an excellent source of inspiration, advice, and community.

Local Co-ops and Classes

Homeschool co-ops are communities of homeschooling families who come together to share educational resources, co-teach subjects, or offer extracurricular activities. These co-ops can provide valuable socialization and learning opportunities for both you and your child.

TSHA’s American Emergent Curriculum (AEC)

For families looking for a flexible, developmentally-aligned curriculum, TSHA’s AEC offers engaging, hands-on learning for Pre-K to 6th grade. The curriculum is customizable and aligns with Wyoming’s homeschooling requirements, ensuring you stay compliant while keeping learning fun and interactive.

TSHA: A Solution for Effective Homeschooling in Wyoming

When it comes to homeschooling in Wyoming, finding the right tools and resources to create an engaging and effective learning environment is key. The School House Anywhere (TSHA) provides a flexible, hands-on solution through its American Emergent Curriculum (AEC). Designed specifically for Pre-K to 6th grade, TSHA’s AEC aligns with state requirements, ensuring you have a comprehensive and adaptable curriculum that fosters critical thinking and creativity. Key Features include:

• 6-Week Sessions for Deep Dives

• Custom AEC Printable Materials

• Online Progress & Portfolio Management Tool

• TSHA Member Site Access

• Live Educator & Founder Gatherings

• Live Office Hours

• Online Social Media Network

Whether you're new to homeschooling or refining your existing approach, TSHA offers a flexible, research-backed curriculum that meets Wyoming’s educational standards while making learning fun and interactive. With customizable lesson plans, engaging activities, and continuous support, TSHA equips you with everything you need to succeed as a homeschooling parent in Wyoming.

Conclusion

Homeschooling in Wyoming offers the flexibility to provide a personalized education for your child, with a relatively straightforward legal framework. Whether you choose to homeschool under the homeschool statute or as a non-public school, understanding Wyoming’s laws ensures that you’re following the necessary guidelines while giving your child the freedom to learn at their own pace.

By following the legal steps, designing an engaging curriculum, and taking advantage of available resources, you can create a fulfilling educational experience for your child. For families looking for a structured, adaptable curriculum, TSHA’s offers the tools and support you need to make homeschooling in Wyoming a success. Explore TSHA today and start building an inspiring, hands-on learning environment for your child.

FAQ Section

Q1: Do I need a teaching certificate to homeschool in Wyoming? A1: No, Wyoming does not require you to have a teaching certificate to homeschool your child. Parents are free to teach their children as long as they meet the state’s educational requirements.

Q2: What are the core subjects I must teach in Wyoming? A2: Wyoming law mandates that you teach language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and English grammar. You have flexibility in how to teach these subjects.

Q3: Is notification required to start homeschooling in Wyoming? A3: No, Wyoming does not require notification to start homeschooling. However, many families choose to notify their local school district to avoid truancy concerns.

Q4: How can I find resources to support my homeschooling in Wyoming? A4: You can find resources through local homeschool groups, the HSLDA, or online communities. TSHA also offers a comprehensive AEC curriculum that aligns with Wyoming’s standards.

Q5: How do I assess my child’s progress in homeschooling? A5: While Wyoming doesn’t require standardized testing, you can assess your child’s progress through quizzes, projects, or informal assessments. Documenting this progress ensures your child’s growth and development are on track.