Virginia Laws and Requirements for Homeschool

In Virginia, homeschooling is a legally recognized educational option, and parents have several pathways to comply with state requirements.

1. Home Instruction Statute (§22.1-254.1)

  • Eligibility Criteria: Parents must satisfy at least one of the following:

    • Hold a high school diploma or higher credential.
    • Possess qualifications prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.
    • Provide a curriculum through a correspondence course, distance learning program, or other means.
    • Present evidence of the ability to provide an adequate education for the child.

  • Notification: Annually, by August 15, parents must submit a Notice of Intent to their local school division, including a description of the curriculum and evidence of meeting one of the eligibility criteria.

  • Assessment: By August 1 each year, parents are required to provide evidence of the child's academic progress. This can be demonstrated through standardized test scores or an evaluation indicating adequate educational growth.

2. Certified Tutor Provision (§22.1-254(A))

  • Certified Tutor: Parents holding a valid Virginia teaching certificate can homeschool under this provision. They must obtain approval from the division superintendent. Notably, annual assessments are not mandated under this option.

3. Religious Exemption (§22.1-254(B)(1))

  • Sincerely Held Beliefs: Families with bona fide religious convictions that conflict with school attendance can seek an exemption. Approval is granted by the local school board, and once obtained, families are exempt from standard notification and assessment requirements.

Additional Considerations

  • Immunizations: All homeschooled students must comply with state immunization requirements, unless they have a documented religious exemption.

  • Recordkeeping: While not explicitly required, maintaining detailed records of instructional materials, attendance, and assessments is advisable to demonstrate compliance and track educational progress.

  • Graduation: Parents determine when their child has met the graduation requirements and can issue a homeschool diploma. It's beneficial to maintain thorough records and transcripts, especially if the student plans to pursue higher education or employment opportunities.

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