Arkansas Law and Requirements for Homeschool

Homeschooling is a recognized and regulated option for educating children in Arkansas. Parents or guardians must comply with state-specific procedures to ensure they meet legal requirements.

Key Requirements

  1. Notice of Intent to Homeschool

    • Parents or guardians must file a Notice of Intent to Homeschool each year.
    • This form must be submitted to the local school district superintendent’s office by August 15 or 14 days before withdrawing a student from public school.
    • The notice should include:
      • Child’s name, age, and grade level.
      • Address of the homeschool.
      • Contact information for the parents or guardians.
    • The form can be submitted online through the Arkansas Department of Education website or in person.

  2. Instruction Requirements

    • Homeschool instruction must cover at least the following subjects:
      • Language Arts
      • Math
      • Science
      • Social Studies
    • The state does not mandate a specific curriculum, allowing parents to choose or create a program that works for their family.

  3. Attendance

    • Parents are required to ensure students receive at least 175 instructional days per school year.

  4. Testing

    • Arkansas does not require standardized testing for homeschoolers. Testing is optional unless parents choose to participate in assessments.

  5. Withdrawal from Public or Private School

    • Parents must formally withdraw their child from a public or private school before beginning homeschooling.
    • Be sure to notify the current school about your intent to homeschool to avoid truancy issues.

Graduation and Diplomas

  • Arkansas does not issue diplomas to homeschooled students.
  • Parents have the authority to determine when a student graduates and can issue a diploma.
  • Homeschoolers may also be eligible to take the GED as an alternative credential.

Returning to Public School

  • Students transitioning from homeschool to public school will be evaluated for grade placement or course credits, typically through assessments or reviews of homeschool records.

Participation in Public School Activities

  • Homeschooled students may participate in extracurricular activities, including athletics, at their local public school. However, they must meet certain eligibility requirements.

Additional Resources for Homeschoolers in Arkansas

  1. Arkansas Department of Education (ADE)

  2. Arkansas Home School Resource Center

  3. Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)

  4. Arkansas Homeschool Alliance

 

Arkansas Department of Education