California Laws and Requirements for Homeschool

In California, homeschooling is legal under several educational pathways. Parents have the freedom to choose the method that best suits their family while complying with state education laws.

Pathways to Homeschool Legally

  1. File a Private School Affidavit (PSA)

    • Parents establish their homeschool as a private school by filing a Private School Affidavit annually with the California Department of Education (CDE).
    • The PSA must be filed between October 1 and October 15.
    • Requirements for operating as a private school include:
      • Keeping attendance records.
      • Maintaining a list of course offerings.
      • Ensuring the instruction includes fundamental subjects like math, language arts, science, social studies, health, and fine arts.

  2. Enroll in a Private School Satellite Program (PSP)

    • Parents may join a PSP, which is administered by a private school that oversees homeschooling families.
    • PSPs typically assist with record-keeping, curriculum selection, and compliance with state requirements.

  3. Public School Independent Study Programs (ISP)

    • Families can enroll their children in an independent study program offered by public school districts or charter schools.
    • These programs provide educational oversight, materials, and sometimes funding while allowing students to work from home.

  4. Hire a Credentialed Private Tutor

    • Parents can employ a tutor who holds a valid California teaching credential to provide at least 3 hours of instruction per day for 175 days per year.

Attendance and Record-Keeping Requirements

  • Attendance: Parents acting as private schools must keep a record of daily attendance to meet California's compulsory education laws.
  • School Records: Maintain the following documents:
    • Attendance register.
    • A list of subjects taught.
    • Teacher qualifications (for self-administered schools, this is the parent).

Curriculum Requirements

While there is no standardized homeschool curriculum in California, private schools (including homeschools) must provide instruction in:

  • English (reading, spelling, and composition).
  • Mathematics.
  • Science.
  • History and Social Studies.
  • Health Education.
  • Visual and Performing Arts.

Parents can use purchased, free, or custom-created resources to fulfill these requirements.

Testing Requirements

  • California does not require homeschoolers to participate in state-mandated standardized testing.
  • Testing is optional but may be used by parents to monitor student progress or meet specific goals.

Graduation and Diplomas

  • Homeschool graduates can receive a parent-issued diploma or transcript.
  • California homeschoolers can also opt to take the General Educational Development (GED) test as an alternative.

Reintegrating into Public Schools

  • If a homeschooled student transitions to public school, local school districts may administer assessments to determine grade placement and credit eligibility.

Additional Resources and Support

  1. California Homeschool Network (CHN)

    • Offers legal resources, workshops, and a support community.

  2. HomeSchool Association of California (HSC)

    • Provides guidance on laws, curriculum choices, and local support groups.

  3. Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)

    • Legal assistance and advocacy for homeschool families.

Key Points to Remember

  • California provides flexible homeschooling options tailored to different family preferences.
  • Compliance with annual filing, basic record-keeping, and teaching required subjects ensures smooth operation as a homeschool.
  • Local homeschool groups and organizations are valuable for legal guidance and resources.

 

California Department of Education