Mississippi Laws and Requirements for Homeschool
In Mississippi, homeschooling is a legally recognized educational option with minimal regulatory requirements.
Compulsory Attendance and Notification Requirements
Mississippi law mandates that children between the ages of 6 and 17 must be enrolled in an educational program, which can include homeschooling. To legally homeschool, parents or guardians are required to submit an annual Certificate of Enrollment for each child. This certificate must be filed with the local School Attendance Officer (SAO) by September 15 each year.
- The child's name and date of birth.
- The full address and telephone number of the home.
- A simple description of the type of education the child is receiving.
Parents should keep a copy of the enrollment form for their records.
Teacher Qualifications and Curriculum
Mississippi does not impose specific teacher qualifications for parents who choose to homeschool. Additionally, there are no mandated subjects or standardized testing requirements. This flexibility allows parents to tailor the educational experience to their child's individual needs and interests.
Recordkeeping
While the state does not require specific recordkeeping beyond the annual Certificate of Enrollment, it is advisable for parents to maintain educational records. This can include attendance logs, samples of the student's work, and any assessment results. Keeping detailed records can be beneficial if the child transitions back to public or private schooling or if questions arise regarding the child's education.
Support Groups and Resources
Mississippi offers various organizations to support homeschooling families:
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Mississippi Home Educators Association (MHEA)
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Local Support Groups
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Online Communities