New Mexico Laws and Requirements for Homeschool
In New Mexico, homeschooling is a legally recognized educational option for parents or legal guardians who wish to educate their children at home.
1. Notification:
- Initial Notification: Parents or legal guardians must submit a home school registration form to the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) within 30 days of establishing a homeschool.
- Annual Notification: Subsequently, notification must be provided on or before August 1 of each year to continue the homeschool operation.
2. Instructor Qualifications:
- The individual providing instruction must possess at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.
3. Curriculum Requirements:
- The homeschool program must include instruction in the following subjects:
- Reading
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Social Studies
- Science
4. Immunization Records:
- Parents are required to maintain records of their child's immunizations or a waiver of that requirement.
5. Attendance:
- While New Mexico law does not specify a required number of instructional days for homeschoolers, it is generally recommended to follow the public school standard of 180 days per year to ensure educational consistency.
Additional Considerations:
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Record-Keeping: Although not mandated, it is advisable to maintain thorough records of your child's educational progress, including samples of work, assessments, and attendance logs. This practice can be beneficial if your child transitions back to public or private school or pursues higher education.
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Special Education Services: If your child has special needs, be aware that public schools are not obligated to provide special education services to homeschooled students. Parents may need to seek private services or consult with local school districts to explore available options.
Resources:
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New Mexico Public Education Department – Home Schooling
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Christian Association of Parent Educators – New Mexico (CAPE-NM)
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Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)