Tennessee Laws and Requirements for Homeschool
In Tennessee, parents or legal guardians have three primary options for homeschooling their children, each with specific requirements:
1. Independent Home School
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Teacher Qualifications: Parents must possess at least a high school diploma or a high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education.
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Notice of Intent: Before the start of each school year, submit an Intent to Home School form to the local school district's director of schools. This form should include:
- Names, number, ages, and grade levels of the children being homeschooled.
- Location of the home school.
- Proposed curriculum.
- Proposed hours of instruction.
- Qualifications of the parent-teacher.
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Instructional Time: Provide at least 180 days of instruction per academic year, with a minimum of four hours per day.
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Attendance Records: Maintain attendance records and submit them to the director of schools at the end of each school year.
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Immunization Records: Submit proof of immunization or an exemption based on medical or religious grounds.
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Standardized Testing: Students in grades 5, 7, and 9 must take standardized tests administered by the commissioner of education, the commissioner's designee, or a professional testing service approved by the local education agency (LEA).
2. Church-Related Umbrella School (Category IV)
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Enrollment: Register with a church-related school that offers an umbrella program.
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Teacher Qualifications: Determined by the church-related school; however, for grades 9–12, parents must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
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Recordkeeping and Testing: The church-related school is responsible for maintaining records and administering tests.
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Notice of Intent: Not required to submit an Intent to Home School form to the local school district.
3. Accredited Online School (Category III)
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Enrollment: Enroll in an accredited online school recognized by the Tennessee Department of Education.
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Accreditation: Ensure the online school is accredited by an agency approved by the Tennessee State Board of Education.
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Proof of Enrollment: Provide evidence of enrollment to the local school district.
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Recordkeeping and Testing: The accredited online school is responsible for maintaining records and administering tests.
Additional Considerations
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Extracurricular Activities: Independent homeschool students may have the opportunity to participate in public school interscholastic athletics and other extracurricular activities, provided they meet the eligibility requirements established by the relevant organizations or associations.
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Special Education Services: Homeschooled students are entitled to the same services as children placed in private schools by their parents. Parents should contact their local school district for more information.