Texas Laws and Requirements for Homeschool
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is the state agency responsible for overseeing and supporting public education in Texas. TEA does not regulate, index, monitor, approve, register, or accredit the programs available to parents who choose to home school. Therefore, TEA has limited authority over homeschooling.
Homeschooling in Texas: Key Information for Parents
Homeschooling is a recognized legal alternative to public schooling in Texas, thanks to the landmark Leeper et al. v. Arlington ISD decision in 1994. This ruling treats homeschool students the same as those in private schools, exempting them from compulsory attendance requirements. Below are important highlights to help parents navigate homeschooling in Texas:
Legal Requirements
- Parents must teach a curriculum that includes reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and good citizenship.
- If a school district suspects a student is being homeschooled, it may request a written letter of assurance from the parents, confirming the child’s homeschool status. It's best to provide a letter of intent to homeschool your child prior to doing so. This letter isn’t required annually.
Transition to Public School
- Homeschool students may transfer to public school anytime, but districts may assess their educational progress through curriculum reviews or placement exams (i.e. MAP Growth)
- Students are treated the same as those transferring from unaccredited private schools, and grade placement or credit award depends on test results or curriculum evaluation.
Graduation and Higher Education
- Texas does not issue diplomas for homeschool students. However, completing a homeschool program is recognized as equivalent to public high school graduation.
- Colleges and universities in Texas are required to treat homeschool graduates the same as public school graduates for admission purposes, including meeting standardized test requirements.
Testing Opportunities
- Homeschool students can participate in PSAT, National Merit Scholarship tests, and AP exams through their local school districts. Schools are required to publish information about test dates and registration procedures for homeschoolers.
Additional Resources
- For support and curriculum advice, parents can contact organizations like the Texas Home School Coalition, Texas Home Educators, or explore the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for guidance on educational standards.
- Texas offers significant flexibility and legal protections for homeschool families, empowering parents to create educational experiences tailored to their child’s needs.