How to Legally Start Homeschooling in North Carolina: Essential Guide
Starting homeschooling in North Carolina is an exciting journey, but it’s important to understand the legal requirements first. This guide will walk you through the key steps to ensure you’re compliant with state laws, so you can confidently begin your homeschooling experience.
Legal Requirement #1:
Notify The North Carolina Department of Non-Public Education with a Notice of Intent to Homeschool. This letter formally notifies The North Carolina Department of Non-Public Education of your decision to homeschool and states that you are taking responsibility for your child’s education. Click here for more information. Additionally, you should notify your local school of your decision to homeschool, and formally withdraw your child; this can be done with an email or written letter.
Legal Requirement #2:
Families must maintain attendance and immunization records for each homeschooled student.
Legal Requirement #3:
Homeschooling must operate on a regular schedule, excluding holidays and vacations, during at least nine months of the year. This law provides significant flexibility in your homeschooling schedule.
Legal Requirement #4:
Families must administer a nationally standardized test each year to assess academic achievement in grammar, reading, spelling, and math for every student. Results must be kept on file for one year.
Legal Requirement #5:
Parents must have at least a high school diploma (or equivalent) to homeschool.
Legal Requirement #6:
Notify The North Carolina Department of Non-Public Education when you are no longer homeschooling.
That’s it. Now it’s time for the fun part: creating an educational program for your child that is engaging, personalized, and ignites their love of learning! Click here to learn more about Schoolio: The Homeschool Program for Families in North Carolina.
What Forms Are Needed For Homeschooling In North Carolina?
You need one form and one form only for homeschooling in North Carolina: A Notice of Intent to Homeschool. This letter formally notifies The North Carolina Department of Non-Public Education of your decision to homeschool and states that you are taking responsibility for your child’s education. Click here to learn more.
Do I Need To Complete Progress Reports For Homeschooling In North Carolina?
No. You do not need to complete progress reports for homeschooling in North Carolina. However, progress reports can be helpful for tracking academic achievements, and for uncovering areas of need where intervention may be required. Click here to learn more about Schoolio’s progress reports.
Are Any Tests Required For Homeschoolers In North Carolina?
Yes. Families must administer a nationally standardized test each year to assess academic achievement in grammar, reading, spelling, and math for every student. Results must be kept on file for one year.
Now that you know how to legally start homeschooling in North Carolina, you’re ready to create a unique educational journey for your child. By following these legal steps, you can confidently begin homeschooling, ensuring your child’s education is both compliant and tailored to their needs. Ready to start? Explore how Schoolio can support your homeschooling experience in North Carolina!