All About Homeschooling in Florida

Choosing the best homeschooling curriculum in Florida for your family involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your educational goals and your child’s learning style. Start by assessing your child’s individual needs including their learning preferences, areas of need, and interests. Next, research different homeschooling curriculums available in Florida, considering factors such as educational philosophies, format, and the scope of subjects covered. Evaluate the cost, including any additional materials or resources required, and consider your budget for homeschooling. Take advantage of free trials or sample lessons to assess how well the curriculum fits with your child’s learning style and your teaching approach. Click here to learn more about Schoolio’s free two week trial.

There are numerous homeschooling curriculums to choose from, but there is only one homeschooling curriculum that offers an all-in-one program specifically designed for students in Florida. Click here to learn more about Schoolio.

What Are The Accredited Homeschool Programs In Florida?

In Florida, there are several accredited and reputable homeschool programs that provide structured curriculum options and support. While it is not required to affiliate with an accredited homeschooling program, some families choose these programs for added structure and to ensure their children receive a comprehensive and enriching education. Some well-regarded accredited homeschool programs in Florida include Schoolio, Time4Learning, and K12.

Are There Free Online Homeschooling Options In Florida?

Yes. There are many free options and resources available for families homeschooling in Florida. Click here to learn more about free homeschooling options in Florida.

Can You Switch To Homeschooling In The Middle Of The Year In Florida?

Yes. You can switch to homeschooling at any time during the academic school year. You will need to file a Notice of Intent to Homeschool with their county superintendent, maintain records of student academic achievement, and evaluate your student’s academic progress annually. Schoolio is here to make the transition from learning at school to learning at home seamless. Click here to learn more about Schoolio.

What Are The Homeschooling Subject Requirements In Florida?

There are no subject requirements for families homeschooling in Florida. This autonomy in subject selection allows for the exploration of topic areas not typically covered in traditional schools, such as financial literacy and emerging technologies. To explore Schoolio’s courses click here.

Legalities & How to Get Started

How Do I Legally Start Homeschooling in Florida?

Legal Requirement #1: Notify the local superintendent with a Notice of Intent to Homeschool. This letter formally notifies the local superintendent of your decision to homeschool and states that you are taking responsibility for your child’s education. Click here for a Letter of Intent.

Legal Requirement #2: Families must maintain a portfolio of educational activities, materials used, and samples of work. This portfolio must be kept for the consecutive 2 school years.

Legal Requirement #3: You must assess your child annually. Assessments can be an evaluation by a certified teacher, a standardized test administered by a certified teacher, a state test administered by a certified teacher or an evaluation by a Florida licensed psychologist. Click here for an Evaluation Letter.

Legal Requirement #6: Notify your local superintendent when you are no longer homeschooling. Click here for a Termination Letter.

Alternatively, parents have the option to enroll with an Umbrella School to bypass these regulations, click here to learn more.

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.

What Forms Are Needed For Homeschooling In Florida?

There are three important forms when homeschooling in florida: A Letter of Intent to Homeschool, An Evaluation Letter, and A Termination Letter. 

Do I Need To Complete Progress Reports For Homeschooling In Florida?

No. You do not need to complete progress reports for homeschooling in Florida, however you must maintain a portfolio of records and materials that document your child’s educational activities and progress.

Are Any Standardized Tests Required For Homeschoolers In Florida?

No. Standardized tests are not required for students homeschooling in Florida.

Is Unschooling Legal In Florida?

Yes. Unschooling is legal in Florida. Click here to learn more about unschooling in Florida.

What Is A Notice Of Intent To Homeschool In Florida And Do I Need One?

A Notice of Intent to Homeschool is a letter that formally notifies your superintendent of your decision to homeschool and states that you are taking responsibility for your child’s education. A Notice of Intent to Homeschool is required in Florida. Click here for a Letter of Intent.

Can Someone Else Homeschool My Child In Florida?

Yes. Someone else can homeschool your child in Florida. While you, as the parent, are responsible for ensuring your child’s education, you can delegate the instruction to others, such as a certified tutor, a co-op, or an online course.

What If I Want My Kids To Re-Enter The Public School System After Homeschooling?

It’s okay to change your mind! For your child to re-enter public school you will need to contact your local school district to organize which school your child will be attending and when they will re-enter the public system. Your child may be assessed to determine their grade level.

Are There Deadlines I Need To Be Aware Of For Homeschooling In Florida?

There are some important timelines to be aware of when homeschooling in Florida.

Here is a list of those important timelines:

• Submit your Notice of Intent within 30 days to your homeschooling start date.
• Submit your annual assessment to the superintendent within one year of your initial homeschooling start date and every year thereafter.
• Your homeschooling portfolio must be kept for the consecutive 2 school years.

What Are The Public School Access Provisions For Homeschoolers In Florida?

In Florida, some public schools may offer part-time enrollment options or allow homeschoolers to join specific classes. Homeschooled students can also benefit from access to public school libraries and facilities. Beyond academics, Florida homeschoolers have access to public school extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and fine arts programs. Homeschool students can participate in these activities at their zoned public school, provided they meet the same eligibility requirements as full-time public school students. This ensures that homeschool students have the opportunity to engage in social and athletic activities that enrich their educational experience. These provisions help enrich the homeschooling experience and provide valuable resources and opportunities.

What Are The Special Education Provisions For Homeschoolers In Florida?

In Florida, while homeschoolers don’t automatically receive special education services from public schools, there are valuable opportunities for support available. If your child has special education needs, you can request an evaluation from your local public school district to explore eligibility for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Should your child qualify, the district can offer specialized instruction, support, and an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, some districts provide valuable support services such as counseling or therapy, and there are many community resources and private providers that offer further special education services. Engaging with advocacy groups can also provide helpful guidance and support.

Click here to learn more about how Schoolio can support your neurodivergent learner.

How Many Days/Hours Are Required For Homeschooling In Florida?

There are no specific day or hour requirements for homeschooling in Florida. The state’s homeschooling laws provide flexibility, allowing parents to adjust academic scheduling to meet the unique needs of their child, tailoring the educational experience to align with their individual learning style, pace, and interests.

Funding and Costs

Is There Funding For Homeschooling In Florida?

No. Currently, there is no funding for families homeschooling in Florida.

While the state does not provide financial support for homeschooling in Florida, families can take advantage of  various resources and strategies to manage their educational expenses. By participating in homeschooling groups, taking advantage of community programs, and choosing low-cost educational resources, such as Schoolio, families homeschooling in Florida can provide a rich educational experience without breaking their budget.

Click here to learn more about Schoolio.

How Much Does It Cost To Homeschool In Florida?

Homeschooling is priceless, but at what cost? The cost of homeschooling in Florida ranges from hundreds to thousands of dollars per year based on numerous factors, including subscriptions to online programs, supplies, books, extra-curricular fees, field trips, etc. By choosing a low-cost educational resource, such as Schoolio, families homeschooling in Florida can provide a rich educational experience without breaking their budget. Schoolio is a great option for parents looking for a high impact program at a low cost.

Click here to learn more about Schoolio: The Homeschool Program for Families in Florida.

Is There A Tax Credit For Homeschooling In Florida?

No. There is no tax credit for homeschooling in Florida.

Where to Find Community and Encouragement

What Are The Homeschooling Associations In Florida?

The Florida Parent-Educators Association and The Home School Legal Defense Association are prominent homeschooling associations in Florida that provide guidance, advocacy, and information for families homeschooling in Florida.

Are There Homeschooling Conferences In Florida?

Yes. Florida hosts numerous conferences for families homeschooling in Florida. Click here to learn more about one of the largest homeschooling conferences in Florida: The Florida Parent-Educator Association Convention.

What Are The Homeschooling Support Groups In Florida?

Florida has many homeschooling support groups that offer resources, advice, and support. Click here to learn more about homeschooling groups in your area.