Homeschooling

Homeschooling allows parents to educate children at home, subject to state regulations.

Typical Ages and Grade Levels

• Ages 4-18 (Kindergarten through 12th grade).
• Mandatory Attendance: Applies to state-specified ages (e.g., 7-17 in Minnesota).
• Link: State homeschool laws at Home School Legal Defense Association: https://hslda.org/legal.

Step-by-Step Guide

• Understand State Laws:
  • Requirements vary (e.g., Minnesota requires a Letter of Intent and quarterly reports for ages 7-17).
  • Link: State-specific rules at HSLDA: https://hslda.org/legal.
• Contact Your Resettlement Agency:
  • Ask about homeschooling resources or ORR-funded materials.
  • Link: ORR Affiliate Directory: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/orr/state-programs-annual-overview.
• Equivalency Check for Prior Education:
  • Process: Parents align South African records with U.S. grade levels. No formal check required, but records guide curriculum.
  • Challenges: Translation may be needed for future school re-entry.
  • Link: Credential guidance at World Education Services: https://www.wes.org/.
• Vaccination Requirements:
  • Not Mandatory: Most states don’t require vaccinations for homeschooling.
  • Exception: Co-ops or extracurriculars may require vaccinations.
  • Link: Check state rules at CDC School Vaccination Tool: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/school-requirements/.
• Gather Documents:
  • Letter of Intent (if required), including child’s name, age, curriculum plan.
• Plan Curriculum:
  • Choose a curriculum meeting state standards (e.g., Khan Academy, packaged curricula).
  • Include ESL for non-English speakers.
  • Link: Free resources at Khan Academy: https://www.khanacademy.org/.
• Access Support:
  • ORR Support: May provide materials or tutoring.
  • Community: Libraries and co-ops offer resources.
  • Link: Find co-ops at HSLDA: https://hslda.org/content/orgs/.
• Implement and Monitor:
  • Supplies: Notebooks, computer, curriculum materials.
  • Cost: $100-$1,000/year.
  • Follow a schedule and track progress.

Key Notes

• Cost: $100-$1,000/year for curriculum/supplies.
• Challenges: Parental time and English proficiency.
• Contact: State Department of Education or HSLDA.