Homeschooling in California

In California, there are four legal ways you can enroll your child in homeschooling programs:

1. Establish a private school in your home.

2. Enroll your child(ren) in a private school that offers a satellite program for homeschooling (PSP).

3. Employ a private tutor or tutor yourself IF you hold a California teaching credential.

4. Send your child(ren) to a public school that offers independent study.

Requirements to begin homeschooling depend on which option you choose. For instance, if you choose Option 1 -you need to complete a Private School Affidavit, create school records, and so on.

You'll need to choose which of these options is best for your family overall, your schedule, and most importantly, your children. To do that, check out a few of the online resources available to parents, and thoroughly research each of the options available:

CaliforniaHomeschool.net is a great resource for families considering homeschooling. Be sure to download their publication Just The Facts, for step-by-step instructions of what is required for each of the four legal homeschool options.

At the Homeschool Association of California (HSC.org), you can download a copy of their publication Empowering Families, Starting The Homeschool Journey. This is a 32-page booklet that provides answers to most homeschooling related questions. You can also request a copy via regular mail. HSC also offers family membership, which includes their magazine California HomeSchooler which you'll receive six times per year, info on all the homeschooling news and events, along with the list of HSC County Contacts who are there to help you when you need it the most. You'll also get discounts on the Home=Education Conference and first chance at reservations to HSC Campouts and events.

Homeschooling may not be the right choice for all families, but it does provide options for children in a variety of home and family scenarios, including kids with special needs.