The decision to homeschool is a big one, but often making that choice is the easy part. It can be scary pulling your child from public school. This feeling is normal for parents in your situation. I’ll bet by the end of this post, you’ll realize that it’s easier than you thought!
Arm yourself with your states homeschooling laws.
Often schools will fight by telling you things that are in fact not law. Arming yourself with a copy of the states homeschool laws makes it easier to deal with school employees that are desperate to keep children in the school system for funding.
Give as little information as possible. In many states, you must register with the state but you never have to tell the school where you are moving them to. If your state laws do not require you to give the school any information just simply tell them that you are pulling your child to attend a private school. Your homeschool is a private school do not let anyone push you for information you do not have to give. Keep records of communications with the school. Email or snail mail is best for leaving a paper trail.
Request a copy of your child’s school records.
You may have to pay for these, but in most states you do have a right to the information inside. This will include notes from teachers that may help with teaching your child.
Properly register with your state/school district.
Forums sates this means doing nothing but starting to homeschool. In others you will need to fill out a form or send in an official letter of intent to homeschool. The Homeschool Legal Defence Association is the best resource for information on your local homeschool laws so you can stay in compliance.
Follow up with your child’s school to ensure that they have finished everything on their end to remove your child from their attendance. This will prevent them from being marked absent which can lead to a big hassle for you later. Not completing the paperwork on their end is a common issue that can lead to trouble if parents don’t call to confirm.
Once you have taken care of all of the legal parts of pulling your child from public school have a celebration with your family to make the transition to homeschooling fun and exciting. Most children will have mixed feelings about leaving public school. The freedom of homeschooling can be enticing but it does mean they won’t see their friends as often. Do something fun to make the first day of homeschooling great. Look for local activities and programs you can join so your child can have interactions with old friends.
