Homeschooling is a breath of fresh air for families who are tired of the issues with traditional education. It gives a chance for these families to educate their children at home independently.
What Are the Basics of Homeschooling in California?
Let’s take a look at the features of homeschooling in California.
Filing a Private School Affidavit in California
California law requires the private school affidavit (PSA) for all private schools, including homeschools. Each private school files an affidavit containing specified information on a yearly basis in the period between October 1 and October 15 for the current school year. The PSA is available on the California Department of Education website all school year.
Exploring Online Homeschooling Options
California has three legal ways under which parents can homeschool privately. Parents are free to choose the way they like the most. The first option is homeschooling, conducted as a home-based private school. Families need to fill out the private school affidavit (PSA) to start. The second option is a private school satellite program. This program allows families to enroll their children in a private school overseeing their homeschooling. The third option is homeschooling via instruction by a private tutor. This option requires families to have a certified teacher handle their children’s education. You can learn more about homeschooling options in California at the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA).
How to Start Homeschooling in California?
Parents who wish to transition their children to homeschooling need to understand the basic aspects of this type of education. Let’s take a closer look at these aspects.
Enrolling in a Homeschool Charter School
Exact enrollment requirements can be found on the chosen school’s website. Programs like Sky Mountain Charter School offer online enrollment on a first-come, first-served basis, so there can be waitlists.
Parents usually need to provide these documents:
- Birth Certificate
- Immunization record
- Proof of Residency
Choosing the Right Homeschool Curriculum
Successful homeschooling happens when parents choose the right curriculum and follow specific standards. We have detailed how to select the right homeschooling curriculum in this article. We explained how to work with standards, helping choose the correct subjects and programs in this article.
Connecting with Homeschool Support Groups
Parents and students use local homeschool groups like Classical Conversations and online support groups like The Homeschool Mom Community. These groups provide families with support and help children achieve better results.
What Resources Are Available for California Homeschoolers?
Starting with homeschooling seems hard for some families, but there are many helpful resources.
Participating in Homeschool Field Trips
Homeschoolers can participate in non-online activities like field trips. Parents can plan field trips to museums, parks, science centers, and historical sites. These activities help kids find new friends, get valuable knowledge, and apply theory to practice.
Joining Homeschool Co-ops
Homeschool co-ops bring families together to share teaching responsibilities. Co-ops provide group classes, field trips, and social activities. Students get valuable experience by participating in such activities and don’t feel lonely as they make new friends.
Accessing California Statewide Homeschool Groups
Homeschooling groups across California provide networking, resources, and support for families. These groups include the California Homeschool Network and the Homeschool Association of California, providing sources of information and advice on legal requirements, curriculum planning, and co-op activities. Many groups plan field trips, workshops, and community events to enhance the experience of homeschooling.
What is the Role of Private School Affidavit in California?
Let’s take a look at the role of private school affidavits in California homeschooling.
Requirements for Filing a Private School Affidavit
Private school affidavit must be filed with the California Superintendent of Public Instruction between October 1 and October 15 of each school year. New private schools starting before October 1 can file their affidavit immediately upon withdrawing their student. The private school affidavit can be accessed on the California Department of Education’s website.
Benefits of Filing a Private School Affidavit
Filing a Private School Affidavit in California allows families to legally homeschool their children. It gives parents full control over their child’s education, including choosing the curriculum and schedule. Families are not tied to public or charter schools.
Comparison of Private School Affidavit vs. Charter School
A private school affidavit gives families full control over their child’s homeschooling. Families are not bound by the major commitments found in charter schools and can decide how their children will be educated freely. Charter schools have more restrictions and rules but offer strong support and funding for families.
Why Consider Legacy Online School for Homeschooling?
Homeschooling becomes more effective with Legacy Online School due to several reasons.
Exploring Legacy Online School’s K-12 Homeschool Programs
Legacy Online School offers modern, innovative learning for kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high school students. Students learn at their own pace, in groups, or one-on-one with a live teacher. Each student chooses the format which suits them best. You can find out more about each homeschool program in this article.
Understanding the Accreditation of Legacy Online School
Legacy Online School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The diploma from Legacy Online School is widely accepted. Students at our school get an education widely recognized in the U.S. and abroad.
Benefits of Legacy Online School for California Homeschoolers
Legacy Online School eliminates all obstacles arising with independent homeschooling and ensures parents their kids will have an effective and positive homeschooling experience. We have detailed the challenges families face with homeschooling, how to overcome them, and why Legacy Online School is a great choice in this article.
