Homeschooling offers a new educational option for families in Washington state and there are more parents choosing to homeschool their children instead of public school systems. It allows parents to educate their children at home. They just to follow state legal requirements.
The history of homeschooling has shown that many families chose home education thanks to tuition fees, curriculum flexibility, and personalized learning.
Here we will explain how online programs like Legacy Online School support families to understand how they can receive home-based instruction law of Washington.
Quick Takeaways About Washington K12 Homeschooling
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Homeschooling in Washington is legal, but parents must file a Declaration of Intent with the local school district.
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According to the Washington homeschool, chosen online homeschool program must cover core subjects and provide minimum 1000 instructional hours per year.
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Homeschooled children should have standardized achievement assessments for tracking progress.
Washington Homeschool Laws and Requirements
Homeschooling in the state of Washington is regulated. The history of homeschooling have undergone a lot of changes and today there are some important homeschooling laws and requirements which must be followed.
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Parents considering homeschooling should get declaration of Intent every year by September 15.
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Homeschooling parents must have done special parent qualifying courses, like 45 college credit hours, special course diploma for home-based instruction.
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The children should have minimum 1000 hours per academic year.
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Some core subjects are a must, like Math, Science, Language Arts, Social Studies, and physical education.
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Every year, homeschooled children should take achievement tests by a qualified individual.
Getting Enrolled With Homeschool in Washington
Step 1: File a Declaration of Intent
The first step of enrollment is submitting the Declaration of Intent to your local school district.
Step 2: Select a Curriculum
Choose a curriculum that covers all required subjects and fits your children’s interests and future plans.
Step 3: Create an Individualized Learning Plan
Design a learning experience that suits your family’s lifestyle and make sure your child has a quiet and comfortable space for learning.
Step 4: Complete Annual Assessments
Students must evaluate their progress every year with the help of standardized tests and assessments by a qualified professional.
Choosing the Right Online Curriculum in Washington Homeschool
Selecting the right homeschool program is very important for the homeschooling experience and the child’s future success. Homeschool curriculum must include interactive online learning opportunities, offer structured lessons which meet state educational standards as well as have a professional teacher support. Some of the online homeschool curriculums also offer live classes and other types of productive lessons to mimic the traditional schools.
Socialization and Support for Homeschool Families in Washington
Even when parents choose homeschooling their children instead of public or private schools, it is very important that they have some actives apart from studies to help children socialize and not isolated from their peers.
Joining Homeschool Groups
Currently homeschooling families can join local homeschool groups like Classical Conversations and online networks such as The Homeschool Mom Community to participate in different group activities, and connect with other homeschooling families.
Participating in Field Trips and Other Activities
Homeschoolers in Washington can also take part in extracurricular activities and field trips to enjoy social interaction and practical learning experiences.
Legal Guidance and Resources for Homeschooling in Washington
Although it is simple to understand the requirements of Washington homeschool organization, sometimes families need some extra help to follow the rules and provide the best child’s education.
Here comes in hand Home School Legal Defense Association, which provides guide to homeschooling, legal updates, and support for families who have started Washington homeschooling journey.
