Homeschooling in Alabama 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.
Pros and Cons of Homeschooling in Alabama
Many families prefer homeschooling for their children because it is safer than traditional school and gives the same diploma as traditional students, which is recognized everywhere. Homeschooling is not only about advantages. Families face a heavier burden, as parents must find time to teach their children, maintain records, and request the diploma after completing the education. We discussed all the pros and cons, as well as how to manage the problems of homeschooling in this article.
Legal Requirements for Homeschooling in Alabama
Each state has its own laws regarding online homeschooling. Understanding the state’s regulations is important for legal compliance. Check the states’ requirements here.
Let’s review the three options parents can use to start homeschooling their children.
1. Operating as a Private School
Parents can homeschool by establishing their home as a private school. Parents do the following to use this option:
- Notify the local school district by filing a Notice of Intent to operate as a private school
- Keep an attendance register available for inspection by the local superintendent
- Ensure the instruction covers all the mandatory subjects
- Follow the state-mandated 180-day school year to guarantee the child receives sufficient instruction
2. Enrolling in a Church School
Parents can choose to homeschool under the supervision of a church school. Parents do the following to use this option:
- Enroll the child in a recognized church school
- Submit a Church School Enrollment Form to the local public school board to inform them of the decision
- The church school oversees the homeschooling process, and parents must adhere to the school’s guidelines regarding attendance, curriculum, and assessments
- The church school maintain records on behalf of the family, alleviating some administrative responsibilities
3. Hiring a Private Tutor
Another option is hiring a certified private tutor. The requirements for this option include:
- The tutor must be a state-certified teacher in Alabama
- The tutor is responsible for providing instruction for at least three hours per day and 140 days per year, guaranteeing compliance with Alabama’s education standards
- The tutor must report the student’s progress and attendance to the local superintendent
- Parents are responsible for paying the tutor and ensuring the instruction follows the Alabama course of study
Legacy Online Academy Overview
Legacy Online Academy is an excellent choice for families who want to homeschool their children. Let’s see why thousands of students choose Legacy Online Academy.
Why Choose Legacy Online Academy?
There are many reasons why students choose Legacy Online Academy. Let’s look at the four reasons students value the most.
Accredited Curriculum and Courses
Legacy Online Academy is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The diploma from Legacy Online Academy is widely accepted. Legacy Online Academy meets the requirements of various states. Florida is the primary state for our school. Legacy Online Academy does not impose many demands on homeschoolers. Our school aims to provide a quality education and make the learning experience simple and enjoyable.
Course Variety
Legacy Online Academy offers an accredited curriculum for elementary, middle, and high school. Our school’s curriculum covers core subjects. These subjects include Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Students choose electives like Spanish and Art.
Interactive Virtual Learning Environment
Interaction between teachers and students happens in real-time, and students receive support 24/7. Classes are designed to be comfortable for teachers and students. They can always agree on schedule changes if needed. Here are some apps students, teachers, and parents use for interaction:
Collaborative Tools
Students use the Buzz online platform for learning. This platform stores all educational materials and allows students to access them at any time. Assignments, communication, and grading are also managed on this platform.
Legacy Online Academy uses modern digital tools for collaboration and reviews them regularly to see if any additions are needed. Let’s list some tools our students and teachers use:
Comparing Homeschooling Options in Alabama
Many companies offer homeschooling options following the rise of homeschooling after COVID-19. Let’s list three factors parents consider when choosing a homeschooling option suitable for their children.
Accreditation
Accreditation guarantees a child’s education will be recognized throughout the United States and abroad. This is because accredited educational institutions meet high educational standards. Such companies provide programs covering all the necessary topics required for students when applying to higher education institutions or entering the workforce.
Different Learning Formats
Many schools provide a lot of freedom in how students learn. Students can study in groups and follow an established schedule, study independently, or work one-on-one with a teacher. Parents choose schools giving a variety of options and the ability to change them from time to time, as this ensures the student’s needs will always be considered.
Support from Teachers and Experts
Some parents can’t always dedicate enough time to homeschooling their children. These parents rely on the support of teachers who fully guide their children. Parents of children with special needs must ensure the school provides experts knowledgeable in special needs to assist their children at every stage.
