What is homeschooling and are there legal requirements for homeschooling?

Homeschooling is an educational option for families in California who wish to provide education for their children outside of the traditional public or private school system. Homeschooling is when parents act as the primary educator for their child by creating a custom learning environment, usually within the home, to provide educational instruction. This could be in the form of a traditional academic curriculum, online classes, or any other teaching method the parent chooses. In California, homeschooling is legal and parents can choose to educate their children any way they feel is best. While the state does not regulate homeschooling, families must abide by certain requirements. Firstly, there must be an Informed Election to homeschool form filed with the state. This form is to be filed annually and informs the state that home education is the family’s chosen educational option. Additionally, homeschoolers must teach the same course of instruction as the public school system. This includes the same educational materials, testing, and minimum number of hours. Lastly, families must keep on record of their child’s studies, including grades, immunization dates, and attendance records. This information must be kept on-hand to provide to the state or a local school district upon request. Ultimately, homeschooling is an option for California families who wish to customize their child’s educational experience. While there are certain legal requirements, homeschooling can provide parents with the freedom to create their own learning curriculum.

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