We are just starting our homeschool journey, but I have picked up quite a bit of information over the years in preparation for this moment. So, if you are wondering how to homeschool your kiddos in California, look no further!
This post will include links to various sites for resources and legal assistance, including information directly from the Department of Education website.
There is a ton of information available. My goal is to help you sift through that information to piece together the most important aspects so you can get started quickly.
Main Options for Homeschool
- File a Private School Affidavit (PSA) – This allows parents to privately educate their children however they deem fit. Parents are responsible for providing the curriculum and instructional materials. Parents must also track attendance and keep all records for the duration of schooling.
PSAs must be filed yearly between October 1st through 15th for continuing homeschools (August 1st through June 30th is the window for new homeschools). How to file a PSA is here. - Enroll in a Public Charter School for Homeschool – Charter schools are the only source of state funding for CA homeschool students. Most charter schools receive $3,000–4,000 per student to cover the cost of curriculum, materials, and additional classes or activities.
The charter school will provide an approved curriculum and a list of approved vendors for extracurricular activities (music, horseback riding, art, etc.). You do not need to select from the approved lists, but will need approval to use funds for anything not including.
There is oversight that comes with charter schools—credentialed teachers check student progress roughly every 20 days, standardized tests are typically required, schooling must account for 6 hours per day 5 days per week—but they often offer in-person activities for the students who are interested. - Hire a Credentialed Tutor – Parents with a credential (or a hired tutor) can teach their children at home utilizing the private tutorial exemption (California Education Code §48224). Students must receive instruction for at least 3 hours per day, 175 days per year between 8:00AM to 4:00PM.
- Sign up Through a Private School Satellite Program (PSP) – PSPs have filed the private school affidavit (PSA), so when you enroll, you become a teacher in their school. They often offer support for curriculum and lesson planning, activities for students, and keep all records on your behalf.
- Independent Study Through a Public School – Most school districts offer independent study programs. Students are provided with curriculum from the school, and check-ins with the supervising teacher are required.
Resources
- The Homeschool Mom – This blog is one of my favorites for resources nationwide. You can view state laws, recommendations, co-op groups, classes, and charter schools.
- Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) – HSLDA is a nonprofit organization that provides legal support for its members. They also offer information on how to legally get started homeschooling, withdraw from school, and tips for choosing the right path (style, curriculum, etc.) for your student(s). Grants are also available for families in need. Membership benefits are listed here.
- The Good and The Beautiful – Their Language Arts and Math curricula are free on their website. They also have many science options for purchase, plus extracurricular packages (typing, art, etc.).
- Hillsdale College K–12 at Home – Hillsdale College has compiled a list of recommended curricula for parents, including their FREE American History & Civics courses. Hillsdale specializes in the classical education method, so if this is your jam, head their way!
- School House Discoveries – They provide multi-sensory science and social science curricula for K–4th and 5th–8th grade. They are on several approved vendor lists for charter schools in the state.
- California Homeschool Network (CHN) – CHN is a volunteer-run organization of homeschooling families that monitors legislation to protect homeschooling in California. They have an abundance of resources on their website, host events, and offer membership benefits.
- Time 4 Learning – Online curriculum and resources for K–12th grade. The monthly cost depends on the grade level of your student(s).
Required Subjects
The required subjects for homeschool are English (Language Arts), math, science, history (social studies), and physical education (P.E.).
You have the freedom to choose your curriculum and teaching methods based on your child’s learning style, interests, and your teaching style. If you don’t know your child’s learning style (auditory, visual, kinesthetic, reading/writing), there are quick assessments you can give to your kiddo.
Our Path to Homeschool
I have been considering homeschooling since prior to enrolling our daughter in Kindergarten. Now that our two youngest are more independent, we’ve taken the leap.
Our first step was two weeks of independent study before winter break. We received homework from the school and utilized that time to get a feel for how we would work together and what we would do to fill our learning time. The answer was many trips to the library, life skills, a lot of reading, and plenty of physical activity.
Once we completed our two weeks, I applied to two charter schools (both were full), then filed a PSA and sent a formal notice of withdrawal to her school. I chose our curriculum, saving room for trial and error. And we hit the ground running.
This has truly been the best choice we have made for our daughter’s education.
Sum It Up
If you’re considering homeschool for your child, take the time to research your options, state laws, and requirements. Find other homeschooling parents in your area. Like all things in Mom Life, homeschooling is easier with support.
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