Taking the plunge into homeschooling can feel intimidating. From lesson plans to curriculum choices to compliance with state laws, it can feel like there is a lot to coordinate. However, understanding state homeschool requirements brings families one step closer to enjoying the freedom that homeschooling affords.
In Michigan, parents have two options for homeschooling their children:
- Homeschooling under Michigan’s homeschool statute
- Homeschooling as a nonpublic school
Michigan Homeschool Mandates
Michigan compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from the age of 6 through 18.
Under the homeschool statute (option 1), parents are not required to notify the school district of their intent to homeschool, satisfy teacher qualifications, or meet immunization requirements. However, parents must use an organized program to instruct their own children in the required subjects of:
- Reading
- Spelling
- Math
- Science
- History
- Civics
- Literature
- Writing
- English grammar
Families who choose to homeschool as a nonpublic school (option 2) must:
- Provide evidence that the parent or other instructor meets instructor qualifications.
- Send an annual notification to the school board containing specific information.
- Teach the required subjects, including additional requirements for high school students.
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Michigan
If your children currently attend a public or private school, you will need to withdraw them to homeschool. In many cases, sending a withdrawal letter by certified mail to your school district will suffice. To begin homeschooling under option 2, parents must file a notarized affidavit of required information with the school district.
Special Education Provisions
Michigan has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. However, families educating their children as a nonpublic school (option 2) are eligible for auxiliary services for special needs students.
Record Keeping
The state of Michigan does not have specific record-keeping requirements for homeschools operating under the homeschool statute (option 1). However, homeschools functioning as nonpublic schools must follow Michigan’s record requirements regarding enrollment, subjects, and teacher qualifications.
Under either homeschool option, it is wise to maintain a file for each student containing school district correspondence, attendance records, curriculum information, samples of your child’s work, and any standardized test scores.
With a clear understanding of Illinois homeschool laws and the wide availability of resources, homeschooling doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. LightSail’s comprehensive language arts platform provides children with the tools to grow reading, writing, and vocabulary skills. At the same time, LightSail’s built-in assessments and progress-tracking capabilities give parents peace of mind about meeting the homeschool requirements of Illinois.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice. State laws are constantly changing. Consult an attorney or call your state’s Department of Education for any questions regarding the legalities of homeschooling.
