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. Wisconsin laws refer to homeschools as home-based private educational programs.
Wisconsin Homeschool Mandates
The purpose of home-based private educational programs in Wisconsin must be to provide religious or private education. These programs cannot be managed by a public school or government agency; they must be privately controlled. Wisconsin compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from ages 6 through 18. Homeschool parents are not legally required to meet teaching qualifications, submit their children to standardized testing, or meet immunization requirements. However, homeschool families must:
- File an annual statement of enrollment (form PI-1206) with the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) by October 15.
- Provide at least 875 hours of instruction annually between July 1 and June 30.
- Provide instruction in the required subjects.
- Provide a sequentially progressive curriculum moving the students from simpler to more complex concepts.
The required subjects in the state of Wisconsin are:
- Reading
- Language arts
- Math
- Social studies
- Science
- Health
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Wisconsin
If your children attend a public or private school, you will need to withdraw them to homeschool. Contact your school to learn which forms or procedures they require. In many cases, you will be able to withdraw your children by sending a letter of withdrawal to the school. Homeschool families are also required to file form PI-1206 with the DPI.
Special Education Provisions
Wisconsin has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. Public schools are not mandated to provide special education services to homeschooled children. However, individual school districts may elect to do so.
Record Keeping
The state of Wisconsin does not have specific record-keeping requirements for homeschools. However, it is wise to maintain a file for each student containing:
- School district correspondence, including form PI-1206
- Attendance records documenting 875 hours of annual instruction
- Documentation of the curriculum used and subjects covered
- Samples of student work
- Any standardized test scores
With a clear understanding of Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin.
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.
