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 Alaska, parents have four options for homeschooling their children:
1. Homeschooling their own children under the homeschool statute,
2. Hiring an Alaska-certified teacher to instruct their children at home,
3. Requesting district approval to count an educational experience as school, or
4. Registering their homeschool as a religious or other private school
Alaska Homeschool Mandates
Alaska compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from the age of 7 through 16. Homeschooling under the Alaska homeschool statute (option 1) does not have requirements regarding approval, subjects, testing, forms, immunizations, or instructor qualifications.
Meanwhile, homeschooling as a registered religious or other private school (option 4) does have several requirements. These include:
- Filing a notice of enrollment,
- Filing the enrollment and school calendar forms,
- Maintaining monthly attendance records,
- Maintaining certain permanent records,
- Filing a discipline policy if children from more than one family attend,
- Disallowing the use of state or federal funding, and
- Giving standardized tests in the 4th, 6th, and 8th grades.
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Alaska
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.
Special Education Provisions
Alaska has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. Families who register their homeschool under the Alaska private school statute may be able to receive funds for special education services.
Record Keeping
Alaska has no record-keeping requirements for parents homeschooling under the homeschool statute (option 1). However, it is wise to maintain a file for each student containing school district correspondence, attendance records, samples of your child’s work, and any standardized test scores.
Parents homeschooling as a religious or other private school (option 4) must maintain enrollment, attendance, and permanent records.
With a clear understanding of Alaska 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 Alaska’s homeschool requirements.
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.
