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 Arkansas, parents may homeschool their children under the Arkansas homeschool statute by filing a Notice of Intent to Homeschool with their school district by August 15th each year. This notice must include:
- Student name, birth date, gender, and grade level,
- Previous school name and address,
- Homeschool mailing address and telephone number,
- Parent statement of educational responsibility for the child,
- An optional statement of public school interscholastic activity plans,
- An optional statement of GED plans,
- Name and signature of homeschool program provider (parent).
Arkansas Homeschool Mandates
Arkansas statutes require children to attend school from ages 5 to 17 or until the completion of 10th grade. Homeschooling under the Arkansas homeschool statute does not have requirements regarding subjects taught, testing, immunizations, or instructor qualifications.
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Arkansas
If your children attend a public or private school, you will need to withdraw them to homeschool. Arkansas requires filing the annual Notice of Intent to Homeschool 14 days before withdrawing from school. (In some cases, this 14-day waiting period requirement may be waived.) Contact your school to learn which forms or procedures they require for withdrawal. In many cases, you will be able to withdraw your children by sending a certified letter to the school.
Special Education Provisions
Arkansas has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. Homeschooled children are eligible for the same special education services as private school students under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
Record Keeping
The state of Arkansas does not have specific record-keeping requirements for homeschools. 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.
With a clear understanding of Arkansas 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 Arkansas’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.
