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. The state of Delaware recognizes three homeschool options:
- Single-family homeschools
- Multi-family homeschools
- Single-family homeschools working in conjunction with the local school district
Delaware Homeschool Mandates for Options 1 and 2
Delaware compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from ages 5 through 16. Homeschool parents are not legally required to meet teaching qualifications, teach specific subjects, meet student immunization requirements, or submit students to standardized testing. Delaware homeschool mandates require single-family homeschools to:
- Use a Department of Education form to report student enrollment annually by October 5.
- Use a Department of Education form to report student attendance annually by July 31.
Multi-family homeschools must appoint an individual to submit the annual student enrollment (by October 5) and student attendance (by July 31) reports for all families in the multi-family homeschool.
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Delaware
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.
Special Education Provisions
Delaware has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. Additionally, there is no state policy providing homeschool students with special education services.
Record Keeping
The state of Delaware 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 enrollment and attendance reports
- Attendance records
- Documentation of the curriculum used and subjects covered
- Samples of student work
- Any standardized test scores or evaluations
With a clear understanding of Delaware 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 Delaware.
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.
