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 Aloha State’s homeschool statute recognizes homeschooling as an educational option where parents teach their own children.
Hawaii Homeschool Mandates
Hawaii compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from ages 5 through 18. Homeschool parents are not required to meet teaching qualifications or student immunization requirements. However, to operate a home education program in Hawaii, parents must:
- File an initial notice of intent to homeschool on either Form 4140 or by a letter containing required information.
- Use curriculum that is “structured and based on educational objectives as well as the needs of the child, be cumulative and sequential, provide a range of up-to-date knowledge and needed skills, and take into account the interests, needs and abilities of the child.”
- Keep planned curriculum records containing school start and end dates; hours of instruction per week; subjects covered; means of assessment of mastery; and bibliographically formatted lists of educational texts or materials.
- Submit annual student progress reports according to state guidelines.
- Report standardized test scores for students in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10.
- Provide notification upon closing a homeschool program.
While Hawaii does not have specific required subjects, the homeschool statute recommends elementary curriculum contain:
- English language arts
- Math
- Science
- Social Studies
- Health
- Art
- Music
- Physical education
The statute recommends secondary school curriculum contain:
- English
- Math
- Science
- Social Studies
- Health
- Physical education
- Guidance
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Hawaii
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. Parents must file a notice of intent when beginning a home education program.
Special Education Provisions
Hawaii has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. Individual school districts may or may not elect to provide special education services to homeschoolers.
Record Keeping
Hawaii homeschool laws require parents to keep a record of the planned homeschool curriculum containing:
- The dates the homeschool program begins and ends
- Weekly number of hours of instruction
- Subjects taught
- Methods used to assess mastery of subjects
- A bibliographically formatted list of educational texts or other learning materials
Additionally, it is wise to keep a file for each student containing:
- Attendance
- School district correspondence, including forms filed
- Samples of student work
- Any standardized test scores and evaluations
With a clear understanding of Hawaii 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 Hawaii’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.
