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. Kentucky has no homeschool statute.
Therefore, parents may homeschool under the private school statute.
Kentucky Private School Statute and Homeschools
Kentucky compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from ages 6 through 18. Homeschooling under the private school statute does not require parents to meet teaching qualifications, give standardized tests, or meet immunization requirements. However, homeschool parents must:
- File an annual notice of intent with the school board within the first two weeks of the school year.
- Keep updated records of grades and attendance according to the schedule of the local school district.
- Teach 1,062 hours over a minimum of 170 days each school year.
- Use the English language to teach the required subjects to their children.
Kentucky required subjects include:
- Reading
- Writing
- Spelling
- Grammar
- History
- Math
- Science
- Civics
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Kentucky
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. To begin homeschooling, parents must file a notice of intent with the school district.
Special Education Provisions
Kentucky has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. As private school students, homeschoolers may be eligible for special education services.
Record Keeping
Kentucky requires homeschool parents to maintain current records of their children’s attendance and grades. Parents must update these records according to the school district’s schedule, usually every six to nine weeks. In addition to these documents, it is wise to maintain a file for each student containing school district correspondence, curriculum information, samples of student work, and any standardized test scores.
With a clear understanding of Kentucky 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 Kentucky’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.
