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 North Carolina, parents may operate their homeschool programs as either qualified nonpublic schools or private religious schools or charters.
North Carolina Homeschool Mandates
North Carolina compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from ages 7 through 16. North Carolina statutes do not mandate parents to teach specific subjects. However, homeschool parents must:
- Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
- File a one-time notice of intent to operate a home education program with the North Carolina Division of Non-Public Education (DNPE).
- Keep a consistent academic schedule for nine months of each year.
- Maintain immunization records.
- Keep attendance records.
- Arrange annual standardized testing for their children in English, reading, spelling, and math.
- Notify the DNPE upon the termination of their homeschool program.
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in North Carolina
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 to operate a home education program with the DNPE.
Special Education Provisions
North Carolina has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. Public schools in North Carolina are not required to provide special education services to homeschoolers. However, school districts may offer these services at their discretion.
Record Keeping
The state of North Carolina requires homeschool parents to keep attendance and immunization records. It is also wise to maintain a file for each student containing school district correspondence, curriculum information, samples of your child’s work, and any standardized test scores.
With a clear understanding of North Carolina 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 North Carolina.
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.
