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 Ohio, parents can either operate a homeschool under the guidelines of Ohio’s homeschool statute or register their school as a private, non-chartered, non-tax-supported, “-08 school.” Under Ohio’s homeschool statute, parents with a high school diploma or GED can operate a homeschool by submitting a notification to the school board each year. This notification excuses homeschooled children from the state’s compulsory school attendance requirement for children aged 6 to 18.
Ohio Homeschool Mandates
The Ohio statutes require students to receive 900 hours of instruction in:
- Language
- Reading
- Spelling
- Writing
- Geography
- US and Ohio history
- Government
- Math
- Science
- Health
- Physical education
- Fine arts
- First aid, safety, and fire prevention
Homeschoolers can fulfill Ohio’s yearly assessment requirement through one of the following:
- Standardized testing
- Filing a written narrative from a school superintendent-approved person
- Making other arrangements with their school district
Ohio has no immunization requirement for homeschools.
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Ohio
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. You will then need to file your annual Notice of Intent to Homeschool.
Special Education Provisions
Ohio has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. Homeschooled children are not eligible for special education services provided through the Ohio public schools.
Record Keeping
The state of Ohio 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 Ohio 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, while LightSail’s built-in assessments and progress-tracking capabilities give parents peace of mind about meeting Ohio’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.
