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 Wyoming, parents have two options for homeschooling their children:
- Homeschooling under Wyoming’s homeschool statute
- Homeschooling through a parish, church, or religious school
Wyoming Homeschool Mandates for Option 1
Wyoming compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from the age of 7 through 16. When homeschooling under the homeschool statute (option 1), parents are not required to meet teaching qualifications, submit their students to testing, or meet student immunization requirements. However, parents must:
- Submit their proposed curriculum to the school district each year.
- Teach the required subjects in a sequentially progressive manner.
The required subjects in the state of Wyoming are:
- Reading
- Writing
- Math
- Science
- History
- Civics
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Wyoming
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.
Special Education Provisions
Wyoming has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. The state does not require school districts to provide special education services or funds to homeschoolers. However, some school districts may elect to offer these services at their discretion.
Record Keeping
The state of Wyoming does not have record-keeping requirements for homeschoolers. However, the state does require homeschools to provide a curriculum that is sequentially progressive. Therefore, it is prudent to keep records of the curriculum used. Furthermore, it is wise to maintain a file for each student containing:
- School district correspondence
- Attendance records
- Curriculum information
- Samples of student work
- Testing results
With a clear understanding of Wyoming 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 Wyoming.
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.
