If you’re considering homeschooling your child in California, you have three legal options available under California homeschool laws. Each option has its own set of requirements, so you can choose the one that aligns best with your family’s preferences and needs.
Option 1: Homeschooling as a Home-Based Private School
To operate your homeschool program as a private school, you should:
- File an annual private school affidavit between October 1 and October 15 of each school year. If starting before October 1, you can file immediately upon withdrawal, while those starting after October 15 should file as soon as possible.
- Maintain an attendance register.
- Ensure instruction is in English and provided by qualified instructors.
- Cover courses commonly taught in public schools, such as language arts, math, science, social studies, health, and driver training.
- Maintain immunization records or personal beliefs exemption.
- Keep a list of courses of study and instructors with their qualifications.
Option 2: Homeschooling With a Private School Satellite Program (PSP)
This option involves majority instruction at home under a private school satellite program. It follows the same requirements as operating a home-based private school.
Option 3: Homeschooling via Instruction by a Private Tutor
If your child is instructed by someone with a California teaching credential, they’re exempt from public school attendance. Instruction should be at least three hours a day, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., for 175 days each school year, covering required subjects in English. The instructor can be a parent with the necessary teaching credentials, and there’s no need to file private school affidavits or report to the state under California homeschool laws.