If you’re considering homeschooling in Iowa, here are your five options in accordance with Iowa homeschool laws:
Option 1: Homeschooling by Independent Private Instruction (IPI)
Teach Required Subjects
You must provide instruction in math, reading, and language arts, science, and social studies. There are no specific time requirements, but each subject should be covered each school year.
Provide Information if Requested
While you don’t need to inform your school district proactively, if requested, you must provide the name of the primary instructor, your name and address, and your child’s name.
Access to Public School Programs
You have access to parent-taught driver education, public school driver education programs, free testing, and community college classes if the school provides them to its students.
Option 2: Homeschooling by Opt-Out
Teach in a Non-Public Setting
You must provide instruction outside of public or organized accredited nonpublic schools.
Access to Public School Programs
You have access to similar programs as under Choice 1, without the need for dual enrollment.
Option 3: Homeschooling with an Annual Assessment
File Form A
Submit a Form A with your child’s details, course of study, and textbooks.
Teach Required Days
Teach for a minimum of 148 days per year.
Submit Annual Assessments
You must assess your child’s progress annually from grade 7 onwards.
Access to Public School Programs
Access to public school programs is available without dual enrollment. Dual enrollment is required for specific programs.
Option 4: Homeschooling with a Supervising Teacher
File Form A
Complete Form A with your child’s details, course of study, and textbooks.
Teach Required Days
Teach for a minimum of 148 days per year.
Hire a Qualified Teacher
You must hire a qualified supervising teacher to assess your child’s progress.
Access to Public School Programs
Access to public school programs is available without dual enrollment. Specific programs require dual enrollment.
Option 5: Homeschooling with a Home School Assistance Program (HSAP)
File Form A
Complete Form A with your child’s basic information.
Teach Required Days
Teach for a minimum of 148 days per year.
Comply with HSAP Requirements
Additional requirements may be imposed by the public school.
Access to Public School Programs
Access to public school programs is available without dual enrollment. Specific programs require dual enrollment.