Knowing the homeschool laws in the state of Virginia is important to homeschooling success. Although the legalese can be intimidating, one of the best resources out there is the help of support groups who can offer encouragement and can tell you what to expect. If your child will be five years old on or before September 30, and has not passed his eighteenth birthday, Virginia law states that they must attend school – but it can certainly be a homeschool.
You may teach at home if any one of the following conditions is met: if a parent (1) has a high school diploma; or (2) is a certified teacher; or (3) provides a program of study or curriculum which may be delivered through a correspondence course or distance learning program or in any other manner; or (4) provides evidence that he is able to provide an adequate education for the child.
These four options are listed on the form entitled, “Notice of Intent to Provide Home Instruction” that must be filed with the local superintendent. The deadline for filing this form is August 15 prior to the start of the school year.
You will be required to provide proof that you have met one of the four options. For all options, a brief description of the curriculum will need to be included. It is not necessary to provide lesson plans or send your intended textbooks for review.
After each year of homeschooling, a parent is required to submit evidence of academic achievement. This evidence may be in the form of a standardized achievement test or an evaluation or assessment. It must be submitted to the division superintendent by August 1 after each year of homeschooling.
Even though you are homeschooling, your child still must comply with the immunization requirements to the same extent as public schools. These records are to be maintained by the parents at home. Immunization exemptions are available; please check with the superintendent for these exemptions.
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