In Florida, you have three ways to legally homeschool your kids. Once you pick your method, just follow the steps for that option:
Option 1: Homeschooling under the Homeschool Statute
- File a Notice of Intent
- Send a notice to your county superintendent within 30 days of starting your homeschool.
- Include your kids’ full names, addresses, and birthdates.
- Do this once, not every year.
- No extra info needed unless your child joins a public school program.
- Keep a Portfolio
- Gather records and materials throughout the year.
- Include a log of activities and samples of your child’s work.
- Keep these for two years in case the district wants to review them (they’ll give you 15 days’ notice).
- Annual Evaluation
- Choose one:
- Have a certified teacher evaluate your child.
- Use a nationally normed test.
- Take a state assessment test.
- Get evaluated by a licensed psychologist.
- Use another mutually agreed-upon tool.
- Choose one:
- File a Notice of Termination
- When done homeschooling or if you move, notify your county within 30 days.
- Include your child’s final assessment if they graduate.
Option 2: Homeschooling under a Private School “Umbrella” Program
- Enroll your child in a private school registered with Florida’s Department of Education.
- Make sure the school follows all state requirements.
- These schools supervise your program instead of local officials.
Option 3: Homeschooling with a Private Tutor
- Select a Tutor
- The tutor needs a valid Florida teaching certificate for the relevant subjects/grades.
- Keep Records
- The tutor must maintain records and reports as per state regulations.
- Provide Required Instruction Days
- Ensure your child attends school for 180 days or the equivalent in hours.
