How to Start Homeschooling in California

Now that we are through the first half of the school year it appears to be a great time to make a change. What kind of change, you ask? It is a great time to pull your kids out of public school and start homeschooling them.

Aren't you tired of your kids coming home with outrageous ideas? Tired of having to do everything according to the public school's schedule? Well, you have options.

Why am I writing this "how to" post? Well, I have a friend who is pulling her kid out of school and I know she isn't the only one. So if you need a little guidance read on.

First, this is a how to for someone who is going to do it alone in the State of California. Meaning no "homeschooling" group, you are responsible for everything. This is not legal advice but a gleaning of all the information I have. You can read further here.

So you need to get a file folder and put the following information in it.

• An attendance record that has your child's absences only.
• Have a resume for yourself and/or your spouse that includes any schooling or training you have. (There is not an educational requirement, you just need to have some background proof of some) You also could put in a copy of your transcripts or diploma of your highest level of education.
• You also need to have 2 state forms completed regarding health and immunization issues. They can be found here and here. You can also exempt out of the immunizations (on the first form) and fill out an exemption for the exam.

Then you will need to file a PSA (Private School Affidavit), which some of us still refer to by the outdated R4 name. You can go over to A to Z Home's Cool Homeschooling to walk you through the form, if you have any questions. Everything is done and submitted on the computer. You need to print off a copy and keep your confirmation code (just in case).

So what else is expected of you? You will also have to instruct in English (unless your student is currently learning English, in which case it needs to be at least 50%). You will also have to make sure you teach at least the "accepted" subjects. You can go to the Content Standards on the Education Department's site to get grade level goals (though not required). You also need to keep a basic course list. Mine is basically a book list that can be found here.

The subjects for 1st to 6th (there aren't rules for kindergarten):

• English
• Math
• Science
• Social Studies
• Fine Arts
• Health
• PE

That is it! Remember, we have all seen the current school system so it can't be that hard! Good Luck!