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The topic of homeschooling can generate a lot of questions, and sometimes it’s difficult to find the answers.
On this page, I provide answers to many of the questions that are asked about homeschooling in general, and specifically in Pennsylvania.
How many hours are in a school day?
The home education law doesn’t define a day, so use a standard that you feel comfortable with. I recommend doing some research and some thinking before you decide. Personally, I don’t think a 5-year-old child should spend more than 30 minutes a day doing seat-work....
Good Advice for New Homeschool Moms
Here's some good advice from an unknown source: Homeschooling for those who have been in public school can be a culture shock.Many children who have been in public school can be way behind much of the homeschool curriculum. Some of the things I learned when I pulled...
How can I fit in all these subjects?
Believe it or not, you are not required to teach any subject every year. Really. The home education law says: “At the elementary school level, the following courses shall be taught: English, to include spelling, reading and writing; arithmetic; science; geography; the...
Your First Affidavit
WHEN TO FILEThe law says that, the first time you submit an affidavit and objectives for John, you must do so “prior to the commencement of the home education program.” Since the public school year runs from July 1 to June 30 every year, if you submit these items no...
Do I have to wait for approval or permission from the school district?
No, because when you file a homeschool affidavit, you are notifying the district that you will be homeschooling. You are not asking for permission or approval. The Pennsylvania Department of Education confirms this on their website: “Regulation found in 22 Pa. Code...
Standardized Tests? Help!
The Facts: If your child is in grade 3, 5 or 8, the home education law requires that you include in your child’s portfolio the results (scores) for the reading/language arts and mathematics sections of the standardized achievement test your child has taken during the...
Do I need to include my child’s birthdate and grade on my affidavit?
No. The law says you affidavit must include “the name and age of each child who shall participate in the home education program,” but not their birthdate, social security number, grade, or gender.
Is it too late for me to start homeschooling this year?
It’s never too late. You can file your affidavit and objectives at any time. The law says you must file them before you begin. The law says: “A notarized affidavit of the parent or guardian or other person having legal custody of the child or children, filed prior to...
My son turns 6 on September 30. Do I need to file an affidavit for him this year?
No. If your child turns 6 years old after September 1, you can wait until the next school year to file an affidavit. Source: https://www.psba.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/School-Code-2019-and-Other-FAQ-20190813-ADA-Compliant.pdf