Homeschooling in Pennsylvania: An Updated Guide for Parents

Homeschooling in Pennsylvania is governed by Act 169, which allows parents to educate their children at home, ensuring compliance with the state’s compulsory school attendance laws for children aged 8 to 17. This guide provides updated and comprehensive information for parents considering or currently homeschooling their children in Pennsylvania.

Legal Requirements for Homeschooling in Pennsylvania

Parents have two primary options for homeschooling in Pennsylvania: employing a properly qualified private tutor or conducting a home education program themselves.

Properly Qualified Private Tutor

A properly qualified private tutor must hold a valid Pennsylvania teacher’s certificate, provide the majority of the instruction, and receive payment for their services. They must also file their teaching certificate and a criminal background check with the superintendent of the student’s district, and provide at least 180 days or 900 hours (990 hours at the secondary level) of instruction per year. This ensures that the tutor is both qualified and accountable for the education provided.

Home Education Program

Alternatively, parents or guardians can teach their children through a home education program by filing a notarized affidavit with the local school district before starting the program and by August 1st annually thereafter. The affidavit must include the supervisor’s name, children’s names and ages, address, phone number, and an outline of the proposed educational objectives. It must also include evidence that the child has received the legally required immunizations and health services, such as annual vision and hearing tests, to ensure the child’s well-being is monitored.

Instructional Requirements for Homeschooling

Elementary Level Instruction

Elementary-level students must be taught essential subjects including English (spelling, reading, and writing), arithmetic, science, geography, and history of the United States and Pennsylvania. Additionally, civics education and safety education, including fire prevention, are required to prepare students for responsible citizenship and personal safety. Physical education, music, and art are also included to ensure a well-rounded education that incorporates physical activity and creative development.

Secondary Level Instruction

At the secondary level, the curriculum must include advanced subjects such as English (language, literature, speech, and composition), science, geography, social studies (including civics, world history, and history of the United States and Pennsylvania), and mathematics (including algebra and geometry). Continued instruction in physical education, art, and music supports ongoing physical and creative development, while health and safety education ensures students are knowledgeable about maintaining their health and well-being.

Portfolio and Evaluation Requirements

Parents must maintain a detailed portfolio that includes a log of reading materials used and samples of the child’s writings, worksheets, and other work. This documentation provides a comprehensive record of the child’s educational activities and progress. Students in grades 3, 5, and 8 must be given standardized tests in reading/language arts and mathematics by someone other than the parent, with results kept in the child’s portfolio. An annual evaluation of the child’s progress must be conducted by a licensed psychologist, certified teacher, or qualified private school teacher. This evaluation includes a review of the portfolio and must be submitted to the district superintendent by June 30th, ensuring the child is making adequate educational progress.

Special Education Requirements

If the child has a disability and has been identified as needing special education by the school district, the proposed home education program must be approved by a certified special education teacher or a licensed clinical or certified school psychologist. This requirement does not apply to students identified as gifted or talented, ensuring the program meets the child’s specific educational needs. As a homeschool evaluator, I can provide the necessary evaluations and support for families navigating these requirements.

Participation in School District Activities

Homeschooled students in Pennsylvania are eligible to participate in certain school district activities, such as sports, band, and clubs, referred to as Section 511 activities. Parents should contact their local school district for information on which programs are available and the specific participation requirements.

Obtaining a High School Diploma for Homeschooled Students

Students who complete homeschooling do not receive diplomas from the school district but can obtain one through approved homeschooling organizations, such as the Pennsylvania Homeschoolers Accreditation Agency (PHAA), by successfully completing the GED test, or by completing one year or 30 semester hours at an accredited postsecondary institution.

Returning to Public School After Homeschooling

Parents can re-enroll their homeschooled children in public school at any time before graduation or age 21. Placement decisions are made by the school based on provided coursework and objective testing measures to determine the appropriate grade placement.

Differences Between Homeschooling, Homebound Instruction, and Instruction in the Home

Homeschooling is a parent-led education program where the child is not enrolled in the school district. Homebound instruction is provided by the school district to an enrolled student who cannot attend school temporarily due to medical issues, while instruction in the home is for students with disabilities needing full-time special education services outside the school setting.

Additional Resources for Homeschooling in Pennsylvania

For more information about homeschooling in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s website or contact their School Services Unit at (717) 214-8212. Other helpful resources include the PA Homeschoolers website and the Pennsylvania Home Education Network, which offer curricula and support for homeschooling families. For specific legal advice, consider consulting an attorney.

By following this guide, parents can ensure they meet all legal requirements and provide a robust educational experience for their children at home. As a homeschool evaluator, I am available to assist families with evaluations and to provide support throughout their homeschooling journey.