The District of Columbia, a vibrant hub of culture and politics, offers a unique educational landscape for families seeking alternative schooling options. In this dynamic city, where history and innovation intertwine, parents increasingly turn to homeschooling as a flexible and personalized approach to their children’s education.
High School of America, the leading homeschooling provider in the District of Columbia, embraces this spirit of excellence and empowers students to excel academically and beyond. Our online high school diploma courses are meticulously designed to cater to the individual needs of each student, ensuring a tailored educational journey that nurtures their strengths and passions.
Aligned with the latest standards established by the District of Columbia’s Office of the State Superintendent of Education, our homeschool curriculum provides a comprehensive and rigorous education. Whether your child aspires to pursue higher education or explore their entrepreneurial dreams, High School of America equips them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in their chosen path.
Don’t wait any longer to give your child an unparalleled education that combines the flexibility of homeschooling with the expertise of High School of America.
Contact us today to discover how our District of Columbia Homeschooling Online High School can help your child realize their dreams and unlock their limitless potential.
Homeschooling Laws in District of Columbia
Homeschooling is legal in the District of Columbia. You are required to adhere to the following requirements when homeschooling in District of Columbia:
Notifying the State
According to the District of Columbia regulations, parents who want to homeschool their children must use an official form provided by the D.C. Office of the State Superintendent of Education. This notice of intent must be submitted 15 days before the official start of homeschooling and every year before August 15. The form requires applicants to initially include a copy of their high school diploma or GED.
If the high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) cannot be located, a cover letter explaining the situation is an acceptable alternative.
Failing to file by August 15 doesn’t mean you can’t homeschool.
Qualification Requirements
In order to homeschool in the District of Columbia, it is necessary to have a high school diploma or its equivalent (the GED). However, if you don’t possess a diploma or its equivalent, you can request a waiver from the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE).
To obtain the waiver, you must provide evidence demonstrating your ability to deliver comprehensive and consistent education.
Required Courses
There are state mandated subjects that homeschooling families must include in their curriculum.
Grades 9-12
District of Columbia’s Superintendent of Education mandates the following high school courses:
- Art
- Social Studies
- Health
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Music
- Physical Education
- Science
Instruction Requirements
In accordance with District of Columbia regulations, a bona fide homeschooling program must offer comprehensive and consistent instruction for an appropriate amount of time to carry out the home education program effectively.
This does not imply that homeschooling families must provide the same number of instructional hours as public schools, teach their children for an identical duration, or adhere to the same vacation schedules.
However, it is expected that instruction is provided during the period of the year when public schools are in session.
Annual Assessment
Homeschooling students in the District of Columbia aren’t required to take part in annual testing. Even though the testing isn’t mandatory, homeschooling students qualify to participate in public school-sponsored assessment in your resident school district without a fee.
Record Keeping
In Washington, D.C., regulations mandate that homeschooling parents keep a collection of educational materials showcasing their child’s ongoing academic progress.
This portfolio should include samples of the child’s written work, completed worksheets and workbooks, assessments, creative projects, and other materials demonstrating their active participation in comprehensive and regular educational activities across various subjects.
The portfolio needs to be maintained for a period of one year and will only be reviewed if there are concerns about the adequacy of the child’s education.
Discontinuing with Homeschooling
Before discontinuing homeschooling, it is necessary to send a written notice to the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education at least 15 days in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Homeschooling in District of Columbia
The following are the most commonly asked questions about homeschooling in District of Columbia:
What is online homeschooling in the District of Columbia?
Online homeschooling in the District of Columbia refers to the practice of parents or guardians educating their children at home using online resources, curriculum, and instructional materials. It allows students to learn at their own pace and provides flexibility in terms of scheduling and curriculum choices.
Is online homeschooling legal in the District of Columbia?
Yes, online homeschooling is legal in the District of Columbia. The District recognizes homeschooling as a valid educational option, and parents have the right to homeschool their children as long as they comply with the necessary legal requirements.
What are the legal requirements for online homeschooling in the District of Columbia?
To homeschool in the District of Columbia, parents or guardians need to follow these steps:
- Submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) to homeschool to the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE).
- The NOI should include information about the parent or guardian, the child, and the educational program being used.
- Maintain records of the child’s attendance and academic progress.
- Provide a portfolio of the child’s work upon request.
Can I use an online curriculum for homeschooling in the District of Columbia?
Yes, you can use an online curriculum for homeschooling in the District of Columbia. Online curricula provide a structured educational program with interactive lessons, assignments, and assessments.
Can my homeschooled child participate in extracurricular activities or sports in the District of Columbia?
Yes, homeschooled children in the District of Columbia can participate in extracurricular activities and sports. The District of Columbia Interscholastic Athletic Association (DCIAA) allows homeschoolers to participate in sports programs offered by public and private schools. Additionally, various community organizations and clubs offer extracurricular activities for homeschoolers.
How to Do it
To start online homeschooling in the District of Columbia, you can follow these steps:
- Research the Laws and Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the homeschooling laws and requirements specific to the District of Columbia. Visit the official website of the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) or contact them directly to understand the legal obligations, registration procedures, and any necessary paperwork.
- Notify the School District: Notify the local school district or the OSSE about your intention to homeschool your child. Provide any required documentation or notification forms as per the regulations. Ensure you adhere to the specific notification deadlines and processes outlined by the district or OSSE.
- Design a Curriculum: Create a curriculum tailored to your child’s needs and learning goals. Consider their age, grade level, and educational requirements. There are various online resources available, such as educational websites, curriculum providers, and lesson plans, that can assist you in designing an effective curriculum. Also, consider incorporating online courses, virtual textbooks, educational videos, and interactive learning platforms into your child’s education.
- Set Up a Study Space: Dedicate a quiet and comfortable study space in your home where your child can focus on their online homeschooling. Ensure that the space is free from distractions and has the necessary tools, such as a computer or tablet, reliable internet access, and any other materials required for their studies.
- Establish a Schedule: Create a daily or weekly schedule to provide structure and routine to your child’s homeschooling experience. Determine specific times for subjects, breaks, and other activities. This helps maintain consistency and allows your child to develop good study habits.
- Monitor Progress and Assessments: Regularly assess your child’s progress and understanding of the materials. Use online assessments or quizzes provided by the homeschooling platforms, create assessments, or engage in discussions and projects to evaluate their learning. Adapt the curriculum or teaching methods to address gaps or challenges.
- Supplement with Local Resources: Take advantage of local resources and opportunities to enhance your child’s homeschooling experience. Visit museums, libraries, parks, and community centers that offer educational programs or events. Join homeschooling groups or cooperatives in your area to connect with other homeschooling families and participate in group activities.
- Keep Records: Maintain thorough records of your child’s homeschooling activities, including attendance, coursework, assessments, and any other required documentation as per the district’s regulations.
- Seek Support and Guidance: Join online homeschooling communities or forums where you can connect with other homeschooling parents and educators. These platforms can provide valuable advice, resources, and support throughout your homeschooling journey. Additionally, consider contacting local homeschooling associations or support groups for further guidance and assistance.
Advantages of Homeschooling Online in District of Columbia
Homeschooling online in the District of Columbia offers several advantages for students and their families. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Flexibility: District of Columbia Homeschooling Online offers parents the flexibility to design an individualized learning program for their child. Parents can create a program that meets their student’s specific needs and tailor it to fit their lifestyle and schedule.
- Customization: With District of Columbia Homeschooling Online, parents can customize the curriculum for their students. They have access to various courses and materials, allowing them to cater instruction to their child’s individual learning style and interests.
- Support: District of Columbia Homeschooling Online provides parents the necessary support they need while teaching their children at home. The website offers expert advice, tips for effective homeschooling, and a community forum where parents can connect with other homeschoolers.
- Cost-Effective: District of Columbia Homeschooling Online is a cost-effective solution for parents who want to pursue homeschooling. The curriculum and resources are affordable, making it easy for families to provide their children with quality education without breaking the bank.
- Enhanced Technology Skills: Homeschooling online exposes students to digital tools and platforms, helping them develop essential technology skills. These skills are increasingly valuable in today’s digital age and can benefit students in their future academic and professional pursuits.
- Greater Focus and Reduced Distractions: Learning from home in an online environment can reduce distractions commonly found in traditional classrooms. Students can concentrate on their studies without disruptions from classmates or other external factors, resulting in increased focus and productivity.
Final Thoughts!
Online homeschooling in the District of Columbia is an effective and legal way to ensure students still have access to quality education while transitioning into their adult lives, despite any restrictions due to Covid-19.
While it isn’t easy, there are plenty of great resources for families in D.C., such as High School of America, to provide help if needed. Homeschooling online allows parents in District of Columbia more control over what their children learn, how they learn it, and who they learn it from within their own home or virtual classroom.
Regardless of whether you are considering homeschooling your child or not, you must be informed on all available options so that every student receives what they need under state regulations and guidelines.
If you have been considering online homeschooling in the District of Columbia for your children or for yourselves, contact High School of America today!