Homeschooling Resources and Information
Homeschooling can offer an individualized approach to education. This allows your student to find the plan that works best for their student’s needs. For families with children with disabilities, homeschooling can provide flexibility, personalized instruction, and a supported learning environment that can help your student succeed.
In Washington State, homeschooling is covered under the Home-Based Instruction Law. This means that Washington state law recognizes homeschooling and provides specific requirements.
In Washington State, a child must be enrolled in a school or homeschooled by their 8th birthday. To homeschool, you must qualify, declare intent, begin to cover 11 subjects, test or assess annually, and keep records. To learn more about the requirements visit https://washhomeschool.org/resources/homeschool-law/.
Homeschooled students with disabilities can still receive some services if homeschooled. If your student is homeschooled, you can request ancillary services (PT, OT, ST). If you request these services, your student will need to have a current IEP within the school/school district. The district may offer special education services on a limited basis or provide accommodations that are compatible with homeschooling.
It is also possible to do a hybrid education with homeschooling and your local school. For example, your student can take music, P.E., and math at school but then homeschool the rest of the subjects. Contact your school district and IEP team to discuss more options.
More Resources Homeschooling Law and Requirements:
- Washington OSPI Home-Based Instruction Informational Webpage: https://ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/learning-alternatives/home-based-instruction
- Washington Homeschool Law at a Glance: https://hslda.org/legal/washington
- Washington Homeschool Organization Law Information: https://washhomeschool.org/resources/ homeschool-law/
- Special Needs at Home in Washington: https://washhomeschool.org/special-needs-at-home-in-washington/
Some tips for Transitioning to Homeschooling:
- Understanding The Transition: Be patient with yourself and your student! Transitioning to homeschooling can be a big adjustment. It may take you a few months to get into a routine that will work for your student.
- Involve your student as much as you can in your homeschool plan.
- You can buy curriculum, find free curriculums online, or have a mix. Homeschooling allows for flexibility and choice!
- Local Homeschool Parent Facebook Groups and your local libraries are great resources to find activities and ideas for your lesson plans.
- Make sure to keep records, complete annual assessments, and research homeschool high school transcripts if the student plans higher education.
