HOMESCHOOLING IN INDIANA & HOMESCHOOL LAWS
You may be considering homeschooling in Indiana, but don’t know where to start regarding state regulations and requirements. This guide will walk you through what you need to know to successfully set up your own home school program legally in Indiana. We’ll cover the history of homeschooling in Indiana, requirements under current laws and regulations, required notifications and filings, curriculum and testing choices, high school transcripts, extracurricular activities, graduation requirements, and special education services.
History of Homeschooling in Indiana
The legality of homeschooling in Indiana finds its foundation in State v. Peterman (1904), a pivotal case where the Indiana Appellate Court defined a school as “a place where instruction is imparted to the young.” The court upheld the notion that a school conducted at home qualifies as a private school, emphasizing that the number of students doesn’t diminish its educational character. The court’s affirmation underscored that compulsory attendance laws were intended for parents who neglect their children’s learning, not those who diligently provide equivalent educational opportunities at home.
However, despite this landmark ruling, the legality of home schooling remained somewhat uncertain during the 1970s and early 1980s. Local school districts wielded varying degrees of oversight, with parents often needing approval before they started homeschooling, subject to the discretion of district superintendents. This period of ambiguity led to the formation of the Indiana Association of Home Educators (IAHE) in 1983, advocating for the legislative rights of Indiana families.
The definitive clarification came with Mazanec v. North Judson-San Pierre School Corporation (1985), where the Seventh Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals solidified the legality of home schooling, stripping local districts of their jurisdiction over homeschoolers. This ruling affirmed parents’ rights to educate their children at home, aligning with both State v. Peterman and the Indiana Code, which mandated that children receive instruction equivalent to that of public schools.
Current Indiana Homeschool Laws and Regulations
Homeschooling in Indiana is categorized as non-public, non-accredited schools under Indiana homeschool laws. This statute requires homeschools to maintain accurate daily attendance, which must be available upon request by the Secretary of Education or the public school superintendent in the student’s district. Importantly, there’s no specific format mandated for these records.
According to Indiana homeschool laws, students are not bound by compulsory school attendance laws until they reach the age of seven. Nevertheless, parents have the flexibility to initiate homeschooling before their child turns seven if they so desire.
Homeschool laws in Indiana underscore the necessity of maintaining attendance records to verify student enrollment and attendance. Parents are tasked with ensuring that their homeschool provides 180 days of instruction within an academic year, extending from July 1 of one year to June 30 of the next. It’s noteworthy that any days the homeschool student spent enrolled in a public or accredited school count towards meeting the 180-day attendance requirement.
Furthermore, IC 20-33-2-27 and IC 20-33-2-28 of the homeschooling laws in Indiana make it clear that homeschool parents are legally obligated to provide instruction equivalent to that offered in public institutions if they choose to homeschool. However, Indiana homeschooling laws don’t offer a precise definition of what constitutes “instruction equivalent to that given in public schools.”
Additionally, homeschool laws in Indiana affirm that homeschools are exempt from the regulatory requirements outlined in IC 20 or IC 21 concerning educational program content. This provision empowers homeschool families to tailor their educational approach according to their preferences and the unique needs of the child enrolled.
Most families find that low regulation means increased flexibility and greater ease as they home school. Indiana’s homeschooling regulations provide the autonomy to craft an educational experience tailored to their children’s needs. While adherence to attendance and instructional standards is required, homeschooling offers flexibility and freedom unmatched by traditional schooling systems. See reference here.
How to Set Up a Homeschool In Indiana
In Indiana, homeschools are classified as non-accredited private schools, necessitating compliance with the state’s private school regulations. To begin homeschooling under this statute, the following steps should be adhered to:
If your child is currently enrolled in a school, the first step is to officially withdraw them. This process involves notifying the school administration of your decision to homeschool.
While not legally mandatory, some homeschool families choose to register their child with the Department of Education. This registration provides an opportunity to access resources and support offered by the state, although it’s optional. Here’s the link to the form.
One of the most exciting aspects of home schooling is the freedom to choose a curriculum that aligns with your family’s values, learning preferences, and educational goals. There is no state-approved curriculum for homeschool at any grade level, nor are there state-approved or mandated textbooks. Indiana law gives home educators the flexibility to choose the textbooks they feel will most benefit their children. Indiana homeschool laws grant parents full autonomy in selecting the homeschool curriculum, allowing for a personalized and tailored approach to education.
Homeschool programs must operate for the same number of days as schools in the district, typically 180 days per academic year.
Accurate attendance must be kept to verify student enrollment and attendance. These records must be accessible upon request by the state superintendent or the superintendent of the school district in which the homeschool resides.
Upon individual request by the secretary of education, homeschoolers must provide the number of children being taught at home, categorized by grade level.
It’s noteworthy that while Indiana public school officials may encourage homeschoolers to complete an online enrollment form on the Indiana Department of Education website, such enrollment is voluntary and not mandated by state law.
Maintaining Your Indiana Homeschool
Maintaining a homeschool in Indiana involves several key steps to ensure compliance with state regulations and to create a successful learning environment for your child. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to homeschool in Indiana:
Familiarize yourself with Indiana homeschooling laws, which classify homeschools as non-accredited private schools. Key regulations include:
Following the requirements for private institutions under Indiana homeschool laws.
Ensuring equivalent instruction in the English language.
Operating for the same number of days as schools in your district (typically 180 days).
Keeping accurate attendance records.
Providing information to the state upon request, such as the number of children being homeschooled.
Choose a homeschool curriculum that meets your child’s educational needs and aligns with your home schooling philosophy. While Indiana homeschool laws grant parents the freedom to select their own curriculum, you may find it helpful to follow general subject guidelines similar to those taught in public institutions, such as language arts and math.
Create a structured daily or weekly schedule to start homeschooling activities, including academic lessons, hands-on projects, field trips, and other activities. Having a consistent routine can help maintain productivity and organization in your homeschool.
Maintain accurate attendance records to document your child’s enrollment and attendance in your homeschool. These records may be requested by the state superintendent or the superintendent of your local school district.
Regularly assess your child’s progress and understanding of academic concepts through informal assessments, quizzes, tests, and projects. Adjust your teaching approach as needed to address any areas of difficulty or to provide additional challenges.
By following these steps and remaining diligent in your efforts to maintain your home school, you can create a nurturing and enriching educational environment that fosters your child’s academic and personal growth.
Indiana Homeschool Reporting Requirements
While Indiana homeschoolers are only legally required to maintain attendance records, it’s prudent to go beyond this mandate by personally documenting various aspects of your home schooling journey. Keeping thorough records not only helps track progress but also proves invaluable when transitioning back to traditional schooling or applying to colleges or jobs in the future.
Parents are responsible for maintaining any records related to their student’s home school program. IDOE does not accept or maintain educational records for homeschool students.
To build a comprehensive portfolio, consider tracking the following for each child:
Maintain a record of the core subjects studied during each school year, including curriculum titles and learning objectives. This provides insight into the breadth and depth of your child’s education.
Gather samples of your student’s work from each course undertaken. These examples showcase academic achievements, creativity, and skill development over time.
Document any parent-administered assessments, online school reports, or evaluations conducted throughout the academic year. These assessments help assess learning progress and identify areas for improvement.
Keep track of scores from any standardized tests your child takes. These scores provide objective measures of academic proficiency and may be required for college admissions or job applications.
For high school students, maintain a comprehensive high school transcript detailing courses completed, grades earned, credits awarded, and any activities or achievements. A well-documented transcript serves as a vital tool for college admissions and scholarship applications.
By diligently maintaining these records in a portfolio, you not only meet legal requirements but also create a valuable resource that reflects your child’s educational journey and accomplishments.
Homeschool Testing In Indiana
Indiana homeschool laws do not mandate standardized testing for homeschooled children. However, families have the option for their children to participate in state standardized tests if they are enrolled in a specific educational program or initiative through a public or accredited non-public school. While not compulsory, the Indiana Department of Education recommends periodic standardized achievement testing for homeschooled children. These tests can provide valuable insights into a child’s academic progress and help identify areas for improvement.
If families prefer alternative testing methods or wish to arrange private testing for their homeschooled children, they have the flexibility to do so. Private testing can offer a personalized approach to assessing a child’s educational development and can be tailored to meet specific learning goals.
Funding Your Indiana Homeschool
Home education is primarily funded by the families who choose to homeschool their children. Unlike public schools, which receive funding from state and local governments based on student enrollment, homeschooling programs in Indiana are responsible for covering the costs associated with curriculum materials, resources, and educational activities.
Additionally, homeschool families may seek out scholarships, grants, or educational resources offered by private organizations, home schooling cooperatives, or educational suppliers to supplement their homeschooling expenses.
The Indiana Treasurer of State (TOS) oversees the Indiana Education Scholarship Account (INESA) program, working in partnership with the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE). This initiative allows eligible students’ parents or emancipated students to access scholarship funds for various educational purposes. These funds can be used to cover costs associated with approved educational programs, therapies, services, tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses, provided they are obtained from INESA-approved entities.
Federal Tax Breaks
Homeschool families may be eligible for certain federal tax benefits to help offset educational expenses. One option is a Coverdell Education Savings Account, which allows money to grow tax-free when used for qualified education costs. Homeschool parents might also be able to deduct a portion of mortgage interest or rent if part of the home is used regularly and exclusively for homeschooling. Finally, tax credits or deductions could be available for required books, supplies, equipment and curricula used for homeschool instruction. To learn more about these potential tax advantages, homeschool families should review the information and resources provided by the IRS.
Indiana Immunization Requirements
Under Indiana law, accredited public and non-public schools are mandated to verify the immunization status of students. However, homeschools, classified as non-accredited schools, are exempt from this requirement. This means that families are not obligated to comply with the immunization verification process enforced in traditional school settings.
The exemption for homeschools from immunization requirements is rooted in the recognition of homeschooling as a distinct educational alternative. Unlike accredited schools, which are subject to state regulations regarding immunization, homeschools operate independently, allowing families to make individual decisions regarding their children’s healthcare.
Indiana State Graduation Requirements
Homeschooled students do not receive diplomas from the local public school or the Indiana Department of Education. Homeschools are nonpublic non-accredited schools. Consequently, graduation requirements do not apply to them and homeschool students will not receive an Indiana high school diploma accredited by the Indiana State Board of Education (SBOE). While state law does not mandate specific educational records for Indiana homeschoolers, it’s highly advisable to maintain thorough documentation of coursework as a high schooler. These records serve as valuable resources for college applications and prospective employment opportunities, providing evidence of academic achievement and educational proficiency.
Many homeschoolers aged sixteen (16) and above, an alternative pathway to attaining a recognized credential is available through the High School Equivalency (HSE) test. This option allows students to earn an HSE certificate, which is equivalent to a high school diploma. Detailed information about the HSE test can be found on the Department of Workforce Development’s Indiana HSE page.
Indiana Homeschool Charters
There aren’t any traditional “home school charter schools” in Indiana. Homeschooling in Indiana typically operates independently of charter schools. However, Indiana does offer various educational options, including public virtual charter schools, which may cater to students who prefer learning from home.
Virtual charter schools provide online education, they differ from traditional home schooling in that students enrolled in these programs typically follow a structured curriculum provided by the school rather than creating their own, as homeschoolers do. It’s essential for families considering alternative educational options in Indiana to research and explore the available resources to find the best fit for their children’s needs and educational goals.
Local Indiana Homeschooling Resources
Home schooling your children may be a daunting task at times, but there are numerous Indiana homeschool groups, homeschool associations, and homeschool cooperatives (co-ops) that provide support, resources, learning opportunities and social opportunities for families. These support groups vary in size, structure, and focus, catering to a wide range of educational philosophies and interests. While not a source for textbooks, these organizations can provide guidance about local support groups and co ops, choosing curricula, networking with other homeschoolers, and the “how to’s” of home education.
Indiana is fortunate enough to have two statewide associations dedicated to supporting the home schooling journey of many families.
Indiana Association of Home Educators: Their primary goals include advocacy for home education rights, influencing legislation to protect the freedom to educate at home, providing valuable information to homeschooling families, and organizing seminars, field trips, and events to encourage and support families on their home education journey.
Indiana Home Educators’ Network: A statewide non profit organization that serves as a support network for homeschooling families in Indiana. IHEN provides resources, information, and connections to help families navigate the homeschool experience effectively.
Homeschool associations and co ops provide valuable resources and guidance, ensuring that families receive the necessary homeschool support to create effective educational environments. By joining homeschool associations, families find access to a network of homeschool support groups with other homeschool families, enabling them to share ideas, materials, and strategies.
Public libraries, museums, Ivy Tech community colleges and local Parks Departments also have excellent supplemental resources to enhance academics affordably. Science Central in Fort Wayne is a great option for Indiana field trips. Community centers may offer discounted classes as well.
If you are homeschooling in Indiana, laws must be adhered to in order to ensure compliance with state educational requirements. Understanding the laws for homeschooling in Indiana is crucial for families to provide a legitimate and well-rounded education. Parents should familiarize themselves with the laws on homeschooling in Indiana to meet all necessary criteria and avoid potential legal issues.
