HOMESCHOOLING IN MICHIGAN & HOMESCHOOL LAWS
You may be considering homeschooling in Michigan, 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 homeschool programs in Michigan. We’ll cover the history of homeschooling in Michigan, laws and regulations, required notifications and filings, curriculum and testing choices, transcripts, extracurricular activities, graduation requirements, and special education services.
History of Homeschooling in Michigan
Homeschooling in Michigan has a long and rich history, dating back to the early days of the state in the 1800s, before compulsory laws were introduced. In those early years, many students were educated at home by their parents or tutors, as formal institutions were not always available or accessible.
In 1993, a landmark case, People v. DeJonge, reached the state Supreme Court. The case involved a home schooling family who had been prosecuted for violating the state’s compulsory laws. The court ruled that the state’s teacher certification requirement for homeschoolers was unconstitutional, as it violated the parents’ right to direct their children’s learning. This decision paved the way for greater legal recognition and protection of homeschooling in Michigan.
Transitioning into the 1990s and 2000s, government harassment of home schooling parents notably diminished, particularly following legislative amendments such as MCL 380.1561 of the homeschooling laws in Michigan, which provided explicit provisions for a home school in Michigan. Consequently, home schooling experienced a surge in popularity, emerging as the fastest-growing form of non-public instruction. However, since 2019, a push for increased regulation has been steadily gaining momentum.
Home schooling has continued to grow in popularity in Michigan, with an estimated 60,000 to 100,000 students currently being homeschooled in the state. Many families choose home schooling for a variety of reasons, including religious beliefs, dissatisfaction with the local school system, desire for more individualized curriculum, or concerns about safety and peer pressure.
Current Michigan Homeschool Laws and Regulations
Michigan homeschool laws define a home school as a non public school or program in which a child is educated and taught primarily at home by his or her parent or legal guardian. Michigan homeschooling laws do not require home-based teachers to be certified or meet any specific educational qualifications. However, instruction must include a curriculum consisting of the subjects of reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar (language arts).
In Michigan, parents hold the fundamental right to provide home schooling for their child. According to MCL 380.1561, the Michigan homeschool laws mandate that parents or legal guardians ensure their child, aged 6 to 16, attends school for the entire academic school year, with exceptions under specific circumstances. Notably, Michigan homeschool laws were amended in 2010, extending compulsory attendance to age 18 for a child who turned 11 after December 1, 2009, or who entered the sixth grade level post-2009. These exceptions encompass various educational avenues, including enrollment in a state-approved non public institution or participation in structured homeschooling programs in Michigan.
The responsibility for home schooling lies squarely with the parent or legal guardian. They oversee assignments, administer tests, and evaluate their child’s academic progress. Furthermore, the family is accountable for issuing report cards, transcripts, and diplomas based on internally set standards. Upon completion of grade level five of the home schooling journey through grade level 12, it is the parent’s prerogative to confer a diploma upon the graduate, affirming their educational achievements.
Some local school boards in the wolverine state allow homeschoolers to participate in athletics, but you must contact the local school board in the area where you reside to confirm availability.
It’s important to note that while homeschools have considerable freedom and flexibility under Michigan homeschool laws, they are still subject to the state’s child labor and abuse/neglect laws. Educational neglect can be charged if a child is not being educated properly. Parents should maintain records of their child’s educational progress and be prepared to demonstrate that their child is receiving an appropriate instruction if questioned by authorities.
How to Set Up a Homeschool In Michigan
Michigan parents have the flexibility to opt for home schooling under the Michigan homeschool laws, as a non public institution, or pursue both avenues simultaneously.
Option 1: Home schooling Under Michigan’s Statute
Parents educating their child at home under the Michigan homeschool laws must adhere to an organized educational program with curriculum encompassing key subject areas, including:
Reading
Spelling
Mathematics
Science
History
Civics
Literature
Writing
English grammar
Notably, Michigan law does not mandate parents to notify authorities of their home schooling status. Instead, the statute explicitly grants parents the authority to provide home instruction.
Option 2: Home schooling as a Non Public School
To establish the above, adherence to the following requirements is necessary under the homeschool law in Michigan:
The instructor can be a parent or a selected individual. Irrespective of the instructor’s identity, they must possess either a teacher certificate, a teacher permit, or hold a bachelor’s degree. However, parents who hold a religious objection to teacher certification can claim a religious exemption, but solely when the parent serves as the instructor.
At the commencement of each academic school year, it is mandatory to notify the local public school superintendent about home schooling. This notification should include the names and ages of all enrolled students, details regarding the parent’s residence, and the names and addresses of both the parent and any child enrolled but not attending regularly. While the Michigan Department of Ed. has the authority to request records pertaining to pupil enrollment, course syllabi, and teacher qualifications, submission of such information is only obligatory upon receiving a written request.
Parents often design customized courses, ensuring the courses align with state educational standards while incorporating additional courses based on their child’s interests. Children enrolled in nonpublic institutions must receive instruction in essential subjects including mathematics, reading, English, science, social studies, health, and physical ed. across all grades. Moreover, in high school, students must additionally be educated on the US Constitution, the Michigan Constitution, and the history and functioning of civil governance at the federal, state, and local levels within the United States and Michigan.
State Form SM-4325, provided by the state department, facilitates the reporting of this required information. Get the form at their site here.
A homeschool parent may turn to online learning platforms to enhance their children’s online homeschooling experience with online courses and curriculum. Many who homeschool in Michigan appreciate the flexibility of designing their own program, while also taking advantage of a supplemental educational program.
Maintaining Your Michigan Homeschool
After you know how to homeschool in Michigan, maintaining it involves several key steps to ensure compliance with state regulations and to provide quality instruction for your children. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process:
Understand Michigan Homeschooling Laws: Familiarize yourself with Michigan’s homeschooling laws and regulations.
Choose a Homeschooling Method: Decide on an educational approach that aligns with your child’s learning style and your family’s values. Whether you prefer a structured curriculum, a relaxed homeschooling approach, or a combination of methods, selecting the right approach is crucial for success.
Notify Local Authorities: If you choose the statute, you are not required to notify local authorities. However, if you opt to operate as a nonpublic school, you must submit annual notification to the local public school superintendent, as outlined in the Michigan homeschool laws.
Curriculum Planning: Develop a comprehensive curriculum that covers the required subjects mandated by Michigan law, including mathematics, reading, English, science, social studies, health, and physical education. Additionally, ensure that high school students receive instruction on the US Constitution, the Michigan Constitution, and civil governance.
Maintain Records: Keep thorough records of your homeschooling activities, including attendance, coursework, grades, and any other relevant documentation. These records may be required for portfolio reviews or if requested by educational authorities.
Teaching and Assessment: Provide instruction to your children using a variety of methods and resources. Regularly assess their progress through tests, assignments, and other forms of evaluation to ensure they are meeting educational objectives.
Seek Support and Resources: Join support groups, attend workshops, and utilize online resources to connect with other Michigan families and access valuable educational materials and information.
Stay Updated: Stay informed about any changes or updates to homeschool laws in Michigan. Subscribe to relevant newsletters, follow homeschooling advocacy organizations, and regularly check official government websites for updates.
In the event that your student would return or transfer to another school, that institution would reevaluate for grade placement and transfer of credit.
By following these steps and maintaining dedication and commitment, you can effectively homeschool in Michigan while providing your children a well-rounded instruction and curriculum tailored to their individual learning needs and interests.
Michigan Homeschool Reporting Requirements
The submission of an annual report to the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) remains a voluntary process. However, this requirement becomes obligatory if the student seeks eligible specialized support from the local public school district or intermediate school district. In such cases, it is advisable for parents to initially furnish a completed Nonpublic School Membership Report to the MDE. Before special education services can be initiated, the school will contact the MDE to ensure the completion of this process. Furthermore, to maintain these services, the homeschool must register annually.
Each December and March, or upon request, a list of registered homeschools is provided to intermediate school district superintendents. While there is no mandatory requirement for parents to notify their local school district about their decision to start homeschooling, it is strongly recommended. Failure to notify may lead to the student being marked as absent, potentially prompting intervention by the truancy officer. Notification can be made via a phone call or a written note to the district. It’s important to note that a written notice can also be placed in the student’s school record to indicate their withdrawal from the local district.
Whether you’re homeschooling under Michigan’s Option 1 homeschool statute or the Option 2 nonpublic school provision, it is advised to maintain the following essential records for your homeschool:
Document your child’s attendance to demonstrate compliance with state requirements.
Keep track of the textbooks and workbooks used in your child’s education.
Maintain samples of your child’s schoolwork to showcase their progress and academic achievements.
Retain any communication exchanged with officials regarding your homeschooling arrangement.
Compile portfolios and test results that illustrate your child’s educational development and proficiency.
Preserve any additional documents demonstrating that your child is receiving appropriate instruction in accordance with Michigan homeschool laws.
These records should be retained for a minimum of two years. Furthermore, it’s advisable to keep your student’s high school records and proof of compliance with home education laws, including any notices filed with state or local officials, indefinitely. This comprehensive record-keeping ensures accountability and facilitates the documentation of your child’s educational journey.
Homeschool Testing In Michigan
Michigan law does not require homeschool students to participate in any standardized curriculum or testing program. While some states require homeschoolers to take annual assessments or submit test scores, Michigan leaves this decision up to the discretion of the parent.
However, many homeschool families still choose to administer standardized tests to their children, such as the SAT or ACT, in order to assess their academic progress and prepare for college admissions. These tests are widely recognized by colleges and universities and can be an important factor in admission decisions.
Many homeschool support groups and organizations also offer test preparation resources, courses and workshops.
Funding Your Michigan Homeschool
Homeschooling is primarily funded by the parents or guardians who choose to homeschool in Michigan. Unlike public institutions, which receive funding from state and local government sources based on enrollment, homeschooling families are responsible for covering the costs associated with their children’s instruction. These costs may include purchasing curriculum, educational resources, and any other supplies necessary for home schooling.
Additionally, some families may choose to enroll their children in online courses or extracurricular activities, such as band and drivers ed, which may incur additional fees. While there are no direct public funds allocated specifically for homeschooling expenses in Michigan, some states offer tax credits or deductions for homeschooling-related expenses. However, it’s essential to consult with a tax professional or relevant state authorities to understand any available financial benefits for homeschooling families.
Federal Tax Breaks
Homeschooling 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. 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, homeschooling families should review the following pages with information and resources provided by the IRS.
Michigan Immunization Requirements
In Michigan, immunization requirements are mandated for students attending public, private, and parochial institutions. However, unlike their counterparts in traditional educational settings, homeschool students are not obligated to meet immunization standards. Nevertheless, should homeschool students opt to participate in nonessential elective courses or engage in sports activities at public schools, they may be subject to immunization or exemption prerequisites.
This means that while homeschooling families have autonomy over vaccination decisions for their children, involvement in certain extracurricular activities within the public system may necessitate adherence to immunization guidelines or exemption procedures. This nuanced approach ensures that homeschooling families maintain flexibility in healthcare decisions while also accommodating opportunities for participation in public offerings.
Michigan State Graduation Requirements
Michigan lacks specific legislation regarding the graduation requirements for homeschooled students. While compulsory attendance mandates any child ages 6 to 17 to attend school full time, the state does not provide explicit guidelines for homeschoolers’ graduation criteria. Consequently, homeschooling parents have the autonomy to establish their own standards for assessing their grade and high schooler’s readiness to receive a diploma.
Parents retain the prerogative to determine when their student has fulfilled graduation requirements and can issue their own homeschool diploma. Alternatively, students who enroll or are enrolled in private or online courses may obtain diplomas from those institutions. Notably, homeschool students are exempt from standardized testing obligations for graduation. Moreover, homeschool parents possess the liberty to craft student transcripts, incorporating any details they deem relevant for college admissions, military enlistment, or prospective employers. It’s also important to note that some students may pursue a General Educational Development (GED) certificate as an alternative path to demonstrate academic proficiency. To streamline the transcript process, some homeschool parents opt to assign credits to individual courses.
Michigan Homeschool Charters
Unlike some other states, Michigan does not have a system of homeschool charter schools. Charter schools in Michigan are publicly funded schools that operate independently of traditional school districts, but they are subject to state regulations and oversight. Homeschools, on the other hand, are considered private schools and are not subject to the same regulations.
Local Michigan Homeschooling Resources
Michigan’s homeschool community predominantly relies on a single statewide association, the Michigan Christian Homeschool Network (MiCHN). The Michigan Christian Homeschool Network, founded in 1984 as INCH – the Information Network for Christian Homes and rebranded in 2019 as MiCHN, is the oldest and largest homeschool organization serving Michigan families offering a variety of valuable services and resources, including:
An annual state home school convention.
Regular newsletters containing pertinent information for homeschoolers in the state.
Member ID cards.
General information pertaining to home schooling regulations and practices in Michigan.
Yearly graduate recognition ceremonies.
Legislative email alerts to keep members informed about relevant legislative developments.
Connecting with a local or virtual homeschool group on the following pages, co-ops, or a facebook group can swiftly alleviate your anxieties.
GRAIN – Visit the site of Grand Rapids Area Inclusive Network for Homeschoolers: GRAIN exists to provide support, encouragement, and information for homeschoolers in an inclusive social environment.
Homeschoolers of Jackson Michigan: This group is well versed in Christian home schooling programs, homeschool partnerships, field trips, and a majority of the co-op opportunities.
Michigan-Macomb County Homeschoolers: This site is a supportive space where families in Macomb County can find encouragement, seek advice, and organize enriching field trips. Whether you’re actively home schooling, exploring unschooling, or contemplating home schooling, this community is here to offer guidance and camaraderie.
Oakland County homeschool: Members are encouraged to share ideas, worksheets, frustrations, opinions, questions, details about upcoming area events, online learning, and even to host their own meetups within the community. It’s a space dedicated to supporting each other on the homeschooling journey.
By taking advantage of these local resources, you can provide a rich and diverse educational experience for your homeschool student. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with other families and build a supportive learning community.
