This is not legal advice. As someone who lives in a state that is highly regulated, I cannot emphasize enough the need for you to advocate for yourself and make a point to know your state laws. While the school district will most likely provide you with a printed copy of the laws and regulations for home schooling, a local home schooling group can be a valuable asset when it comes to navigating your way through the system.
My general preference in writing about state laws is to provide the information as a whole. However, Pennsylvania home schooling law is complicated and as such, I’ve decided to split this blog up into more ‘bite sized’ chunks.
This blog is about other laws that pertain to Pennsylvania home schooling that do not follow under the option of simply operating a home school. If you plan on simply operating a home school, please see this blog.
Other Options for Homeschooling
Hiring a Tutor–Parents may home school their child if they are a certified teacher (in Pennsylvania; state reciprocity laws do not apply). In order to qualify under this law, he tutor must, “teach one or more child from a single family, providing the majority of the instruction, and is receiving appropriate compensation.” The teacher has to file a copy of their certification and required criminal background check with the district super intendent.
Day School/Religious School–Parents may teach their children at home if the home is an extension of a satellite or other day school. Since the law simply says the child must be ‘enrolled’, parents can enroll their child but teach them at home. Day schools are responsible for providing information to the local superintendent about those who are enrolled. It is assumed that the day school operates 180 days per year and is otherwise in compliance with educational law.
Check back tomorrow for the rest of Pennsylvania homeschooling law, including information on special education requirements, compulsory attendance, required subjects and testing.