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.
I have been blogging on whole states together rather than blogging on each individual option in every state. However, the laws in Virginia, in my opinion, are too complicated to present clearly without confusion so I will link the 4 options together at the bottom of each article. I know this does not make it the easiest format for readers from Virginia but I do believe this is the best way to present the information as the requirements for teacher qualification, standardized testing and notice given to the district are different for each option. This blog will deal with Option 1 only.
Your first option to home school in the state of Virginia is to establish and operate your own home school.
The compulsory age of attendance in Virginia is 5 (on or before September 30) until the age of 18. However, if a parent feels a child is not emotionally, physically or academically ready to start kindergarten, they may delay putting a child in school until the age of 7.
Attendance: There is no noted attendance requirement, although it is generally accepted that children are required to attend 180 days per year, which is the same as public schools.
Subjects: There are no noted subjects that are required, although since children have to take a standardized test, it is generally assumed that similar subjects will be taught as are taught in public schools.
Teacher Qualifications: Parents must do one of the following:
1) possess a high school diploma, or
2) be a certified teacher, or
3) use an approved correspondence course, or
4) submit evidence parent can teach or submit a curriculum that includes state objectives for language arts and math.
Notice: File an annual notice of intent with the local Superintendent by August 15. If you are starting or moving into the state after the school year has begun, file a notice as soon as possible and comply with applicable requirements within 30 days of such notice.
Record Keeping: Although Virgina doesn’t require you to turn in specific records, it is always a good idea to keep good records of your homeschooling experience. These can come in handy if you ever have to enroll your child in school. You will also need good records for college entrance.
Testing: Parents must administer a standardized test or have child otherwise evaluated every year (for those six years or older on September 30 of the school year. Results should be submitted to the local superintendent by August 1.
Related Articles:
Homeschooling Laws for Virginia: Option 2
Homeschooling Laws for Virginia: Option 3
Homeschooling Laws for Virginia: Option 4
Helpful Resources:
HSLDA
A to Z Homeschooling
State Support Groups
The Organization of Virginia Homeschoolers
Home Educators Association of Virginia
This page also has a list of regional support groups.