California is a Great Place to Homeschool
I recently met a new family after they relocated from Washington to California. The parents admitted feeling a bit anxious about homeschooling their two children in a new state. Would California make it difficult to homeschool the way they wanted? Would there be a lot of regulations to wade through? What kind of support was available?
I was more than happy to share what I have learned over the past 14 years of homeschooling in Northern California. More than anything, I wanted to encourage these newcomers with California homeschool facts and help them better understand our homeschooling-friendly state.
You can learn even more at the California Department of Education’s schooling at home resources page.
To support any family researching homeschooling choices in California, I offer the following frequently asked questions and answers.
What are my homeschooling options in California?
In California, parents may use an independent study program, known as an “umbrella” school, a public charter, an existing private school, a certified private tutor, or homeschool independently as a private home-based school.
How do I legally file to homeschool independently?
If you plan to function independently, you will need to file as an independent school with the California Department of Education between October 1-15 of each school year. The Private School Affidavit with the California Department of Education establishes your homeschool program as your private school. This process is quick and simple.
What if someone comes to my door and questions me about my homeschooling methods?
Although this would be rare, you might choose to show a copy of your homeschooling affidavit or proof of using one of the “umbrella” schools mentioned above. For added guidance and protection, some families choose to join a legal defense organization such as the Homeschool Legal Defense Association.
Like many North State homeschoolers, Selah Martin enjoys sketching what she observes on outings. Photo by Crystal Amen.
Will I have to do state testing?
State testing requirements depend on the homeschooling option you choose. For instance, as a home-based private school, you won’t have to do state testing but may choose to find a test to check your student’s progress. Homeschoolers working with a charter school should test unless they are strongly opposed and, in that case, can opt-out. I find that testing is a positive way to give back to the school for the services they supply. No matter which option you choose, you’ll want to align instruction to California content standards, preparing your child for graduation and college.
Lynn Peebles, the founder of Shasta Charter Academy, adds, “Standardized testing can give you great information on curriculum choices and show where extra help may be needed.”
How do I find an “umbrella” school?
To find charter schools that may serve as your umbrella school, start with the Charter School Locator or contact the CDE by calling (916) 322-1755.
Other helpful resources are the North State Parent’s Homeschooling Support and Resources, School of Choice, or Private School directories.
What are the benefits of partnering with either an existing private school or public charter?
Record-keeping, curriculum, class facilitation, on-site classes, accountability, sports, and financial support for off-site tutoring or electives are all partnering benefits. Some schools offer concurrent enrollment assistance so that students may enroll in college classes. The Homeschool Association of California also offers information, networking, and support to help families navigate homeschooling.
How do I find a local homeschooling co-op?
There are so many co-ops and groups that pair nicely with the decision to homeschool that the bigger challenge will be to limit the amount of socializing your family chooses to partake in. Facebook is a good place to start looking for a co-op.
Some homeschooling co-op options in upper Northern California include:
Butte County
Glenn County
Shasta County
Siskiyou County
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- Siskiyou County Homeschool Connection: FB
Tehama County
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- Tehama County Homeschool: FB
Is it possible to adequately homeschool high schoolers?
JoAnn Hackney, High School Director for American Christian Academy, assures parents, “Homeschooling through high school has become easier than ever. With planning and all the help and links available, homeschooled students are being accepted into colleges across the nation.”
Curriculum
The most common five words asked between homeschooling parents is, “What curriculum do you use?” It can be valuable to find a homeschooling family near you to help answer this question and many more. Try connecting through a Facebook page, and you will soon be introduced to a larger community. These homeschooling communities will often lend out curricula or have used curriculum they can recommend. I often find the curriculum at thrift stores as well.
Additionally, an internet search will lead you on a seemingly endless rabbit trail of homeschooling curriculum resources. I recommend A2Z Homeschooling for families who are trying to homeschool on a budget.
The North State’s homeschooling options and support are as eclectic as the families they serve. You would not be alone if you tried out several methods before settling on the approach that works best for your family. As a homeschool parent, you may wonder, “Am I doing enough?” Doing your very best is enough, and the friendly North State offers everything you need for your unique family to pursue your educational goals.
Posted in: Education
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GREAT article, Kate! You have packed a wealth of extremely helpful information into a very practical and easily readable article. This is definitely an article that should be shared widely. I know it will give families the help and hope they need. -Lynn Peebles
I am in southern California is it basically the same here. I want to homeschool my sophomore but don’t know where to start or how. Please help. Also, what does an umbrella school mean?
Hi Shauna, Thank you for reaching out! It can feel very overwhelming in the beginning but you are on the right track. An “umbrella school” can be a private organization or charter school who will help organize your homeschool and/or keep track of records. You would sign your sophomore up for their program. Many have wait lists currently but you may be able to find a private organization. This webpage has a wealth of information for you www.hsc.org
NSP is cheering you on! Take care
Is it too late to apply for The Private School Affidavit with the California department of education? Is it only done between 10/1 – 10/15
Hi Stephanie! This is from the website:
The statutory filing period is October 1 through 15; however, the filing system remains open throughout the school year to accommodate new schools. Schools established between July 1 and September 30, shall wait to file an affidavit until the PSA filing period begins in October.