Kansas is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. Known as the Sunflower State, Kansas is characterized by its vast prairies, rolling wheat fields, and friendly communities. The state’s capital is Topeka, and its largest city is Wichita. Kansas is also known for its rich history, including its role in the settlement of the American West and the abolitionist movement during the Civil War era.

When it comes to homeschooling in Kansas, families can choose from various online programs to educate their children at home. One notable institution is High School of America.

High School of America is an online high school that provides accredited curriculum and instruction to homeschooling students. The program is fully accredited and approved by the State of Kansas, allowing students to work towards a diploma recognized on a national level.

Our programs are designed to offer a flexible and individualized approach to education while maintaining high academic standards.

Don’t wait any longer to give your high school student a top-notch education. Contact us today to learn more about our Kansas Homeschooling Online High School!

Homeschooling Laws in Kansas

In Kansas, parents who choose to homeschool their children are required to follow certain laws, but these regulations are relatively easy to understand and comply with.

Homeschooling families in Kansas have the freedom to select their own curriculum and learning materials without any specific requirements for standardized testing or mandated subjects.

However, many families find it beneficial to cover the subjects typically taught in accredited schools as a starting point.

To fulfill the legal requirements, parents need to register their homeschool as a non-accredited private school in Kansas. This process involves completing a form with the homeschool’s name, address, and the person responsible for maintaining records, which is then mailed to the state’s Board of Education.

It’s important to note that there is no registration fee, and families do not need to re-register annually.

Required Courses

Grades 9-12

In Kansas, high school students are required to take the following courses:

  • English Language Arts (4 credits)
  • Fine Arts (1 credit)
  • History and Government (3 credits)
  • Mathematics (3 credits)
  • Physical Education (1 credit)
  • Science (3 credits)
  • Electives (6 credits)

Attendance Requirements

In Kansas, homeschooling parents are expected to provide education to their children for a duration similar to the public schools, typically around 186 days.

Annual Assessment

While standardized testing is not mandatory for Kansas homeschoolers, many parents use standardized assessments to gauge their students’ progress and ensure they receive a comprehensive education.

Students can participate in the Kansas Assessment Program, which consists of grade-level tests. They can also take nationally normed tests like the SAT or ACT if they plan to attend college.

Record Keeping

Kansas does not require homeschoolers to submit reports or undergo annual assessments. However, parents are responsible for maintaining detailed records of their child’s homeschooling journey.

This includes samples of work, course materials, attendance records, transcripts, progress reports, and any other relevant documents relating to their education.

Graduation Requirements

Kansas does not establish specific graduation requirements for homeschoolers. Instead, it provides recommendations based on the requirements set for non-accredited private schools. These recommendations encompass various subjects such as mathematics, science, fine arts, English, history, physical education, and electives.

In addition, homeschool parents should consider the graduation requirements of colleges, universities, and trade schools if their child plans to pursue further education.

Enrolling in Public School After Homeschooling

If a homeschooling family in Kansas intends to enroll their child in public or accredited school after homeschooling, it is crucial to maintain thorough records.

It’s important to note that accredited schools have the discretion to determine whether they will accept credits earned from non-accredited private schools, including homeschools.

Schools may conduct assessments to evaluate the student’s academic level and decide which credits will be recognized.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for homeschooling in Kansas?

To homeschool in Kansas, parents must register their homeschool as a non-accredited private school by completing a form and submitting it to the state’s Board of Education. The form should include the homeschool’s name, address, and the custodian of the records.

Is it possible to homeschool someone else’s child in Kansas?

Yes, it is legally permissible to homeschool children who are not your own in Kansas.

Can homeschooled students participate in sports in Kansas?

No, homeschooled students in Kansas are not allowed to participate in interscholastic activities, including sports. According to the Coalition for Responsible Home Education, Kansas is among the 20 states that do not permit homeschooled students to participate in such activities.

Online Homeschooling Statistics in Kansas

In Kansas, online homeschooling has been gaining popularity in recent years. Since the Covid-19 pandemic began, more and more Kansan families have been turning to online homeschooling platforms to provide their children with continued education.

According to a recent report, the number of families newly registered to home school in Kansas nearly tripled last year from 1,400 to 5,527. This trend seems to be continuing in 2021, with over 2,250 new families registering for online homeschooling.

With the rising popularity of online homeschooling, many Kansas districts are striving to meet the demand by providing additional resources and support systems for students and families. The state has also passed several laws ensuring that parents have access to flexible, innovative learning opportunities for their children.

How to Do it

To engage in homeschooling in Kansas, you have the option of choosing an online homeschooling program. Here are the steps to get started with Kansas homeschooling online:

  • Familiarize yourself with Kansas homeschooling laws: Before starting homeschooling, it’s important to understand the legal requirements and regulations in Kansas. Familiarize yourself with the homeschooling laws and guidelines established by the Kansas State Department of Education.
  • Notify the Kansas State Department of Education: In Kansas, you are required to submit a notification of your intent to homeschool to the Kansas State Department of Education. You can find the necessary forms and instructions on their website. Provide all the required information and submit the notification within the specified timeframe.
  • Choose an online homeschooling curriculum: There are several online homeschooling curricula available for Kansas students. Research and select a curriculum that aligns with your child’s educational needs, interests, and your teaching style. Ensure that the curriculum meets the Kansas educational standards.
  • Set up a learning space: Designate a specific area in your home as a dedicated learning space. This area should be free from distractions and have the necessary materials, such as books, supplies, and a computer with internet access, for online learning.
  • Establish a schedule: Create a daily or weekly schedule for your homeschooling activities. Determine the best times for online lessons, independent study, and any additional activities.
  • Monitor progress and track records: Keep track of your child’s progress and maintain accurate records of their educational activities. This may include attendance, completed assignments, tests, and any other relevant documentation. Regularly assess your child’s performance to ensure they are meeting educational goals.
  • Supplement with additional resources: Using an online homeschooling curriculum can also incorporate other educational resources to enhance your child’s learning experience. This may include educational websites, libraries, museums, and community resources that align with the subjects being studied.

Advantages of Kansas Homeschooling Online

Homeschooling online in Kansas can offer several benefits for both students and their families. Here are some advantages of Kansas homeschooling online:

  1. Flexibility: Online homeschooling allows for flexibility in scheduling. Students can learn at their own pace and have the freedom to choose when and where they study. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for students who have other commitments or those who prefer a personalized learning environment.
  2. Customized Curriculum: Homeschooling online provides the opportunity to create a customized curriculum tailored to the student’s individual needs, interests, and learning style. Families can choose from a variety of online resources, educational platforms, and curriculum options to create an engaging and personalized learning experience.
  3. Individualized Attention: Online homeschooling allows for one-on-one instruction, ensuring that students receive individualized attention from their parents or guardians. This personalized approach enables educators to focus on the specific strengths and weaknesses of each student, providing targeted support and encouragement.
  1. Enhanced Safety and Comfort: Some families may choose online homeschooling to provide a safe and comfortable learning environment for their children. This can be particularly relevant for students who face bullying, health challenges, or have special needs that require a more controlled setting.
  2. Access to High-Quality Resources: Online homeschooling provides access to a wide range of high-quality educational resources, including interactive learning materials, multimedia content, and virtual field trips. Students can explore various subjects through engaging and interactive resources that can enhance their understanding and retention of the material.
  1. Reduced Distractions: In a traditional school setting, students may face numerous distractions that can hinder their focus and productivity. With online homeschooling, students can eliminate many of these distractions and create a more conducive learning environment, leading to increased concentration and better academic performance.
  2. Parental Involvement: Homeschooling online requires active parental involvement, allowing parents to have a direct role in their child’s education. This involvement strengthens the parent-child bond and fosters a deeper understanding of the child’s educational progress, strengths, and challenges.

Conclusion

Kansas homeschooling online provides an effective and flexible alternative to traditional schooling for families seeking personalized education for their children.

The state’s homeschooling laws ensure that students receive a well-rounded education. It is crucial for parents considering homeschooling to familiarize themselves with the legal requirements and guidelines to ensure compliance and provide their children with the best educational opportunities.

If you’re interested in exploring homeschooling further, contacting High School of America can offer valuable guidance, support, and resources to navigate the homeschooling journey successfully.

Take the initiative and contact High School of America today to embark on an enriching homeschooling adventure for your child’s educational growth and development.