Are you a Kentucky resident or considering a move to the Bluegrass State? If you’re interested in homeschooling in Kentucky, you’ve come to the right place!

This guide is your starting point for gathering important information about homeschooling laws, regulations, and requirements specific to Kentucky.

Whether your child is currently enrolled in public school or about to reach school age, we have the resources you need to begin homeschooling in Kentucky.

If you’re looking for a trusted online homeschooling program, consider High School of America. With their accredited homeschooling programs, it offers a comprehensive curriculum and experienced instructors to support your child’s education.

Rest assured that your child’s academic achievements will be recognized and valued with High School of America’s accredited program.

Take the first step towards homeschooling in Kentucky.

Homeschooling Law in Kentucky

There is no homeschooling statute in Kentucky. Home-based schools typically run under the private school statute observing the following key steps.

Homeschooling under the private school statute

  1. Notify the board of education.

The law requires parents to inform the local board of education about the attendance of students in a private school annually.

This notification should be sent within the first two weeks of the school year, which is typically interpreted as two weeks from the first day of school in the local district.

It is advisable to submit the notice no later than the second week of August. The notice should include the names, ages, and addresses of the students attending the school.

  1. Keep attendance and scholarship reports.

Attendance records and scholarship reports, such as report cards, should be maintained in a manner similar to that of public schools in your area. Generally, these reports should be updated every six to nine weeks, depending on the schedule set by your district.

  1. Instruct for the mandatory number of days.

The private school statute requires parents to make sure that their children are taught for 1,062 hours for at least 170 days (Although some parents choose to maintain a daily log of the instructional hours they dedicate to their children if the duration remains relatively constant, it is acceptable to primarily rely on counting the number of days, as long as the cumulative time reaches 1,062 hours spread across a minimum of 170 days)

  1. Teach the mandatory courses in English.

The private school statute mandates parents to teach homeschooling students the required subjects in the English language.

 

Other homeschool requirements you should be aware of are as follows:

Required Courses

There are state mandated courses for homeschooling families.

Grades 9-12

In order to graduate, Kentucky high school students must complete the following credits:

  • English (4 credits)
  • Mathematics (4 credits – two of which must include Algebra I & Geometry)
  • Science (3 credits)
  • Social studies (4 credits)
  • Health (½ credits)
  • Physical education (½ credits)
  • Individual Learning Plan (6 credits)

Assessment for Homeschooling

Kentucky doesn’t mandate standardized assessments for homeschooled students. However, many parents choose to use them as a tool to monitor their children’s progress and ensure they’re covering the necessary curriculum.

Public school students in Kentucky are required to take statewide standardized tests, but homeschooling families can also opt for national standardized tests like the Basic Achievement Skills Inventory (BASI) or the California Achievement Test (CAT).

Records Keeping 

In Kentucky, homeschooling parents are required to maintain up-to-date records of their children’s attendance and grades. These records should be updated according to the school district’s schedule, typically every six to nine weeks.

It’s also advisable to keep a separate file for each student, which includes school district correspondence, curriculum information, samples of student work, and any standardized test scores.

Graduation Requirements for Homeschooling 

The Kentucky Department of Education doesn’t issue diplomas to students enrolled in non-accredited private schools or homeschools. Instead, it is the responsibility of homeschooling parents to issue diplomas to their graduates.

If students plan to apply for college or jobs, they may need to complete the General Education Development (GED) test.

Participation in Extra-Curricular Activities 

Kentucky doesn’t have a statewide requirement for public schools to allow homeschooled children to participate in school-related activities, such as sports. Some school districts may permit homeschoolers to participate, but it’s important to note that schools are also allowed to refuse such participation.

Special Education Considerations

When homeschooling special needs children in Kentucky, there are no additional requirements for parents. As homeschoolers are considered private school students, they may be eligible for special education services.

Withdrawing Your Child from School in Kentucky 

If your children are currently attending a public or private school and you wish to homeschool them, you’ll need to withdraw them from their current school. In most cases, sending a certified withdrawal letter to your school district will be sufficient.

To begin homeschooling, parents must also file a notice of intent with the school district.

Returning to Public School After Homeschooling 

If you decide to discontinue homeschooling before your child graduates and want to enroll them in public school, you don’t need to notify the public school superintendent.

Simply choose not to renew your intention to homeschool when it’s due. You’ll need to contact the school you wish to transfer your child to and follow their enrollment procedures.

It’s important to keep in mind that different schools have varying protocols for determining grade placement, which may include reviewing homeschool records and potentially conducting assessment tests.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homeschooling Online in Kentucky

Is homeschooling difficult in Kentucky?

Homeschooling in Kentucky is relatively easy compared to other states. The requirements are simple, with no mandatory reporting, standardized testing, or portfolio reviews. Only a yearly letter of intent to homeschool is necessary.

How can I withdraw my child from school in Kentucky?

If you want to remove your child from public school to start homeschooling during the academic year, you need to complete a withdrawal letter. This letter should be sent via certified mail with a return receipt requested to the principal of your child’s current public school.

How can I transition to homeschooling in Kentucky?

To switch to homeschooling in Kentucky, you must inform the local school board superintendent in writing within ten days of the school year’s start. This notification should include the names, ages, and residences of each child attending the homeschool.

How can I obtain a diploma for homeschooling in Kentucky? 

Homeschooled children in Kentucky do not receive a state-issued diploma nor accept diplomas issued by homeschooling parents. Graduates from homeschools in the state can pursue a GED to obtain an equivalency diploma.

Can homeschoolers participate in sports in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, homeschools are considered private schools according to the law. Some local school districts may allow homeschooled students to enroll part-time or participate in extracurricular activities, including athletics.

Online Homeschooling Statistics in Kentucky

A large number of Kentucky students have taken to homeschooling in recent years, with an estimated 35,000 children being homeschooled in the 2020-2021 school year, an increase of about 16,000 students – or a whopping 84% increase compared with similar data from 2018, just three years earlier, when around 19,0000 students were homeschooling based on data from the Kentucky Department of Education.

How to Do it

Homeschooling in Kentucky requires careful consideration and research before getting started. Here are some steps and key points to keep in mind:

  • Familiarize yourself with Kentucky’s homeschooling laws and regulations:It is crucial to understand the legal requirements and regulations governing homeschooling in Kentucky. Stay informed about any updates or changes in the laws by referring to reliable and up-to-date resources.
  • Withdraw your child from their current school: If your child is currently attending a public or private school, you will need to withdraw them from that institution officially. This step ensures that you are in compliance with the legal requirements and allows you to proceed with homeschooling.
  • Select a homeschool method or curriculum:There are various homeschooling methods and curriculum options available, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your child’s learning style and educational goals. Consider factors such as your teaching style, your child’s interests and strengths, and any specific requirements set by the state.
  • Research online homeschool programs:Online homeschool programs can offer a comprehensive and structured approach to homeschooling. Look for reputable programs that cater to the grade level of your child, providing a wide range of tools, resources, and support for both parents and students. High School of America is an example of an online program that caters to students from ninth to twelfth grade.
  • Create a homeschooling schedule: Establishing a schedule helps provide structure and consistency in your child’s homeschooling journey. Consider factors such as the number of hours you plan to dedicate to homeschooling each day, breaks, and extracurricular activities. Flexibility is key, as it allows you to adapt the schedule to meet your child’s individual needs.
  • Set up a conducive learning environment: Designate a specific area in your home where your child can focus on their studies. Ensure the space is free from distractions and equipped with the necessary learning materials, such as textbooks, notebooks, and a computer if using online resources.
  • Join homeschooling support networks:Connecting with other homeschooling families can provide valuable support, advice, and opportunities for socialization. Seek out local homeschooling groups or online communities where you can exchange ideas, resources, and experiences.

Benefits of Kentucky Homeschooling Online

Homeschooling online in Kentucky offers several benefits for both students and parents. Here are some advantages of choosing online homeschooling in Kentucky:

  • Flexibility:Online homeschooling provides flexibility in terms of scheduling. Students can learn at their own pace and have the freedom to set their own study hours. This flexibility allows for a personalized approach to education and accommodates individual learning styles and preferences.
  • Customized Curriculum:Online homeschooling programs often offer a wide range of curriculum options, allowing parents to tailor their child’s education to their specific needs and interests. This customization ensures that students receive a well-rounded education while focusing on areas they are passionate about.
  • Access to Quality Education:Online homeschooling provides access to quality educational resources and materials. Reputable online programs often offer comprehensive curriculum packages, interactive learning materials, educational videos, and online libraries, ensuring that students have access to up-to-date and engaging content.
  • Enhanced Safety and Comfort: Online homeschooling eliminates many safety concerns associated with traditional school environments, such as bullying, violence, and exposure to unhealthy social dynamics. Students can learn in the safety and comfort of their own homes, creating a conducive environment for focused learning.
  • Increased Autonomy and Self-Discipline:Homeschooling online in Kentucky helps develop important skills such as self-discipline, time management, and independent learning. Students can take ownership of their education, develop strong study habits, and cultivate self-motivation, which are valuable skills for future academic and professional pursuits.
  • Stronger Parent-Child Bond:Homeschooling online fosters a stronger parent-child bond as parents take an active role in their child’s education. The increased time spent together allows for deeper connections, personalized guidance, and the opportunity to instill family values and principles throughout the learning experience.

Conclusion

Homeschooling online in Kentucky can be an excellent way to provide your child with a great education that will prepare them for success in life. This type of learning offers parents more control over the content their child is studying, as well as the flexibility to customize learning goals and schedules.

The Kentucky Homeschool Laws outline the rules and regulations that must be followed if you decide to homeschool in this state. Homeschooling in Kentucky is regulated under the private school statute, and it requires parents to notify the local board of education, keep attendance and scholarship reports, teach for the mandatory number of days, and teach mandatory courses in English.