Montana, a picturesque state in the western United States, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including majestic mountains, vast plains, and pristine lakes.
Notably, Montana has a supportive legal framework that allows families to embrace homeschooling as an educational option. One institution that caters to the needs of homeschooling families is High School of America.
As a premier online high school, High School of America offers a comprehensive curriculum, personalized learning experiences, and flexibility in scheduling to foster academic success and individual growth. Accredited by AdvancED, High School of America ensures that students receive a high-quality education that meets rigorous standards.
Our teachers are highly-educated, certified professionals who understand the needs of homeschooling families and provide quality learning experiences.
Continue reading to learn about the benefits of homeschooling in Montana and Montana homeschool regulations.
Homeschooling Laws in Montana
The following are the requirements regarding homeschooling in Montana:
Filing of Notice of Intent to Homeschool
Each year, between July 1st and June 30th, you are required to inform the superintendent of schools in your county about homeschooling your child.
Required Courses
Grades 9-12
You are required to provide instruction in the following courses:
- arts (1 credit)
- career education (1 credit)
- English language arts (4 credits)
- health enhancement (1 credit)
- Mathematics (2 credits)
- science (2 credits)
- social studies (2 credits)
Attendance Requirements
For children in grades 1-3, it is mandatory that they receive a minimum of 720 hours of instruction during each school fiscal year. Children in grades 4-12, must receive a minimum of 1,080 hours of instruction per school fiscal year.
Record Keeping
When homeschooling in Montana, parents are only required to keep attendance and immunization records on file. However, it is highly recommended to maintain comprehensive records of all aspects related to each student’s home education.
Keeping track of grades, standardized tests, progress reports, and coursework samples can be beneficial. Also, maintaining transcripts will facilitate the application process for high school students considering college or trade school.
Annual Assessment
Montana does not mandate homeschooled students to participate in standardized testing. However, some parents choose to use these assessments to monitor their students’ progress and identify any potential gaps in their curriculum.
The Montana Comprehensive Assessment System (MontCAS) provides a range of tests aligned with grade levels, including end-of-year exams and interim assessments.
High school students planning to pursue post-high school education will also need to take the SAT or ACT.
Graduation Requirements
In Montana, homeschooling must cover the same subjects taught in public schools. Parents are responsible for establishing graduation requirements and issuing high school diplomas rather than relying on a public or private school.
It is advisable for parents to tailor the requirements based on the student’s future plans after high school. Many colleges, universities, and trade schools provide admissions policies for homeschooled students.
Depending on these requirements, students may need to obtain a Montana High School Equivalency Diploma by passing the HiSET exam.
Enrolling in Public School After Homeschooling
The process of enrolling a homeschooled student in a public school varies across different school districts in Montana. In order to determine the necessary steps for enrollment, it is essential to contact the local school board and inquire about their specific requirements and policies.
Montana Homeschooling Online Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to inform the school district if I intend to homeschool my children in Montana?
Yes, according to Montana state law, homeschooling parents are required to notify the county superintendent of schools on an annual basis about their decision to homeschool their children.
Can homeschooling students join the military?
Yes, recent amendments to the Defense Reauthorization Act have improved the opportunities for homeschooling students to enlist in the military.
Home school graduates now receive a Tier 1 ranking, equivalent to high school graduates, which has increased their chances of enlistment, especially in the Air Force and Marine Corps.
Are homeschooling students required to obtain a GED?
No, homeschooling students do not necessarily need to obtain a GED. In Montana, the GED has been replaced with the HiSET exam as one option to demonstrate academic capability.
While the GED used to be a common requirement for homeschool graduates entering Montana’s universities, many students now enter college by taking the PSAT and SAT exams.
Can homeschooling students take classes in public schools?
This depends on the policy of the local school district. While there have been unsuccessful attempts to mandate school districts to allow homeschool students to enroll if available, some districts have policies permitting non-public school students to join classes with open seats.
However, school districts are no longer allowed to charge fees for these classes, according to a ruling by the Montana Office of Public Instruction.
It is recommended to contact the local County Superintendent of Schools or the office of the School Superintendent in the desired district for further assistance.
Online Homeschooling Statistics in Montana
In Montana, online homeschooling is becoming increasingly popular. According to the Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI), 9,868 children were homeschooled in the 2020-2021 academic year calendar, representing 6.1% of total student enrollment in the state.
New figures from the state’s OPI indicate that there has been a decline in the number of students being enrolled in public school and an increase in the number of homeschooled since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
As of 2021, there was an increase in the number of homeschooling children by 4,053 or 69.7%, according to the Office of Public Instruction. Due to technological advancements, the number of homeschooling students is projected to increase over the years.
How to Do it: Online Homeschooling in Montana
To homeschool your child in Montana, you need to follow certain guidelines and fulfill specific requirements. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do homeschooling in Montana:
- Understand the Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the legal requirements for homeschooling in Montana. In Montana, homeschooling is regulated under Option (2) law, which allows parents to provide home-based education to their children. It’s important to review the Montana homeschool laws and regulations to ensure compliance.
- Notify the School District: Notify the superintendent of schools of your intent to homeschool. Submit a letter of intent to homeschool to the district’s superintendent where you reside. This letter should include your child’s age, name, grade level, and contact information. It’s recommended to send this letter via certified mail to have a record of receipt.
- Develop a Curriculum: As a homeschooling parent in Montana, you have the flexibility to choose or develop a curriculum that suits your child’s educational needs and goals. You can select from various homeschooling curricula available online or create your own curriculum using a combination of resources, textbooks, online materials, and educational tools.
- Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of your homeschooling activities and progress. This includes coursework completed, attendance records, samples of your child’s work, and any assessments or evaluations. These records will serve as evidence of your child’s education in case they need to be presented to the school district or other educational authorities.
- Regular Assessment and Evaluation: Montana homeschooling law requires an annual assessment and evaluation of your child’s educational progress. Options for assessment include standardized testing, portfolio evaluation by a certified teacher, or an alternative assessment method approved by the superintendent. Consult the school district for specific guidelines on assessment and evaluation.
- Engage in Extracurricular Activities: While homeschooling, your child can still participate in extracurricular activities offered by local schools or community organizations. These may include sports teams, music lessons, art classes, or clubs. Contact the school district or relevant organizations to inquire about participation opportunities for homeschoolers.
- Seek Support and Resources: Connect with other homeschooling families and organizations in Montana to access support, resources, and socialization opportunities for your child. Local homeschool support groups, online forums, and statewide homeschooling associations can provide valuable information, guidance, and networking opportunities.
Advantages of Homeschooling Online in Montana
Homeschooling online in Montana offers numerous benefits for families seeking an alternative educational path for their children. Here are five key advantages of homeschooling online in Montana:
Flexibility
One of the primary benefits of homeschooling online is the flexibility it provides. Online homeschooling allows families to create a customized schedule that fits their unique needs and circumstances. Students can learn at their own pace, and parents can tailor the curriculum to suit their child’s interests and learning style.
This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families in Montana, where rural communities and long travel distances can make traditional schooling challenging.
Personalized Education
Online homeschooling in Montana allows for personalized education tailored to each student’s needs. Parents can choose from a wide range of online curriculum options that align with their educational goals and values. They can also modify lessons and assignments to accommodate their child’s strengths and weaknesses.
With individual attention, students can receive a more comprehensive and targeted education, fostering their academic growth and personal development.
Enhanced Safety and Security
Homeschooling online provides a safe and secure learning environment for students. Parents can ensure their children’s well-being by monitoring their online activities and minimizing exposure to potential risks associated with traditional school settings.
In a state like Montana, where harsh weather conditions or long distances can pose challenges to transportation, online homeschooling eliminates the need for students to travel, ensuring their safety.
Access to a Wide Range of Resources
Online homeschooling in Montana opens up a vast array of educational resources and materials that may not be readily available in traditional schools. Students can access interactive multimedia content, educational videos, virtual field trips, and online libraries.
In addition, online homeschooling allows students to connect with expert teachers, participate in online forums and communities, and engage in collaborative projects with students from around the world, broadening their perspectives and knowledge base.
Family Bonding
Montana homeschooling online provides an opportunity for increased family bonding. Parents take an active role in their child’s education, creating stronger family ties and fostering a supportive learning environment.
Conclusion
Homeschooling is a growing trend that is gaining more acceptance throughout the country. Montana is no exception and has welcomed this new alternative with open arms.
From clear regulations to helpful advocates who are there to make the process smoother, it is evident from all standpoints that Montana is committed to helping its residents enjoy this educational experience.
Parents have much to gain from these efforts, including positive changes in their children’s academic journey and increased confidence in their teaching abilities. As such, those wishing to embrace this fascinating approach should not wait any longer: contact High School of America today and begin your homeschooling adventure!