Intro
Nebraska allows homeschooling, enabling families to customize their children’s education to meet unique needs and values. High School of America offers accredited online programs that support Nebraska homeschoolers with comprehensive curriculum and dedicated teachers.
Key Takeaways
- Nebraska legally allows homeschooling with specific requirements.
- High School of America provides flexible, accredited online programs for Nebraska families.
- Required forms include a Notice of Intent to Homeschool, completed annually.
- Core courses and attendance hours must meet state guidelines.
- Parents set graduation requirements and issue diplomas.
Question: What are the requirements for homeschooling in Nebraska? Answer: In Nebraska, parents must file a Notice of Intent to Homeschool with the Department of Education, provide instruction in core subjects, ensure 1,080 instructional hours for high schools annually, and meet attendance and vaccination requirements.
Nebraska is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is known for its expansive plains, vibrant agriculture, and friendly communities. One of the great aspects of Nebraska is that it legally allows homeschooling, providing families with the freedom to tailor their children’s education according to their unique needs and values.
To support families in Nebraska who choose to homeschool, High School of America offers accredited online homeschooling programs. High School of America provides a comprehensive curriculum, interactive online classes, and dedicated teachers who guide students through their academic journey.
Whether families in Nebraska are looking for a complete homeschooling solution or supplemental courses, High School of America is committed to empowering students and assisting families in achieving their educational goals.
Continue reading to learn more about the requirements of online homeschooling in Nebraska.
Homeschooling Law in Nebraska
In Nebraska, homeschooling is treated as a form of private schooling where parents choose not to fulfill accreditation or approval requirements for religious or nonreligious reasons. The process involves establishing a private school within your home and enrolling your children in it.
The following is what is required of homeschooling in Nebraska:
Your Notice of Intent
In order to start homeschooling in Nebraska, parents are required to submit a set of forms called the “Notice of Intent to Homeschool.” This process involves filing for exempt status, according to Rule 13, by the deadline of July 15th of each year.
The filing needs to be done with the Nebraska Department of Education Exempt School Program Office. While the NDE encourages online submissions, parents also have the option to file using paper documents.
The process of filing your Notice of Intent is as follows:
- Complete and sign Form A: Statement of Election and Assurances, which parents and legal guardians must sign.
- Complete and sign Form B: Authorized Parent Representative Form (signed by the chosen representative of the parent)
- Complete the annual Informational Summary: This summary notes the age, name, dates of operation, the highest grade of parents, including teachers, and a description of curriculum materials for each grade level/child.
- Submit all forms with each homeschooling child’s certified birth certificate unless previously submitted.
Required Courses
Grades 9-12
The homeschool law mandates that homeschooling parents provides instruction in the following core courses:
- Language arts/English (4 credits)
- Mathematics (2 credits)
- Science (2 credits)
- Social studies (3 credits)
- Health education (determined locally)
- Electives (determined locally)
- Foreign language (determined locally)
- Fine arts (determined locally)
You must also indicate that you, as the parents, are satisfied that the instructor(s) are qualified to monitor instruction in these skills. Nebraska does not require specific qualifications to teach these subjects other than the parents’ satisfaction.
Vaccination Requirements
If homeschooling parents provide a nonreligious reason for homeschooling, they must acknowledge that their school is subject to vaccination requirements unless they possess an exemption.
Attendance Requirements
For homeschooling, a general statement regarding the start and end dates of the school term is acceptable. However, a minimum of 1,080 instructional hours is expected in high schools, while elementary schools should provide at least 1,032 instructional hours throughout the year.
Record Keeping
Nebraska homeschooling laws do not explicitly outline recordkeeping obligations. Nevertheless, it is advisable for homeschooling parents to maintain essential records such as transcripts, grades, a lesson plan book or log, as well as up-to-date immunization records.
Many parents create individual homeschool portfolios for each student, serving as a testament to their achievements and commemorating their progress.
Annual Assessment
Although standardized assessments are not mandatory for homeschooling students in Nebraska, many parents opt for these tests to evaluate their students’ performance compared to traditionally schooled students at their grade level. These assessments offer insights into potential gaps in the curriculum or background knowledge.
The Nebraska State Accountability Assessments (NeSA) are commonly used for this purpose. Additionally, high school students planning to attend college are encouraged to take the ACT or SAT.
Homeschool Graduation Requirements in Nebraska
Parents are responsible for establishing graduation requirements for their homeschooled high school students and issuing their diplomas. It is recommended that parents tailor these requirements based on their students’ post-high school plans, such as pursuing higher education or entering the workforce.
Eligibility requirements from colleges, universities, trade schools, and employers can be used as guidelines to determine graduation requirements for homeschooling students.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Homeschooling in Nebraska
When was homeschooling made legal in Nebraska?
Homeschooling in Nebraska operates under the state’s private school law, as there is no specific homeschooling law in the state.
Can anyone homeschool in Nebraska?
Yes, residents of Nebraska can choose to homeschool their children. However, they must adhere to the Exempt (Home) School Rules set by the Nebraska Department of Education based on Nebraska law Section 79-1601 R.R.S.
Do I need a degree or teaching certificate to homeschool?
No, homeschooling parents or instructors are not required to have formal degrees or teaching certificates. Accreditation is also optional for homeschools in Nebraska.
Can I homeschool if I didn’t finish high school?
Yes, the completion of high school is not a requirement for homeschooling in Nebraska. Connecting with the homeschooling community for support and assistance when needed is recommended.
What is the compulsory attendance age in Nebraska?
The compulsory attendance age in Nebraska is between 6 and 18 years. According to Section 79-201 R.R.S., a child is of mandatory attendance age if they will turn six before January 1 of the current school year and have not yet reached eighteen years of age.
Can we switch from public school to homeschooling (or vice versa)?
Yes, it is possible to transition from public school to homeschooling or vice versa in Nebraska. Many children have made this switch in the past.
Do I have to wait until the next school year to start homeschooling?
No, you can begin homeschooling at any time in Nebraska. However, you will need to submit the necessary paperwork to the Nebraska Department of Education before commencing homeschooling.
Online Homeschooling Statistics in Nebraska
The number of homeschooled students in Nebraska has grown significantly over the past decade. In 2009, there were 4,400 students enrolled in homeschooling, a number that jumped to 9,450 in 2019. Then during the pandemic in 2020, the number of homeschoolers increased dramatically to 14,780.
In 2022, the number decreased slightly to 10,525, but it still remains higher than in any other year except for 2020. These statistics are a testament to the increasing popularity of homeschooling in Nebraska.
How to Do it: Online Homeschooling in Nebraska
To engage in Nebraska homeschooling online, follow these steps:
- Research the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the legal requirements and regulations for homeschooling in Nebraska. Ensure you understand the vaccination requirements and any other obligations specific to the state.
- Choose an Online Homeschooling Program: Explore various online homeschooling programs available. Look for reputable and accredited programs that align with your educational goals and preferences. Consider factors such as curriculum, instructional methods, support resources, and flexibility.
- Enroll in an Online Homeschooling Program: Once you have selected a suitable online homeschooling program, follow the enrollment process. This typically involves filling out an application, providing necessary documentation, and paying any required fees.
- Set Up a Learning Environment: Create a dedicated and organized learning space at home. Ensure you have the necessary equipment, such as a computer or laptop with reliable internet access and any additional materials or resources recommended by the online program.
- Follow the Curriculum and Lesson Plans: Adhere to the curriculum and lesson plans provided by the online homeschooling program. Establish a daily or weekly schedule to ensure consistent learning and progress. Use any interactive features, virtual resources, or multimedia materials provided by the program.
- Keep Records and Documents: Even though Nebraska homeschooling laws do not explicitly require recordkeeping, it is still beneficial to maintain records of your child’s education. Keep track of transcripts, grades, completed assignments, and any other relevant documents for your own reference and potential future needs.
- Engage in Assessments: While not mandatory in Nebraska, consider participating in standardized assessments to evaluate your child’s progress and identify areas that may require additional attention. You can use the Nebraska State Accountability Assessments (NeSA) or other available assessment options.
- Graduation and Diplomas: As a homeschooling parent, establish graduation requirements based on your child’s future plans and any guidelines provided by colleges, universities, trade schools, or employers. Once your child has met these requirements, issue their high school diploma.
In addition, seek out local homeschooling support groups or organizations for guidance and resources specific to your area.
Benefits of Homeschooling Online in Nebraska
Homeschooling online in Nebraska offers several benefits:
- Flexibility: Online homeschooling allows for flexible scheduling, giving families the freedom to create a learning routine that suits their specific needs. Students can access coursework at their own pace, allowing for personalized learning and accommodating individual interests, abilities, and learning styles.
- Access to Quality Curriculum: Online homeschooling programs often provide a wide range of high-quality curriculum options. Parents can choose programs that align with their educational philosophy and meet state standards. These programs often offer interactive and multimedia resources, ensuring a rich and engaging learning experience.
- Individualized Instruction: Online homeschooling enables one-on-one instruction, allowing parents to tailor the education to their child’s unique strengths and areas of improvement. Parents can provide additional support or challenge based on the student’s individual needs, ensuring a personalized and effective learning environment.
- Enhanced Learning Opportunities: Online homeschooling opens up a world of resources and learning opportunities beyond traditional classroom settings. Students can access virtual field trips, educational websites, online courses, and interactive simulations, providing a diverse and enriching educational experience.
- Safe and Secure Environment: Homeschooling online offers a safe and secure learning environment, free from potential distractions or negative peer influences. Parents can closely monitor their child’s online activities and ensure their safety while providing high-quality education.
- Parental Involvement: Online homeschooling allows for increased parental involvement in their child’s education. Parents have a direct role in guiding and supporting their child’s learning journey, fostering a strong parent-child relationship, and ensuring that educational values and beliefs are upheld.
- Customized Pace: With online homeschooling, students can progress at their own pace. They have the flexibility to spend more time on challenging topics or move quickly through subjects they grasp easily. This individualized approach promotes a deeper understanding and mastery of concepts.
- Preparedness for College and Careers: Online homeschooling offers opportunities for students to develop self-discipline, time management, and independent learning skills. These skills are valuable for success in college or future careers, where self-directed learning and adaptability are highly valued.
Conclusion
Homeschooling your children in Nebraska has the potential to be an excellent choice for many families. With more flexibility and accessibility of online programs like that of High School of America, parents can confidently embark on their journey. From finding the answer to “What is the homeschooling law in Nebraska?” To access rare educational opportunities, Nebraska’s parents now have access at their fingertips.
The decision to learn and grow from the comfort of your own home is a decision that merits much consideration and research; however, now you are ready to make an informed judgment opportunity that fits your family.
If you find this option interests you, contact High School of America today and get started with simple steps towards personalizing your education!