Welcome to High School of America, New Hampshire’s premier online homeschooling provider. We offer a comprehensive curriculum for high school students designed to give them the best possible education without attending traditional brick-and-mortar schools.
Our courses are tailored to each student’s academic needs and interests, ensuring they get the most out of their learning experience. In addition to our top-notch curriculum, we also provide support services for our homeschoolers.
We are accredited by the AdvancED, and our curriculum is approved by the New Hampshire Department of Education. Our staff is experienced in helping families manage the process of homeschooling, from setting up an appropriate learning environment to navigating the state and federal paperwork.
Contact Us today to learn more about our homeschooling options and how we can help your student reach their full potential. Let us provide the quality education they deserve!
Homeschooling Laws in New Hampshire
According to the New Hampshire homeschooling law, “The general court recognizes . . . that it is the primary right and obligation of a parent to choose the appropriate educational alternative for a child under his care and supervision, as provided by law. . . . The general court further recognizes that home education is more individualized than instruction normally provided in the classroom setting” (N.H. Rev. State. Ann. § 193-A).
In addition, the Supreme Court in New Hampshire reiterated the fundamental right to homeschool: “Thus while the State may adopt a policy requiring children to be educated, it does not have the unlimited power to require they be educated in a certain way or place. . . . Home education is an enduring American tradition and right. . . . Thus approval requirements for non-public school education may not unnecessarily interfere with traditional parental rights” (Appeal of Pierce, 451 A.2d 363 [1982]).
In order to comply with the homeschooling law in New Hampshire, consider the following guidelines:
Notification to the Authorities
The law mandates you to file an initial statement of intent with a “participating agency” in the following circumstances:
- If you start a homeschool program, you need to notify the relevant authorities within five days.
- If you move to a new school district or change the agencies involved in your education, you must inform them promptly.
The notice should include the date of birth, addresses, and names of students homeschooled.
A “participating agency” might be the principal of a nonpublic school, the superintendent of a public school district, or the commissioner of education.
If you decide to end a homeschooling program, you need to send a written notice of termination to the commissioner of education and either the superintendent of the school district you reside in or the principal of the nonpublic school that serves as the participating agency. This notice must be submitted within 15 days.
If you have already informed the superintendent of your current school district about your homeschooling program and subsequently moved to a different district, you are obligated to notify the original superintendent that your child has relocated and will be providing a new notification to the superintendent of the new district, who will serve as the new participating agency.
Required Courses
Grades 9-12
The law requires that homeschool programs teach these high school courses:
- Government,
- Health,
- History,
- Language,
- Mathematics,
- Reading,
- Science,
- Spelling,
- Writing,
- The history of the constitutions of the United States and New Hampshire, and
- An exposure to and appreciation of music and art.
Record Keeping
In New Hampshire, homeschooling regulations dictate that parents must keep homeschool portfolios for two years. These portfolios should contain examples of the courses undertaken by the student. It is also recommended to maintain progress reports, attendance records, transcripts, and annual evaluations.
Keeping comprehensive records of all aspects of a student’s education can prove advantageous if they decide to pursue higher education or transfer to a public or private school.
Annual Assessment
The law mandates parents to assess homeschooling students annually. The assessment should prove progress in line with the ability, age, or disability of the child.
Here are the options for evaluating a student’s educational progress:
- Written evaluation: A certified teacher or a current nonpublic school teacher, chosen by the parent, can assess the student’s progress by reviewing their portfolio and discussing it with the parent or child.
- National student achievement test: The student’s progress can be evaluated based on the results of a national student achievement test administered by someone who meets the qualifications set by the test provider or publisher.
- State student assessment test: The student’s progress can be determined by the results of the state student assessment test used by the district where the student resides.
- Other valid measurement tool: An alternative evaluation method can be used if both the parent and the participating agency agree. The tool must be considered valid and reliable for assessing educational progress.
What to do with the assessment results:
According to the law, the parent is responsible for retaining the evaluation results, and they are not required to be shared with the agency involved. These evaluation results can be used to show a child’s academic abilities, allowing them to participate in public school programs.
However, the results should not be used as grounds for terminating a home education program. Instead, they should contribute to fostering a positive and cooperative relationship between the parent and the evaluator.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Hampshire Homeschooling Online
Here are some frequently asked questions about homeschooling online in New Hampshire:
Is online homeschooling legal in New Hampshire?
Yes, homeschooling is legal in New Hampshire, and online homeschooling is an accepted method of education. The state’s homeschooling laws allow parents to choose the educational approach that best suits their child, including online curricula and resources.
Do I need to notify the school district if I choose online homeschooling?
Yes, according to New Hampshire law, you must send a letter of intent to homeschool to your local school district superintendent. This applies regardless of whether you choose online homeschooling or any other method.
Can I use an online curriculum for all subjects?
Yes, you can use an online curriculum for all subjects if you prefer. Many online homeschooling programs offer comprehensive curricula covering various subjects, including math, science, language arts, and social studies. However, you have the flexibility to mix and match online resources with other educational materials based on your child’s needs and your teaching preferences.
Are there any specific requirements for online homeschooling in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire’s homeschooling laws do not have specific requirements for online homeschooling. As a homeschooling parent, you can choose the curriculum, set the schedule, and design the learning environment according to your child’s needs and educational goals.
Are there any online homeschooling support groups or communities in New Hampshire?
Yes, there are online homeschooling support groups and communities in New Hampshire that you can join to connect with other homeschooling families. These groups can provide resources, guidance, and opportunities for social interaction. You can search online or reach out to local homeschooling organizations for information on specific groups available in your area.
Do online homeschoolers in New Hampshire need to take standardized tests?
New Hampshire does require homeschoolers, including online homeschoolers, to take standardized tests or submit test scores.
New Hampshire Homeschooling Online Statistics
Like the rest of the nation, New Hampshire witnessed a significant surge in homeschooling during the pandemic. The enrollment of new homeschooling students in 2020 saw a remarkable increase of nearly 50 percent compared to previous years.
However, in 2022, the enthusiasm for homeschooling declined slightly but remained higher than pre-pandemic levels. This trend reflects the substantial impact of the pandemic on education, with many families opting for homeschooling as an alternative to traditional schooling.
The data from New Hampshire highlights the enduring interest and appeal of homeschooling as a viable educational option for families even after the pandemic subsided.
How to Do it: New Hampshire Homeschooling Online
If you’re looking to homeschool in New Hampshire and prefer an online approach, here’s a general guide to get you started:
- Familiarize yourself with the homeschooling laws in New Hampshire: Begin by reviewing the state’s homeschooling regulations. In New Hampshire, homeschooling is governed by a home education statute, RSA 193-A, which outlines the requirements and procedures for homeschooling.
- Notify the school district: In accordance with New Hampshire’s homeschooling laws, you are required to send a letter of intent to homeschool to your local school district superintendent. Include essential information such as your name, address, and the names and ages of your children.
- Choose an online homeschooling curriculum: Research and select an online curriculum that aligns with your educational goals and preferences. There are several online homeschooling options available, ranging from complete curricula to individual courses in various subjects. Consider factors such as teaching styles, curriculum content, cost, and any specific requirements or resources you may need.
- Set up a dedicated learning space: Designate a specific area in your home as a dedicated learning space. Ensure it is well-equipped with the necessary materials, such as a computer, internet access, textbooks, and other educational resources.
- Create a schedule: Establish a daily or weekly schedule that outlines the subjects and activities you plan to cover. This will help provide structure and ensure a well-rounded education. Be flexible and adjust the schedule as needed to accommodate your child’s learning style and progress.
- Track progress and maintain records: Keep records of your child’s progress, including samples of their work, assessments, and any other relevant documentation. While New Hampshire doesn’t require formal testing or reporting, it’s still valuable to maintain records to track your child’s academic development.
- Supplement with extracurricular activities: Homeschooling allows for flexibility, so take advantage of various extracurricular activities to enhance your child’s education. Engage in field trips, community service, sports, music lessons, or other activities that align with your child’s interests and promote a well-rounded education.
- Stay connected with other homeschoolers: Join homeschooling support groups or online communities in New Hampshire to connect with other homeschooling families. These groups can provide valuable resources, advice, and social opportunities for both parents and children.
Benefits of Homeschooling Online in New Hampshire
Homeschooling in New Hampshire offers many benefits. Here are the top five advantages of homeschooling online in New Hampshire:
- Flexibility– Online homeschooling allows parents and students to create their own schedules, allowing them to learn at their own pace and convenience. This is especially beneficial for students who have special needs or prefer to work on assignments outside of normal school hours.
- Customized Curriculum– With online homeschooling, parents can choose from a wide range of curriculums offered by various providers that best suit each child’s needs and learning style.
- Supportive Environment– Online homeschooling gives parents the opportunity to provide a supportive environment for their children, making it easier for them to build self-confidence and learn at their own pace without fear of peer pressure or bullying.
- Cost-Effectiveness– Online homeschooling is often more cost effective than traditional schools because there are no tuition fees or school supplies to purchase.
- Accountability– Parents can track their child’s progress and keep tabs on their assignments and grades through online tools such as grade books and testing applications that make it easy to view reports at any time. This helps ensure students stay on track with their education goals.
Conclusion
Homeschooling in New Hampshire is an option if parents choose this learning route for their children. The law that applies to learning at home follows the state board’s education standards and requirements. Parents can determine their curriculum while signing up with a recognized program for certain courses.
With high-quality educational programs from schools like High School of America, online access to resources, and guidance from local educators – homeschooling could be an engaging way to give your child a quality education tailored to their learning needs.
Contact High School of America today and explore how you can contribute to your student’s growth through homeschooling in New Hampshire.