Online Homeschooling in New Jersey | High School of America

Welcome to High School of America, New Jersey’s best online homeschooling provider!

Our online homeschooling program offers an exceptional educational experience for students in the area. Our highly qualified faculty works hard to tailor our accredited courses to meet the individual needs of each student, and our homeschool curriculum follows the most recent standards set by the New Jersey Department of Education.

With a focus on providing quality instruction and learning opportunities, our online program offers a unique way to succeed in high school. Our supportive staff is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals and prepare for the future.

Homeschooling Law in New Jersey

According to the laws in New Jersey, parents are required to provide their children with an education equivalent to what they would receive in a public school setting.

It’s important to note that “equivalent” doesn’t mean the learning should to be identical.

In practical terms, as long as parents genuinely try to provide an education suitable for their child’s age and cover the core courses, the courts have generally not intervened to stop homeschooling.

Required Courses

Grades 9-12

Even though homeschooling student in New Jersey aren’t mandated to deliver an identical list of classes, public schools in New Jersey typically offer the following courses:

World History
Science
Math
Language arts
New Jersey history and Civics and United States
Physical Education/ Safety/Health
Foreign Language
Business/Entrepreneurial or Financial/Economic
Visual or Performing Arts
Vocational/Technical/Career

In addition, core classes in public schools contain elements from several other course areas. They include:

Technological Literacy
Global Content
Geography
Economics
Civics

Record Keeping

Maintaining comprehensive records is highly recommended, regardless of whether it is mandated by your state or not. These records allow you to keep track of attendance, grades, assignments, progress reports, and state test scores.

Having these records can prove beneficial if you decide to relocate to a different state, enroll your child in a public or private school, or if there are changes in state laws.

Standardized Assessments

In New Jersey, homeschooling students may or may not be obligated to take standardized tests. While these tests might not be a requirement, they serve as a useful tool for parents to assess their child’s progress compared to students attending public or private schools.

By participating in standardized assessments, you can ensure your children acquire the necessary knowledge and skills. Additionally, these tests can assist in determining appropriate placement if your child ever transitions back to public or private schooling.

Special Education Considerations

When homeschooling special needs children in New Jersey, there are no additional requirements imposed on parents. The state does not mandate school districts to provide special education services to homeschoolers.

However, if a school district extends such services to students in private schools, homeschoolers may also be eligible for those services.

Graduation Requirements

In New Jersey, homeschooling parents have the authority to establish their own graduation requirements. However, it is crucial to ensure compliance with all applicable laws before your child becomes eligible for a high school diploma. As each homeschool determines graduation requirements individually, parents have the autonomy to award their own diplomas.

Parents should consider their child’s post-high school plans and align their lessons accordingly. Research specific colleges, technical schools, and potential employers to understand their admission or eligibility requirements.

Withdrawing Your Child from School in New Jersey

While New Jersey school districts cannot legally demand approval or written notice of a family’s intent to homeschool, it is necessary to formally withdraw children currently enrolled in a public or private school before commencing homeschooling.

Contact your child’s school to inquire about the specific procedures they require for withdrawal.

Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Homeschooling Online

Here are some frequently asked questions about homeschooling online in New Jersey

Is online homeschooling legal in New Jersey?

Yes, homeschooling is legal in New Jersey, and online homeschooling is considered a valid option for families. The New Jersey Department of Education provides guidelines and requirements for homeschooling in the state.

Are there any testing or assessment requirements for online homeschooling in New Jersey?

New Jersey does not require homeschooled students to participate in state testing or assessments. However, it is recommended that parents regularly assess their child’s progress through various means, such as standardized tests, portfolios, or evaluations by qualified individuals.

Can homeschooled students participate in extracurricular activities or sports in New Jersey?

Homeschooled students in New Jersey have the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities, including sports, offered by their local public school district. The New Jersey Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) has specific guidelines for homeschoolers’ eligibility to participate in interscholastic sports.

Are there online homeschooling resources available for families in New Jersey?

Yes, there are several online homeschooling resources available for families in New Jersey. Families can explore online curriculum providers, virtual learning platforms, educational websites, and online support communities specifically tailored for homeschooling.

The New Jersey Department of Education’s website may also offer resources and information for homeschooling families.

Can homeschooled students earn a high school diploma in New Jersey?

Homeschooled students in New Jersey can earn a high school diploma equivalent through various means. Options include taking the General Educational Development (GED) test or earning a diploma from an online homeschool program.

New Jersey Homeschooling Online Statistics

Homeschooling in New Jersey used to be unpopular until the COVID-19 pandemic forced school closures. As a result, there has been a significant increase in the number of families choosing to homeschool their children. In the 2019-2020 school year, only 1,295 students, which accounted for 0.1% of the total K-12 student population in New Jersey, were homeschooled instead of attending public, private, or parochial schools.

However, the percentage of homeschooled students in New Jersey quadrupled during the 2020-2021 school year, as indicated by data released by the State Department of Education. Nonetheless, the total number of homeschoolers in the state still represents only about a quarter of a percent of all students, which is approximately 5,326 students spanning from kindergarten to 12th grade.

How to Do it: New Jersey Homeschooling Online

To homeschool online in New Jersey, follow these steps:

Research the legal requirements: Familiarize yourself with the homeschooling laws and regulations in New Jersey. Visit the New Jersey Department of Education’s website to understand the specific guidelines and reporting procedures.
Choose an online curriculum: Select an online curriculum that aligns with your child’s educational needs and interests. Look for accredited programs or create a personalized curriculum using online resources, educational websites, and virtual learning platforms.
Establish a schedule: Create a daily or weekly schedule that suits your child’s learning style and accommodates other commitments. Consider setting specific study hours and designated workspaces to maintain structure and routine.
Monitor progress and assess learning: Regularly evaluate your child’s progress through assessments, tests, projects, or portfolios. This helps ensure they are meeting educational goals and making progress.
Join homeschooling communities: Connect with other homeschooling families through local support groups, online forums, or social media platforms. These communities can provide valuable resources, advice, and opportunities for socialization.
Explore extracurricular activities: Take advantage of the extracurricular activities and resources available to homeschoolers in New Jersey. Research local organizations, co-ops, and sports leagues that offer opportunities for homeschoolers to engage in group activities and develop social skills.

Stay connected with the local homeschooling community and regularly evaluate and adapt your approach to best meet your child’s educational needs.

Benefits of Homeschooling Online in New Jersey

Homeschooling online in New Jersey offers several benefits for students and their families. Here are five key advantages:

Flexibility and Personalized Learning: Online homeschooling allows students to learn at their own pace and explore interesting subjects. They can create a customized schedule that suits their learning style, preferences, and other commitments. Flexibility also allows tailored instruction and individualized attention, catering to each student’s unique needs and strengths.
Access to a Wide Range of Resources: Online homeschooling provides access to a vast array of educational resources, including interactive multimedia materials, virtual libraries, educational software, and online courses. Students can explore diverse subjects and tap into a wealth of knowledge beyond traditional textbooks, ensuring a rich and varied learning experience.
Enhanced Safety and Comfort: Homeschooling online in New Jersey provides a safe and comfortable learning environment, free from potential distractions or negative social influences. Students can focus on their studies without concerns about bullying, peer pressure, or safety issues that can arise in traditional school settings. Additionally, online homeschooling offers flexibility in location, allowing students to learn from the comfort of their own homes.
Individualized Attention and Support: With online homeschooling, students can receive individualized attention from their parents or online instructors. This personalized approach enables educators to identify and address students’ strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. Students can receive tailored support, feedback, and guidance, fostering academic growth and development.
Engaging and Interactive Learning: Online homeschooling platforms often utilize innovative technologies, multimedia tools, and interactive learning materials. These resources make learning more engaging, stimulating, and enjoyable for students. Through online discussions, virtual field trips, educational games, and interactive exercises, students can actively participate in their education and develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills.

It’s important to note that homeschooling can offer numerous benefits but also requires careful planning, dedication, and involvement from parents or guardians to ensure a well-rounded education.

Conclusion

New Jersey Homeschooling Online provides a valuable alternative for families seeking a flexible and personalized education for their children. New Jersey’s High School of America offers a comprehensive curriculum, interactive resources, and a supportive community for homeschooling families. By embracing technology and harnessing the power of the internet, New Jersey Homeschooling Online has created an accessible and convenient learning environment that meets the diverse needs of students.

Furthermore, New Jersey’s homeschooling laws provide a legal framework that ensures accountability and safeguards the educational welfare of homeschooled children.

The regulations balance parental autonomy and academic standards, fostering an environment where parents can confidently educate their children at home.