New Mexico is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States. It is known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history. The state offers a unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences, making it a vibrant and culturally rich place to live.
When it comes to education, New Mexico recognizes the right of parents to homeschool their children. Homeschooling provides families with the flexibility to tailor their children’s education to their individual needs and values.
One accredited online homeschooling program that can significantly benefit families in New Mexico is the High School of America. High School of America offers quality education that is recognized by colleges and universities across the United States.
It provides a comprehensive curriculum for students in grades 9-12, covering subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social studies, and more.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about homeschooling program in New Mexico and find out how it can help your family!
Homeschooling Law in New Mexico
In order to legally homeschool in New Mexico, a parent or legal guardian is required to have at least a high school diploma or an equivalent (i.e., a GED).
In addition to being a certified teacher, you are required to adhere to the following requirements when homeschooling online in New Mexico:
Notification to the State Superintend
As a homeschooling parent in New Mexico, you are required to inform the New Mexico Public Education Department within 30 days of commencing homeschooling and then provide an annual notification by August 1st thereafter. The August 1st notice should specify the school district where the homeschooling takes place.
You can submit the statement of intent online or mail it to the following address:
New Mexico Department of Education
Attn: Home School Notification
300 Don Gaspar
Santa Fe, NM 87501-2786
Required Courses
In New Mexico, homeschooling regulations state that you must include the state’s fundamental subjects in your instruction. However, there are no specific laws dictating the teaching methods you should employ; the emphasis is on ensuring that these subjects are covered in your curriculum.
These core courses include language arts, math, social studies, reading, and science.
Grades 9-12
High school students in New Mexico are required to complete the following credits:
- English (4 credits)
- Mathematics (4 credits)
- Social Studies (3.5 credits)
- Science (3 credits)
- Physical Education (1 credit)
- Health (0.5 credit)
- Electives (8 credits)
- Workplace or Career Readiness or Language other than English (1 credit)
Attendance Requirements
To comply with New Mexico’s homeschooling regulations, you are required to teach for the same number of days as the local public school, which is typically around 180 days.
Recording Keeping
While New Mexico doesn’t have a specific requirement for keeping homeschooling records, it is advisable to maintain comprehensive reports documenting each student’s education. This may include transcripts, progress reports, and course materials.
These records can be valuable if the student decides to attend college or return to a public or private school.
Annual Assessment
New Mexico doesn’t mandate homeschooling students to take state standardized tests. Parents can choose to request their students to take the Standards Based Assessments (SBA), but approval from superintendents is not guaranteed.
However, students can opt for nationally normed standardized tests to assess their progress on a yearly basis. It is also recommended that students planning to attend college take the SAT or ACT during high school.
Graduation Requirements
In New Mexico, parents have the responsibility of establishing graduation requirements for their homeschooling students. Once these requirements are met, parents can issue homeschool diplomas or high school equivalence certificates.
It is recommended that parents base these graduation requirements on their student’s post-graduation plans. Most trade schools, universities, and colleges provide information about their admissions policies for homeschooling students.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Homeschooling in New Mexico
Can I legally homeschool my child in New Mexico?
Yes, homeschooling is legal in New Mexico. The state recognizes homeschooling as a legitimate educational option, and parents have the right to educate their children at home.
Are there any assessments or tests required for homeschooled students in New Mexico?
New Mexico law does not require standardized testing for homeschooled students. However, parents may choose to administer tests or assessments to evaluate their child’s progress and academic achievement. These assessments can be helpful in ensuring that your child is meeting educational goals and making appropriate progress.
Who is eligible to provide homeschooling in New Mexico?
According to the laws in New Mexico, homeschooling can be conducted by a person who has a high school diploma or its equivalent. The parent or legal guardian must serve as the homeschool operator, as stated by the New Mexico Public Education Department.
What subjects are mandatory for homeschooled students in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, homeschooled students are required to cover the subjects of science, social studies, math, language arts, and reading.
How can I register for homeschooling in New Mexico?
To register for homeschooling in New Mexico, you must inform the state on or before August 1st of each year or within 30 days of establishing your homeschool, according to the New Mexico Public Education Department guidelines.
How many days per year do I have to homeschool my child in New Mexico?
The Compulsory School Attendance Law in New Mexico mandates a minimum of 180 days of instruction. Additionally, homeschooling must meet the duration requirements set by the student’s local school district, as stated by the New Mexico Public Education Department.
New Mexico Homeschooling Online Statistics
Homeschooling in New Mexico has seen rapid growth over the past few years.
According to the Public Education Department data, the number of children registered as homeschoolers has nearly doubled from 8,800 to 15,400 this past school year. This is despite K-12 enrollment shrinking by 1.1% each year due to decreased births and people leaving the state rather than moving in. As a result, homeschooling is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative option for New Mexico families.
The homeschooling community in the state is diverse, with parents having a variety of reasons for choosing to educate their children at home.
How to Do it: New Mexico Homeschooling Online
If you’re interested in homeschooling in New Mexico and would like to explore online options, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Research the Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the homeschooling laws and regulations in New Mexico. The state has specific requirements for homeschooling, including submitting a letter of intent to homeschool and having the required certification. Make sure you understand these legal obligations before proceeding.
- Choose an Online Homeschooling Program: Find reputable online homeschooling programs that align with your educational goals and preferences. There are various online platforms and curriculum providers available, such as High School of America.
- Review the Curriculum: Once you’ve selected an online homeschooling program, review the curriculum Ensure it covers the necessary subjects and aligns with your state’s educational standards.
- Complete the Enrollment Process: Follow the online homeschooling program’s enrollment process. This typically involves filling out an application form and providing necessary documentation. Be sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information during enrollment.
- Establish a Schedule: Create a homeschooling schedule that accommodates your child’s learning needs, interests, and your family’s daily routine. Designate specific times for each subject, breaks, and extracurricular activities. Flexibility is one of the benefits of homeschooling, so customize the schedule to suit your family’s lifestyle.
- Set Up a Learning Environment: Dedicate a quiet and organized space in your home for homeschooling. Ensure it is free from distractions and has the necessary educational materials, such as textbooks, workbooks, a computer/laptop, and any additional supplies required by the online program.
- Supplement with Local Resources: Take advantage of local resources to enhance your homeschooling experience. Visit libraries, museums, parks, and community centers for educational field trips and hands-on learning opportunities. Join local homeschooling groups or co-ops to connect with other homeschooling families and participate in group activities.
Benefits of Homeschooling Online in New Mexico
Homeschooling online in New Mexico can offer several benefits for families seeking alternative education options. Here are some advantages of homeschooling online in New Mexico:
- Enhanced Safety and Security: Homeschooling online can provide a safe and secure learning environment, especially when parents are concerned about their child’s safety in traditional school settings. Online learning eliminates issues like bullying, peer pressure, or exposure to potentially harmful situations.
- Individualized Attention: Online homeschooling allows for one-on-one interaction between the student and the parent/teacher. This personalized attention can foster a deeper understanding of concepts, better academic progress, and increased engagement in the learning process.
- Flexibility: Online homeschooling allows for a flexible schedule, giving families the freedom to create a learning environment that suits their individual needs. Students can learn at their own pace and have more control over their daily routines, accommodating other commitments or activities.
- Independence and Self-Discipline: Homeschooling online encourages the development of independence and self-discipline in students. They learn to manage their time effectively, take responsibility for their education, and develop self-motivation and self-regulation skills.
- Opportunities for Exploration: Online homeschooling opens up opportunities for students to explore a wide range of subjects and pursue their passions. They can delve deeper into specific areas of interest, engage in project-based learning, or participate in online communities and forums related to their chosen topics.
- Family Bonding and Values: Homeschooling online allows for increased family bonding as parents actively participate in their child’s education. Families can instill their values, beliefs, and cultural heritage into the curriculum, creating a strong foundation for their child’s personal and moral development.
- Health and Well-being: Homeschooling online can benefit students with specific health needs or conditions requiring a more flexible learning environment. It provides a safer option during times of illness or when physical attendance in traditional schools may pose challenges.
While homeschooling online offers numerous advantages, it’s essential to carefully consider your child’s individual needs, the commitment required from parents, and the local regulations and requirements for homeschooling in New Mexico.
Conclusion
Investing time into researching and understanding the homeschooling law requirements in New Mexico can provide families with peace of mind, as well as the confidence that their child will receive an adequate education.
It can be daunting to navigate the newest changes and laws, so working closely with knowledgeable professionals who specialize in this field is best. At High School of America, we have an established team of educational experts available to assist individuals looking for advice related to homeschooling online in New Mexico.
We offer individualized consultations, resources, online courses, and more so that you can properly prepare your child for success. No matter where you are in your homeschooling journey, contact High School of America today for further assistance!