Oklahoma, known as the “Sooner State,” is a vibrant and diverse state located in the heart of the United States. With its rich Native American heritage, scenic landscapes, and warm-hearted communities, Oklahoma offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
One of the key advantages of Oklahoma is its homeschooling support. Oklahoma families can choose alternative education methods, including homeschooling, to provide their children with personalized learning experiences.
High School of America, a leading online school, offers accredited homeschooling programs tailored to meet the needs of Oklahoma students. Whether students seek a comprehensive high school curriculum or individual courses, High School of America provides flexible online learning options.
To explore the specific homeschooling regulations in Oklahoma, continue reading below.
Homeschooling Laws in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, the laws regarding homeschooling are simple and easy to understand. Parents are not obligated to register or seek approval from state or local authorities.
If your student was previously enrolled in a public or private school, it is not mandatory to inform the school of your decision to homeschool. However, national nonprofit organizations often recommend notifying the school either before the school year begins or formally withdrawing your child during the academic year.
Required Courses
The homeschooling law in Oklahoma doesn’t mandate courses to be taught by homeschooling families.
Grades 9-12
High school students in Oklahoma are required to complete a minimum of 23 credits to graduate. These course credits include:
- Art or Speech (1 credit)
- Language arts (4 credits)
- Math (3 credits)
- Science (3 credits)
- Social studies (3 credits)
- Personal Financial Literacy (0.5 credit)
- Technology or two units of the same World Language (2 credits)
- Electives (5.5 credits)
Teacher Certification
According to the ruling by the Attorney General, while certified teachers are not required for home instruction in Oklahoma, it is essential that the instruction provided is done in good faith and is equivalent to the education provided by the state.
Compulsory Attendance Requirement
Homeschooling should comply with the compulsory school-age laws in Oklahoma, which mandate that children between the ages of 5 and 18 must be enrolled in school.
Classroom Attendance Requirements
Homeschools in Oklahoma must adhere to compulsory school attendance requirements. This means that homeschooling should cover 180 days per calendar year, with a minimum of six clock hours or 360 minutes per day, appropriate for the child’s age.
Assessment Tests
While the state does not mandate standardized assessments for homeschoolers in Oklahoma, some home educators choose to use them to assess their student’s progress and ensure a comprehensive curriculum without any knowledge gaps.
For high school students planning to attend college after graduation, taking the ACT or SAT is recommended.
Record Keeping
Although Oklahoma homeschool laws do not require parents to submit reports, it is advisable to maintain records of relevant information about your child’s education. This includes progress reports, samples of coursework, standardized testing results, and transcripts.
High School of America’s portal provides a convenient way for parents to manage record keeping by accessing coursework, transcripts, progress reports, and attendance tracking.
Graduation Requirements
In Oklahoma, parents have the responsibility of establishing graduation requirements for their homeschooling students and issuing diplomas.
It is recommended to set these requirements based on the student’s post-high school plans. Most colleges, universities, trade schools, and employers share eligibility requirements for homeschool students, so early discussions about the student’s goals are crucial to ensure they meet the necessary criteria throughout high school.
In addition to a homeschool diploma, students can also choose to take a high school equivalency exam like the General Education Development (GED) test.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Homeschooling in Oklahoma
Here are some frequently asked questions about online homeschooling in Oklahoma:
Is Oklahoma a homeschool state?
Yes, Oklahoma is a homeschool-friendly state. It allows parents or legal guardians to educate their children at home through various homeschooling options. Oklahoma recognizes homeschooling as a legal alternative to public or private school attendance.
Are there any specific requirements for online homeschooling in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has specific requirements for homeschooling, including online homeschooling. Some of these requirements include providing 180 days of instruction per year and teaching certain subjects such as math, reading, and science.
Is it necessary to provide reports for homeschooling in Oklahoma?
No, Oklahoma’s homeschooling laws do not require parents to submit reports. However, it is advisable to keep records of relevant information regarding your child’s education, such as transcripts, standardized test results, courses work samples, and progress reports.
What is the minimum age for mandatory schooling in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, the law states that all children between the ages of 5 and 18 must attend school. The Attorney General has clarified that this law allows for parents or guardians to educate their children at home, following specific guidelines for home instruction.
Can I use an online curriculum for homeschooling in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can use an online curriculum for homeschooling in Oklahoma. Many families opt for online curriculum providers offering pre-designed courses and lesson plans for various grade levels. These curricula often include interactive materials, assessments, and progress tracking.
Can I participate in extracurricular activities if my child is homeschooled online?
In Oklahoma, homeschool students, including those engaged in online homeschooling, are generally allowed to participate in extracurricular activities offered by public schools.
Are there any support groups or resources available for online homeschooling families in Oklahoma?
Yes, there are several support groups and resources available for online homeschooling families in Oklahoma. These groups often organize events, provide curriculum recommendations, and offer opportunities for socialization with other homeschooling families.
Online platforms and forums can also be valuable resources for connecting with other homeschooling families and accessing educational materials.
Online Homeschooling Statistics in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, homeschooling numbers are steadily increasing. The popularity of homeschooling increased significantly during the Covid-19 pandemic. The rate of homeschooling rose significantly in Oklahoma in 2020.
According to a United States Census Bureau survey showed that Oklahoma had the fought highest increase in home education of any state in the country. Notably, the of homeschooling families increased to 20.1% in the fall from 7.7% in the spring. The number of homeschooling continues to rise over the years.
How to Do it: Oklahoma Online Homeschooling
To engage in online homeschooling in Oklahoma, you can follow these general steps:
- Familiarize yourself with the homeschooling laws in Oklahoma: Each state has its own regulations regarding homeschooling. In Oklahoma, homeschooling is legal and regulated by the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Review the requirements and guidelines provided by the department to ensure compliance.
- Choose a curriculum: Select an appropriate curriculum for your child’s grade level and educational goals. Numerous online resources and homeschooling programs are available, such as online homeschool academies, virtual schools, or a combination of online resources and traditional textbooks.
- Establish a daily schedule: Set up a structured daily schedule that suits your child’s needs and adheres to the curriculum. Determine the subjects and activities for each day, including online lessons, independent study, exercises, and breaks. Create a routine that promotes consistency and productivity.
- Create a dedicated learning space: Designate an area in your home as a dedicated learning space. Ensure it is quiet, organized, and free from distractions. Equip it with the necessary materials, including a computer or laptop, reliable internet access, textbooks, notebooks, and any additional resources based on the curriculum you’ve chosen.
- Implement online learning tools: Utilize online learning platforms, educational websites, and interactive resources to enhance your child’s learning experience. These can include video lessons, educational games, quizzes, and virtual experiments. Supplement the curriculum with engaging online content that aligns with the subjects being studied.
- Track progress and evaluate: Although not mandatory, maintain records of your child’s progress, including samples of work, tests, and assessments. Regularly evaluate their performance to ensure they are meeting educational goals. Assess their understanding and adjust the curriculum if necessary.
- Seek support and resources: Connect with other homeschooling families in Oklahoma through local homeschooling groups, online communities, or social media platforms. Share experiences, resources, and insights. Attend homeschooling conferences or workshops to gain additional knowledge and guidance.
- Stay updated and adapt as needed: Keep abreast of any changes or updates in the homeschooling laws or regulations in Oklahoma. Continuously assess your child’s educational needs and adapt your approach as required. Remain flexible and open to adjustments that support your child’s growth and development.
Benefits of Homeschooling Online in Oklahoma
Online homeschooling in Oklahoma offers a number of advantages.
- Flexibility: Online homeschooling provides parents and students with the flexibility to create their own learning schedule. Students can work on assignments and coursework when it is convenient for them, rather than having to adhere to a traditional school day schedule. As a result, children are able to develop skills at a rate that suits them best, giving them the opportunity to reach their fullest potential without feeling overburdened or frustrated by traditional school structures.
- Customization: With online homeschooling, parents can customize their child’s learning plan according to individual needs and interests. This allows students to learn what they are most passionate about and set goals that will help them reach their full potential.
- Individual Attention: Online homeschooling gives students the opportunity to work with teachers in one-on-one sessions. This helps ensure that each student is receiving the attention they need to be successful with their coursework.
- Variety of Resources: Online homeschooling offers a variety of resources for both parents and students alike. For example, there are virtual libraries, online tutoring programs, forums, and discussion boards. All of these resources can help make learning fun and engaging for everyone involved.
- Cost-Effective: Online homeschooling is often much more affordable than traditional schooling options. For example, many online programs offer discounted rates or free trial periods so parents can determine if it’s the right option for them before investing in the full curriculum. This helps ensure that families are able to find an educational solution that fits within their budget.
- Accountability: Online homeschooling can provide parents and students with an unprecedented level of accountability. Through the use of online tracking systems, parents can monitor their child’s progress in real time. This can help ensure that students stay on track and are progressing at a rate that meets both their needs and those of their parents.
Conclusion
Homeschooling online in Oklahoma is a great option for parents who are interested in providing their children with alternative education and higher quality of learning.
It is important to understand the homeschooling laws in Oklahoma and be prepared to meet all requirements for enrollment. All of these benefits combined make homeschooling online a great choice for anyone looking to give their child the advantage of a more tailored and explicit education.
If you think this could be the right choice for your family, do not hesitate to reach out to High School of America, and they will get you started on the path towards success today!