Since not everyone may be aware that your student is home schooled, or be educated on what home schooling entails, a brief explanation on the announcement or invitation to the graduation will help clarify this. Provide recipients with an overview of the process and demands of home schooling. Make it clear that a home schooled student works just as hard, if not harder, than a student of traditional education. Explain that the graduating student has surpassed on state and federal tests and evaluations and has met or exceeded the goals and benchmarks of traditional education. For example, "Although Brian has been home schooled, he has risen to meet the rigorous demands associated with being disciplined enough to be taught at home. He has also exceeded every benchmark associated with traditional schooling and graduates with a 3.8 grade point average."
Since many people you are alerting to the graduation have likely not attended a home school graduation before, clue the invitees in on what they can expect. Provide a brief overview of the events you have planned for the occasion. This can read as a schedule, listing the various events and times or a simple summary. For example, "We invite you to join us at our home where we will present Brian with his certificate of completion, followed by a few words from the parents of the graduate as well as the graduate himself. Refreshments to follow the presentation of the graduate."
Anyone receiving the announcement will need to be aware of the specifics surrounding the event in order for them to attend or to send a timely gift or congratulatory card. Relay in the announcement or invitation the date and time of the graduation. Also, include the location where the graduation will take place, since the recipients will not be attending the graduation at a school. For example, "The graduation ceremony will take place at our home on June 17, at 3:00PM." If you are providing food and need a head count for the people attending, include an RSVP deadline at least a week before the graduation event.
Including a note of pride and congratulations in the announcement incorporates a personal touch to the correspondence. For example, "As Brian's parents we want to express our deep pride and heartfelt congratulations to our son, who has proven he can accomplish whatever he sets his mind to and succeed, both academically and in life." You can also include a note detailing his future plans. For example, "Following the completion of his home school education, Brian will be attending the University of Connecticut in the fall."