In Texas, if your child has never been enrolled in a public school program, you do not need to notify your local public school district of your intent to homeschool. If, however, your child has been enrolled or is enrolled and you want to withdraw him and begin homeschooling, you should file a letter of intent to withdraw so that your child will not be considered truant.
The state of Texas requires children who are homeschooled to have five different subject areas in their curriculum. Children must have instruction in reading, grammar, spelling, math and good citizenship. You do not have to follow or use any specific type instruction books or materials, however the curriculum must be legitimate. There are a number of resources available online for curriculum plans and any type of tool or process may be utilized such as books, field trips, computers or hands-on learning.
There are no minimum number of hours per day a student must be actively involved in instruction. The state also cannot mandate the number of days per week or months per year your child must be instructed. As a recognized private school, these decisions lay with you, the school administrator. Diplomas are not granted by the state but by you. If your child wishes to continue on in college, SATs might be required, as well as transcripts of your child's course of study.
The biggest concern of parents who wish to homeschool is the lack of participation in organized activities for their children. The state of Texas does not require local public schools to open their extracurricular programs to homeschooled students. It is up to each individual jurisdiction whether to allow homeschoolers to participate in band, drama or athletic programs. The state, however, will not allow students homeschooled to participate in the Texas state sponsored University Interscholastic League contests as participation requires students to be full-time members of a public school. Look for homeschool groups, athletic, drama and musical programs offered beyond the school programs, as well as scouting and other youth oriented extracurricular programs to keep your child socialized and active with students of their own age.