Determine the path that you want to take for educating your child. California allows you to file a private school affidavit, private school satellite program or public or charter school independent study program. You also may hire a credentialed teacher or tutor. Your course of action depends on the pathway you choose.
Hire a tutor that has valid credentials for California. Instruction must occur for at least three hours a day for a total of 175 days during the school year.
Contact a charter school in your district. Many times they offer a home study program. The only instruction that a student receives is checking in once a month by a facilitator. Your student must turn in his attendance records, progress sheets and samples of work. Charter schools can be beneficial because they often loan books and supplies during the school year, which can ease the financial strain.
Enroll your child in a Private Satellite Program (PSP) which allows you to meet the education guidelines for California. This allows you to keep health records, attendance records and a course of study for your child or children. You can also keep track of grades, transcripts and test results. As of January 2011, the cost is from $250 to $400 a year. You take the reins in designing the curriculum and coursework that your child covers. You can enroll your child in any of the PSPs located in the state of California.
File a Private School Affidavit (PSA) which gives you exemption as a private school. You do not have to have any teaching credentials. You can have the most control over your child's education when you file a PSA. It must be filed between October 1st and 15th each year. You need to keep specific records and comply to the California education codes.