Nebraska law dictates that any child who will reach 6 years of age by January 1 of the current school year must be enrolled in an educational program. Parents who choose not to educate their children at the age of 6 may seek an exemption by filing a written, notarized statement with the state Board of Education. Children under the age of 18 are required to be enrolled in a public or exempt school unless a written, notarized statement is filed with the state Board of Education.
Children enrolled in exempt schooling are required to study language arts, health, math, science and social studies in all grades. Parents may choose to add additional subjects to the curriculum. Students in elementary grades are required to undergo 1,032 hours of instruction per school year, while older students are required to have 1,080 hours instructional hours.
Those who are exempt schooling due to reasons outside of personal religious beliefs are instructed to file paperwork for a Rule 12 Exemption. Rule 13 Exemption paperwork is designated for those who prefer to exempt school due to religious beliefs. Each parent is required to file a "Parent or Guardian Form" stating their intention for exempt schooling and accepting responsibility for the child's education, while agreeing to provide education in core subjects. A parent representative must fill out Form B agreeing to submit student data such as enrollment hours and dates of attendance. An Information Summary that includes a scope and sequence for each grade level, school year calendar and a list of all instructional monitors is also required. Parents must submit these forms before specified dates each year. Additional identifying information may be required during the first year of exempt schooling.
There is no cost associated with filing for exempt schooling status. Parents are responsible for all costs of educational materials which are used in the child's education. Exempt schools receive no funding from the state or federal government.