For various reasons, parents have viewed homeschooling as become a viable option. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (2008) in 2007, 1.5 million students were homeschooled in the United States increasing by 400,000 students since 2003.
The U.S. Department of Education considers a student a homeschooler if they do not attend a public or private school or is attending less than 25 hours per week. Meaning, their primary source of instruction is provided at home. Parents can enroll their students in non-essential courses just contact your local district.
Students completing 12 years of education in a secondary school setting receive a high school diploma for meeting the U.S. basic qualifications. Generally, homeschoolers do not receive a diploma. Homeschoolers can either take the General Educational Development (GED) the high school equivalency diploma or the homeschooling teacher or parent can issue a diploma.
Each state has different requirements regarding standardized testing. Unlike high school students, most homeschoolers are not required to take standardized tests such as the American College Testing (ACT) Program, Advanced Placement (AP) Program test or the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE). Parents can have their children tested by contacting their local school district.
Registering your student as a homeschooler in most states is voluntarily but a necessary process particularly for students who may require special services provided by the districts for persons with disabilities. Failure to inform the home district of your decision to homeschool may result in your child being disciplined under the districts truancy policy. So, keep your district informed to ensure your in compliance.