Learn the law. One of the first things you will want to do when establishing a home school in Arkansas is to read and understand the law as it pertains to home schools. While you have the right as a parent to choose where your child goes to school, there are certain things you must do in order to be officially recognized as a home school. Failing to do these can result in legal problems.
Submit the appropriate paperwork. In order to be officially recognized as a home school certain papers must be completed and submitted to your local school district. These papers, which generally include a “notice of intent to home school” and a waiver form which can be obtained from the local school district.
Purchase needed books and supplies. Once you have established your home as a school for your child you can begin preparing the curriculum for what your child will learn. This includes purchasing textbooks and supplies you will use to help your child learn and master different concepts. There are no regulations stating what you must teach although standardized testing is required in the spring for all home schooled children between grades 3 and 9.
Set aside a time for homeschooling each day. Children need a schedule and structure, which is why it is important to develop a schedule for your home school. While it may not need to be as rigid as what is found in a public or private school, your child should be able to know what they will be doing or working on throughout the day.
Network with other parents who home school. One of the biggest assets for first-time homeschoolers is the number of parents in their area who have been homeschooling their child for several years. They provide materials and ideas for lessons as well as serve as a sounding board when you run into problems. In addition, they often have connections to youth group and home school sport teams that can help your child stay socially connected to their peers.
Take the standardized tests in April/May if required. Students that are home schooled are required to take a standardized assessment if they are between the grades of 3 and 9. Failing to do so is considered truancy, and the same legal ramifications apply as they would if your child was truant from a public or private school. You should be notified by mail regarding when and where the test will be mailed, but should you have any questions you can contact the Arkansas Home School Testing Office at 501-682-1874.