Florida Homeschool Statutes: What Parents Need to Know
Florida law provides a framework for families who choose to educate their children at home. These statutes ensure that parents understand both their rights and responsibilities while maintaining flexibility in how education is delivered.
📜 Definition of Home Education
A home education program is defined as “sequentially progressive instruction of a student directed by his or her parent or guardian” to meet state attendance requirements.
📝 Registration Requirements
Parents must notify their local district school superintendent in writing of their intent to establish a home education program.
This notice must include the names, addresses, and birthdates of all children enrolled.
The notice must be filed within 30 days of beginning the program.
📂 Portfolio Maintenance
Parents are required to keep a portfolio of educational records
This portfolio must include: A log of educational activities
Samples of the student’s work
Records must be preserved for two years and made available for inspection if requested.
📊 Annual Evaluation
Each student’s progress must be evaluated annually.
Options include:
Standardized testing
Evaluation by a certified teacher
Other approved methods.
👩👧 Parental Rights
Parents do not need a teaching certificate to homeschool.
Families have full freedom to choose curriculum and teaching methods that best fit their child’s needs.
📅 Compulsory Attendance
Children ages 6 to 16 must be enrolled in a home education program or another educational setting to comply with Florida’s compulsory attendance laws.