Please read before using this guide
This page is a research summary, not legal advice. Homeschool laws and local procedures change. Before withdrawing a child or filing paperwork, open the official sources for your state and confirm the current requirements with the state education agency or resident school district.
Choose your state
Use the state directory to jump to the correct section.
Review the requirements
Check filing, instruction, subjects, assessment, and recordkeeping.
Confirm before acting
Open the official links before withdrawing or submitting paperwork.
Select your state
Click a state to jump directly to its requirements.
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
State 1 of 50
Alabama
Assessment: Path-dependent
Compulsory-age range
6–17; written age-6 deferral to 7
Legal route
No separate homeschool statute. Use a church school, private school, or certified private tutor.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Enrollment/reporting follows the chosen route. A private tutor files required information with the local superintendent; church/private-school duties depend on that school structure.
Instructor qualification
Church/private-school home programs: no general parent credential. Private tutor: valid Alabama teaching certificate.
Instruction time
Private tutor: at least 3 hours/day for 140 days. Church/private-school route: school-path rules apply.
Required subjects
Private tutor teaches public-school subjects. Church/private-school curriculum is generally set by the school.
Assessment or evaluation
No general statewide homeschool test. A chosen school or program may add requirements.
Records and reporting
Keep proof of enrollment, attendance, and any documents required by the chosen school or tutor route.
Recommended first step
Choose the legal route before withdrawing; ask the church/private school what it files and what the parent must retain.
Important caution
Recent ESA/CHOOSE participation can add program rules beyond ordinary homeschool law.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 2 of 50
Alaska
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
7–16
Legal route
Parent/legal-guardian home education exemption under AS 14.30.010(b)(12).
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
No notice or approval under the parent/legal-guardian exemption.
Instructor qualification
Instruction must be by the child’s parent or legal guardian; no credential is specified.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours.
Required subjects
No state-mandated subject list under this exemption.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool assessment.
Records and reporting
No home-specific record mandate; retain work, attendance, and transcripts for practical use.
Recommended first step
Document the withdrawal and begin a parent-directed program; keep your own records.
Important caution
Public correspondence/charter programs are a different legal path and may impose program rules.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 3 of 50
Arizona
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–16
Legal route
Homeschool under A.R.S. §15-802.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File a notarized affidavit with the county school superintendent within 30 days after beginning; include proof of identity. Report termination or address change within 30 days.
Instructor qualification
Parent or guardian directs instruction; no credential requirement.
Instruction time
No specified days or hours.
Required subjects
Reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies, and science.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Keep the affidavit, identity document, curriculum/work samples, and a transcript.
Recommended first step
Download the county affidavit, gather proof of birth/identity, and file within 30 days.
Important caution
County procedures vary administratively; the legal requirements come from state statute.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 4 of 50
Arkansas
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
5–17; kindergarten waiver may apply
Legal route
Home school under Ark. Code §6-15-501 et seq.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Submit a Notice of Intent to the local public-school superintendent each school year; follow current-year deadlines and update changes.
Instructor qualification
No parent credential specified.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours.
Required subjects
No state-mandated homeschool subject list.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Retain each annual notice and maintain work, attendance, and transcript records for transfers/college.
Recommended first step
Use the state portal or current form and confirm receipt with the resident district.
Important caution
Participation in public courses, athletics, or programs can create separate requirements.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 5 of 50
California
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–18
Legal route
Most independent families operate a home-based private school; alternatives include a private-school satellite program or credentialed tutor.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Home-based private school files the Private School Affidavit annually, ordinarily October 1–15; a new school files when it begins.
Instructor qualification
Private-school teachers must be capable of teaching. The credentialed-tutor route requires a valid California teaching credential.
Instruction time
Private school must offer full-time instruction; credentialed-tutor route has statutory time rules.
Required subjects
English and the branches of study required in public schools for the applicable grades.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide test for a private-school homeschool, unless a chosen program requires it.
Records and reporting
Keep attendance register, courses of study, faculty names/addresses and qualifications, and required health/immunization records.
Recommended first step
Select the legal option; if opening a private school, file the affidavit and build the required record set.
Important caution
The affidavit is not state approval. Districts decide whether compulsory-attendance exemption evidence is adequate.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 6 of 50
Colorado
Assessment: Periodic grades
Compulsory-age range
6–16; instruction need not begin until 7
Legal route
Nonpublic home-based educational program under C.R.S. §22-33-104.5; independent-school enrollment is an alternative.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Give written notice at least 14 days before starting and annually thereafter to a Colorado school district; include student and attendance information.
Instructor qualification
Parent, legal guardian, or adult relative may teach; no degree or license.
Instruction time
172 days, averaging 4 contact hours per day.
Required subjects
Reading, writing, speaking, mathematics, history, civics, literature, science, and regular instruction on the U.S. Constitution.
Assessment or evaluation
Nationally standardized test or qualified-person evaluation in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11; submit results as state law specifies.
Records and reporting
Maintain permanent attendance, test/evaluation, and immunization records.
Recommended first step
Send notice 14 days before start, calendar the five assessment grades, and create the permanent record file.
Important caution
If using an independent-school umbrella, follow that school’s requirements instead of the notice route.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 7 of 50
Connecticut
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
5–17; statutory withdrawal option for ages 5–6
Legal route
Parent instruction under C.G.S. §10-184.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
State guidance asks parents to contact the local district and provides a Notice of Intent procedure; the notice functions as a compliance guideline rather than an approval system.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified.
Instruction time
No numeric home-specific time rule.
Required subjects
Reading, writing, spelling, English grammar, geography, arithmetic, U.S. history, and citizenship, including town/state/federal government.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Keep the educational plan, attendance, work samples, and progress records; local review practices should be confirmed.
Recommended first step
Contact the resident superintendent, review the state procedure, and keep written proof of your plan and communications.
Important caution
District implementation can differ; ask for any request in writing and compare it with §10-184.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 8 of 50
Delaware
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
5–16
Legal route
Homeschool is registered as a nonpublic school (single-family or multi-family).
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Open/register the nonpublic school and enroll the child. File annual enrollment information and an annual attendance report during the state reporting windows.
Instructor qualification
No teacher credential specified.
Instruction time
No prescribed minimum days/hours for homeschool, but annual aggregate attendance is reported.
Required subjects
No state-mandated homeschool curriculum.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Report annual enrollment and aggregate attendance; keep a portfolio/transcript even though state curriculum monitoring is not performed.
Recommended first step
Register the school, enroll the child, and calendar both annual reporting windows.
Important caution
Failure to file annual reports can cause the nonpublic school to be closed in the state system.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 9 of 50
Florida
Assessment: Annual
Compulsory-age range
6–16
Legal route
Home education program under Fla. Stat. §1002.41; private-school umbrella is a separate option.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Notify the district superintendent within 30 days after starting. Send termination notice within 30 days after ending.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified for the parent.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours.
Required subjects
No state-mandated subject list for a §1002.41 home education program.
Assessment or evaluation
Submit an annual educational evaluation by the anniversary date using one of the statutory options (teacher review, approved testing, psychologist, or agreed method).
Records and reporting
Maintain a portfolio with activity log and samples; retain it for 2 years and make it available on 15 days’ written notice.
Recommended first step
Send the notice, note the anniversary evaluation deadline, and begin the two-year portfolio.
Important caution
Umbrella/private-school enrollment has different filing and evaluation rules.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 10 of 50
Georgia
Assessment: Periodic + annual report
Compulsory-age range
6–16
Legal route
Home study program under O.C.G.A. §20-2-690(c).
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File a Declaration of Intent with the Georgia Department of Education annually by September 1 or within 30 days after starting.
Instructor qualification
Teaching parent/guardian or hired tutor must have at least a high-school diploma or GED.
Instruction time
180 days; at least 4.5 hours per day, unless the child is physically unable.
Required subjects
Reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science.
Assessment or evaluation
Nationally standardized achievement test at least every 3 years beginning after grade 3.
Records and reporting
Write an annual progress report in each required subject and retain it at least 3 years; keep attendance and test results.
Recommended first step
File the declaration, verify instructor qualification, and schedule testing on the three-year cycle.
Important caution
Do not send progress reports or test results unless lawfully requested; retain them in the family record.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 11 of 50
Hawaii
Assessment: Annual + periodic tests
Compulsory-age range
5–18
Legal route
Home instruction under Haw. Admin. Rules chapter 12.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Submit Form 4140 or a letter to the principal of the local public school. Re-notify after moving or certain school-level transitions and report termination.
Instructor qualification
Parent or legal guardian directs the program; no teaching credential.
Instruction time
Plan must state instructional time; no fixed statewide daily-hour mandate in the parent FAQ.
Required subjects
Curriculum should be structured and grade-appropriate; the parent’s plan covers the subjects and materials used.
Assessment or evaluation
Annual progress report. Nationally normed tests in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10, with the alternatives described by the Department.
Records and reporting
Maintain the curriculum record (dates, hours, subjects, methods, materials), annual reports, and test/evaluation results.
Recommended first step
Send Form 4140/letter, create the curriculum record, and calendar annual reporting and test grades.
Important caution
Public-school participation or special-services requests are separate processes.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 12 of 50
Idaho
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
7–16
Legal route
Parent-directed home education under Idaho Code §§33-202 and 33-206.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
No registration or sign-up with the state or district.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours.
Required subjects
Instruction must include subjects commonly and usually taught in Idaho public schools.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
No state homeschool record mandate; keep attendance, work samples, grades, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Withdraw in writing if enrolled and create a curriculum/record plan.
Important caution
Public-school classes and activities can carry district eligibility rules.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 13 of 50
Illinois
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–17
Legal route
Homeschool operates as a private school under Illinois case law and 105 ILCS 5/26-1.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
No registration is required. The state offers a voluntary registration form; written withdrawal is prudent for a currently enrolled child.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified.
Instruction time
No specified days or hours.
Required subjects
Language arts, mathematics, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, fine arts, and physical development/health, taught in English at the corresponding grade level.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Keep evidence of the branches taught, attendance, work, grades, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Send a dated withdrawal notice and map the curriculum to the required branches of education.
Important caution
The family bears the burden of showing the instruction meets the statutory private-school exemption if challenged.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 14 of 50
Indiana
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
7–18; graduation/exit exceptions
Legal route
Nonpublic, nonaccredited school in the home.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
State homeschool registration is voluntary. Notify the prior school of withdrawal and request records.
Instructor qualification
Parent/guardian operates the home school; no license or degree.
Instruction time
At least 180 days of instruction each school year.
Required subjects
Instruction must be equivalent to that in public schools and conducted in English; statute does not prescribe a homeschool course list.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Maintain attendance records showing 180 days; keep course, grade, and transcript records.
Recommended first step
Withdraw in writing, start an attendance log, and decide whether to use voluntary state registration.
Important caution
A school may request attendance records during an attendance inquiry.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 15 of 50
Iowa
Assessment: Path-dependent
Compulsory-age range
6–16
Legal route
Choose Independent Private Instruction (IPI) or one of the Competent Private Instruction (CPI) options, including HSAP/licensed-practitioner routes.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
IPI generally has no routine filing. CPI filings, Form A, dual-enrollment notices, and deadlines vary by option and circumstances.
Instructor qualification
IPI: no credential. CPI licensed-practitioner route uses a licensed teacher; CPI parent route has separate rules.
Instruction time
CPI: at least 148 days, including 37 days per quarter. IPI is governed by its own statutory definition.
Required subjects
IPI now includes mathematics, reading/language arts, science, and social studies in all grades. CPI content depends on the option and grade.
Assessment or evaluation
CPI Option 2 generally requires annual adequate-progress evidence; IPI has no state assessment mandate. HSAP/licensed routes follow program rules.
Records and reporting
CPI families retain/report forms and progress evidence as required. All families should keep attendance, work, and transcripts.
Recommended first step
Read the current handbook and 2026 technical-assistance memo, then choose the legal option before filing anything.
Important caution
Iowa changed the IPI statute in 2026; older summaries may list obsolete limits or subject rules.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 16 of 50
Kansas
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
7–18
Legal route
Register as a nonaccredited private school (NAPS).
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Register the school name and address with the Kansas State Department of Education; update material changes.
Instructor qualification
Instruction must be by competent instructors; no specific degree/license is prescribed for the home-school parent.
Instruction time
Time must be substantially equivalent to public school. KSDE recommends about 186 days/6 hours but labels this as guidance.
Required subjects
Provide a planned, scheduled program covering core elementary/secondary studies; consult the cited statutes and KSDE guidance.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Keep registration confirmation, attendance/calendar, curriculum plan, work, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Choose a school name, register the NAPS, and retain the confirmation.
Important caution
Registration is not accreditation or approval; recommendations and statutory mandates should be distinguished.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 17 of 50
Kentucky
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–18
Legal route
Homeschool functions as a private, parochial, or church regular day school.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Notify the local board/superintendent of enrolled students, customarily within the first two weeks of school; repeat for each school year and report changes.
Instructor qualification
No parent credential specified.
Instruction time
Minimum school term/student instructional year under KRS 158.070 (generally 170 days and 1,062 instructional hours, subject to calendar alternatives).
Required subjects
English and the branches of study required in Kentucky public schools.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Maintain attendance and scholarship/academic records; keep the annual notice and transcript.
Recommended first step
Send the annual enrollment notice and build a calendar meeting KRS 158.070.
Important caution
KRS 158.080 was amended effective June 27, 2025; use current statutes, not older summaries.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 18 of 50
Louisiana
Assessment: Path-dependent
Compulsory-age range
5–18
Legal route
Choose BESE-approved home study or a registered nonpublic school not seeking state approval.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Home study applies initially and renews annually. Registered nonpublic school submits annual school/enrollment information and follows its reporting process.
Instructor qualification
No parent credential specified.
Instruction time
Home study generally provides 180 days of instruction; nonpublic-school route follows applicable school requirements.
Required subjects
Home-study curriculum must be of quality at least equal to public-school instruction; the nonpublic route has different oversight.
Assessment or evaluation
Home-study renewal demonstrates sustained curriculum through approved evidence. Registered nonpublic schools do not take state tests unless they opt into applicable programs.
Records and reporting
Keep applications/renewals, curriculum/work, attendance, evaluation evidence, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Compare diploma, TOPS, testing, and reporting consequences of both routes before choosing.
Important caution
Diploma recognition and scholarship eligibility differ substantially between the two routes.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 19 of 50
Maine
Assessment: Annual
Compulsory-age range
6–17
Legal route
Equivalent instruction through a home instruction program under 20-A M.R.S. §5001-A.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
First-year notice within 10 days after withdrawal/start; subsequent notice by September 1 with the prior-year assessment.
Instructor qualification
No parent credential specified.
Instruction time
At least 175 days annually.
Required subjects
English/language arts, math, science, social studies, physical education, health, library skills, fine arts, Maine studies once in grades 6–12, and computer proficiency once in grades 7–12.
Assessment or evaluation
Annual standardized test, local test, certified-teacher portfolio review, advisory-board review, or Commissioner-approved alternative.
Records and reporting
Keep notice, attendance, curriculum/work, and the annual assessment; submit the assessment with the next annual notice.
Recommended first step
File the first notice promptly, select an assessment method, and calendar September 1 renewal.
Important caution
The notice is filed with both the local superintendent and the Commissioner through the state process.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 20 of 50
Maryland
Assessment: Portfolio review / umbrella
Compulsory-age range
5–18
Legal route
Home instruction reviewed by the local school system or supervised by a registered church-exempt/nonpublic organization.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Sign the state statement at least 15 days before beginning. Verify continuation annually and report changes; umbrella families enroll with the supervising organization.
Instructor qualification
No teacher certification required for the parent.
Instruction time
Instruction must be regular, thorough, and of sufficient duration; no fixed home-school hour count.
Required subjects
English, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education.
Assessment or evaluation
Local-review route uses periodic portfolio reviews, generally twice yearly. Umbrella route follows the supervisor’s review process.
Records and reporting
Maintain a portfolio of instructional materials, reading materials, examples of writing/work, and other evidence of regular instruction.
Recommended first step
Choose local review or umbrella supervision and submit the state form at least 15 days before start.
Important caution
Umbrella fees and requirements are contractual/program rules in addition to state law.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 21 of 50
Massachusetts
Assessment: Local plan
Compulsory-age range
6–16
Legal route
Home education plan approved by the local school committee/district under G.L. c.76 §1 and controlling case law.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Submit the education plan and obtain local approval before beginning; annual or periodic submissions depend on district policy.
Instructor qualification
District may review instructor qualifications but cannot require teacher certification or a college degree as an absolute condition.
Instruction time
Instructional period must be equivalent in thoroughness/effectiveness to public schooling; local policy addresses schedule.
Required subjects
Statutory studies include reading, writing, English, geography, arithmetic, drawing, music, U.S. history/Constitution/citizenship, health/physical education, and good behavior.
Assessment or evaluation
District may require reasonable assessment such as progress reports, work samples, or testing, consistent with case law.
Records and reporting
Keep approvals, curriculum, schedule, materials list, work samples, and agreed assessments.
Recommended first step
Request the district’s written policy, submit a complete plan, and wait for approval before withdrawal/start.
Important caution
Requirements are highly local but must stay within state statutes and Care & Protection of Charles.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 22 of 50
Michigan
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–18
Legal route
Use the home-school exemption in MCL 380.1561(3)(f), or operate as a nonpublic school under a different exemption.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
No notice or registration under exemption (f). The nonpublic-school route has reporting and staffing rules.
Instructor qualification
Exemption (f): parent or legal guardian teaches; no degree/license. Nonpublic-school route has teacher-qualification rules.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours under exemption (f).
Required subjects
Organized program in reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
No state record mandate under exemption (f); keep curriculum, work, attendance, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Use exemption (f) unless you intentionally need the nonpublic-school route; send written withdrawal if enrolled.
Important caution
Do not mix the two exemptions: reporting and teacher rules differ.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 23 of 50
Minnesota
Assessment: Annual unless accredited
Compulsory-age range
7–17
Legal route
Nonpublic home school under Minn. Stat. §§120A.22–120A.24.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Register with the resident district initially and file annual intent/continuation information by October 1; report specified changes.
Instructor qualification
Instructor must meet one of the qualifications in §120A.22, subd. 10 (several degree, license, test, supervision, or accreditation routes).
Instruction time
No fixed statewide homeschool days/hours.
Required subjects
Basic communication skills; reading/writing/literature/fine arts; mathematics/science; social studies; health/physical education; specified civic content.
Assessment or evaluation
Annual nationally normed achievement test by mutual agreement with the superintendent, unless the school is accredited or another statutory exception applies.
Records and reporting
Maintain subject, schedule, material/method, testing proof/results, and instructor-qualification records.
Recommended first step
Choose the instructor-qualification route, file with the district, and agree on the annual test.
Important caution
Low test results can trigger additional evaluation; read the current MDE packet.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 24 of 50
Mississippi
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–17
Legal route
Legitimate home instruction program under Miss. Code §37-13-91.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File a Certificate of Enrollment with the local school attendance officer each school year, generally by September 15 or promptly after starting.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours.
Required subjects
No state-mandated homeschool subject list; program must be legitimate and not designed to avoid attendance law.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Keep the annual certificate and maintain attendance, work, grades, and transcript for practical purposes.
Recommended first step
File the certificate with the county attendance officer and retain proof of delivery.
Important caution
The Department does not approve curriculum; local attendance officers handle filing.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 25 of 50
Missouri
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
7–17; statutory completion/age exceptions
Legal route
Home school under Mo. Rev. Stat. §167.031.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
No registration. A declaration to the district is optional; written withdrawal is prudent.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified.
Instruction time
At least 1,000 hours each term; 600 in core subjects and, for pupils under 16, 400 of the core hours at the regular home-school location.
Required subjects
Reading, mathematics, social studies, language arts, and science make up the core-hour requirement.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Maintain a plan/book/diary/log, samples of work, and evaluations or other credible evidence; retain required-hour evidence.
Recommended first step
Set up the 1,000-hour log and core-subject allocation before the term begins.
Important caution
Hour-location rules differ for pupils 16 and older; read the statute’s definitions carefully.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 26 of 50
Montana
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
7–16, or completion of grade 8
Legal route
Home school under Mont. Code §§20-5-102 and 20-5-109.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Notify the county superintendent each school fiscal year.
Instructor qualification
No teacher credential specified.
Instruction time
Minimum aggregate hours: generally 720 hours for grades 1–3 and 1,080 for grades 4–12.
Required subjects
Organized course of study covering the basic instructional program required of public schools.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Maintain attendance records and make them available to the county superintendent on request.
Recommended first step
Send annual notice and begin an attendance-hour record aligned to the child’s grade band.
Important caution
2025 legislation removed certain health/building requirements previously repeated in older summaries.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 27 of 50
Nebraska
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–18; age-6 and age-16 procedures can apply
Legal route
Exempt school under Neb. Rev. Stat. §79-1601 and Rule 13.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File annual exemption paperwork with the Nebraska Department of Education, including parent statements, instructor information, and curriculum summary.
Instructor qualification
Parents select instructors; Rule 13 filings identify them. No teacher certificate is required for the ordinary exempt-school route.
Instruction time
At least 1,032 hours elementary and 1,080 hours secondary each school year.
Required subjects
Language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and health.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Maintain attendance and academic records; retain all annual exemption filings and acknowledgments.
Recommended first step
Use the current Rule 13 online system and calendar annual filing and instructional-hour targets.
Important caution
Age-six opt-out and age-16 discontinuance require their own signed procedures.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 28 of 50
Nevada
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
7–18
Legal route
Homeschool under NRS 388D.010–.070.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File a notice with the resident district before beginning or within 10 days after withdrawal/move; attach an educational plan. Refile after certain changes.
Instructor qualification
Parent/guardian directs instruction; no credential.
Instruction time
No specified days or hours.
Required subjects
English, including reading/composition/writing; mathematics; science; and social studies, including history, geography, economics, and government.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Keep the notice acknowledgment, educational plan, work, grades, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Submit the district notice and educational plan and retain the acknowledgment.
Important caution
Participation in district classes, activities, or special programs creates separate eligibility rules.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 29 of 50
New Hampshire
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–17
Legal route
Parent-directed home education under the Home Education Freedom Act/RSA 193-A.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Effective July 1, 2026, declaration is optional except when withdrawing from a public school or seeking access to public-school programs.
Instructor qualification
Parent directs education; no credential.
Instruction time
No required schedule, days, or hours.
Required subjects
No statewide home-education subject list in the reenacted 2026 framework.
Assessment or evaluation
Records, evaluations, and assessments are not required under the new framework.
Records and reporting
No general state record mandate; retain work and a transcript for the child’s future needs.
Recommended first step
If withdrawing from public school, provide the optional declaration required for that circumstance and keep proof.
Important caution
Major change effective July 1, 2026: older FAQs/statute pages may still show repealed notice, portfolio, and annual-evaluation rules.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 30 of 50
New Jersey
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–16
Legal route
Equivalent instruction elsewhere than at school under N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
No registration or approval. A district may ask for evidence only when it has a specific basis to question compliance; notify the school when withdrawing.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified.
Instruction time
No specified days or hours.
Required subjects
Instruction must be academically equivalent to that provided in local public schools for children of similar age/grade.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Keep curriculum, attendance, work, evaluations, and transcript as evidence of equivalent instruction.
Recommended first step
Send written withdrawal and preserve a dated curriculum/record file.
Important caution
The state does not issue homeschool diplomas or approve a program.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 31 of 50
New Mexico
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
5–18
Legal route
Home school under N.M. Stat. §22-1-2.1.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Notify the Public Education Department within 30 days after starting and by August 1 each subsequent year; report address/status changes.
Instructor qualification
Parent or person providing instruction must hold a high-school diploma or equivalent.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours.
Required subjects
Reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Maintain immunization records or lawful waiver; other academic records are strongly recommended.
Recommended first step
File online, gather proof of instructor education and immunization/waiver, and calendar August 1.
Important caution
A PED notification is not accreditation and does not create a state-issued diploma.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 32 of 50
New York
Assessment: Annual + grade-cycle tests
Compulsory-age range
6–16; some districts continue to 17
Legal route
Home instruction under 8 N.Y.C.R.R. §100.10.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Annual notice by July 1 or within 14 days after starting; submit an Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP) and four quarterly reports on the district schedule.
Instructor qualification
Parent or other person may teach; no teacher certification requirement.
Instruction time
180 days; 900 hours in grades 1–6 and 990 hours in grades 7–12.
Required subjects
Detailed grade-band subjects in §100.10, including English/language arts, math, science, social studies, health, physical education, art/music, patriotism/citizenship, and secondary requirements.
Assessment or evaluation
Annual assessment. Narrative evaluation is allowed in specified early/alternate years; standardized testing is required on the statutory grade schedule.
Records and reporting
Keep notice, IHIP, quarterly reports, attendance/hours, annual assessments, and high-school course/credit records.
Recommended first step
Get the district forms/calendar, submit notice and IHIP, and set quarterly and annual-assessment deadlines.
Important caution
Local compulsory age may extend through the school year in which a student turns 17.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 33 of 50
North Carolina
Assessment: Annual
Compulsory-age range
7–16
Legal route
One-family home school under N.C.G.S. §§115C-563–.565.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File a Notice of Intent with the Division of Non-Public Education before opening; notify DNPE of address changes and closure.
Instructor qualification
Chief administrator must have at least a high-school diploma or equivalent.
Instruction time
Operate on a regular schedule for at least 9 calendar months each year.
Required subjects
No state-mandated homeschool subject list.
Assessment or evaluation
Administer a nationally standardized achievement test each year covering English grammar, reading, spelling, and mathematics.
Records and reporting
Maintain attendance, immunization records, and annual test results; DNPE may inspect required records.
Recommended first step
File the notice, wait for the school ID/acknowledgment, and arrange the annual national test.
Important caution
DNPE’s five-hours-per-day suggestion is a recommendation, not the statutory time rule.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 34 of 50
North Dakota
Assessment: Periodic grades / exemptions
Compulsory-age range
7–16; statutory exceptions
Legal route
Home education under N.D.C.C. chapter 15.1-23.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File a statement of intent at least 5 days before beginning or within 14 days after moving, and annually thereafter; include required student/parent data, immunization record, and proof of identity.
Instructor qualification
Parent must have a high-school diploma/GED or complete the statute’s monitoring route.
Instruction time
At least 4 hours/day for 175 days.
Required subjects
Subjects required by law for public-school students.
Assessment or evaluation
Standardized testing in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10 unless a listed exemption/objection is filed; qualifying monitor/remediation rules can apply.
Records and reporting
Maintain annual courses and academic-progress assessments, including test results; provide records to a public school on transfer when requested.
Recommended first step
File the statement and attachments, verify testing-exemption eligibility, and start course/progress records.
Important caution
Parents without a diploma/GED and students with certain disabilities have additional statutory procedures.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 35 of 50
Ohio
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–18
Legal route
Home education under Ohio Rev. Code §3321.042.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Notify the resident superintendent within 5 calendar days after beginning, moving, or withdrawing, and by August 30 each year; district sends acknowledgment.
Instructor qualification
No parent credential specified.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours.
Required subjects
English language arts, mathematics, science, history, government, and social studies.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool assessment.
Records and reporting
No state academic-record mandate; keep notices/acknowledgments, attendance, work, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Send notice, retain the acknowledgment, and calendar August 30.
Important caution
Ohio removed prior hour, qualification, and assessment rules; older summaries may be obsolete.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 36 of 50
Oklahoma
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
5–18
Legal route
Home instruction protected by the Oklahoma Constitution and compulsory-attendance law.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
No notice or registration. Provide clear written withdrawal if the child is enrolled.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified.
Instruction time
No home-specific numeric mandate in the filing law; state guidance urges instruction comparable in duration to public school (commonly 180 days).
Required subjects
State guidance lists reading, writing, mathematics, science, citizenship, U.S. Constitution, health, safety, physical education, and conservation.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test; instruction must be bona fide and academic progress should be established.
Records and reporting
Keep attendance/time, subjects, work, and assessments to document good-faith instruction and progress.
Recommended first step
Withdraw in writing and create a dated plan and progress record.
Important caution
Some Oklahoma requirements derive from constitutional text and case law; distinguish recommendations from express mandates.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 37 of 50
Oregon
Assessment: Periodic grades
Compulsory-age range
6–18
Legal route
Home school under ORS 339.035 and OAR 581-021-0026.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Notify the regional Education Service District within 10 days after beginning/withdrawal or moving into the ESD; a new notice is generally not annual.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours.
Required subjects
No state-mandated homeschool subject list.
Assessment or evaluation
Approved standardized achievement test after grades 3, 5, 8, and 10, subject to the new-homeschool grace period and disability procedures.
Records and reporting
Keep ESD notice, test results, curriculum/work, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Notify the correct ESD and calendar the four grade-level tests and August testing deadline.
Important caution
Students with disabilities can use individualized evaluation procedures; athletics rules are separate.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 38 of 50
Pennsylvania
Assessment: Annual + periodic tests
Compulsory-age range
6–18
Legal route
Home education program supervised by a parent/guardian under 24 P.S. §13-1327.1; private tutor is a separate route.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File a notarized affidavit or unsworn declaration before starting and by August 1 each year with the resident superintendent.
Instructor qualification
Supervisor must have a high-school diploma/equivalent and satisfy criminal-history restrictions. Private-tutor route requires Pennsylvania certification.
Instruction time
180 days or 900 hours elementary / 990 hours secondary.
Required subjects
Detailed elementary and secondary subject lists in §1327.1, including English, math, science, social studies/civics, health/PE, safety, arts, and grade-specific courses.
Assessment or evaluation
Annual qualified evaluator report due by June 30; nationally normed tests in grades 3, 5, and 8 as part of the portfolio.
Records and reporting
Portfolio includes activity log, reading list/materials, samples, test results, and evaluator report; maintain health records.
Recommended first step
Prepare the affidavit/declaration and objectives, choose an evaluator early, and calendar August 1 and June 30.
Important caution
School district review/termination procedures are detailed; private-tutor rules are different.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 39 of 50
Rhode Island
Assessment: Local plan
Compulsory-age range
5–18
Legal route
Home instruction approved by the local school committee under R.I. Gen. Laws §16-19-2.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Apply to the local school committee/district and obtain approval before beginning; comply with the approved local plan and annual process.
Instructor qualification
No state teaching credential specified; local plan may request information relevant to adequacy.
Instruction time
Attendance must be substantially equal to that required in public schools; district plan controls documentation.
Required subjects
Reading, writing, geography, arithmetic, U.S. history/government, health/physical education, civics, Rhode Island history, and English instruction.
Assessment or evaluation
Evaluation/monitoring is set through the local approval process; districts may use reports, portfolios, or tests.
Records and reporting
Maintain attendance, curriculum, work samples, progress evidence, approvals, and communications.
Recommended first step
Ask the district for its home-school policy and application, then obtain written approval before start.
Important caution
Local procedures vary, but cannot eliminate the statutory approval and subject requirements.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 40 of 50
South Carolina
Assessment: Path-dependent
Compulsory-age range
5–17
Legal route
Choose district-board approval (Option 1), SCAIHS membership (Option 2), or a qualifying homeschool association (Option 3).
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Option 1 applies to the district. Options 2/3 enroll through the supervising association, which handles required accountability/reporting.
Instructor qualification
Parent must have at least a high-school diploma or GED.
Instruction time
At least 180 days.
Required subjects
Reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies; composition and literature in grades 7–12.
Assessment or evaluation
Option 1 participates in statewide testing. Options 2/3 follow the association’s accountability rules rather than Option 1 testing.
Records and reporting
Maintain lesson plans/subjects, samples, and a semiannual progress report including attendance and individualized progress.
Recommended first step
Compare all three options, including fees, testing, records, and high-school support, before enrolling.
Important caution
Association rules are additional to the common statutory minimums.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 41 of 50
South Dakota
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
5–18
Legal route
Alternative instruction under SDCL 13-27-3.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Submit the state Alternative Instruction Notification once for each child; update within 30 days after moving districts or ending home instruction.
Instructor qualification
No state certification required; one instructor may not instruct more than 22 children.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours stated in the current alternative-instruction statute.
Required subjects
Basic skills of language arts and mathematics.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool assessment.
Records and reporting
No general academic-record mandate; keep the notification, attendance, work, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Submit the state form and retain the confirmation; update it after a listed transition.
Important caution
Dual credit and interscholastic activities have separate notice/transcript/eligibility requirements.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 42 of 50
Tennessee
Assessment: Path-dependent
Compulsory-age range
6–17
Legal route
Choose independent home school or enrollment through a church-related umbrella school; accredited online/private options are separate.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Independent route files annual intent with the local director of schools and attendance at year-end. Umbrella route enrolls/reports through the church-related school.
Instructor qualification
Independent parent must have a high-school diploma/GED. Umbrella staffing rules follow the church-related school.
Instruction time
Independent route: 180 days at 4 hours/day. Umbrella route follows the school’s attendance requirements.
Required subjects
Independent statute does not prescribe a detailed homeschool subject list; umbrella curriculum follows the supervising school.
Assessment or evaluation
Independent students take standardized tests in grades 5, 7, and 9 under the state process. Umbrella students follow the church-related school’s testing policy.
Records and reporting
Independent: attendance and test records. Umbrella: school-required records, grades, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Compare independent and umbrella routes, then file/enroll before withdrawing.
Important caution
High-school credits, athletics, and return-to-public-school placement can depend on the route and documentation.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 43 of 50
Texas
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–18; age-19 coverage can apply
Legal route
Bona fide home school treated as a private school under Leeper and Tex. Educ. Code §25.086.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
No notice or registration. If withdrawing, provide written assurance that the child will attend a bona fide home school.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified.
Instruction time
No specified days or hours.
Required subjects
Written curriculum covering reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and good citizenship.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
No state academic-record mandate; keep curriculum, attendance, grades, course descriptions, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Send written withdrawal/assurance and establish the written curriculum and transcript system.
Important caution
College admission, UIL activities, and public-school reentry have separate policies.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 44 of 50
Utah
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–18
Legal route
Home school under Utah Code §53G-6-204.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Submit a signed notice/affidavit to the local school district once per child; no annual renewal unless the district changes or required information changes.
Instructor qualification
No credential or background check.
Instruction time
No specified days or hours.
Required subjects
Parent chooses curriculum; no state-mandated homeschool subjects.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
No state academic-record mandate; retain district acknowledgment, work, grades, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Submit the district’s form and keep the certificate/acknowledgment of exemption.
Important caution
Do not confuse ordinary homeschooling with scholarship/ESA program participation, which can add rules.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 45 of 50
Vermont
Assessment: Annual
Compulsory-age range
6–16
Legal route
Home study program under 16 V.S.A. §166b.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File enrollment notice with the Secretary at least 10 business days before starting and an annual continuation notice; attest to instruction and assessment obligations.
Instructor qualification
No teacher credential specified.
Instruction time
Equivalent of at least 175 days per year.
Required subjects
Minimum course of study: younger than 13 generally receives all §906 subjects; age 13+ receives the statutory core and any additional selected areas.
Assessment or evaluation
Assess academic progress at the end of each year using a statutory method and maintain the assessment record; routine submission is generally not required.
Records and reporting
Maintain the annual assessment and enrollment notices; retain curriculum/work and transcript.
Recommended first step
Use the current Agency form, file at least 10 business days early, and select an annual assessment method.
Important caution
The statute was substantially simplified in 2023; older approval/curriculum-submission summaries are outdated.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 46 of 50
Virginia
Assessment: Annual
Compulsory-age range
5–18; kindergarten-age delay may apply
Legal route
Home instruction under Va. Code §22.1-254.1; certified-tutor and religious-exemption routes are separate.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Submit annual notice to the division superintendent by August 15 or promptly after beginning, with qualification evidence and curriculum description.
Instructor qualification
Qualify through diploma, teacher credential, approved correspondence/distance program, or evidence of ability to provide adequate education.
Instruction time
No home-specific days or hours.
Required subjects
Notice includes a curriculum description limited to language arts and mathematics; statute does not impose a broader home-school subject list.
Assessment or evaluation
By August 1, submit qualifying standardized-test results (composite at or above 4th stanine) or an approved evaluation/portfolio.
Records and reporting
Keep notice, qualification evidence, curriculum description, assessment, work, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Choose the qualification option, submit notice by August 15, and arrange annual evidence of progress by August 1.
Important caution
Religious exemption and certified-tutor routes have different legal standards and should not be blended with §22.1-254.1.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 47 of 50
Washington
Assessment: Annual
Compulsory-age range
8–18
Legal route
Home-based instruction under RCW 28A.225.010 and .225.015.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File a Declaration of Intent with the local superintendent by September 15 or within two weeks after the start of a public-school term.
Instructor qualification
Parent must meet one of four routes: 45 quarter college credits, parent course, certified-teacher supervision, or superintendent determination of qualification.
Instruction time
Instructional hours equivalent to the annual program for approved private schools (generally 1,000 hours).
Required subjects
Occupational education, science, mathematics, language, social studies, history, health, reading, writing, spelling, and art/music appreciation.
Assessment or evaluation
Annual standardized achievement test administered by a qualified person or annual assessment by a Washington-certificated teacher.
Records and reporting
Maintain declarations, test/evaluation results, and immunization records; keep course and transcript records.
Recommended first step
Confirm the parent-qualification route, file the annual declaration, and schedule the annual assessment.
Important caution
Part-time public enrollment and activities have separate district/association rules.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 48 of 50
West Virginia
Assessment: Annual
Compulsory-age range
6–17
Legal route
Most families use the notice option in W. Va. Code §18-8-1(c)(2); school-board approval is an alternative.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Send notice to the county superintendent with parent qualification and assurance of instruction; notice continues until the family reports termination/change.
Instructor qualification
Person providing instruction must have a high-school diploma or equivalent.
Instruction time
No specified days or hours for the notice option.
Required subjects
Reading, language, mathematics, science, and social studies.
Assessment or evaluation
Annual academic assessment by approved standardized test, certified-teacher portfolio review, or agreed alternative. Submit results for grades 3, 5, 8, and 11 by June 30.
Records and reporting
Keep annual assessment results for at least 3 years and maintain notices, work, grades, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Send the notice and diploma proof, select an annual assessment method, and calendar grade-report years.
Important caution
The school-board approval option has different conditions; the notice option is the common route.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 49 of 50
Wisconsin
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
6–18
Legal route
Home-based private educational program under Wis. Stat. §§115.001(3g) and 118.165.
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
File the PI-1206 enrollment report with the Department of Public Instruction each year by October 15.
Instructor qualification
No credential specified.
Instruction time
At least 875 hours of instruction each school year.
Required subjects
Sequentially progressive curriculum in reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, and health.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
Keep the annual filing, attendance/hour log, curriculum/work, grades, and transcript.
Recommended first step
File PI-1206 and build an 875-hour instructional calendar.
Important caution
Program must be privately controlled and not operated primarily to circumvent compulsory attendance.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
State 50 of 50
Wyoming
Assessment: None
Compulsory-age range
7–16, or completion of grade 10
Legal route
Home-based educational program under Wyo. Stat. §21-4-101(a)(v).
Filing, notice, approval, or withdrawal
Effective July 1, 2025, no curriculum submission to the district. When withdrawing a child under 18 without other district notice, the parent may need an in-person meeting and written consent under the withdrawal statute.
Instructor qualification
Program may be administered by a parent, guardian, or designated person; no credential.
Instruction time
No specified days or hours.
Required subjects
Sequentially progressive curriculum in reading, writing, mathematics, civics, history, literature, and science.
Assessment or evaluation
No statewide homeschool test.
Records and reporting
No state academic-record mandate; keep withdrawal proof, curriculum, work, grades, and transcript.
Recommended first step
Complete any required withdrawal meeting/consent, then retain a dated curriculum and transcript file.
Important caution
HB 46 changed the law in 2025; older sources may still say curriculum must be submitted annually.
Official references
Open and confirm these sources before withdrawing or filing.
One last reminder
Save copies of every notice, acknowledgment, attendance record, assessment, work sample, and transcript. Even when a state asks for very little, good records protect the parent and help the student later.