If you’re on the search for more freedom and less government involvement in your child’s education, Idaho is ranked as one of the top homeschool friendly states in the nation according to the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA). When it comes to public schooling, Idaho allows vaccine exemptions for a broader range of reasons than most states, with categories for medical, religious and personal exemptions. Based on Idaho State Laws, here are some facts that reflect Idaho’s homeschool friendly stance:
- In 2015, the “Parental Rights Statute” was passed protecting parent’s rights to the direct care of their children.
- Idaho does not regulate or monitor homeschool education, giving parents full control over which teaching methods, curriculum, and schedule they choose.
- Parents can teach any number of hours per day, during any time of the year that they see suitable.
- Any parent or guardian can homeschool their child. No specific education or certification is required to teach.
- Parents are not required to notify the school district about their choice to homeschool. If you are withdrawing the child from a public school and homeschooling, a letter of withdrawal is the only document required to the school.
- Children between the ages of 7-16 are considered “school-age” meaning they are not able to graduate before the age of 16. However, Idaho does not mandate which grade the child is enrolled in. This means that parents can teach their children at any “level grade” and pace they feel is appropriate for the individual.
- The only subject requirement according to Idaho state law is that parents provide instruction for “subjects commonly and usually taught in public schools.” Common subjects taught in schools are: math, language arts, science, and social studies. Parents can include other subjects that best suit their child’s interests and needs.
- Standardized tests are not required to be taken by homeschooled students. Parents are can choose or not choose to test their children in any way they see fit, which can be beneficial to students that struggle with written exams.
- There are no specific graduation requirements set for homeschool students in Idaho.
- Parents are fully responsible for grading, testing, and writing transcripts. Since Idaho considers homeschooling an acceptable means for education, your documents are just as legal as any other school in the state.
