Homeschooling can be a great way for students to learn at their own pace in a loving environment. However, it’s not always easy.
Many parents may be wondering how they can start homeschool in Illinois and what’s involved.
If you want to know more about the requirements and necessary courses, check out this article.
Is Homeschooling Legal In Illinois?
Yes, home-schooling is legal in Illinois. The Illinois state law requires households to provide instruction for children between age 6 and age 17 who live at home and attend school in Illinois in a designated state school district, excluding students attending private schools under IEEPP rules.
For families not living within a designated district, county high school districts will generally work with families after receiving written notification from parents informing the district of their intention to homeschool their children.
In order to get started, certain documents need to be provided related to tuition costs and curriculum plans. The administration will review your information and advise what steps you need to take next.
Homeschooling in Illinois is becoming an increasingly popular option for families. The process of getting started can be a little daunting, but with the right information and support, it can be a great experience for both parents and students.
What To Expect From Authorities When Homeschooling My Child In Illinois?
Parents must provide tutoring to their homeschooled children. This includes providing an ” adequate course of instruction”. This includes a curriculum providing the following subjects:
- Language /Arts/English
- Maths
- Biological Science
- Social Science
- Fine arts
- Physical health
The tutoring and instruction must be in the English language.
If your child is 6 or older by September 1, you must start obeying the compulsory attendance law. You are exempt from the law once your child turns 17, or graduates from his or her high school program.
Recorded records of attendance – hours and days per week
Approval from the district superintendent t homeschool.
When minors homeschool after age 12, the state may require that they follow a standard curriculum approved by the state board of education.
Some homeschooled students may be required to undergo testing for English language arts/literacy skills and mathematics skills at certain year levels.
How Much Does Homeschooling Cost In Illinois
Homeschooling costs vary depending on the curriculum you chose or purchased and your lifestyle.
The cost of homeschooling your child depends primarily on what materials and supplies you’ll need upfront (do you share materials with other homeschool families, do you buy the full course curriculum from a provider).
Homeschooling costs can go as low as $100 per year for curricular items if parents do not mind using free online homeschool curricula.
The additional cost is related to the ease of use; some curricula are easier to use than others, which can increase or decrease the time you spend teaching your children.
Typical costs for two-parent households include:
- $550-$750 per year for curricular items
- $400-$950 per year for educational supplies (not including consumable supplies like paper and pencils); and
- Initial outlay fees=$200-$500
Why Choose Homeschooling For Your Child in IL?
When your child is already in school and struggling with traditional education,
When you want your child’s education to be tailored specifically for them and their needs,
Any time there are behaviour issues in school that might warrant additional services,
If learning difficulties outside of the classroom interfere with learning in class, including dyslexia or autism spectrum disorders (ASD)
How To Figure Out If You’re Ready For Homeschooling
- Determine if you’re ready for homeschooling
- Consider the pros and cons of homeschooling
- Start with a trial period to see if it’s right for your family
- Prepare yourself by gathering information about what topics your child will be learning
- Do some research on teaching methods that work best for different ages and personalities
- Talk to other parents who have been successful in homeschooling their children
- Consider how much time you’ll need each day, week, month, and year to do all of this work properly
- Figure out how much money you’ll need as well as any supplies or tools that might be needed >
- Decide whether or not you’re ready for homeschooling your child
- Answer any questions your child may have about the new situation
- Determine if there are any children in the area who are also being homeschooled, and make plans to get together with them occasionally
- Start gathering all the information you will need once you begin homes
Conclusion: How To Homeschool In IL
For more information on homeschooling in Illinois, visit the website of the Illinois State Board of Education.
With love and kindness
Ursula x
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