How to Homeschool in Kansas: 2024 Unbiased Guide

Looking for an unbiased homeschool resource that doesn’t have a hidden agenda? You’ve come to the right place to learn how to homeschool in Kansas.

To homeschool in Kansas, a parent or guardian should become familiar with Kansas homeschooling laws and regulations. Families must decide on a curriculum that fits their needs and be prepared for the self-discipline required to maintain a robust academic schedule.

How to Homeschool in Kansas

Homeschooling in Kansas is a legal option for parents who wish to educate their children at home. If you are considering homeschooling your child in Kansas, here are some steps you can take:

1. Determine your reasons for homeschooling. This will help you understand your motivations and goals for homeschooling and make sure it is the right decision for your family.
2. Familiarize yourself with the homeschooling laws in Kansas. Kansas requires parents who homeschool their children to follow certain regulations. These include maintaining a portfolio of the child’s work, keeping attendance records, and administering standardized tests.
3. Choose a homeschooling method or curriculum. There are many different approaches to homeschooling, such as classical education, unschooling, and online schools. Consider your child’s learning style and your family’s needs when selecting a method.
4. Create a schedule and plan for your homeschooling day. Decide how much time you will spend on each subject and how you will structure your day.
5. Find resources and support. There are many resources available for homeschooling families, including online support groups, local homeschooling groups, and educational resources such as books and websites.
6. Stay in touch with your local school district. While you are homeschooling, you should still maintain communication with your local school district. This will ensure that you are complying with homeschooling laws and that your child’s education is on track.

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Overall, homeschooling in Kansas requires careful planning and organization, but it can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for both you and your child.

Free Kansas Homeschool Programs

In Kansas, parents can take advantage of free homeschooling programs that offer more freedom when creating a tailored education plan for their kids.

The State of Kansas offers free resources and support for homeschoolers, including ways to evaluate academic progress, set learning goals, organize course materials, and craft lesson plans.

The program not only offers administrative support but also provides an online forum for homeschooling parents to collaborate.

Families can build relationships with other families from around the state, while also getting advice and educational tips from experienced home education experts, through this great opportunity.

Those homeschooling their child in Kansas can get extra help from the Kansas State Department of Education.

The Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) is a beneficial resource that supplies webinars, articles, and updates on Kansas homeschooling laws to assist parents in the homeschooling process.

Does Homeschool Have to be Accredited in Kansas?

Kansas homeschools are not required to be accredited, and there are only a few state requirements in terms of instruction time and record-keeping. Therefore, homeschooled students don’t need to worry about any additional effort to gain accreditation.

Homeschooling families can take the route that fits their lifestyle best, without worrying about accreditation, no matter if one parent stays at home or both parents have other commitments.

Kansas Accredited Homeschool Programs

Accredited homeschools must submit enrollment and attendance records, maintain grade records, give approved annual standardized tests, have a supervising teacher with a high school diploma or higher, and update themselves on mandated curriculum changes.

Private school programs accredited by the state must declare their adherence to laws and regulations in their admission policies in order to comply with compulsory attendance requirements.

Accredited homeschooling provides parents the opportunity to give their children a quality education from the comfort of home.

Create a Designated Learning Place

Homeschoolers should have a specific area set aside for learning, to help establish a daily routine and provide an environment where their child can concentrate on schoolwork.

A dining table is an ideal spot for studying. It’s easily cleared off at the end of each day which allows it to be used for eating as well.

You can also provide your child with their own desk in their bedroom for added privacy and the opportunity to decorate it. Whatever you decide, be sure to create an environment that helps them focus on learning.

Stay On Track with a Daily Schedule

Sticking to a daily schedule for homeschooling has many advantages; here are some of them:

• Establishing a daily routine can help homeschoolers prioritize tasks, complete more in less time, and improve productivity. Families with multiple students or other outside commitments may particularly benefit from this strategy.
• Effective time management begins with planning. A daily schedule makes it easier to keep track of what needs to be done and when, and prevents feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Allocating specific blocks of time to tasks can help your family stay organized.
• Homeschooling can provide a sense of structure and regularity, especially beneficial for kids accustomed to attending a traditional school. This can make them feel safer and more prepared to learn.
• Families can benefit from daily schedules to stay accountable and meet their homeschooling objectives. This is important for those who tend to be easily distracted or delay their tasks.
• Having a daily schedule in place can facilitate better communication among family members, helping to avoid misunderstandings and building a stronger bond between them.

Ease Into It

Homeschooling for new parents can be a big shift, so it’s crucial to not apply excessive pressure from the start. It is best to ease into this transition and move forward at a steady pace.

Homeschooling parents can begin with just a few basic supplies and then build on their resources as they get more confident with the homeschooling process.

When it comes to homeschooling, there are numerous options, so you should find one that works best for your family. Don’t be afraid to venture out and experiment with different techniques; the less stressed you feel, the more successful your learning experience is likely to be.

Involve Your Child in Setting Learning Goals

Involving your child in homeschool assignment planning and curriculum scheduling is important for several reasons:

• Offering students a sense of importance and ownership in their education will provide them with motivation and boost engagement.
• Involving them in the homeschool process will help them feel that they are part of it, rather than it being done to them.
• Getting your child involved in the homeschooling decision-making will give you a better understanding of their likes, talents, and shortcomings; allowing you to modify the learning environment to better accommodate them.

Generally, having your kid involved in homeschooling planning is key to a successful experience for everyone.

Explore Other Ways of Learning Outside the Classroom

Homeschooled kids have an advantage as they can explore many educational possibilities not found in a regular school. This helps them gain a diverse range of knowledge and experience, resulting in a more comprehensive education.

In many cases, homeschoolers benefit from strong connections in the community. These relationships can open doors to new learning opportunities, such as classes and workshops taught by experts or members of the community.

Parents who homeschool their children should seize these chances to broaden their kids’ education.

Homeschooling families can give their children a very enriching education by exploring different learning techniques.

Reach Out to Other Homeschool Families

Homeschooling can be difficult, especially for families without a support system. Luckily, there are various ways to make connections with other homeschoolers and build a community. One way is by connecting with local homeschooling organizations.

Homeschool groups can provide emotional support, practical advice from experienced homeschoolers, and opportunities for field trips and social interactions.

Joining an online forum or Facebook group is an excellent way to network with other homeschool parents.

Joining a parenting group can be helpful for exchanging resources, asking questions, and obtaining advice from parents who have the same experiences.

Making connections with other homeschooling families can help parents lessen the feeling of isolation and build a supportive environment for their kids.

Can Homeschooled Students Play Sports in Kansas?

Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) specifies that public school sports participation is not permitted and that student-athletes must be “bona fide” students of the school they are playing for.

Consequently, KSHSAA-sanctioned events are not open to homeschooled students. Nonetheless, there are still avenues for those who homeschool and wish to be involved in sports.

Homeschooled students can often join sports programs at private schools, for example.

Moreover, there are various homeschool sports leagues functioning in the state. Normally, these leagues collaborate with local parks and recreation departments to provide structured sports events for homeschoolers.

Therefore, although Kansas homeschoolers are unable to take part in public school sports, there are still opportunities for them to participate in organized sports activities.

How to Homeschool When Both Parents Work

Kansas parents who opt to homeschool their children have to be creative with balancing work and school, as it is a difficult task.

With some ingenuity, it’s possible to work and homeschool at the same time. Let’s examine some pointers to help you achieve it.

Get Your Childcare Involved

Some parents are lucky enough to have assistance in homeschooling while they’re away at work due to childcare.

When it’s not achievable or budget-friendly for all households, one should think outside the box to devise a plan that fits everyone’s needs.

Delegate Chores

Involving your children in household tasks is an effective method to reduce the strain you may be facing between work and homeschooling. It also provides them with an opportunity to learn about responsibility.

It’s prudent to be mindful of your child’s abilities. A five-year-old probably won’t be able to do the laundry, but they can lend a hand with things like dusting or laying the table.

As they age, give your children more chores. By involving them in household tasks, you can reduce your work while teaching them essential life skills.

You and Your Spouse Work Alternate Shifts

Balancing homeschooling with both parents working can be difficult, especially if you and your partner have alternating shifts. Here are some strategies to help make it work:

• It’s important to organize your week in advance by creating a schedule that includes all of your work hours and other responsibilities. This will help you plan effectively for homeschooling.
• Make use of online materials: Utilizing online components like lesson plans, videos, and virtual excursions can be a great way to supplement your kid’s schooling when you are not able to be with them in person.
• Be flexible with your homeschooling: If your daytime commitments don’t make 9 to 3 schooling feasible, think outside the box. For instance, you can do lessons at night or at the weekend. Or, break up the day into shorter chunks of time for educational activities.
• Ask for assistance: Don’t be scared to look for support when you need it. This could involve employing a tutor or nanny to aid with home-based instruction while you are busy, or requesting the aid of relatives and friends.
• Homeschoolers should be aware that it’s okay to take breaks. Finding a balance between work and homeschooling will help ensure that commitments are met on both fronts.

Homeschooling can be a tricky task if both parents are working. But it can be done with the right amount of planning and creativity, making it an enriching experience for the whole family.

Take Advantage of Online Curriculums

Homeschooling is a great option to personalize your child’s education, yet it can be difficult to fit work and school into one schedule. To make it easier, why not opt for an online curriculum?

Structured learning programs can assist your child in their development and ensure concentration while you are away.

Furthermore, online learning can be tailored to your child’s individual requirements, making it convenient to discover a course that suits their distinctive learning approach.

Assign the Child Solo Activities to Do While You’re at Work

Parents in Kansas who teach their kids at home must find ways to keep their children entertained while they are working. One way is to assign independent curriculum projects.

Tasks such as reading assignments, research projects, and math and writing exercises may be included.

It’s essential to select activities that are suitable for your child’s age and skill level.

If your child attends childcare, ask your provider to remind them to complete their homeschooling tasks daily.

Proper planning can help your child become independent and accomplish tough tasks during the workday.

Allow Yourself Flexibility and Grace

Balancing a job and homeschooling can be difficult for parents, so it’s vital to give yourself some leniency and kindness while managing these duties.

Striving for perfection is an unattainable goal that can lead to disappointment. Focus on the successes, no matter how small, and congratulate yourself on your achievements.

Keep in mind that your kids are observing you, and will take after you. By displaying a positive outlook and openness to change, they’ll be more likely to do the same.

Balancing work and homeschooling can be difficult, but it also presents an excellent opportunity to impart valuable lessons to your children. Show them how to be adaptable and graceful in any situation, setting them up for victory down the line.

Kansas Homeschool Curriculum Requirements 

Kansas private homeschools that are unaccredited must personally acquire educational supplies and there is not a definite curriculum that needs to be adhered to.

Books can be bought from private companies, borrowed through the library, or rented with permission from the school board.

Students from other schools are not entitled to use materials from public school.

The Kansas State Department of Education does not offer any books, curriculum materials, guidelines, or technical assistance for curriculum development to non-accredited private schools.

Due to the lack of government oversight, homeschooling families can benefit from the freedom to choose their own curriculum and teaching style.

Homeschooling requires increased parental effort and planning, but it can also offer a personalized education experience for kids.

Letter of Intent to Homeschool in Kansas

In Kansas, families wishing to homeschool their child must submit a “Letter of Intent to Homeschool.” This letter serves as a notification to the district and includes some basic details about your family.

Sending a Letter of Intent is vital during the homeschooling journey.

Signing a Letter of Intent guarantees your child quality schooling and that their rights as a student are guarded.

Through the Letter of Intent, parents and the school district can establish a partnership which is advantageous when it comes to queries or worries relating to homeschooling.

The letter of intent is an essential component of Kansas homeschooling and should not be neglected.

Is the Kansas Homeschool Curriculum Free?

Homeschooling can offer a tailored education for your kid, but it can be expensive due to books, curriculum, and other materials. Fortunately, Kansas homeschoolers have access to free resources if they search for them.

Besides finding free homeschooling resources online, local libraries usually offer programs and centers dedicated to this type of education.

Utilizing these cost-free options, homeschoolers can cut costs while giving their kids access to top-notch educational materials.

How Much Does It Cost to Homeschool in Kansas?

Homeschooling can offer a tailored education for your kid, but it can be expensive due to books, curriculum, and other materials. Fortunately, Kansas homeschoolers have access to free resources if they search for them.

Besides finding free homeschooling resources online, local libraries usually offer programs and centers dedicated to this type of education.

Utilizing these cost-free options, homeschoolers can cut costs while giving their kids access to top-notch educational materials.

How Many Days Are Required for Homeschool in Kansas?

According to the Kansas State Department of Education, homeschool classes must be held for a period of time that is equivalent to the time public schools are in session. The required time for public schools is at least 186 days of not less than 6 hours per day or 1,116 hours per year for grades 1–11.

While homeschool families have the flexibility to design their own educational programs, they must still ensure that their students receive an education that is substantially equivalent to that of their public school counterparts.

This means that homeschool families must carefully consider the amount of time they devote to each subject, as well as the total number of hours spent on schoolwork each week.

By meeting the state’s requirements, homeschool families can ensure that their students receive a quality education that is comparable to what they would receive in a public school setting.

Kansas Homeschool Record Keeping 

Homeschooling has many benefits, but it is important to keep records in case you are ever questioned about your educational methods. In Kansas, homeschoolers must keep a portfolio of their work as well as attendance records.

This helps to ensure that homeschooled students are receiving a quality education and also provides transparency for the state.

The portfolio can be simple or elaborate, but it should contain examples of the student’s work in various subjects.

The attendance records give the state an idea of how much time the student is spending on their studies.

Here are some things that are important to keep a record of during the homeschooling years:

• Test results
• Samples of your student’s academic work
• Documentation of the type of curriculum being provided to your child
• Dialog with state and/or school officials
• Attendance records

A good rule of thumb is to save these records for at least two years or longer if required.

Although it may seem like extra work, recordkeeping is an important part of homeschooling in Kansas.

Kansas Homeschool Graduation Requirements 

The state of Kansas does not have a specific homeschooling requirement in place for a student to graduate. Graduation standards are set by the parents as the facilitators of their child’s education. Once the student accomplishes the expected milestones set forth by the parents, they will graduate.

Kansas Homeschool Diploma 

For homeschooled students in Kansas, earning a diploma can be an even greater accomplishment. Homeschooled kids don’t have the structure of a regular school schedule, so they have to be self-motivated and disciplined to do well. A high school diploma is a symbol of hard work and dedication.

Earning a diploma shows that they have what it takes to set goals and achieve them.

In addition, a diploma for Kansas homeschoolers can open up new opportunities, such as colleges and scholarships.

For homeschooled students, a high school diploma is an important milestone on the road to success.

How Does a Homeschooled Student Get a Diploma?

Parents in Kansas who homeschool their children have the unique opportunity to be the sole provider of their child’s high school diploma. This means that they get to decide what criteria must be met in order for their child to earn the diploma.

Of course, parents will want to ensure that their child meets all the necessary requirements for graduation, such as taking required courses and passing exams.

However, they also have the freedom to tailor the curriculum to their child’s interests and learning style.

As a result, homeschooled students often emerge with a well-rounded education that prepares them well for success in college and beyond.

Are Homeschool Diplomas Valid?

The homeschooling movement has been growing steadily recently, as more parents opt to educate their children at home. While homeschooling can provide a number of benefits, there is one potential drawback: homeschool diplomas may not be as recognized by colleges or employers.

Some institutions may require additional testing or coursework for homeschooled students, so students should be prepared to take some tests to show their level of academics.

It’s not uncommon whatsoever for homeschooled kids to be more academically advanced than their peers who attended a public school, so in the long run, homeschoolers are quite capable of holding the advantage.

However, it is important to note that homeschool diplomas are becoming increasingly common and should be accepted by most colleges and employers.

Disclaimer

Although the information in this article was researched with the utmost integrity and sincerity, it cannot be held legally liable or expected to take the place of legitimate legal advice for your specific situation.

Trina Greenfield, Author
SmackDown Media LLC
LinkedIn

About the Author:
Trina Greenfield, the owner of SmackDown Media LLC, is passionate about providing information to those considering their educational options. Trina is a seasoned writer, content creator, and website owner with a passion for unbiased research, educational platforms for children and adults, as well as all things family-related.

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Sources

• United States Census Bureau
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
• Kansas State Department of Education
• Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA)
• Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)
• ThinkImpact