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 Kentucky.
To homeschool in Kentucky, a parent or guardian should become familiar with Kentucky 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 Kentucky
Homeschooling in Kentucky is regulated by the Kentucky Department of Education. Here are the steps you can take to homeschool your child in Kentucky:
- Determine your eligibility to homeschool: To homeschool in Kentucky, you must be the parent or legal guardian of the child you wish to homeschool.
- Choose a homeschooling method: There are several different methods of homeschooling, including traditional homeschooling, online homeschooling, and unschooling. Decide which method is right for your child and your family.
- Notify the Kentucky Department of Education: You must notify the Kentucky Department of Education of your intention to homeschool your child. You can do this by submitting a Notice of Intent to Homeschool form to your local school district.
- Follow the homeschooling laws and regulations: Kentucky requires that homeschooled students receive instruction in certain subjects, including math, reading, writing, science, and social studies. You must also keep records of your child’s homeschooling progress and make them available for review upon request.
- Consider joining a homeschooling group: Joining a homeschooling group can be a great way to connect with other homeschooling families and access resources and support. There are many homeschooling groups in Kentucky, including the Kentucky Home School Association and the Kentucky Homeschool Network.
Educational and Interactive Word Search Puzzles
Overall, homeschooling in Kentucky requires some planning and organization, but it can be a rewarding and enriching experience for both you and your child.
Free Kentucky Homeschool Programs
Home learning in Kentucky offers flexibility for families and the chance to tailor an education to their student’s needs and ambitions. With a variety of classes available, you can find a curriculum that works and sets your student up for success.
School administrators and parents will collaborate to develop a custom learning plan with free resources and supplies.
Taking advantage of these free resources enables students from diverse backgrounds and ages to receive a quality education.
Homeschooling provides an excellent learning opportunity for families to share their beliefs and values, as well as build positive relationships with those in the community.
The Kentucky Department of Education offers extra help for parents homeschooling their kids in the state of Kentucky.
For guidance on homeschooling, Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) is an invaluable source. They offer updates on homeschooling laws in Kentucky, plus webinars and articles that can assist parents with the homeschooling process.
Between 2019 to 2020, the percentage of homeschooled students changed from 3.4% to 9%.
Does Homeschool Have to be Accredited in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, homeschooling does not require accreditation. Parents must offer their students a balanced education including mathematics, science, social studies, reading, and language arts.
In Kentucky, homeschooling parents are free to choose the educational materials that best suit their children, since accreditation is not necessary.
Some families may choose to participate in an accredited program if they believe it will help them meet their educational objectives.
Through an accredited program, students can measure their progress and showcase how prepared they are for college and the workplace.
The choice of whether or not to go through an accredited program is a decision that should be thoughtfully considered with the aid of experienced advisors by homeschool parents.
Kentucky Accredited Homeschool Programs
In order to be accredited, homeschools must submit enrollment and attendance records, have grade records, take approved standardized tests each year, have a supervising teacher with at least a high school diploma or equivalent, and follow all required curriculum changes.
Private schools that are accredited must indicate their adherence to relevant laws and regulations in their enrollment policies, in order to remain compliant with state rules around mandatory attendance.
Homeschooling accredited by a recognized authority offers parents the opportunity to provide their children with a quality education right in the comfort of their own homes.
67% of the homeschooled students successfully graduate from college.
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.
Over 300 million students were homeschooled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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.
Regardless of the educational level of their parents, homeschooled students score between 80% and 90%.
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.
By reaching out to other homeschooled families, parents can ease the isolation of homeschooling and create a strong support system for their children.
When educated at home rather than in public schools, boys do 44% better on reading examinations.
Can Homeschooled Students Play Sports in Kentucky?
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) mandates that student-athletes can only play for their own school and must be enrolled full-time, barring homeschooled students from participating in public school sports.
Hence, public schools do not accept homeschooled kids in sports. However, Kentucky provides homeschooled children the chance to join sports programs through a private athletic association.
How to Homeschool When Both Parents Work
Kentucky 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.
Prior to February 2020, just 68% of parents who had homeschooled their children said it had been a success.
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.
Before the epidemic, 69% of homeschooled children expressed a desire to continue their studies in this manner for the upcoming school year.
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.
In their children’s upcoming academic year, 54% of parents who were homeschooling before February 2020 were likely to do so full-time.
Assign the Child Solo Activities to Do While You’re at Work
Parents in Kentucky 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.
The typical cost of homeschooling is between $350-$750 per year for the parent(s).
Kentucky Homeschool Curriculum Requirements
In Kentucky, homeschooling does not have to follow a state-mandated curriculum. The parent or guardian selects materials and teaching methods for each subject. However, according to law, homeschoolers must be taught the core academic areas of:
- English
- Reading
- Writing
- Grammar
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Health Education
- Physical Education.
Many homeschoolers value the freedom to pick the curriculum of their choice, and it does require some organization to switch successfully to this form of education.
Letter of Intent to Homeschool in Kentucky
In Kentucky, a Letter of Intent to Homeschool must be filed by parents who wish to teach their children at home. This document lets the local school district know of the parents’ plans to homeschool.
Making the district aware of parental plans is essential in order to offer support and resources.
A letter of intent is a helpful tool for guaranteeing that homeschooled children receive a high-quality education.
Completing the Letter of Intent is essential for homeschooling families in Kentucky to provide a good education for their children.
The federal government saves $24 billion in taxpayer money thanks to homeschooling.
Is the Kentucky Homeschool Curriculum Free?
In Kentucky, there are plenty of tools available at no cost to those who decide to homeschool their children. There are numerous digital and physical materials that help homeschoolers develop an appropriate curriculum and gather advice.
From those just beginning to explore homeschooling to experienced practitioners, free advice and resources are at hand to ensure a quality education for your children.
How Much Does It Cost to Homeschool in Kentucky?
Kentucky’s homeschooling costs can vary based on the number of students, the curriculum chosen, and if parents opt for a tutor or join learning groups.
Homeschooling is typically much less expensive than private school and can be adapted to any budget.
Homeschooling incurs costs related to the curriculum, which can be one of the biggest expenses.
Parents may opt to buy a pre-made curriculum, costing between $500 and $2000 annually.
Families have the option to make their own curriculum at lower prices by buying individual books and materials, costing no more than $100 annually.
Furthermore, homeschooling families often utilize free educational tools like lesson plans, worksheets, and games.
Don’t forget to think about the value of your time when calculating costs.
Homeschooling necessitates a lot of involvement from parents, as they have to take on the roles of both teachers and administrators.
Some families decide to employ a tutor or take part in co-op learning, while others are able to homeschool effectively without help.
When deciding whether or not to homeschool, it’s important to consider what is best for your family and finances.
A safe environment was cited as the main motivation by 50% of parents who homeschool their children.
How Many Days Are Required for Homeschool in Kentucky?
According to the Kentucky Department of Education, the minimum requirements for homeschooling are 1,062 instructional hours. The term of the school shall not be for a shorter period in each year than the term of the public school in the district in which the child attending the school resides.
In those school districts which are operating a year-round school program, the minimum term of private and parochial schools shall be 185 days.
Kentucky Homeschool Record Keeping
The state of Kentucky does not require homeschooling parents to submit their child’s educational records, but they do request that these records be kept on file. This is for the protection of both the parent and the child in case any questions or concerns should arise about the child’s education.
There are many benefits to keeping good homeschool records.
First, it can help the parent keep track of the child’s progress and identify any areas where the child may be struggling.
Second, it can provide valuable documentation if the child should ever need to apply for college or a job.
Finally, it can give the parent peace of mind knowing that they are meeting their obligations as a homeschooling parent.
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 there is no legal requirement to do so, keeping good homeschool records is simply good practice for any homeschooling family.
Test results, extracurricular activities, and socialization were mentioned as reasons for homeschooling by 14% of the parents.
Kentucky Homeschool Graduation Requirements
The state of Kentucky 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.
Kentucky Homeschool Diploma
For homeschooled students in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky 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.
As of February 2020, at least 9 million Americans had been homeschooled at least once.
How Does a Homeschooled Student Get a Diploma?
Parents in Kentucky 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.
Before COVID-19, 42% of parents said they wished their kids had more freedom to pursue their hobbies.
Are Homeschool Diplomas Valid?
The homeschooling movement has been growing steadily in recent years, 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.
Over 300 million students were homeschooled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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.