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 Michigan.
To homeschool in Michigan, a parent or guardian should become familiar with Michigan 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 Michigan
Homeschooling in Michigan is regulated by the Michigan Department of Education. If you are considering homeschooling your child in Michigan, there are a few steps you will need to take:
- Notify the Michigan Department of Education that you will be homeschooling your child. You can do this by filling out the Notice of Intent to Provide Home Schooling form and sending it to your local school district. This must be done within 10 days of starting your homeschool program.
- Develop a plan for your homeschool program. This should include a curriculum, goals, and assessments for your child.
- Follow the requirements for homeschooling in Michigan, which include:
- Teaching at least 4 hours per day for at least 175 days per year
- Teaching the required subjects, including reading, writing, math, science, and social studies
- Keeping records of your child’s progress and making them available to the Michigan Department of Education upon request
- Consider joining a homeschooling support group, which can provide resources, support, and guidance as you navigate the homeschooling process.
It’s important to note that homeschooling in Michigan is not the same as virtual schooling or enrolling in an online public school.
If you are interested in virtual schooling options, you should contact your local school district for more information.
Free Michigan Homeschool Programs
Michigan offers a variety of free homeschool programs, such as independent study and virtual public school, to give students greater flexibility in pursuing their educational goals while still connecting with teachers and classmates.
Homeschooling at no cost offers students the chance to have an education that meets their specific requirements.
Parents can design their own lesson plans and curricula to ensure their children learn at their own pace while fostering a passion for knowledge.
The state provides the necessary resources for parents to participate in their children’s education.
Parents seeking a more flexible schooling option may benefit from Michigan’s free homeschool programs, which provide an optimal learning environment.
Michigan parents looking for extra support for homeschooling their children can find it on the Michigan Department of Education website.
The Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) is an excellent source of information for Michigan homeschoolers, as it offers webinars, articles, and updates about homeschool laws.
Between 2019 to 2020, the percentage of homeschooled students changed from 3.4% to 9%.
Does Homeschool Have to be Accredited in Michigan?
Michigan law mandates that parents who homeschool their kids follow all regulations but becoming accredited is not mandatory. Many families have had successful educational experiences without the need for accreditation.
Michigan gives parents the right to homeschool their kids and decide what credentials are suitable.
To comply with Michigan standards, homeschools in the state must have an approved curriculum and comply with several documentation and reporting requirements annually.
Ultimately, families can choose a public school or homeschooling accreditation to pursue education.
67% of the homeschooled students successfully graduate from college.
Michigan Accredited Homeschool Programs
Accredited homeschools must provide proof of enrollment and attendance, maintain grade records, administer annual standardized tests approved by the state, have a supervising teacher who holds at least a high school diploma or equivalent, and actively keep up with mandated curriculum modifications.
Private school programs must note their adherence to any applicable laws and regulations in their admission policies to remain compliant with states’ compulsory attendance rules.
A homeschool with accreditation allows parents the opportunity to provide their children with a quality education from home in an environment they are familiar with.
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.
When educated at home rather than in public schools, boys do 44% better on reading examinations.
Can Homeschooled Students Play Sports in Michigan?
Michigan homeschoolers can compete in public school sports if they enroll in a public school and take classes that total 66% or more of a full course load from the school they’d represent.
Homeschooled students can compete in state championships through the Michigan High School Athletic Association MHSAA.
Homeschooled students in Michigan have the chance to get a comprehensive education that includes both studies and sports by taking part in public school sports.
How to Homeschool When Both Parents Work
Michigan 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 Michigan 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).
Michigan Homeschool Curriculum Requirements
Michigan parents who opt to teach their kids at home are provided a lot of liberty when it comes to picking their curriculum. According to state law, homeschooled students must acquire an education that is “comparable” to what they would receive in public school.
Homeschooling allows parents to customize their child’s education to fit their individual needs and interests, as there is no specified curriculum that must be followed.
Furthermore, parents are not obligated to use accredited materials or have their child’s progress assessed by a certified instructor.
Homeschooling in Michigan is very flexible and can be tailored to fit your needs. Families who desire involvement in their child’s learning can benefit greatly from this.
Letter of Intent to Homeschool in Michigan
Individuals living in Michigan who wish to homeschool their child must submit a Letter of Intent to the local school district, which indicates their intention to do so for the upcoming school year.
The district will give you information on the resources accessible to homeschoolers within your locality.
Occasionally, a district representative will be assigned to work with you for the duration of the year.
Michigan’s Letter of Intent to Homeschool ensures that homeschooling students receive a quality education tailored to their specific needs.
Tracking the number of homeschooled students and offering assistance to those who go down this learning path is also the duty of the government.
The federal government saves $24 billion in taxpayer money thanks to homeschooling.
Is the Michigan Homeschool Curriculum Free?
Michigan families looking for an alternative to traditional schooling can consider homeschooling. There are numerous free resources available to assist with the transition, making it a viable option.
Homeschooling families can benefit from online curriculum resources, as well as support and information.
Furthermore, there are a lot of homeschooling resources available at public libraries, such as books, DVDs, and online courses.
With some research, Michigan homeschoolers may discover the resources they need to create a fulfilling teaching environment in the home.
How Much Does It Cost to Homeschool in Michigan?
Michigan is a popular state for homeschooling. Parents often opt for this educational approach due to the customizable curriculum, flexible scheduling, and ability to adjust the learning environment to their child’s individual needs.
Homeschooling can be advantageous, yet it is important to be mindful of its costs. Generally, the largest expense is the cost of curriculum and materials.
Apart from the costs for homeschool material, joining a homeschool association, covering testing fees, and enrolling in field trips and extracurricular activities could also incur additional charges.
Michigan families can make homeschooling an economical choice if they plan ahead and do their research.
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 Michigan?
Michigan is one of a handful of states that does not have a set number of days that a homeschooled student must attend school. While this may seem like a relaxed approach, the state does require keeping a record of the student’s attendance.
This helps to ensure that homeschooling parents are providing their children with a high-quality education and that they are meeting the state’s minimum requirements.
In addition, it helps to ensure that homeschooled students are receiving the social interaction they need in order to thrive.
As a result, homeschooling parents in Michigan must take care to keep accurate records of their child’s attendance.
Michigan Homeschool Record Keeping
Maintaining accurate records is an important part of homeschooling in Michigan. Parents are required by law to keep a portfolio of their child’s work as well as attendance records.
These records can be used to demonstrate that the child is progressing academically and to provide evidence of compliance with the state’s homeschooling laws.
Additionally, accurate recordkeeping can help parents identify areas where their child may need additional support.
By keeping detailed records of their child’s homeschooling journey, parents can ensure that they are meeting all of their legal obligations and providing their child with a high-quality education.
For example, if a child is transferring to a public school, the school may request copies of the child’s homeschool records.
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.
Therefore, it is important for homeschoolers in Michigan to keep careful records of their educational activities.
Test results, extracurricular activities, and socialization were mentioned as reasons for homeschooling by 14% of the parents.
Michigan Homeschool Graduation Requirements
The state of Michigan 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.
Michigan Homeschool Diploma
For homeschooled students in Michigan, 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 Michigan 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 Michigan 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.
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.