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 South Carolina.
To homeschool in South Carolina, a parent or guardian should become familiar with the state’s 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 South Carolina
Homeschooling in South Carolina is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Education. If you are considering homeschooling your child in South Carolina, here are some steps you can take:
- Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations regarding homeschooling in South Carolina. According to South Carolina law, parents or guardians who wish to homeschool their children must:
- Notify the South Carolina Department of Education in writing within 15 days of starting to homeschool
- Use a curriculum that is “equal in academic quality” to that of the public schools
- Keep records of the child’s progress and make them available upon request
- Choose a curriculum and instructional materials. There are many different homeschooling curricula and materials available, and you should choose one that meets the needs and learning style of your child. You can find curriculum and materials at local educational supply stores, online, or through homeschooling support groups.
- Create a schedule and establish a routine. Homeschooling requires discipline and structure, so it is important to set aside specific times for learning each day. You should also set aside time for breaks, physical activity, and other extracurricular activities.
- Provide a suitable learning environment. The environment in which your child learns can have a big impact on their ability to focus and learn. Make sure you have a quiet, well-lit space for your child to work in, with all necessary materials and resources readily available.
- Monitor your child’s progress and make adjustments as needed. It is important to regularly assess your child’s progress and adjust your teaching approach if necessary. This may involve seeking additional resources or seeking help from a tutor or other educational professional.
If you have any questions or concerns about homeschooling in South Carolina, you can contact the South Carolina Department of Education for more information.
Free South Carolina Homeschool Programs
Families in South Carolina have the option to homeschool with a vast selection of curricula that can be tailored to their children’s individual needs. This enables parents to provide an education suited to their kids’ objectives.
In South Carolina, families have access to multiple free homeschool programs designed by experienced educators to provide quality instruction. These may include online classes, tutoring opportunities, and virtual field trips.
Additionally, these free programs provide parents assurance that their children are learning from the state’s most outstanding teachers without any expense.
There are many programs available to suit your interests. For more resources when homeschooling in South Carolina, check out the South Carolina Department of Education.
Homeschooling parents in South Carolina can benefit from the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) which offers webinars, articles, and information about homeschooling laws.
Between 2019 to 2020, the percentage of homeschooled students changed from 3.4% to 9%.
Does Homeschool Have to be Accredited in South Carolina?
Although accreditation is not a requirement for homeschools in South Carolina, it is beneficial to research the potential advantages of doing so before making a decision.
Accreditation can give you access to special programs, facilitate entrance into college, and help you network with other homeschoolers nearby.
When considering educational needs, each family should make a decision based on what works best for them.
67% of the homeschooled students successfully graduate from college.
South Carolina Accredited Homeschool Programs
Accredited homeschools must present evidence of enrollment, keep comprehensive grade records, administer government-sanctioned annual standardized tests, appoint a qualified supervising teacher with a high school diploma or equivalent, and stay on top of all curriculum updates.
Private school programs which are accredited must adhere to legal requirements by declaring compliance with state laws in their admissions policies, thus ensuring they meet compulsory attendance obligations.
Homeschooling that is accredited by a recognized institution can provide parents with the opportunity to provide their children with an excellent education right in the comfort of their own homes.
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 South Carolina?
In 2012, South Carolina passed a law allowing homeschoolers to join their local public schools’ interscholastic activities with the proper enrollment and attendance requirements.
To qualify, students must have been homeschooled according to laws in South Carolina for a minimum of a year.
Numerous families have commended this alteration, as they feel that all kids should have the ability to engage in sports and after-school activities.
With this new law, more students have the opportunity to take part in organized sports than ever before.
Go to the South Carolina Legislature for further details.
How to Homeschool When Both Parents Work
South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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).
South Carolina Homeschool Curriculum Requirements
Homeschooling parents in South Carolina may pick their own curriculum but must teach their children the major academic subjects such as:
- Reading
- Writing
- Math
- Science
- Social studies
- Physical education
Homeschooling gives families the freedom to focus on topics they’re passionate about or teaching styles that work best for them.
By customizing curriculums to fit the specific needs of their child, parents can take advantage of homeschooling, which is an effective method of education in South Carolina.
Letter of Intent to Homeschool in South Carolina
South Carolina parents have the legal right to homeschool their children without obtaining permission from the government. Nevertheless, submitting a Letter of Intent is still recommended even though it isn’t legally required.
Creating a Letter of Intent helps to solidify the decision to homeschool and outlines the family’s educational objectives.
Submitting a Letter of Intent is an effective way for parents to prevent their children from being accidentally enrolled in public school.
Additionally, a Letter of Intent can prevent confusion if the family relocates to a state with different homeschool regulations.
Despite its non-mandatory status, it is still recommended that all South Carolina homeschooling families submit a Letter of Intent.
The federal government saves $24 billion in taxpayer money thanks to homeschooling.
Is the South Carolina Homeschool Curriculum Free?
An increasing number of South Carolina families are opting to homeschool their kids for many reasons. Though one issue with this is the associated expense, there are multiple ways to find free homeschool materials and resources online.
Conducting a quick Google search will uncover countless pages offering free homeschool materials such as lesson plans, worksheets, and entire course programs.
Homeschooling families often receive discounted or complimentary memberships from educational organizations.
By investing time and energy, it is possible to homeschool your children without spending a lot of money.
How Much Does It Cost to Homeschool in South Carolina?
The expense of homeschooling in South Carolina can differ significantly depending on the resources and curriculum you select, as well as any other costs connected to homeschooling (such as a subscription to a homeschooling association or fees related to extracurricular activities).
The annual cost of homeschooling in South Carolina is typically around $600.
The cost of a child’s public school education per year runs from $10,000 to $20,000, which is significantly more than this. This comes from tax dollars.
By homeschooling, you can customize your child’s education according to their interests and needs, leading to positive outcomes in the future.
Investing in homeschooling in South Carolina can have great returns over time.
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 South Carolina?
In South Carolina, the law requires that children must attend school for 180 days. However, there are no specific attendance requirements for homeschoolers. As long as parents document their child’s progress and keep attendance records, they will be in compliance with the law.
This flexibility allows homeschool families to design their own educational plans and tailor their schedules to meet their unique needs.
Homeschoolers are not required to take state-mandated tests or adhere to a set curriculum.
As a result, homeschooling can be a great option for families who want more control over their child’s education.
South Carolina Homeschool Record Keeping
In South Carolina, homeschoolers are required to keep a portfolio of work samples and other records documenting their child’s educational progress. These records should be maintained for at least three years.
While it may seem like a daunting task, there are a few simple tips that can make recordkeeping more manageable.
Create a system for organizing and storing records. This could be as simple as labeling folders or keeping an electronic database.
Set aside time each week to update records, and delegate tasks to other family members if possible.
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.
By following these tips, homeschoolers can ensure that they are meeting all state requirements and providing their children with a well-rounded education.
Test results, extracurricular activities, and socialization were mentioned as reasons for homeschooling by 14% of the parents.
South Carolina Homeschool Graduation Requirements
The state of South Carolina 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.
South Carolina Homeschool Diploma
For homeschooled students in South Carolina, 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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 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 at all 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.
As of February 2020, at least 9 million Americans had been homeschooled at least once.
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.