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 Wisconsin.
To homeschool in Wisconsin, a parent or guardian should become familiar with Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin
Homeschooling in Wisconsin is regulated by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI). To homeschool in Wisconsin, you must follow these steps:
- Notify the DPI that you will be homeschooling your child. This can be done by filling out the Notice of Intent to Homeschool form and returning it to the DPI.
- Provide a basic academic curriculum for your child. This can include subjects such as reading, language arts, math, science, and social studies.
- Keep records of your child’s academic progress. This can include grades, test scores, and other documentation of your child’s academic progress.
- Administer an annual assessment for your child. This can be a nationally normed standardized test or an alternative assessment approved by the DPI.
- File a report with the DPI each year. This report should include the results of your child’s annual assessment, as well as any other relevant information about your child’s academic progress.
It’s important to note that homeschooling laws vary by state, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific laws and requirements in Wisconsin.
Free Wisconsin Homeschool Programs
Wisconsin has a number of excellent free homeschool programs, offering children the opportunity to learn at their own pace and explore subjects that fit them best. All of these Wisconsin programs give legal homeschool documents, and lessons that follow the state’s education standards.
Parents are provided with resources such as lesson plans and learning objectives that are tailored to each program, so they don’t have to start from scratch.
Virtual help is available from them with assessments, peer activities, video lessons, and live-streamed classes for a better learning experience.
Wisconsin offers a wide selection of free homeschooling programs that can be tailored to any student’s needs.
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction provides more resources for parents who homeschool in the state.
The Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) is an excellent source of information on Wisconsin homeschooling laws, offering webinars, articles, and other resources to parents homeschooling their children.
Between 2019 to 2020, the percentage of homeschooled students changed from 3.4% to 9%.
Does Homeschool Have to be Accredited in Wisconsin?
Homeschools in Wisconsin are not mandated to be accredited. However, if a homeschooled student is hoping to attend college or earn certain diplomas, they should follow accredited standards and procedures.
When it comes to homeschoolers, guardians should carefully consider their educational aspirations before determining any accreditation necessities.
Accreditation can be beneficial for the student and collective outcomes, so it is essential that families do research to decide what is right for them.
67% of the homeschooled students successfully graduate from college.
Wisconsin Accredited Homeschool Programs
In order to be accredited, homeschools must provide evidence of enrollment, maintain grades, have a supervising teacher with requisite qualifications, administer approved standardized tests, and meet curriculum updates.
Private schools that are accredited must include statements about their compliance with the law in their admissions policies to ensure they align with state requirements for mandatory attendance.
Accredited homeschooling provides parents with the opportunity to provide their children with a high-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.
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 Wisconsin?
The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) prohibits homeschooled students from playing public school sports, but these students can still compete through private schools or homeschool organizations.
The WIAA provides homeschoolers in Wisconsin with a variety of options for athletics, such as intramurals and clubs. Therefore, homeschooled pupils have plenty of chances to participate in sports.
How to Homeschool When Both Parents Work
Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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).
Wisconsin Homeschool Curriculum Requirements
In Wisconsin, parents of homeschooled children have the freedom to pick their own course material. Yet, they must make sure that students receive instruction in the core academic subjects like:
- Reading
- Writing
- Math
- Science
- Social studies
- Physical education
Homeschooling offers families the versatility to focus on particular areas of study or teaching methods. For instance, they can concentrate on certain topics that fascinate them or vary their educational approach.
Homeschooling in Wisconsin is an advantageous way to teach kids, as parents can customize their curriculum to suit the specific needs of their children.
Letter of Intent to Homeschool in Wisconsin
According to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, parents or guardians who want to home-school their child must submit a Letter of Intent to the school district in which they live.
This notice serves as a declaration of the parent to withdraw their child from school and teach them at home.
Sending in this document allows parents to make sure their child’s school records are correctly transferred and they’re observing state homeschooling laws.
Therefore, all parents should ensure these considerations.
The federal government saves $24 billion in taxpayer money thanks to homeschooling.
Is the Wisconsin Homeschool Curriculum Free?
An increasing amount of Wisconsin households are deciding to teach their children at home, for many different reasons. The monetary cost of a homeschool curriculum is a major concern. Fortunately, there are a variety of free curricula and materials available on the internet.
Conducting a quick search online yields numerous websites with free homeschool resources, such as lesson plans, worksheets, and even full programs.
Homeschooling families can often take advantage of discounts or free memberships from educational organizations.
It’s possible to homeschool your children without spending a large amount of money, with the right amount of effort and time.
How Much Does It Cost to Homeschool in Wisconsin?
The expenses for homeschooling in Wisconsin can vary depending on multiple issues, including the number of kids being taught, the curriculum chosen, and if parents opt to employ a tutor or take part in a co-op.
Homeschooling is usually more cost-effective for families with multiple kids, compared to private education. Furthermore, numerous families utilize free or affordable options, like public library materials and online sources.
Leveraging these resources can help families save on homeschooling expenses.
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 Wisconsin?
According to state law, homeschooled students must attend school for at least 875 hours each year. These hours can be completed through a variety of methods, including traditional classroom instruction, online courses, and even independent study.
However, it is important to note that not all of these hours need to be spent on direct instruction.
In fact, time spent on homework, field trips, and other activities can also be counted towards the total.
As long as the minimum number of hours is met, parents have flexibility in how they choose to homeschool their children.
Wisconsin Homeschool Record Keeping
As a homeschooling parent in Wisconsin, it is important to keep accurate records of your child’s educational progress. Not only does this ensure that you are complying with state laws, but it can also be helpful in planning future homeschooling curricula.
Good recordkeeping can also help you document your child’s academic achievement in the event that you ever need to provide evidence to a college or potential employer.
There are several different ways to keep homeschool records, but one of the most effective is to maintain a portfolio.
In your portfolio, you can include your child’s grades, standardized test scores, and samples of their work.
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 taking the time to keep detailed records, you can help ensure that your child’s homeschooled education is both rigorous and well-rounded.
Test results, extracurricular activities, and socialization were mentioned as reasons for homeschooling by 14% of the parents.
Wisconsin Homeschool Graduation Requirements
The state of Wisconsin 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.
Wisconsin Homeschool Diploma
For homeschooled students in Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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.