Homeschool Toolkit
Homeschooling in Pennsylvania is simpler than you think.
You do not need to figure everything out today. Start with Pennsylvania’s legal requirements, then build a homeschool experience that works for your family.
You don’t need to memorize it today. Bookmark it as your go-to reference and revisit it each year.
Start Homeschooling in 3 Simple Steps
Submit Paperwork
Save your affidavit or unsworn declaration, objectives, and required health records or exemptions.
Teach Required Subjects & Keep Records
Track attendance, keep a reading log, and save a few samples of your child’s work.
Complete Evaluation
Meet with an evaluator and submit the evaluation certification to your district by June 30.
Do I Need to “Withdraw” My Child?
Some districts may call this “withdrawal” or “unenrolling,” but for homeschool families, the goal is simply to notify the district of your intent to homeschool so there is no confusion when your child is no longer attending school.
What Is Required and What Is Optional?
Required by PA Law
- Affidavit and Objectives
- Required subjects
- Attendance records
- Reading log
- Work samples
- Standardized test scores for grades 3, 5, and 8
- Annual evaluation submitted by June 30th
Step 1: Submit Your Paperwork
What are objectives?
Objectives are a brief outline of the subjects you plan to cover during the homeschool year.
Do I have to submit health forms to the district?
When you sign your affidavit, you are attesting that your child has received the required immunizations and age-appropriate health services, or has an exemption. While some districts may request health forms, you do not submit these records with your affidavit, but you should keep them with your homeschool records.
When do I submit paperwork?
Submit your affidavit by August 1 each year. Families beginning mid-year should submit their paperwork before starting. If your child is currently enrolled in school, notify the school of your intent to homeschool before you begin.
Step 2: Teach Required Subjects
Elementary K-6
- English: spelling, reading, and writing
- Arithmetic
- Science
- Geography
- United States and Pennsylvania history
- Civics, safety, health, and physiology
- Fire safety
- Physical education, music, and art
Secondary 7-12
- English
- Science
- Geography and social studies
- Mathematics
- Arts and humanities
- Music, physical education, health, and safety
- Fire safety
Keep Simple Records
Attendance Log
Track 180 days or required hours.
Reading Log
List books and reading materials.
Work Samples
Save a few examples showing progress.
Test Scores
Required for grades 3, 5, and 8.
Step 3: Complete an Evaluation
Pennsylvania law requires an annual evaluation. An evaluator reviews your portfolio, interviews your child, and provides a written certification stating whether an appropriate education has occurred. Many evaluators offer both in-person and virtual evaluations. Submit the evaluation to your school district by June 30th.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Co-ops
Shared classes and community.
Hybrid Programs
Part-time campus learning.
Microschools
Small learning communities.
Local Facebook Groups
Utilize your local facebook communities for resources.
Can My Child Participate in Our Local School District?
Yes. Pennsylvania’s Home Education Law allows homeschooled students to participate in extracurricular activities, including athletics, in their resident school district if they meet the same eligibility requirements as enrolled students.
Home education students may also participate in academic courses equaling at least one-quarter of the school day in their resident school district, provided they meet district eligibility requirements, prerequisites, and applicable policies.
From the Home Education Law
“…must permit a child who is enrolled in a home education program to participate in academic courses equaling up to at least one quarter of the school day…”
“…including, but not limited to, band or orchestra…”
Common Questions
Do I need to buy curriculum?
No. Curriculum can be helpful, but Pennsylvania requires subjects, not a specific curriculum.
Can I transition to homeschooling mid-year?
Yes. Pennsylvania families may begin a home education program at any time during the school year. Before beginning, submit your affidavit and objectives to your school district. If your child is currently enrolled in school, you can notify the school of your intent to homeschool.
What is the role of an evaluator?
An evaluator reviews your child’s portfolio, interviews your child, and certifies whether an appropriate education has occurred as required by Pennsylvania law. The evaluator then provides a written evaluation for you to submit to your school district by June 30th.
What do I submit to the district at the end of the year?
At the end of the school year, you submit only the evaluator’s written evaluation to your school district by June 30th. The law does not require you to submit your child’s portfolio, work samples, attendance records, or reading log. Keep your portfolio with your personal homeschool records.