Keeping Good Records

If you are among the growing number of parents who have decided to join the home-school revolution or you are doing it already.  This is a simple reminder of a  few things.  If you are anything me, you need constant reminders.  In the face of busy with children, household chores, husband, teaching reading, math, critical thinking, social studies, science, church activism, community work, home based business, and of course reading God’s word; it is easy to forget what else is important. 


1. Some states have declared specific home school statues while others have not.  While your children are completing their assignments, here is one for you.  What are specific home-school laws in your state?  Know your rights, make the site where you found them one of your favorites, and print out a copy for your record.  Remember keep a hard copy of what is important.  You never know when you will need it.


2. It is important that you keep good records if in fact legal matters occur. These include:
* A statement of assurance form from the local school district verifying that your home-school program/private education, provides responsible instruction as specified by state law.
* Note: each state is different and if not mandatory in some states.
* Check your state’s education statues usually available at the state board of education.
* Some states require instead a non-public school registration form.
* Most updated forms now have a home-school option box for homeschooling parents to check.

3. If your child has attended or is attending a public or private school, go to the school and get a transfer. Do not just pull him or her out of school. Leave a clean paper trail.

4. Construct a typed letter stating that your children are taught appropriately in all required subject areas. Make sure the letter is signed and notarized.

5. A copy of each child’s birth certificate or notarized record of birth.

6. A copy of each child’s social security card.

7. A copy of each child’s updated medical records.

8. If you opt out of immunizations, state your reasons in a letter and get it notarized. Note: Some states required an updated medical in preschool, kindergarten, 5th grade, 9th, and upon entering college.

9. Keep a list of each subject your child studies and a brief overview of the subject.

10. Document your child’s educational schedule and learning outcomes. What did they learn, master, and achieve?

Keep a file with these articles for each child. Keep it safe. Lock it in a safe if you have to. Above all…
Do it responsibly or don’t do it at all!