Homeschooling in Hawaiʻi
Homeschooling in Hawaiʻi is a legal and recognized educational option for families. The state provides specific guidelines and resources to ensure that homeschooled children receive a quality education. In Hawaiʻi, parents or guardians have the right to homeschool their children by adhering to the state’s educational requirements. This includes notifying the local public school principal and ensuring that the curriculum meets state standards.
Options for Homeschooling in Hawaiʻi
Hawai’i offers one primary option for homeschooling under the state’s Compulsory Attendance Law.
Requirements for Homeschooling in Hawaiʻi
Notification
Parents or guardians must submit a written notice of intent to homeschool to the principal of the local public school. This notice should include the child’s name, birth date, address, and grade level.
Curriculum
The curriculum should cover the basic subjects offered in public schools, including language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, art, music, health, and physical education.
Record Keeping
Parents are required to maintain a record of the planned curriculum and the child’s progress.
Annual Progress Report
At the end of each school year, parents must submit an annual progress report to the local public school principal. This can be in the form of a standardized test score, a written evaluation by a certified teacher, or a student work portfolio.
Law-Related Quick Reference FAQs
Do parents/guardians need to file a form of intent to homeschool in Hawaiʻi?
Yes, a written notice of intent must be submitted to the local public school principal.
Do parents/guardians need to officially withdraw their student from public school In Hawaiʻi?
Yes, if the child is currently enrolled in a public school, an official withdrawal is necessary.
Do parents/guardians need a certain level of education to homeschool their children in Hawaiʻi?
No specific educational qualifications are required for parents to homeschool in Hawaiʻi.
What subjects are required to be taught by homeschoolers in Hawaiʻi?
Language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, art, music, health, and physical education.
How many hours or days are required to equal a school year in Hawaiʻi?
Hawaiʻi requires 180 instructional days per school year. Homeschoolers do not need to abide by the 180 days requirement but it is a good rule of thumb to follow.
Are assessments/testing required for homeschoolers in Hawaiʻi?
Yes, an annual progress report is required, which can include standardized test scores, a written evaluation by a certified teacher, or a student work portfolio.
Do reports from testing have to be submitted by homeschoolers in Hawaiʻi?
Yes, the annual progress report must be submitted to the local public school principal.
Does the state of Hawaiʻi require a yearly portfolio for homeschoolers?
A portfolio is one of the options for the annual progress report but is not mandatory if other forms of assessment are used.
Immunization: Is compliance required for homeschoolers in Hawaiʻi?
Hawaiʻi requires immunizations for all students, including those who are homeschooled.
Is MAP Growth an approved test in Hawaiʻi?
Hawaiʻi accepts various standardized tests for the annual progress report; parents should verify with the local school district if MAP Growth is acceptable.
What level of regulation does Hawaiʻi have for homeschoolers?
Hawaiʻi has moderate regulations, requiring notification, specific subject instruction, record-keeping, and annual progress reports.
Are there special needs requirements for homeschooling children with disabilities in Hawaiʻi?
Parents are responsible for providing appropriate accommodations and services; public schools may offer some support upon request.
Non-Law-Related Quick Reference FAQs
How can Hawaiʻi homeschoolers participate in sports/extracurriculars through a local school?
Participation policies vary by school; parents should contact local schools for specific information.
What Scholarships and Financial Aid are available for homeschoolers in Hawaiʻi?
Homeschooled students are eligible for many scholarships; criteria depend on the awarding organization.
Homeschool
Hawaiʻi does not currently offer ESA, EFA, or school voucher programs.
Post-Secondary
Hawaiʻi Community Foundation Grants & Scholarships
Office of Hawaiʻian Affairs Scholarships
How does Hawaiʻi include homeschoolers in Special Programs or Discounts?
Various organizations offer discounts and programs; local homeschool groups can provide information.
How many students are homeschooled in Hawaiʻi?
Specific statistics may be available through the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education.
Summary
Homeschooling in Hawaiʻi offers families a flexible and personalized approach to education while ensuring children meet state educational standards. By complying with the state’s notification, curriculum, and annual progress reporting requirements, parents can tailor their child’s learning experience to suit their individual needs. Hawaiʻi provides a supportive environment for homeschoolers, with various resources, networks, and options for engagement in academic, social, and extracurricular activities. With careful planning and access to available tools, homeschooling families in Hawaiʻi can foster a thriving educational journey for their children.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Homeschool laws change frequently and may be applied differently by local districts. Please confirm current requirements with your state department of education, local school district, or a licensed attorney.