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Texas Homeschool - Your Texas Homeschool Laws

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Written by Kayley Kenzie

Monday, 17 March 2008

by KayleyKenzie

Not everyone is aware of this, but it's not against the law to pull your children out of public school and instruct them at home. Still, different states have implemented laws regarding homeschooling that you should know about before you start teaching your children yourself.

The Constitution does not discuss education, so it has no real impact on rules governing educational services. The Department of Education does that.

It's vital to understand that there are different educational laws for each state. You'll find that the different laws and practices vary widely from state to state.

For example, let's say you wanted to set up a Texas homeschool: The laws in Texas are very relaxed. Parents just have to make a point of establishing and running their homeschool as though it were a private school.

The only subjects that are required include reading, spelling, grammar, math, and good citizenship. There are no attendance requirements, no parental qualifications, no recordkeeping necessary, and no mandatory testing.

Although Texas homeschool requirements are easy-going, not all states follow suit. Homeschooling is legal in all parts of the US, but some states make it harder than others. Some states demand to see and approve your child's curriculum, and they also want to see student achievement test scores. Some will even want to send officials to visit your home. The most demanding states will require one parent to be a certified teacher.

There have been a lot of efforts to undermine homeschooling over the last few decades. Plenty of parents are afraid that homeschooling will be made illegal in the not-too-distant future.

Fortunately, the courts continue to rule in favor of homeschooling. The history of homeschooling law gives us reason to be optimistic.

If you live in Texas and can enjoy the easy Texas homeschool requirements, you'll still want to be informed of all the legal aspects regarding homeschooling in the state.

The only source of legal rights for homeschoolers is found in the Home School Legal Defense Association, which was founded in 1983. This association fights for the right of parents to homeschool their children.

If you're seriously thinking about teaching your children at home, don't let the legalities intimidate or overwhelm you. It's vital to learn all about your state's laws and how they will affect your freedom to homeschool your children.

About the Author:

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