Finding all the information you need for homeschooling in TN can be difficult at times. That’s why we have compiled a list of 5 must-need resources for you to start your research.
How to start homeschooling in TN and homeschooling in TN laws
Families have three options when it comes to homeschooling there child.
First, you can choose to be classified as an independent homeschool. To do this, you will need to do several requirements. You will need to:
- Have your own High School Diploma or GED to be able to teach your own children.
- Provide an annual notice before each school year.
- Maintain attendance records and send them to a Director of Schools at the end of every school year.
- Submit proof of your child’s vaccination.
- Do standardized tests for 5th, 7th, and 9th grade.
Second, you can enroll with a church-related umbrella school. Families interested in this option can begin TN homeschool at any point in the school year. Requirements do not mandate any notification to their local school district. They share the same laws as an independent school. However, these umbrella schools carry out their own operational procedures.
Last, you can enroll your child in an accredited online school. You will need to:
- Ensure that the school you want your child enrolled in has a legitimate accreditation status. It must be accredited by either AdvancED, MSA, MSCES, MSCSS, NAIS, NCA CASI, NCPSA, NEASC, NWAC, SACS CASI, or WASC.
- Provide evidence to your local school district that your child is enrolled in an accredited online school.
If you would like to read more about Homeschooling in TN regulations, you can check them out here.
Homeschooling in TN associations
Whether you are trying to decide if homeschool is right for your family or you are researching because you have made a decision, an association can be incredibly helpful to you. These groups often help to answer your most asked questions concerning the aspect of educating your children at home.
TN has a large population of homeschoolers. Because of this, there is a statewide organization dedicated to helping those families. It is called TN Home Education Association (THEA). It is a Christian-led organization that offers a statewide and local chapter membership. It is available across the state, with it being divided into 7 chapters.
This association offers a variety of benefits. These benefits include:
- advice for new and prospective homeschoolers
- educational discounts with specific stores
- used book sales
- high school proms
- subscriptions to newsletters concerning information relevant to TN homeschoolers
- a rally day where families can come together to celebrate homeschooling
An association is a vital resource to have for any family interested in homeschooling.
Homeschooling in TN groups
You don’t have to go about this all alone if you are trying to do this independently. When it comes to local groups, there are a large number of them throughout the state.
It is important to keep in mind that many groups will have a specific focus. Some of these groups will be religion-based, while others may be concentrated on a specific style of teaching. This is so they can help you better.
Most groups have moved their platform over to Facebook. You can simply search “homeschool groups” and find ones near you or online with the convenience and ease of Facebook’s search system.
If you cannot find a local option near you, you can also opt for a virtual group for families educating at home. A notable one is Time4Learning.
Homeschooling in TN coops
You can always turn to homeschool coops for extra assistance. There are fewer options than most states have. This is because of the popularity of umbrella schools, who essentially stands in as a homeschool coop.
If you are not enrolling your child within an umbrella school, there is another option that can fill your needs. You can also search for coops near you online through Facebook.
The perks of being apart of a coop are that you will have:
- advice when needed
- group field trips
- organized clubs
- organized athletics
- the opportunity to socialize
These coops are a wonderful option for those who are doing independent or online homeschooling in TN.
With these regulations and groups in mind, you now have the resources to successfully begin your journey into teaching your child on your own terms.
