Comments on: Pennsylvania Homeschooling – PA Homeschool Laws Firm but Fair

By: Amanda

Amanda — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 13:46:40 +0000

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By: Jessica Parnell

Jessica Parnell — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 23:07:47 +0000

Heather (ID 24671) » Hi Heather! You are on the right track–seeking the right information to ensure that things go smoothly. I will do my best to be helpful. You are correct that you are not required to submit information on your GIEPs. On the 504 plan, it will depend on the reason for the plan. If physical, then don’t worry about it. However, if it addresses academic accomodations, you will need to meet with a special education evaluator to have your objectives for the year reviewed and approved.
As for support groups, visit http://homeschooling.gomilpitas.com/regional/PennsylvaniaSupport.htm#Philadelphia for a list of support groups in the Philadelphia area. There are also quite a few places in Philadelphia that offer options for homeschoolers. For example, the Philadelphia zoo will do any of their education programs for a homeschool group of 10 or more; the Fencing Academy of Philadelphia offers fencing lessons and many other organizations have started to cater classes to homeschoolers.
I know the process is intimidating but it will be well worth it! Especially because you will see that what you can do for your special needs kids is so much greater than what can happen in the schools. If you would like step by step help and support, contact Bridgeway Academy at 800-863-1474 http://www.bridgewayacademy.com. The admissions representatives can walk you through your questions and outline some options for you.
Hang in there! You will do great!

By: Heather

Heather — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 03:42:28 +0000

I’m planning to begin homeschooling my three children (ages 9, 7 and 5) this fall. I haven’t filed the affidavit yet but plan to soon. I’m wondering if I have to submit anything special for a child who has an existing gifted IEP or 504 Plan already in place. My children have both. (I know there is extra paperwork for an IEP, but I didn’t see a special requirement for GIEPs or 504 plans). Also, I am having trouble finding a Philadelphia area support group, but noted that you mentioned several local activities in your piece. Where is a good place to look for one? Thanks, in advance, for any advice you can offer. This process is obviously intimidating, perhaps more so because my children have some special needs.

By: Jessica Parnell

Jessica Parnell — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 02:03:27 +0000

Hi Misty,
If your child has been in the school system already, you will have to file an affidavit as required by law. However, it does sound like more of a hassle than it really is–the trade off for the freedom in homeschooling is well worth the time it takes to meet the requirements of the law.
For help step by step through the process from selecting your curriculum, to filing the affidavit, to records, and portfolios, contact Bridgeway Academy. Having that support gives you the peace of mind that you are on track and can take advantage of all the homeschooling has to offer.

By: Jessica Parnell

Jessica Parnell — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 01:57:41 +0000

Cheri,
The law does not get that specific. However, I can tell you that my daughters took part in the elementary chorus at our local school district. Might be good to call the school just to inquire if they have an extracurricular activity for chorus. If they identify it as such then ask what you need to do to register your kids for it.

By: Cheri

Cheri — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 17:39:55 +0000

Jessica,

Is there subjectivity in the term “extracurricular” among school districts? I would like to enroll my 4th and 5th graders in the elementary “4th and 5th grade chorus”. Is there the possibility that elementary chorus is not considered extracurricular? How does the law define it?

By: Misty

Misty — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 22:39:33 +0000

I am wondering what will happen if you have a child under eight but pull them out of school if they don’t like it. Are you then required to submit all the required homeschool paperwork and evaluation since they were in the system already even though they are only five or six? We have considered a public charter school but are afraid it may be more than we want to put on our son. If it means that I am setting myself up for more hassle if I then choose to homeschool, I just don’t want to bother with it. Thanks for your time.

By: Jessica Parnell

Jessica Parnell — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 16:09:47 +0000

Hi Wendy,

Thanks for your comment. All of the information you were given at the overview session of PA homeschooling laws is correct.

Jessica

By: Wendy

Wendy — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 01:10:32 +0000

I attended an overview session of PA homeschooling laws and it was noted in this session that the mandatory testing can be given by anyone as long as it is not the primary person providing the education…or their spouse. There is no requirement to take the test in a school or with an organization that offers testing and that I could have the test administered by another relative, a neighbour, a minister, etc. It was also noted that if the homeschooler failed the standardized test, it was a marker of what needed improvement and that the test could be taken more than once. Is any of this true?

By: Jessica Parnell

Jessica Parnell — Mon, 16 May 2011 02:33:56 +0000

Tami Jackson (ID 15624) » You must file your affidavit on or before August 1st and can find a sample affidavit here or contact your school district to request an affidavit. Be sure to have it notarized before you submit it.