Disclaimer: I am not a lawyer. This article is based on my personal experience and research. Laws can change, and every family's situation is different. Always consult with a qualified attorney or your local school district for legal advice specific to your circumstances.
When we started homeschooling, I assumed there was only one way to do it legally in Florida: file a Notice of Intent, keep a portfolio, and submit annual evaluations. That's what everyone talked about.
Then I discovered Florida Unschoolers—and realized there's another path that gives families far more freedom.
Two Legal Options in Florida
Florida has two completely legal ways to homeschool:
Option 1: Notice of Intent (Traditional)
- File with your county superintendent
- Maintain a portfolio of work samples
- Submit annual evaluation (test or teacher review)
- Keep records for 2 years
Option 2: Private Umbrella School (Like Florida Unschoolers)
- Enroll in a registered private school
- No state testing required
- No portfolio reviews
- No annual evaluations submitted to the state
- Minimal reporting to the umbrella school
Both options are 100% legal. The umbrella school option just has significantly less oversight—which is exactly what some families need.
What Is Florida Unschoolers?
Florida Unschoolers is a private umbrella school designed specifically for families who want maximum educational freedom. When you enroll, your children are legally attending a private school—you're just the teacher, and your home is the classroom.
Despite the name, you don't have to be an "unschooler" to use Florida Unschoolers. Families using structured curriculum, eclectic approaches, or child-led learning all enroll. The name reflects their philosophy of trusting parents to direct their children's education.
What Florida Unschoolers Handles For You
- Legal compliance: Your enrollment satisfies Florida's compulsory attendance law
- Record keeping: They maintain enrollment records as required for private schools
- Documentation: They can provide enrollment verification letters when needed
- Support: Access to their community and resources
What You're Responsible For
- Educating your children (using whatever methods/curriculum you choose)
- Your enrollment counts as attendance until you disenroll—no separate attendance reporting needed
That's it. No testing. No portfolios. No evaluations submitted to the state. No enrollment fees either—Florida Unschoolers accepts donations and has a school pride store, but there's no required cost to enroll.
Why We Chose This Path
For our family, the umbrella school option made sense for several reasons:
No testing anxiety
My kids with ADHD and anxiety don't perform well on standardized tests. Their knowledge doesn't show up on a bubble sheet. Removing that pressure was huge.
Freedom to follow interests
Without worrying about what will "look good" in a portfolio review, we can spend three weeks on a topic that fascinates us—or skip something that isn't working.
Less paperwork stress
In survival mode, the last thing I need is anxiety about whether my portfolio is "good enough." This removes that entirely.
Aligned with our values
We believe parents—not the state—should direct their children's education. This option reflects that belief.
Common Questions
Is this really legal?
Yes. Florida law allows private schools to operate with minimal state oversight. When you enroll with Florida Unschoolers, your children are legally enrolled in a private school.
Can my kids still go to college?
Absolutely. Florida Unschoolers can help with transcripts when needed. Many colleges actively recruit homeschooled students, regardless of which legal option their family used.
What about Bright Futures?
Home education students are eligible for Bright Futures scholarships. You'll need to keep your own records of courses, grades, and community service hours.
Can I switch from Notice of Intent to umbrella school?
Yes. You can withdraw from your county's home education program and enroll with Florida Unschoolers at any time.
Do I have to be an "unschooler"?
No. You can use any curriculum or approach. The umbrella school doesn't dictate how you teach—just that you're legally covered.
Is there an enrollment fee?
No required fee. Florida Unschoolers accepts donations and has a school pride store, but enrollment itself is free.
Is It Right for Your Family?
The umbrella school option might be a good fit if you:
- Want maximum freedom in how you educate
- Have children who don't test well
- Prefer minimal paperwork and oversight
- Follow a child-led or eclectic approach
- Value privacy in your educational choices
The Notice of Intent option might be better if you:
- Want the structure of annual evaluations
- Prefer direct relationship with your school district
- Like having portfolio requirements as motivation
Neither option is "better"—they're just different. Choose what fits your family.
Learn More
Visit Florida Unschoolers to learn about enrollment, fees, and their community. For traditional homeschool requirements, see our Homeschool FAQs.