Florida Homeschool FAQ
Traditional homeschooling under the Notice of Intent — based on FLDOE guidelines and Florida Statute 1002.41
Disclaimer: I am not a lawyer. This information is based on my personal research and experience. Laws can change, and every family's situation is different. Always verify current requirements with your local school district superintendent's office or consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice specific to your circumstances.
Getting Started
- Do I need a teaching degree to homeschool in Florida?
No. Florida law does not require parents to hold a teaching certificate or have any specific educational qualifications. As the parent, you are the primary instructor and supervisor of your child's education. - At what age must I register my child?
Children turning 6 before February 1 of the school year are subject to compulsory attendance and must be registered. You may teach younger children without registering. - Is kindergarten mandatory?
Only if you plan to enroll your child in public school for first grade. If you're continuing homeschool through first grade, kindergarten registration is not required. - How do I start homeschooling in Florida?
Submit a written Notice of Intent to your district school superintendent within 30 days of beginning your program. Include: your name and address, child's name and date of birth, and a statement that you are establishing a home education program. Send via certified mail with return receipt for proof of delivery.
Legal Requirements
- What are my six legal responsibilities?
1. Submit a Notice of Intent to your superintendent.
2. Maintain a portfolio of records and samples.
3. Make your portfolio available for inspection (with 15 days written notice).
4. Submit an annual evaluation.
5. Preserve your portfolio for two years.
6. Submit a Notice of Termination when ending your program. - What must my portfolio contain?
A log of educational activities made at the time of instruction, titles of reading materials used, and samples of writings, worksheets, workbooks, or creative materials. - Do I need to track attendance or school hours?
No. Florida home educators are not required to keep attendance records or meet school day requirements.
Annual Evaluation
- What are my evaluation options?
Choose one of these five methods:
1. Evaluation by a Florida-certified teacher
2. Evaluation by a licensed psychologist
3. Nationally normed student achievement test administered by a certified teacher
4. State student assessment test
5. Evaluation by a person with a valid credential (approved by the superintendent) - When is my evaluation due?
On the anniversary date of your Notice of Intent submission—not the date of your last evaluation. - What happens if my child doesn't show progress?
The superintendent will notify you of a one-year probation period. Provide remedial instruction and submit another evaluation at year's end showing progress.
Curriculum & Instruction
- Does Florida require specific subjects or curriculum?
No. Florida law gives parents freedom to direct their child's education. You choose the curriculum, methods, and subjects. - Can I use online resources and virtual schools?
Yes. Supplementary instruction is encouraged, including Florida Virtual School, part-time public/private school enrollment, and dual enrollment in college. - Can I teach other people's children?
If you become another child's primary instructor providing daily, consistent instruction, you must hold a valid Florida teaching certificate. However, the legal definition of "parent" includes guardians and those in a parental relationship.
Socialization & Activities
- Can homeschoolers participate in public school sports?
Yes. Florida law allows home education students to participate in interscholastic extracurricular activities at their zoned public school, subject to eligibility requirements. - How do homeschoolers socialize?
Through homeschool co-ops, church/community groups, library programs, sports leagues, field trips, and extracurricular activities. Many Florida communities have active homeschool groups.
Special Needs
- Can I homeschool a child with special needs?
Absolutely. Many families successfully homeschool children with ADHD, autism, learning differences, and other special needs. You can tailor instruction to your child's pace and learning style. - Do I need an IEP for homeschool?
No formal IEP is required for home education. However, you may create your own plan and seek private evaluations or therapies as needed.
High School & Beyond
- Can homeschoolers get a diploma?
Yes. Parents can issue a diploma upon completion of their home education program. Many colleges accept homeschool diplomas alongside transcripts and portfolios. - Are homeschoolers eligible for Bright Futures?
Yes. Home education students are eligible for Florida Bright Futures Scholarships. Keep detailed records of courses, grades, and community service hours. - Can homeschoolers dual enroll in college?
Yes. Florida allows homeschool students to dual enroll at community colleges and universities while completing their home education program.
Interested in unschooling?
Check out our Unschooling FAQs to learn about the child-led approach with Florida Unschoolers—no state testing or portfolio reviews required.
Always verify current requirements with your local school district superintendent's office.