Unschooling with Florida Unschoolers
A child-led, interest-driven approach to home education—with no state testing or portfolio reviews required.
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 Florida Unschoolers directly or consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice specific to your circumstances.
What is Unschooling?
- What exactly is unschooling?
Unschooling is a child-led, interest-driven approach to education. Instead of following a set curriculum or schedule, children learn through their natural curiosity, play, life experiences, and exploration. Parents act as facilitators rather than traditional teachers. - Is unschooling legal in Florida?
Yes! Florida law does not require a set curriculum or specific subjects. Families can legally unschool under either the Notice of Intent (home education program) or by enrolling in a private umbrella school like Florida Unschoolers. - How is unschooling different from homeschooling?
Traditional homeschooling often follows a structured curriculum with lessons, assignments, and assessments. Unschooling trusts children to direct their own learning based on their interests, without formal lessons or grades.
About Florida Unschoolers
- What is Florida Unschoolers?
Florida Unschoolers is a private umbrella school specifically designed for unschooling families. They provide the legal framework for your home education while giving you maximum freedom in how your children learn. - How does enrolling with Florida Unschoolers work?
When you enroll, Florida Unschoolers handles required record-keeping, enrollment documentation, and legal compliance. You report basic attendance and progress, and they take care of the rest. There are no mandatory curriculum requirements, testing, or grades. - What are the benefits of using Florida Unschoolers?
• No state standardized testing required
• No annual portfolio reviews
• No mandatory curriculum or subjects
• Minimal paperwork and oversight
• Support and community for unschooling families
• Legal compliance handled for you
Requirements & Compliance
- Will my child have to do state testing?
No. By enrolling in Florida Unschoolers, your student will not be required to participate in state standardized testing. This is one of the biggest advantages of the umbrella school option. - Do I need to keep a portfolio or do annual evaluations?
No. Florida Unschoolers students are not subject to the portfolio requirements or annual evaluations required under the Notice of Intent option. This makes it ideal for families who want minimal oversight. - What do I need to report to Florida Unschoolers?
Your enrollment counts as attendance until you disenroll—no separate attendance reporting is needed. The requirements are minimal and designed to respect the unschooling philosophy while maintaining legal compliance. - Do I need to file a Notice of Intent with my school district?
No. When you enroll with Florida Unschoolers (a private school), you do not file a Notice of Intent with your district superintendent. Your enrollment with the umbrella school satisfies Florida's compulsory attendance requirements.
Is Unschooling Right for Your Family?
- What type of family thrives with unschooling?
Unschooling works well for families who trust their children's natural curiosity, value freedom and flexibility, and believe learning happens everywhere—not just in formal lessons. It's popular among families with neurodiverse children who don't thrive in traditional structures. - Can I combine unschooling with some structured learning?
Absolutely. Many families blend approaches—following their child's interests while also incorporating some structured activities when the child is interested. There's no one "right" way to unschool. - How do unschooled children learn to read, write, and do math?
Children learn these skills when they're developmentally ready and motivated. Reading often emerges from being read to and wanting to read independently. Math comes through real-life experiences like cooking, shopping, games, and projects. Writing develops through communication they care about. - What about high school and college?
Unschooled teens can pursue GEDs, dual enrollment at community colleges, or build portfolios demonstrating their learning. Many colleges actively recruit self-directed learners. Florida Unschoolers can help with transcripts and documentation when needed.
Getting Started
- How do I enroll with Florida Unschoolers?
Visit floridaunschoolers.net to learn about enrollment and the process. There is no required enrollment fee—Florida Unschoolers accepts donations and has a school pride store, but enrollment itself is free. - Can I switch from traditional homeschooling to unschooling?
Yes. If you're currently registered under a Notice of Intent, you can withdraw and enroll with Florida Unschoolers at any time. They can guide you through the transition. - Where can I connect with other unschooling families?
Florida Unschoolers offers community support for enrolled families. You can also find local unschooling groups, online communities, and meetups throughout Florida.
Not sure which path is right for you?
Check out our Homeschool FAQs for information about the traditional Notice of Intent option, or reach out to Florida Unschoolers directly with questions.
Always verify current requirements with Florida Unschoolers or your local school district.