Homeschooling Regulations by State: Ohio

by Christina Yeager

Alexander Graham Bell said, “Preparation is the key to success” and being prepared is the greatest tool available if you’re considering homeschooling. Would you know where and how to begin a home-based education for your child in Ohio? We’ve put together an informational guide to help you learn laws and regulations on homeschooling in the State of Ohio.

---

Each state is the U.S. has a very specific set of regulations for homeschooling. If you are thinking about teaching your child at home, you'll need to know the ins and outs of what needs to be done beforehand and during. In this series, Homeschooling Regulations by State, we'll explore information to help with the decision, what to do to get started and what to do correctly to continue.
​
The regulations, laws and suggestions in this post may not reflect the needs for your particular situation. Not all apply to each individual family. To learn more about the laws and regulations in this state on homeschooling, click the link at the end of the post! This will direct you to the states’ Board of Education or government education site.

---

Compulsory School Age	Ohio state law dictates children that turn six before the first day of school in the local district they live must start school and attend until they’re eighteen. However, all school districts are subject to change the guidelines as they wish.
Homeschooling Choices	arents that intend to homeschool must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Parents that don’t have the required qualifications may still homeschool, but under the supervision of a certified instructor with an appropriate degree. Homeschool Statute Under the state’s Homeschool Statute, children are excused from the compulsory attendance law. Non-Chartered, Non-Taxed-Supported A school that is not chartered by the Board of Education due to beliefs is considered non-chartered and non-taxed. Minimum requirements must be met.
Necessary Paperwork	In order to comply with regulation, parents must submit an annual notification to the district superintendent and must provide the following information: Current school year Name and address of the parent Full name and birth date of the child Name and address of the homeschool instructor, if other than the parent An outline of the intended curriculum List of textbooks or teaching materials A statement of assurance that required hours and qualifications are met
Formally Withdrawing From Public School	Each school district has its own system to follow when withdrawing a student from public school. Please, check with your local school district for instructions.
Instruction	The superintendent must be assured that a minimum of 900 hours per school year will be taught to homeschooling students.
Curriculum	Students must be taught state required subjects: Language Reading Spelling Writing Geography History of the United States and Ohio Government Math Science Health Physical Education Fine Arts (including music) First Aid Safety Fire Prevention
Assessment	Homeschooled students are subject to an annual assessment of academic progression. Parents can choose from three options to comply: National standardized testing A written narrative of the portfolio of coursework samples of the student’s work reviewed by someone qualified approved Another form of assessment agreed upon by parents and superintendent
Record Keeping	Although it’s not mandatory, keeping records or attendance, quizzes, tests, artwork, essays and any other form of classwork that shows progression is recommended.

Visit the Ohio Department of Education website for more information on homeschooling.

Are you a homeschooler (new or veteran) seeking to share insight? Read our guidelines and thenreach out introducing yourself to obtain blogging credentials! And if you're a homeschool parent, be sure to follow the Homeschooling Heroes page on Facebook for tons of resources and insight, and join the Unschool Homeschool group to expand your horizons as to what homeschooling is/can be. And finally, if you're looking for activities to join, we have a group with New Orleans-based activities, which will be expanding to an area near you - so join our group! And be excited about that, because we offer tons of exceptional educational and extracurricular activities for homeschoolers and parents, and can't wait to include you.

---