Homeschooling in Washington
Washington
Explore Homeschooling helps you take an overview look at homeschooling requirements and guidelines in Washington. There are currently two options for homeschooling within the state of Washington. Here we will outline the requirements for parents providing instruction under the state’s homeschool statute. The remaining homeschool option has differing requirements and will require further research to ensure compliance. Washington is the only U.S. state named for a President, one of many facts that make this a great state for homeschoolers who love history!
Snapshot of Requirements
Complexity
Washington offers two ways in which you can legally homeschool. Homeschooling under the Washington homeschool statute will require detailed research to be sure you are in compliance. Washington ranks as a moderately challenging state to homeschool in.Teaching
While Washington parents are not required to hold a teaching certification in order to educate, they are subject to a high level of oversight and/or must meet several requirements in order to homeschool. One example of a requirement option is graduation from a course in home-based education from a postsecondary institution or a vocational-technical institute. Instruction must be provided for 180 days per year or for an average of 1,000 hours. Homeschool curriculum must include occupational education, science, math, language, social studies, history, health, reading, writing, spelling, and the development of an appreciation of art and music.
Testing
An annual assessment of your student must be completed and results kept in your personal records. A standardized test or evaluation by a certified person fulfills this requirement.Registration
Washington requires that annual notice of intent to homeschool be filed with your local superintendent.Grade Level
Homeschooling is allowed in all grades. Washington requires children between the ages of 8 and 17 to be schooled.Reporting
Washington has no requirement for homeschool record keeping beyond keeping a copy of annual assessments.
Advice For Homeschooling In Washington
Legally speaking, Washington has a fair amount of accountability built into their homeschool requirements. This is useful in making sure your student’s education is on track. It is advised that you utilize a planner to track the days and hours of instruction provided. Being organized will help you a lot when it comes to curriculum requirements. With some preparation and due diligence, meeting these requirements is a less daunting task!
QUICK FACTS
Over 75,000 students homeschool in the Evergreen State of Washington!
Washington state has hundreds of charter schools and independent programs!
Washington parents have had the right to homeschool since 1985.
Explore Homeschooling Community Kindness Ideas
Looking for field trip ideas? Follow the link below to explore how to use field trips as a platform for acts of kindness in your community.
FOCUS THIS MONTH
History Museums
Do you ever wonder if your field trips are effective? With this download, you'll learn how to plan a history field trip, what to take along with you, and how to follow up on the trip with activities to reinforce learning. We've also included activity worksheets to use while on the field trip to help you make the most of your hands-on history exploration!
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Nature Study
How do you handle nature studies when nature isn't your thing? You find help! This download defines and describes nature studies, provides a list of materials you need, offers practical ideas for implementing a nature study, and includes a book list for reinforcement. We've even included worksheets to guide you each step of the way.
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Aquariums & Zoos
Zoos and aquariums are always fun to visit. But, with a little extra time and energy investment, you can turn your visit into an academically enriching activity! In this download, you'll find tips for planning your trip well, activities to complete during your visit, follow-up activities discussion guides, and a list of books to reinforce what your students have learned.
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Libraries
Did you know that you can turn something as simple as a trip to the library into a delightful field trip? In this download, you'll learn how to lay the groundwork for a fun trip, discover all of the exciting ways to enjoy a library visit, and find age-appropriate follow-up activities.
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Historical Sites
Historical sites bring history to life in amazing ways. With so many options available, it might feel overwhelming to try to plan a trip. This month's download is here to help! Find tips for planning, carrying out, and following up on a historical site visit—then get ready to enjoy!
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Outdoor Family Fun
A summer break from formal curriculum is a healthy and good thing. But, you can still keep your child learning, even during the break! In this e-book, you'll find tips for ways to combine summer learning and summer fun.
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Art Museums
Do you ever wonder if the things you and your students experience on a field trip really stick? Sometimes the simple act of asking targeted questions, turning the field trip into a game, or encouraging your students to take notes can make all the difference. In this Art Museum Activity E-Book, you'll find tips, activity suggestions, and printables to help you make the most of your next art museum field trip. Download your e-book today, and start planning your trip with confidence!
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Community Kindness
Have you heard of the Random Acts of Kindness movement (RAK)? That's what this month's field trip focus is all about!
In this Community Kindness Activity Guide, you'll find suggestions for showing kindness to people in your community. You'll also discover volunteer options for every stage of learning. Download your e-book today, and start planning your RAK fun!
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My Town
How much do you know about your town? Notebooking can be a great way to process through learning about your city or town! In this My Town Activity E-Book, you'll find suggestions for completing notebooking activities to help you learn about both the geography and history of your community, town, or city. When you complete all of the research, you can add a cover and use a binder or folder to create a lasting version of your exploration!
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Indoor Field Trips & Factories
Do you ever wonder if the things you and your students experience on a field trip really stick? Sometimes the simple act of asking targeted questions, turning the field trip into a game, or encouraging your students to take notes can make all the difference. In this Factory Activity E-Book, you'll find tips, activity suggestions, and printables to help you make the most of your next indoor field trip, with a special focus on factories of all kinds. Download your e-book today, and start planning your trip with confidence!
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Holiday Crafts & Recipes
No matter what the holiday, there are always fun ways to celebrate through crafts and cooking! In this Holiday Crafts & Recipes Activity E-Book, you'll find a wealth of craft options for all ages, as well as recipes you can whip up together. Use the results of your creativity to decorate your home, brighten the day of a friend, or even show appreciation to the people who serve your town or community!
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Science Museum
Do you ever wonder if the things you and your students experience on a field trip really stick? Sometimes the simple act of asking targeted questions, turning the field trip into a game, or encouraging your students to take notes can make all the difference. In this Science Museum Activity E-Book, you'll find tips, activity suggestions, and printables to help you make the most of your next science museum field trip. Download your e-book today, and start planning your trip with confidence!