Homeschooling in Washington DC
Washington D.C.
Explore Homeschooling helps you take an overview look at homeschooling requirements and guidelines in Washington, D.C. As the capital of the United States, Washington, D. C., has its own requirements for homeschooling. Homeschoolers in Washington, D.C., will be under the direction of the D.C. Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). Homeschoolers in this city have a wealth of field trip worthy sites to explore as they study government and our nation’s history.
Snapshot of Requirements
Complexity
With some degree of reporting and accountability required, Washington, D.C., ranks as a moderately challenging city to homeschool in.Teaching
Parents in Washington, D.C., must have a high school diploma or its equivalent to provide instruction. You may petition the OSSE for a waiver of this requirement if you can prove an ability to provide a thorough and regular education. Your homeschool program is required to provide instruction during the period of the year when public schools are in session. Instruction in the following subjects is required: language arts, math, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education.Testing
Washington, D.C., does not require standardized testing or assessments. However, you must be prepared to demonstrate that your child is receiving a thorough and regular education as OSSE may request to review your child's portfolio up to twice a year.
Registration
You must notify the OSSE of your intent to homeschool via the provided official form 15 days before you begin your homeschool program and by August 15 of every new school year. You must also provide written notice to the OSSE of your intent to discontinue homeschooling 15 days prior to completion.Grade Level
Homeschooling is allowed in all grades. Washington, D.C., requires children between the ages of 5 and 17 to be schooled.Reporting
Homeschoolers in Washington, D.C., must maintain a portfolio of instruction materials used along with examples of your student's current work. Homeschool portfolios should be available in your personal records for at least one year before discarding.
Advice For Homeschooling In Washington DC
Stay diligent regarding required record keeping. Remember to file your notice of intent to homeschool annually. Being organized and planning ahead will help you a lot when it comes to providing adequate instruction in state mandated subjects. Strive for excellence in homeschooling by creating a mission statement, setting annual progress goals, being diligent about annual assessment, and using external rubrics for measuring academic success.
QUICK FACTS
Over 10,000 students homeschool in the U.S. capital, Washington, DC!
Washington, DC, has an array of co-ops and tutorials for the homeschoolers!
Washington ,DC, parents have had the right to homeschool since 1991.
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!