Homeschooling in District of Columbia.

The rules

District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR), Title 5, Subtitle E, Chapter 52 (5-E DCMR Chapter 52). Compulsory attendance: D.C. Code § 38-202.

Compulsory school age

From age 5 (if your child turns 5 on or before September 30) until age 18. (D.C. Code § 38-202)

Who you notify

The Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE), the District’s state education agency, through its online homeschool portal.

Starting

Submit a Notification of Intent to Homeschool at least 15 business days before your first day of home instruction. If your child is in a public or public charter school, give the school OSSE’s verification letter to complete withdrawal.

Each year

Submit a Notification of Homeschool Continuation by August 15 for each year you continue.

Stopping

Submit a Notification to Discontinue Homeschooling at least 15 business days before you stop.

Required subjects

Language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health and physical education, through thorough and regular instruction of sufficient duration. No specific curriculum is required.

Days and hours

None set. The rules call for instruction “of sufficient duration” but name no number of days or hours.

Assessment

No test is required. OSSE may ask to review your portfolio, in writing at least 30 days ahead, online or in person. If it finds gaps, it gives you a corrective action plan.

Records

Keep a portfolio for each child with evidence of current work in a range of subjects, such as writing, completed math work and assessments. Keep it at least one year and have it ready if OSSE asks to see it.

Parent qualification

The teaching parent or guardian needs a high school diploma or its equivalent. Without one, you can petition OSSE for a waiver by showing you can provide a thorough and regular education.

Diplomas and transcripts

OSSE doesn’t issue report cards or transcripts for homeschooled students. A diploma is available through General Educational Development (GED) testing or the National External Diploma Program (NEDP).

Special education

Special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) are for students enrolled in a DC public school, so homeschooled students aren’t entitled to them.