Homeschooling in South Carolina.

How to start

Apply to your district's board of trustees and get approval before you begin. You'll be told about the board meeting and may be heard. You can appeal a denial to the State Board of Education within 10 days, then to family court within 30 days.

Parent qualification

A high school diploma or GED, or a bachelor's degree. The statute also mentions a basic skills exam for parents with a diploma or GED; ask your district whether it applies.

Hours and library

At least 4.5 hours of instruction a day, not counting lunch or recess. Your child must have access to library facilities.

Testing

Your child takes the yearly statewide tests for their grade, given by a certified district employee at school or, if you choose, at your home, where you pay the tester. Children eligible for first grade also take a readiness test.

Records and reports

Keep a plan book or diary, a portfolio of work samples, and a record of progress evaluations for the district to see on reasonable notice. Twice a year, send the district a progress report with attendance and progress in each core subject.

Other duties

Sign a written agreement holding the district harmless for educational deficiencies. If the district finds a problem, you have 30 days to fix it before the board may withdraw approval.

What this option is

Membership in the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS). Bona fide membership and following its academic standards take the place of district approval. SCDE reviews those standards each year.

Parent qualification

At least a high school diploma or GED.

Who reports

You don't file anything with the district. By January 30 each year, SCAIHS reports the number and grade levels of its member children to each child's school district.

Testing and records

The statute sets no testing or records rules for this option beyond SCAIHS's own standards, so follow what SCAIHS requires.

What this option is

Membership in a home school association with at least 50 members. Bona fide membership and following its academic standards take the place of district approval. SCDE posts a yearly list of associations but doesn't endorse any.

Parent qualification

At least a high school diploma or GED.

Records

Keep a plan book, diary or similar record of subjects and activities; a portfolio of work samples; and a progress report twice a year with attendance and progress in each core subject.

Who reports

You don't file anything with the district. By January 30 each year, the association reports the number and grade levels of its member children to their school districts.

Diplomas

SCDE notes that students in these associations don't receive a South Carolina high school diploma issued by the State Board of Education.