Homeschooling in California

Homeschooling in California is legal and relatively easy to get started with. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Familiarize yourself with California’s homeschooling laws: California requires that all children aged 6-18 receive a formal education, but there are several legal options for meeting this requirement, including attending public or private schools, enrolling in a homeschooling program or getting a tutor. To homeschool in California, you can either enroll in a Charter Homeschool Program, join an in district independent studies program, join a Private School Satellite Program (like Pacific Sands Academy), or  you file a private school affidavit (PSA) with the California Department of Education (CDE) each year by October 1st, or within 30 days of beginning homeschooling. Here is a blog post with more specifics.
  2. Curriculum: You have the flexibility to choose the curriculum that best suits your child’s learning style and interests. You can use pre-packaged curricula or create your own from a variety of resources such as textbooks, online classes, educational games, and local educational programs. You can even follow no curriculum.
  3. Join a homeschooling group: This can be formal or informal. Park days are wonderful for homeschooling families to connect! Search out local homeschooling groups on your social media platforms.  Joining a group can help you connect with other homeschooling families, participate in group activities, and share ideas and experiences.

Homeschooling can be a wonderfully rewarding experience for both you and your child, and time, consciousness and community most certainly help!

Pacific Sands Academy provides a personalized, alternative homeschool program for kids, teens, and families. Check out our Independent Studies High School Program, Middle School Program, and Elementary School Program

Sign up to learn about homeschooling resources and news

* indicates required