I hate to admit, but I am not always as informed on things like this as I ought to be so I just read about these changes today. Idaho was already an extremely homeschool friendly state, but on July 1st new regulations went into place making the laws clearer. I just thought I would share. The old law read: By law, parents/guardians are required to provide "comparable instruction" in "subjects commonly and usually taught in public schools" "during a period in each year equal to that in which the public schools are in session." Here is the new requirements, as described byHSLDA: A child shall be instructed by, or at the direction of, the parent or guardian, in subjects commonly and usually taught in Idaho public schools. (§ 33-207, Idaho Code, effective 7-1-09.) 1. The statute, § 33-207, specifically recognizes the right of parents to teach their own children. a) Homeschools do not have to initiate contact with the school district or have their curriculum approved. b) If a parent so chooses, she may have another family, relative, or individual homeschool her children because the law allows children to be instructed “at the direction of” the parent. c) The legislature specifically amended this statute in the 2009 session removing the vague requirement that children be “comparably” instructed thereby demonstrating its intent that hour and day requirements do not apply to homeschoolers.
As an Idaho homeschooler we cheered when this was passed. Alot of us made phone calls and sent emails to inform our legislators that we wanted these clarifications! Thanks for sharing- I didn't think to! MT3
THAT IS AMAZING!!!! I would love it if Ohio would do the same...although things aren't bad here. Well, at least we all know where to move! LOL.
Like I said I haven't been following the process of this change, but was happy to read about it today as I am getting ready for next year.
WOOHOO this sounds great. We are looking at moving to Idaho in the next year or two ( depends on when dh gets the house finished)
Boy!!! do I wish it was that easy here in NH. We have to have annual testing and students have to maintain a certain percentile, send in letters indicating we are homeschooling and alot of info is required in that letter, plus maintain portfolios. Now they want the law to read we have to test plus have the portfolio evualted and the superintendent of the school will decide if you can remain homeschooling, I wish I lived in a homeschool friendly state.
That's GREAT! Indiana is very hs friendly as well. The only req. is to keep attendance for 180 day school year.
