Homeschooling in Illinois
Homeschool requirements vary from state to state. Illinois has a liberal homeschooling standard with little accountability. These minimal regulations on homeschooling offer a lot of flexibility for guardians to do what they choose. Under 105 ILCS 5/26-1, any person with custody or control of any child can legally pull their children out of school and homeschool them.
The Illinois School Code, 105 ILCS 5/26-1 et seq., governs Illinois schools, including homeschooling requirements and regulations. The Illinois School Code is extremely lenient and gives the guardians of minor children so much freedom of choice regarding homeschooling.
In Illinois, children between the ages of six through seventeen must attend public school unless they fit an exception, such as private schooling. "Any child attending a private or parochial school where children are taught the branches of education taught to children of corresponding age and grade in the public schools, and where the instruction of the child in the branches of education is in the English language." 105 ILCS 5/26-1 (1).
Illinois courts hold that private schooling in the home could constitute a "private school" so long as the required subjects are being taught and the student received an education at least equivalent to public schooling. People v. Levisen, 404 Ill. 574, 90 N.E.2d 213 (1950).
Parents must ensure their minor children receive an education equivalent to public schooling if they homeschool. However, there are no specific requirements for parents to qualify as an adequate educator or the need to notify the state or school district to begin homeschooling. There are also no requirements on the number, length, or days of homeschooling. Homeschool classes can occur at any time and any day of the week. Additionally, no forms, licenses, or approvals are required for homeschooling.
In Illinois, the only specific requirement is that certain subject areas are required to be taught in homeschool. Following 105 ILCS 5/26-1 and 27-1, if you homeschool your child, you must provide instruction in English and subject areas of language arts, mathematics, biological and physical science, social science, fine arts, and physical development and health. However, Illinois does not have any specific class requirements for homeschooled students. Therefore, of the above subject area requirements, no specific courses are required to be taught. Illinois allows parents to design their homeschool program and gives much flexibility.
It is important to note that educators advise parents who homeschool their child to follow public school high school graduation requirements if their child plans on attending college. Educators recommend that your child take required courses that align with college enrollment requirements to make the transition to college smoother. Additionally, there are no testing requirements for students in home school, and parents can choose to administer tests to their children if they decide to. However, it is important to note that most Universities and colleges require an SAT score or ACT for enrollment. Universities and colleges may also use SAT or ACT scores to make admission decisions and award scholarships.
Parents can decide to homeschool their kids for a variety of reasons. However, it is important to make sure homeschooling is the right choice for your family. Getting different perspectives and opinions, looking at your state's requirements, and researching curriculum ideas can be an excellent first place to start when determining whether to homeschool your child. The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson, LLC, has plenty of referrals and resources to find an educational specialist that best fits your situation's needs. Contact The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LCC to schedule a consultation at 312-767-4220.
NOTICE: This blog is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as providing legal advice. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have regarding this blog post.