How to Start Homeschooling in Pennsylvania

Homeschooling in Pennsylvania offers families a flexible, personalized, and legally protected pathway to education that aligns with their values, learning styles, and life circumstances. Whether you’re seeking to provide a faith-based curriculum, accommodate a child with special needs, escape the pressures of traditional schooling, or simply pursue a more individualized academic journey, Pennsylvania’s homeschooling laws are among the most supportive in the United States. With clear statutory guidelines and a robust network of community resources, parents have the autonomy to design an educational experience tailored to their child’s unique needs—while remaining fully compliant with state regulations.

Understanding how to start homeschooling in Pennsylvania is not just about submitting forms—it’s about embracing a holistic educational philosophy grounded in legal clarity, intentional planning, and continuous growth. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you navigate the process from initial decision to long-term success. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have a clear understanding of the legal requirements, practical tools, best practices, and real-world examples that empower Pennsylvania families to thrive in their homeschooling journey.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand Pennsylvania’s Homeschooling Legal Framework

Pennsylvania’s homeschooling laws are codified under Title 22 of the Pennsylvania Code, Section 11.25. Unlike some states that require standardized testing or approval from school districts, Pennsylvania grants parents broad autonomy—provided they meet specific procedural requirements. The law recognizes homeschooling as a legitimate educational alternative and does not mandate curriculum approval, teacher certification, or standardized testing for grades K–8. However, compliance with documentation and evaluation procedures is mandatory.

Parents must file an annual affidavit, maintain a portfolio of student work, and submit an evaluation report each year. Failure to comply may result in the school district initiating truancy proceedings. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with these legal obligations before beginning your homeschooling journey.

Step 2: File the Required Affidavit

The first formal step in starting homeschooling in Pennsylvania is filing the “Affidavit and Objectives of Home Education Program” with your local school district. This document must be submitted by August 1st of each academic year, or within 15 days of beginning homeschooling if you start mid-year.

The affidavit requires the following information:

• Your full name and address
• The names and ages of all children being homeschooled
• A statement that you possess a high school diploma or its equivalent
• A list of the subject areas you intend to cover during the year (e.g., language arts, mathematics, science, history, art, music, physical education)
• Your signature

You can download the official affidavit template from the Pennsylvania Department of Education website or obtain it from your local school district office. While the template is standardized, you may customize the subject list to reflect your child’s interests or learning goals. For example, if your child is deeply interested in astronomy, you can list “Astronomy and Space Science” as a subject under the broader category of “Science.”

Once completed, send the affidavit via certified mail with return receipt requested, or deliver it in person with a signed and dated copy for your records. Keep a copy of the affidavit and proof of submission for your personal files. This documentation is critical for future evaluations and in case of district inquiries.

Step 3: Maintain a Comprehensive Portfolio

Under Pennsylvania law, you are required to maintain a portfolio of your child’s educational work for each academic year. This portfolio serves as evidence that instruction has occurred and that learning objectives are being met.

The portfolio should include:

• Sample work from each subject area (e.g., essays, math problem sets, science lab reports, art projects)
• Records of reading materials (book logs, annotated bibliographies, reading journals)
• Photographs or descriptions of hands-on projects, field trips, or experiential learning activities
• Lesson plans or outlines showing the structure of your instruction
• Attendance logs (though not legally required, they are highly recommended for consistency and recordkeeping)

Organize the portfolio chronologically and label each item clearly. Use binders, digital folders, or a combination of both. Many families use digital platforms like Google Drive or Notion to store scanned documents, photos, and videos. The portfolio does not need to be perfect—it should reflect authentic learning over time.

Step 4: Obtain an Annual Evaluation

Each year, you must obtain a written evaluation of your child’s progress. Pennsylvania law allows for two types of evaluations:

• Standardized Testing: Use a nationally norm-referenced test such as the Stanford Achievement Test, Iowa Assessments, or the TerraNova. The test must be administered by a qualified individual (not a parent) and must be scored by a certified professional. Results must be included in your portfolio.
• Portfolio Review: A certified teacher or a person with a master’s degree in an academic discipline may review your portfolio and provide a written narrative assessment. This narrative should describe the child’s progress, strengths, areas for growth, and overall educational development.

Many families prefer the portfolio review because it is less stressful, more personalized, and better reflects real-world learning than a standardized test. To find a qualified evaluator, reach out to local homeschooling groups, online forums, or the Pennsylvania Home Educators Association (PHEA). Some evaluators offer sliding-scale fees or volunteer services for low-income families.

The evaluation must be submitted to your school district by June 30th of each year. Like the affidavit, send it via certified mail or deliver it in person with a signed copy for your records.

Step 5: Notify the District of Changes

If you move to a new school district, withdraw your child from public school mid-year, or add a new child to your homeschooling program, you must notify your new district promptly. When relocating, file a new affidavit with your new district within 15 days of establishing residency. If you add a child, update your affidavit and include the new child’s information in your portfolio and evaluations going forward.

It’s also advisable to formally withdraw your child from public school by submitting a written notice to the school office. While not legally required under homeschooling statutes, this step prevents confusion and ensures your child is not marked as truant.

Step 6: Plan Your Curriculum and Learning Environment

Once legal requirements are met, focus on designing a curriculum that suits your child’s learning style, interests, and developmental stage. Pennsylvania does not mandate a specific curriculum, so you have full freedom to choose from a wide array of resources.

Consider these approaches:

• Traditional textbook-based: Use established curricula like Abeka, Saxon Math, or Bob Jones Press.
• Unit studies: Integrate multiple subjects around a theme (e.g., studying the American Revolution through history, literature, art, and geography).
• Unschooling: Follow your child’s natural curiosity with project-based, interest-led learning.
• Online learning: Leverage platforms like Khan Academy, Outschool, or Time4Learning for structured lessons.
• Hybrid models: Combine homeschooling with part-time enrollment in public school classes, community college courses, or co-op programs.

Design a dedicated learning space at home—even a corner of a bedroom or a table in the kitchen can work. Ensure it is quiet, well-lit, and stocked with basic supplies: notebooks, pencils, reference books, a computer, and access to the internet.

Step 7: Connect with the Homeschooling Community

Homeschooling can be isolating without community support. Pennsylvania has a vibrant and active homeschooling network. Join local co-ops, attend homeschool conventions, and participate in weekly meetups. Organizations like PHEA, PA Homeschoolers, and regional Facebook groups provide curriculum advice, field trip opportunities, science labs, and social events.

Many districts also host homeschooling liaison officers who can answer questions and provide resources. Don’t hesitate to reach out—they are there to ensure compliance, not to interfere.

Best Practices

Document Everything

Consistent documentation is your best defense against misunderstandings with school districts. Keep digital and physical backups of every affidavit, evaluation, portfolio item, and communication. Use a simple spreadsheet to track deadlines: affidavit due August 1st, evaluations due June 30th, testing dates scheduled in advance. Set calendar reminders for each milestone.

Balance Structure and Flexibility

While structure provides consistency, flexibility allows for organic learning. Some days may follow a strict schedule; others may be devoted to a spontaneous museum visit or a deep dive into a documentary. Children learn through experience as much as through textbooks. Allow for unplanned discoveries—they often become the most memorable lessons.

Focus on Skills, Not Just Subjects

Reading, writing, critical thinking, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence are more important than memorizing facts. Weave these skills into daily life: have your child write a letter to a local official, calculate the cost of groceries, research a community issue, or lead a family discussion. These are real-world applications of academic concepts.

Involve Your Child in Planning

As children grow, involve them in choosing topics, setting goals, and evaluating their own progress. This builds autonomy and accountability. For older students, encourage them to create a personal learning plan or portfolio presentation. This prepares them for college, apprenticeships, or career paths.

Don’t Compare Your Journey to Others

Every homeschooling family is different. One may follow a strict schedule with daily worksheets; another may learn through nature walks and podcasts. Neither is “better.” Focus on what works for your child’s temperament, pace, and interests. Your goal is not to replicate school at home—it’s to create a unique educational experience.

Prepare for High School

As your child approaches adolescence, begin thinking about transcripts, credits, and post-secondary planning. While Pennsylvania doesn’t require homeschoolers to issue transcripts, colleges and vocational programs often do. Keep detailed records of courses taken, hours completed, grades earned, and projects completed. Use a transcript template from a homeschool organization to format this information professionally.

Consider dual enrollment at a local community college or online college courses. Many Pennsylvania colleges accept homeschooled students with strong portfolios and evaluations. Encourage participation in extracurriculars: debate clubs, theater, robotics, volunteer work—these enhance college applications and personal development.

Stay Informed on Legislative Changes

Homeschooling laws can evolve. Subscribe to newsletters from PHEA or the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) to stay updated on proposed legislation. Pennsylvania has historically been supportive of parental rights in education, but vigilance ensures continued freedom.

Tools and Resources

Curriculum Providers

Here are some widely used and highly rated curriculum options for Pennsylvania homeschoolers:

• Khan Academy: Free, high-quality video lessons in math, science, history, and economics. Ideal for self-paced learners.
• Time4Learning: Online, interactive curriculum covering K–12 with automated grading and progress tracking.
• Abeka: Traditional, Christian-based curriculum with structured lesson plans and workbooks.
• Calvert Education: Comprehensive, accredited program with teacher support and mailed materials.
• Outschool: Live online classes taught by certified instructors on niche topics like coding, creative writing, or ancient civilizations.
• Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool: Free, Bible-based curriculum organized by grade level with links to online resources.

Assessment and Evaluation Tools

For standardized testing, consider:

• Stanford Achievement Test (SAT-10) – widely accepted by Pennsylvania districts
• Iowa Assessments – comprehensive, norm-referenced test
• California Achievement Test (CAT) – affordable and frequently used by homeschoolers

For portfolio reviews, contact local certified teachers through:

• PA Homeschoolers Directory
• Pennsylvania Home Educators Association (PHEA)
• Local public library homeschool coordinators

Online Communities

Connect with other families through:

• Facebook Groups: “Pennsylvania Homeschoolers,” “Homeschooling in PA,” “PA Homeschool Co-ops”
• Meetup.com: Search for homeschooling events in your county
• Reddit: r/homeschool and r/pahomeschool

Field Trip and Experiential Learning Resources

Take learning beyond the home:

• State Parks and Nature Centers: Free or low-cost educational programs on ecology and geology
• Libraries: Host STEM workshops, author visits, and reading challenges
• Museums: Many offer homeschool days with discounted admission and guided tours (e.g., Philadelphia Museum of Art, Carnegie Science Center)
• Local Farms and Orchards: Seasonal programs on agriculture and sustainability
• Community Colleges: Some offer free or low-cost classes for high school students

Financial and Tax Resources

Pennsylvania does not offer tax credits or deductions for homeschooling expenses. However, some families use 529 college savings plans to cover educational materials, though this is not legally required. Keep receipts for curriculum, supplies, and field trips—some families use these for insurance claims or future documentation.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Nature-Based Learner in Lancaster County

Anna and Mark, parents of two children in Lancaster County, chose a nature-based approach after their daughter struggled with traditional classroom settings. They filed their affidavit listing subjects as: “Environmental Science, Botany, Animal Behavior, Geography, Creative Writing, Mathematics (through measurement and data collection), and Art (nature journaling).”

Instead of textbooks, they used field guides, local park ranger programs, and weekly hikes. Their portfolio included sketches of plants, weather logs, insect collections, and handwritten nature journals. Their annual evaluation was conducted by a certified biology teacher who praised the child’s observational skills and scientific curiosity. Their son, now 10, joined a local 4-H club and raised chickens, integrating biology, responsibility, and economics into his learning.

Example 2: The Tech-Savvy Teen in Pittsburgh

At age 14, Elijah left public school after feeling unchallenged. His parents, both software engineers, helped him design a personalized high school curriculum centered on computer science. He took online courses through Coursera and MIT OpenCourseWare, built apps, and participated in hackathons. His portfolio included GitHub repositories, project documentation, and letters of recommendation from mentors.

He completed his evaluation through a portfolio review by a university computer science professor. At 16, he was accepted into a dual enrollment program at Carnegie Mellon University, taking college-level courses while still homeschooling. He graduated at 17 with a full scholarship to a top engineering program.

Example 3: The Multicultural Family in Philadelphia

The Rodriguez family, originally from Colombia, homeschooled their three children to preserve their native language and cultural heritage. They used bilingual materials in Spanish and English, studied Latin American history and literature, and incorporated traditional music and dance into their curriculum. Their portfolio included recipes they cooked together, interviews with elders, and poetry written in both languages.

Their evaluations highlighted multilingual proficiency and cultural literacy—qualities that impressed their evaluator and later college admissions officers. All three children now attend university, fluent in both Spanish and English, with a strong sense of identity and global awareness.

FAQs

Do I need a teaching degree to homeschool in Pennsylvania?

No. Pennsylvania law only requires that the parent or guardian filing the affidavit has a high school diploma or equivalent. You do not need formal teaching credentials.

Can I homeschool if my child has an IEP?

Yes. You can withdraw your child from public school and homeschool while still accessing some services through your district. Contact your district’s special education department to inquire about available supports, such as speech therapy or occupational therapy, which may be provided on a case-by-case basis.

What if I move to a different school district?

You must file a new affidavit with your new district within 15 days of establishing residency. Your previous evaluations and portfolios remain valid and should be transferred with you.

Can my child take standardized tests like the SAT or ACT as a homeschooler?

Yes. Homeschoolers register for the SAT, ACT, AP exams, and other standardized tests just like public school students. Use your home address as the “school” when registering. Many testing centers accommodate homeschoolers without issue.

Do I have to follow the state’s academic standards?

No. Pennsylvania does not require homeschoolers to follow the state’s academic standards. However, you must cover the same subject areas listed in the law (language arts, math, science, history, art, music, physical education). How you teach them is up to you.

Can my child graduate from homeschooling?

Yes. Pennsylvania does not issue homeschool diplomas, but you can create your own. Many families use a transcript format to document courses, credits, and grades. Colleges accept homeschool diplomas if accompanied by a detailed portfolio and evaluation.

Is there a limit to how many children I can homeschool?

No. You can homeschool as many children as you have, as long as you file an affidavit listing each child and maintain individual portfolios and evaluations for each.

What if my district questions my homeschooling?

Remain calm and professional. Provide copies of your affidavit, portfolio, and evaluation. If they persist, refer them to Title 22, Section 11.25 of the Pennsylvania Code. You have the right to homeschool without interference as long as you comply with the law.

Can I homeschool during the summer?

Yes. Pennsylvania’s school year is defined as 180 days of instruction, but there is no requirement to follow the traditional calendar. You can teach year-round, take breaks as needed, or focus intensively during certain seasons.

Are there any required hours of instruction per day?

No. Pennsylvania law does not specify daily or weekly instructional hours. The focus is on covering the required subjects and demonstrating progress through your portfolio and evaluation.

Conclusion

Homeschooling in Pennsylvania is not merely an educational alternative—it is a powerful expression of parental responsibility, individualized learning, and educational freedom. The process begins with understanding and fulfilling legal obligations, but it flourishes through thoughtful planning, community connection, and a deep commitment to your child’s growth.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—filing your affidavit, maintaining a rich portfolio, securing annual evaluations, and leveraging available resources—you lay the foundation for a successful, sustainable homeschooling journey. The examples shared here demonstrate that homeschooling in Pennsylvania can lead to remarkable outcomes: scientific innovation, cultural enrichment, academic excellence, and personal fulfillment.

Remember, there is no single “right” way to homeschool. Your path will be unique. Trust your instincts, document your progress, stay informed, and connect with others who share your vision. The most important tool you have is not a curriculum or a textbook—it’s your dedication to your child’s education and well-being.

As you begin this journey, know that you are part of a growing, vibrant community of Pennsylvania families who have chosen to take control of their children’s learning. You are not alone. You are empowered. And you are making a difference—one lesson, one project, one discovery at a time.