Homeschooling in Arkansas
Homeschooling is when parents take responsibility for their child's education, including choosing courses, teaching, grading, and submitting an Intent to Homeschool form to the Department of Education as required by law in Arkansas.
Today there are more than 32,000 homeschooled students in Arkansas! You can do this!
Where to Begin - Information & Links
Educate yourself on homeschooling in the State of Arkansas.
Research and ask questions - Consult with other homeschooling parents or groups.. You can research curriculum by going to Mardels or Homeschool Central so you can view it in person. Ask friends if you can view their curriculum.
Once you feel comfortable and have decided to homeschool, the very first thing you need to do legally is to complete a Notice of Intent to Home School (NOI) for each year that you homeschool - this can be done via paper or electronically. Some public schools may ask homeschoolers to complete additional forms developed by the local school district. State law does not require the completion of these forms. Some public school superintendents have asked to interview homeschoolers when they submit their forms. State law does not require this. In the past, first-time homeschoolers were required to submit the notice of intent to the superintendent’s office in person. State law no longer requires this. (click on the NOI link below for detailed information regarding deadlines for filing the Notice of Intent)
Join a support group like Home Ed that will help to connect you to other homeschooling families.
Become familiar with Arkansas Homeschool Rules & Laws
No standardized tests are required
There are no educational requirements for parents/guardians who provide a home school for their child(ren).
Consult the Division of Elementary & Secondary Education Fact sheet on Homeschooling in Arkansas
Education Alliance - Arkansas Homeschool support group (state level)
Tim Tebow Law for extracurricular activities - Act 1469 of 2013 allows homeschoolers to try out for extracurricular activities at their local public school.
Requirements for obtaining a Driver’s License
Obtain a Home Educator Card and receive discounts at local stores (not required)
Tips to Get Started
If you're starting to homeschool, these optional tips might be useful.
Know Yourself - Evaluate your teaching and discipline styles, strengths, and weaknesses realistically. Don't hesitate to ask for advice.
Know Your Child - Each child has a unique learning style. Observe them to understand what motivates them, their best and worst times of day, and how they learn best. Children change, so flexibility is important. The biggest benefit of homeschooling is being able to customize the curriculum for each child.
Know Homeschooling -.Gain an understanding of teaching methods, learning styles, homeschool terminology, and curriculum. Utilize available resources and support from homeschooling friends and groups.
Know Homeschooling in Arkansas - Familiarize yourself with current Arkansas homeschool laws and complete a Notice of Intent (NOI) to Home School form (releasing the state from liability for your children's education). Parents have the option of filing an electronic or paper NOI. Go to: https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/learning-services/home-school/notice-of-intent. Consider becoming a Home Ed member for support, and helpful information on Community, Resources, and Curriculum.