Texas Homeschool Requirements

Both the state of Texas and the National Christian Homeschool Championships organization in which we participate, have minimum requirements. We expect all of our athletes to adhere to these requirements while they are participating in our homeschool sports programs. Homeschooling is not an absence of education, but simply a different educational path. You will be expected to sign a form that states you intend to homeschool according to the Laws of the State of Texas and the rules of the National Christian Homeschool Conference. There may be experienced Academic Advisors available, as well as other homeschooling families, that may aid you as you seek to begin your new homeschool journey.  

"Texas State Law Requirements Regarding Home Schooling

To home school legally in Texas, you must follow three state law requirements:

1. The instruction must be bona fide (i.e., not a sham).
2. The curriculum must be in visual form (e.g., books, workbooks, video monitor).
3. The curriculum must include the five basic subjects of reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and good citizenship."

From the Texas Homeschool Coalition

Homeschooling a High Schooler? 

Home High School Help has loads of articles and resources to help you navigate High School. 

What should a High Schooler take?

Here are some ideas from Lee Binz's ' Planning High School Courses'. Remember to research the requirements of the Institute of Higher Learning that your child wants to attend for their specific requirements. This is only a guideline to give you a jumpstart. 

Q&A 

1. If I homeschool, do I have to be an expert in every subject?

No.  Many homeschooling families choose to participate in co-ops or find classes for their children, especially in high school.  Homeschooling families in the Greater Austin area are very blessed to have many options for educational classes. Ignite Academy, One Day Academy, Connections Academy, Raising Arrows and ACC (Dual Credit) are a few examples of how parents get assistance in educating their child. The key difference is that parents make the choice for their child and that is why we like to say Parent-Directed Education versus homeschool.
 
2. If I homeschool, what opportunities will my children have for socialization?

Due to the freedom and flexibility of homeschooling, children often get as much or more opportunities for socialization than their institutionalized peers.  First, socialization can be achieved through a homeschool co-op or other group classes as mentioned above. Second, many homeschool families are involved with a church group where their children have opportunities to meet friends and engage in activities with students their age. Last, sports, music, and other extra-curricular activities provide a great opportunity to socialize and meet other students. The difference is that homeschool parents usually have a better grasp on who is influencing their child.
 
3. If I homeschool, what opportunities are available for my child to play sports?

Texas Lions Athletics is an organization in this community that provides athletic opportunities for homeschool students. In the Greater Austin area, students can play volleyball, football, basketball, baseball, and other sports. Each year this list grows as homeschool students become interested in the sport of their choice. We not only compete with other homeschool teams, but also private and public schools.  Homeschooling allows students to be more efficient with their time which leads to more time for sports and extra-curricular activities.

4. What do I need to consider if I want to homeschool my high school student?

- Your responsibility
- Your availability and family dynamic
- The financial cost
- Your student's attitude
- Your student's future goals
- The possibility of your student returning to public or private school if homeschooling doesn't work out for your family
- For those who want to play in college: NCAA Student Athletes