How Does Homeschooling Work in South Carolina?

Homeschooling allows parents to take full responsibility for their child’s education, providing flexibility and customization that traditional schooling often lacks. Many families choose homeschooling to ensure their children receive a high-quality education that aligns with their values. But how does homeschooling work, and what steps should parents take to get started?

Guidelines for Homeschooling in South Carolina

South Carolina law offers three options for homeschooling, each with different requirements:

1. Homeschooling Under the School District – Parents must apply through their local school district and follow state-approved curriculum guidelines. The district monitors progress through lesson plans and testing.
2. Homeschooling Under SCAIHS – The South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS) provides support, record-keeping, and accountability without school district oversight. Parents have the freedom to choose their curriculum while receiving guidance from SCAIHS.
3. Homeschooling Under a Third-Option Accountability Group – Parents enroll in a private homeschool association that establishes its own policies for oversight and reporting.

Each option has specific guidelines for homeschooling, but all require instruction in five core subjects: reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.

How Does Homeschooling Work Day-to-Day?

Homeschooling looks different for every family, but most parents follow these basic steps:

• Set a Schedule – Homeschooling allows for flexibility, but structure is key. Some families follow a traditional school-day model, while others opt for a more relaxed approach.
• Choose a Curriculum – Parents select materials that best suit their child’s learning style and educational goals. Many Christian families prefer faith-based curricula that integrate biblical principles.
• Teach and Assess Progress – Homeschooling parents act as teachers, guiding their children through lessons and hands-on activities. Many families use workbooks, online programs, or co-op groups for additional support.
• Adjust as Needed – One of the biggest benefits of homeschooling is the ability to adapt to the learning process. If a subject is too challenging or a curriculum isn’t working, parents can make changes to better suit their child’s needs.

Homeschooling Record-Keeping in SC: What Parents Need to Know

South Carolina requires parents to maintain specific records, depending on their homeschooling option. Homeschooling record keeping in SC typically includes:

• Attendance records – Parents must document at least 180 instructional days per year.
• Lesson plans or portfolios – Keeping track of daily lessons, assignments, and progress is essential.
• Work samples – Many parents compile a portfolio of student work to show academic growth.
• Assessment records – While standardized testing isn’t required for all homeschoolers, some associations recommend or require evaluations to track student achievement.

SCAIHS provides record-keeping assistance to make this process easier for parents. Learn more at SCAIHS.

Choosing the Right Homeschool Curriculum

Selecting a curriculum is one of the most important decisions homeschooling parents make. Options range from traditional textbook-based learning to online programs and faith-based studies. Parents should choose a curriculum that aligns with their child’s learning style and their family’s educational goals.

How SCAIHS Supports Homeschooling Families

For families seeking guidance, SCAIHS offers:

• Educational counseling to help parents create effective learning plans.
• Support with homeschooling record keeping in SC to ensure compliance with state laws.
• Curriculum recommendations based on each child’s needs.
• A supportive community of homeschooling families for encouragement and networking.

Learn how SCAIHS can support your homeschooling journey at schomeschooling.com.

Final Thoughts

Homeschooling offers families the flexibility to provide a high-quality, faith-based education tailored to their child’s needs. By following South Carolina’s guidelines for homeschooling and maintaining proper homeschooling record keeping SC, parents can confidently navigate their homeschooling journey.

For expert support, visit schomeschooling.com and discover how SCAIHS can help you succeed.