How to Start Homeschooling Mid-Year in South Carolina

Homeschooling is an increasingly popular choice for families in South Carolina, offering the opportunity to customize a child’s education based on their unique needs and interests. While the decision to homeschool can feel overwhelming at first, understanding the legal requirements and available resources can make the process manageable and fulfilling. This guide is designed to help parents navigate South Carolina’s homeschooling laws, choose the right legal option, and discover how to start homeschooling mid-year in South Carolina.

Understanding Homeschooling Laws in South Carolina

In South Carolina, homeschooling is a legal and well-established method of educating children, governed by specific state laws. The law provides parents with three options for complying with homeschooling requirements, each offering a different level of oversight and flexibility.

Three Legal Options for Homeschooling

1. Homeschooling Under the School District

This option involves the most oversight. Parents are required to:

• Teach for 180 days per school year for 4.5 hours each day.
• Cover the subjects of reading, writing, math, science, and social studies (and for grades 7–12, composition and literature).
• Maintain records of their child’s academic progress, including a plan book or diary, a portfolio of academic work, and a semiannual progress report.

School districts may request access to records or student assessments to ensure compliance with the law. While thorough, this option can feel restrictive for families who prefer a more flexible approach to education.

2. Homeschooling with SCAIHS

The South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS) is a statewide association offering support and guidance to homeschooling families. Parents who choose this option must register with SCAIHS, which handles many administrative tasks, including curriculum counseling and record-keeping assistance.

SCAIHS provides personalized guidance, making it an excellent choice for families new to homeschooling or those seeking extra support throughout the educational process.

3. Homeschooling Under a Third Option Group

Third Option Groups provide an alternative for families looking for flexibility in their homeschooling journey. Each group sets its own requirements for membership and accountability.

Parents typically need to:

• Provide 180 days of instruction in the required subjects.
• Cover the subjects of reading, writing, math, science, and social studies (and for grades 7–12, composition and literature).
• Maintain records of their child’s academic progress, including a plan book or diary, a portfolio of academic work, and a semiannual progress report.

How to Get Started with Homeschooling

Embarking on the homeschooling journey can feel daunting, but breaking the process into manageable steps makes it easier.

Step 1: Research Your Options

Before starting, take time to explore the three legal options for homeschooling in South Carolina. Consider your family’s unique needs, your child’s learning style, and your preferred level of oversight.

If you’re uncertain about which option is best for you, reach out to SCAIHS or a local Third Option Group for guidance. Many of these organizations have counselors who can help you make an informed decision.

Step 2: Register with One of the Three Options

Once you’ve decided on your preferred homeschooling option and curriculum, the next step is to register with the appropriate accountability group.

• School District Option: Contact your local school district for registration details.
• SCAIHS: Apply directly through the SCAIHS website.
• Third Option Group: Reach out to the group of your choice for membership requirements.

Step 3: Choose a Curriculum

Selecting the right curriculum is a crucial step in creating a successful homeschooling experience. Parents have the freedom to choose materials that align with their child’s learning style, interests, and academic goals.

Options include:

• Traditional Textbooks: Ideal for families who prefer a structured, school-like approach.
• Online Programs: Perfect for tech-savvy students or parents who want a digital-first experience.
• Unit Studies: These integrate multiple subjects into themed lessons, making learning engaging and cohesive.
• Unschooling: A more relaxed approach that allows the child’s natural curiosity to guide the learning process.

SCAIHS offers curriculum counseling for families who choose to homeschool through their program, simplifying the selection process.

Step 4: Plan Your Homeschool Year

A well-structured plan can make homeschooling more enjoyable and productive. Start by creating a year-long schedule that includes breaks and vacations. Next, break the year into smaller units, such as quarters or semesters, to make planning more manageable.

Use tools like:

• Daily Planners: To organize lessons and activities.
• Online Calendars: For tracking deadlines and special events.
• Homeschool Apps: To manage attendance and academic progress.

Step 5: Connect with Other Homeschoolers

Building a support network is essential for both parents and students. South Carolina is home to a thriving homeschooling community with plenty of opportunities for connection and collaboration.

Look for:

• Local Homeschool Groups: Many cities have active groups that organize field trips, playdates, and educational workshops.
• Online Communities: Facebook groups and forums provide a platform for sharing tips, asking questions, and finding encouragement.
• Homeschool Co-ops: These parent-led organizations offer group classes, extracurricular activities, and socialization opportunities.

How to Withdraw from Public School in South Carolina

If your child is currently enrolled in public school, you’ll need to withdraw them officially before beginning homeschooling. This process ensures that your child is not marked as truant.

Steps to Withdraw Your Child from Public School

1. Register with One of the Three Legal Options
   Before withdrawing your child, make sure you’ve registered with one of the three legal homeschooling options.
2. Notify the School
   Contact your child’s current school to inform them of your intent to withdraw. Each school has its own withdrawal process, which may include filling out a withdrawal form.
3. Request Records
   Request your child’s academic records from their previous school. These can be helpful when planning your curriculum and documenting progress. If you join SCAIHS, we take care of this step for you.

Conclusion

Homeschooling in South Carolina is a rewarding and customizable way to educate your child. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the legal requirements and begin your homeschooling journey.

Whether you’re looking for structured support or the freedom to design your own curriculum, there’s an option that’s right for your family. Remember, you’re not alone—organizations like SCAIHS and local homeschool groups are here to help you succeed.

Ready to take the next step? Contact SCAIHS today for personalized guidance and resources to help your family thrive in the world of homeschooling.