So, You've Decided to Homeschool...Now What?

Note: If you've opted to enroll in an umbrella/hybrid program, you will need to follow their guidelines. This information is primarily for the independent homeschooler planning to file the PSA

1) Join an organization like Home School Legal Defense Association before you begin the process (Optional but recomended)

For a reasonable annual fee, home school-related legal assistance and peace of mind is just one phone call away, should it ever be needed. If the need never arises, organizations like HSLDA are dedicated to working on the behalf of families around the world, advocating for and protecting the rights of parents who want to educate their children at home. They offer grants and scholarships as well. For more information, click HERE.

2) Letter of withdrawl and records request.

If your child is already registered with or attending a public or private school, officially withdraw your child and request copies of their records. Here's what to do in California:

• As the PARENT, send a formal LETTER OF WITHDRAWL a week or two before the school year begins (you can do this mid-year as well if the school year has already started). A sample letter can be viewed HERE .
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• Be sure to address the letter to the Principal of the school and send it Certified Mail/Return Receipt Requested.

• As the ADMINISTRATOR of your private school, send a separate second letter to formally REQUEST  RECORDS - sample HERE, edit as needed. You will need to have chosen a school name to use.
  

• Again, be sure to send it Certified Mail/Return Receipt Requested.

(If you are joining a PSP, ISP, or Charter, consult the administrators of that organization for the instructions they would like you to follow)

3) File the Private School Affidavit (PSA).

BUT WAIT! The official window for filing annually is October 1-15th. File during this window even if you start your school year in August or September.

• Links and line-by-line instructions will be made available through our support group and HSLDA.
• If you are withdrawing your child and setting up your private school mid-year (after the October dates), you will need to file whenever you withdraw your child. The links and instructions are available throughout the school year.

4) Connect with a support community in your area.

We also recommend joining the Christian Home Education Association (CHEA) of CA, our state's private homeschooling resource and advocate. A directory of Christian support organizations throughout California can be found on their website as well (HERE)