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How to Homeschool

Step 1: Know the Law2022-04-20T11:00:42-05:00

The only requirements to legally homeschool in Texas are that:

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

Your child may also be taught in another family’s home or you may use a tutor for instruction.

The courts have determined that Texas homeschools are private schools for the purpose of compulsory attendance. Therefore, homeschools are not regulated, do not require teacher certification or third-party curriculum approval and are exempt from compulsory attendance laws.

Read more about the laws on the THSC Homeschool Laws Expanded Guide.

Step 2: Become a THSC Member2021-11-16T14:43:07-06:00

THSC is made up of thousands of member families who encourage and support each other on their homeschooling journeys. We don’t have to go it alone! 

Here are some member favorite benefits:

  • Public School Withdrawal Support
  • Planning Tools
  • Expert Homeschool Coaches
  • Legal Protection
  • Curriculum Discounts
  • And more
Step 3: Choose a Curriculum2023-08-24T11:23:18-05:00

There are many different types of curriculum to meet the needs of your family and individual students. THSC does not endorse specific curriculum providers or types of curriculum. You may choose to mix and match from different curriculum providers to cover the five basic subjects.

Here are more free curriculum providers: 

You will order most homeschool curriculum from publishers and online providers. 

Please note that K-12 is public school at home, run by the governmental public school system, and is not a homeschool program.

To get a hands-on look at curriculum, attend a Texas HomeSchool Convention and shop our Exhibit Hall! THSC members get two free adult registrations to each Convention!

Step 4: Withdraw from Public School2021-07-30T11:00:09-05:00

You are not legally required to register with your local school district or receive their permission to homeschool, but you must withdraw your child from public school if your child is already enrolled.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) requires you to specify the date that you will begin homeschooling in order to withdraw your child from public school.

THSC’s customer relations team is here to answer your questions should you experience difficulty in withdrawing your child from public school and intervene on behalf of THSC members.

How to send a withdrawal email or a withdrawal letter.

If your child’s school insists you must do more after sending a letter of assurance, contact THSC. Members have access to homeschool legal advocacy.

Step 5: Start Homeschooling2021-07-30T11:01:11-05:00

Now all you have to do is start!

Enjoy your students and the opportunity to homeschool.

Be flexible. If something is not working, be willing to try something new.

Keep realistic expectations. Comparisons to the public school system or other homeschoolers will leave you frustrated. Set educational goals that fit the needs of your children.

Know that you are not alone. Staying connected with other homeschoolers will provide information, support and encouragement during difficult times.

THSC believes that parents should be empowered to raise and educate the next generation of leaders.

Here’s everything you need to know to start homeschooling in Texas.

Check out THSC membership benefits and the many ways that our members are helping to keep Texas families free!

Homeschool 101 Audio

These audios will answer many of your questions and help you get started down the right path.

Support Groups

There are many types of homeschool groups that provide fellowship, activities, co-op classes, support for moms and dads, family events and more.

Academic Testing

THSC has partnered with BJU Press to offer the Iowa Assessments. Our desire is to make THSC member students’ testing experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Special Needs

Families who have children with special needs have the same rights in Texas as families who have children with typical learning abilities.

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