Homeschooling in California | Knowledge Base

A home-based private school has broad freedom in choosing curriculum and instructional methods. California law requires that instruction be in English and cover the "several branches of study" taught in public schools.

This means core subjects (e.g. reading/language arts, math, social studies, science, health, etc.) should be included, but parents have the freedom to select or design the specific curriculum. There is no required use of state textbooks or Common Core, though parents should be aware of the state's content standards and courses of study as a reference.

The State Board of Education's content standards and curriculum frameworks are available as guides, but home private schools are not obligated to follow them exactly. In practice, parents can tailor the education to their child's needs and philosophy as long as the basic subjects are taught.

No teaching credential is required for parents who homeschool via the PSA method. The law only specifies that children must be taught by "persons capable of teaching" in the private school.

In fact, any individual may establish a private school in California without holding a state teaching credential, so long as they comply with the private school laws. Parents effectively serve as the teachers/principal of their home-based school. There is no requirement to hire certified teachers. (By contrast, the tutor option discussed later does require a credential, but the PSA method does not.)

There are no state-mandated tests or assessments for students in a home-based private school. Students taught at home under a PSA are not required to participate in California's standardized testing (e.g. CAASPP/SBAC testing).

The state leaves it up to parents to evaluate their child's academic progress. Parents can choose to use private testing, portfolio evaluations, or other assessments for their own records or peace of mind, but these are optional.

There is also no requirement for periodic evaluations by certified teachers or the school district. The legislature has clearly chosen to trust parents in determining whether their children are progressing satisfactorily.

Home-based private schools must keep certain records as required by law. Specifically, California Education Code §33190 and §48222 mandate that private schools maintain at least:

• Attendance records (a register showing every absence for at least half a day for each day school is conducted)
• Courses of study offered (an outline of subjects/courses the school teaches)
• Faculty names, addresses, and qualifications (a list of anyone teaching in the school and their educational qualifications)

In practice, parents should take attendance (days of instruction) and keep a simple list of subjects taught and a brief teacher résumé (for themselves or anyone else teaching). It is highly recommended to also keep a copy of each year's filed PSA, as well as individual student records (e.g. samples of work, report cards or progress reports, and immunization records).

California law requires private schools to maintain immunization records or exemptions for each student per Health & Safety Code §120335, though students in a home-based private school or independent study program with no classroom contact are exempt from mandatory vaccination requirements under current law.

All records should be kept on file at the private school (home). If a student transfers back to another school in the future, these records help with grade placement and credits. Importantly, parents do not routinely submit these records to any authority; however, if an attendance/truancy officer inquires, the parent should be able to show proof that a private school exists (PSA confirmation, etc.) and that the child's attendance and instruction are being recorded.

Home-based private schools operate with minimal government oversight. Filing the PSA is a registration, not an approval or license.

The California Department of Education (CDE) does not inspect or evaluate your home school program for quality, curriculum, or teacher credentials. In fact, California statutes explicitly state that the government has no authority to inspect the records or curriculum of private schools beyond what the law explicitly requires.

There is no routine home visit or inspection for PSA homeschoolers. The local public school district's role is simply to verify, if necessary, that a child not attending public school is enrolled in a private school. This usually means if they inquire, you provide your private school's name and maybe a copy of your PSA filing or enrollment confirmation.

They cannot demand to review your lesson plans, see your child's work, or test your child. As long as you have properly filed the affidavit and are meeting the basic legal requirements (keeping records and teaching the required subjects), your homeschool is legally compliant. (Note: Filing the PSA does not mean the state "accredits" your school – it remains a parent-directed private school.)

Curriculum requirements under a PSP are similar to the PSA option – the private school must cover the broad subjects required by California (in practice, basic K-12 subjects), but typically the parent has significant freedom in day-to-day instruction.

The PSP may or may not provide curriculum. Some PSPs offer packaged curriculum, guidelines, or consulting for parents; others simply handle the paperwork and let parents choose all educational materials. It varies by program: for example, a church-run PSP might require use of certain religious curriculum, whereas an independent PSP might allow any secular or religious curriculum the parent prefers.

California law does not mandate specific textbooks or testing for private schools, so PSP families also enjoy flexibility. Parents should ensure they teach in English and cover the core content areas, but the PSP director's policies will guide how structured or flexible the approach is.

It's wise to clarify the PSP's expectations: some might ask for periodic work samples or have meetings, while others simply trust parents to teach. Ultimately, the parent is the at-home teacher and can tailor the learning, with the PSP acting as a record-keeper and sometimes a coach.

As with the PSA method, parents do not need to be certified teachers to educate their children in a PSP. The PSP will list each parent as a faculty member and include their "qualifications" in the school records, but there is no credential requirement (unless a particular PSP has an unusual rule of its own).

In California, private school teachers are not required to hold state credentials in general, so parent-teachers in a PSP are simply considered private school instructors. The PSP's affidavit and records fulfill legal requirements.

The parent should be willing and able to provide the instruction at home; any specific training or workshops would be optional and possibly offered by the PSP. In short, no formal qualifications beyond being the child's parent (or guardian) and being "capable of teaching" are needed.

Students enrolled in a PSP (a private school) are treated as private school students, and therefore not required to take state exams. There is no mandatory state testing or assessment program for PSP homeschoolers, just like the PSA option.

Some PSPs might offer standardized testing (for example, they might host an Iowa Test of Basic Skills or other annual test for those who want it, or to help parents gauge progress), but this is typically optional. The state's K-12 testing requirements (CAASPP) apply only to public schools.

Parents should inquire if the PSP has any testing or evaluation procedures – a few may request periodic evaluations to ensure students are progressing, especially if the PSP is accountable to an accrediting body. However, most PSPs rely on parent report and trust the parent's instruction.

High school students in a PSP can work towards a diploma issued by the private school, which may involve tests or coursework benchmarks set by that school. But again, no public oversight testing is required.

In a PSP, the administrative burden of recordkeeping is shared. The PSP administrator is responsible for maintaining the official school records required by law (the same records as under the PSA: attendance registers, course of study, faculty info, immunization records, etc.).

Parents typically must submit attendance information to the PSP – for example, you might turn in a monthly attendance sheet or report absences to the PSP director so they can compile the master attendance register.

The courses of study for each student may also be collected; a PSP might ask each family to provide a list of subjects or a learning plan for the year to keep on file. The PSP keeps the faculty list (which includes parent-teachers and any staff) and their qualifications as required.

Parents should also maintain their own records at home (lesson plans, samples of student work, etc.) as a backup and for personal use, but these might not need to be submitted unless the PSP requests them.

Additionally, PSPs will maintain cumulative student files (sometimes called a CUM file) with report cards or transcripts, especially for high school, and immunization records or waivers as required by law. If the child later returns to traditional school or graduates, the PSP will issue the records or diploma.

Attendance laws: A child in a PSP is exempt from public school attendance just like other homeschoolers, by virtue of enrollment in a private full-time day school (the PSP) that meets Ed Code requirements. Should a district inquire, the PSP enrollment letter serves as proof of compliance.

It's important for parents to follow PSP procedures for reporting attendance and grades to ensure the records are accurate. Failure to turn in required paperwork to the PSP could jeopardize your enrollment in that program.

Oversight in a PSP largely comes from the PSP administration instead of the state. The California Department of Education does not individually monitor PSP students; its concern is that the PSP itself files the PSA and follows private school laws.

However, the PSP director may impose certain rules or check-ins. For example, a PSP might require quarterly meetings, or that parents submit course plans, or that students meet academic benchmarks. These rules vary widely: some PSPs are very hands-off (simply collecting minimal paperwork), while others function almost like a distance-learning school with structured assignments.

Parents should choose a PSP that matches the level of oversight or guidance they want. State inspections are not applicable beyond any requirements on the PSP as a private school (and even those are minimal). Just as with home-based private schools, government officials do not inspect PSP member homes or curriculum by default.

The PSP's credibility rests on its completeness in filing and recordkeeping. Many PSPs also offer community and resources: they may host field trips, park days, co-op classes, or provide newsletters for member families. This can be a benefit of joining a PSP – you get a support network and activities.

Always verify that the PSP has filed the PSA for the current year and ask how long the program has been operating. Legitimate PSPs will be transparent about their compliance and offerings.

In summary, a PSP can reduce the parent's bureaucratic load and provide guidance, but the parent still does the teaching at home and should ensure the PSP is fulfilling all legal obligations.

Unlike the private school options, independent study is still part of the public school system, so there are specific curriculum requirements. The student must be taught the same state-mandated subjects and content standards as in traditional public school; independent study is legally defined as an "alternative to classroom instruction" that is consistent with the school district or charter's course of study and aligned to state content standards.

In practice, this means the curriculum (what the student learns) must meet California's grade-level standards. Many charter homestudy programs allow parents to choose or customize curriculum, but it generally must be secular (non-religious) and approved by the charter school.

The charter will often provide or fund curriculum resources – for example, they might offer textbooks, online learning programs, or a budget for the parent to purchase approved instructional materials. Parents deliver the daily instruction, but the charter's credentialed teacher will oversee that the student is covering required subjects.

Flexibility comes in how and when you teach the material, but not in what must eventually be learned. The law emphasizes that independent study is "not an alternative curriculum"; students are expected to meet the same educational objectives and graduation requirements as their peers in brick-and-mortar schools.

For example, a 5th grader in independent study must learn the 5th grade standards in math, language arts, science, etc., although they might do so through home projects or a mix of parent-chosen materials. The charter may require certain assignments or use particular assessments to ensure standards are being met.

In summary, the curriculum is a partnership: parents have input and day-to-day control, but it must align with public school requirements and be non-sectarian. The benefit is that materials and guidance are provided – you are not on your own to design a curriculum from scratch – but you trade some freedom, as you must adhere to state academic guidelines.

When homeschooling through a charter, your child will be assigned a credentialed supervising teacher (often called an education specialist or ES) who is employed by the charter school. This teacher works with the parent and student to develop the learning plan and monitors progress.

The parent does not need any specific qualifications or certification, since the public charter provides the credentialed teacher oversight. The parent is essentially the daily instructor or tutor for the child, while the charter's teacher is responsible for regular check-ins, evaluations, and assistance.

Typically, the teacher will meet with the student and parent on a set schedule (for example, once every 2 weeks or once a month) to review work, collect samples, and ensure the student is on track. They might adjust the learning plan or offer support if the child is struggling.

California law requires that independent study students are "guided by a teacher" and that their work is evaluated by a teacher. The parent and teacher communicate frequently (in person, by email/phone, or online) about the student's lessons.

Essentially, the parent is the hands-on educator and the charter teacher is the official teacher of record who must verify attendance and progress. There is no requirement for the parent to have a college degree or any credential – just the willingness to facilitate the child's education at home.

The charter may offer parent training or workshops, but these are typically optional supports.

As public school students, children in charter independent study are generally required to participate in state assessments and any other testing the public school would administer. This means students will be expected to take the annual state standardized tests (CAASPP) for their grade, as well as any periodic benchmark tests the charter uses.

California law holds charter schools accountable for their students' performance, so independent study students are included in the school's testing program. (Parents in California do have the right to opt a child out of state testing by written request, but schools will encourage participation to meet accountability requirements.)

Additionally, the charter teacher will assess the student's work regularly. This could involve assignments, portfolios, or quizzes that the student must complete. High schoolers might have to take proctored exams for certain courses.

The independent study master agreement will outline how progress is evaluated – for example, it might say the student will complete chapter tests or submit work samples in each subject for the teacher to review.

Failure to show adequate progress can trigger interventions. If a student doesn't turn in assignments or falls behind, the school will implement a tiered re-engagement plan and can ultimately decide to return the student to a traditional program.

Besides academics, attendance accounting is tied to work completion: the charter certifies attendance for funding based on assignments finished by due dates. Therefore, turning in work on time essentially equals "being present" in independent study.

In summary, expect to do state testing and have more formal evaluations compared to completely private homeschooling. These assessments ensure the student is meeting standards and help the charter provide additional support if needed.

One advantage of the charter independent study route is that the school manages most of the recordkeeping. The charter program will handle attendance reports, transcripts, and permanent records. However, the parent must keep track of the child's daily work in order to report to the school.

The independent study agreement will spell out how attendance is determined. Typically, attendance is earned by completing work – for example, if a student finishes the assignments due for a learning period, that period is counted as fully attended.

California regulations state that independent study attendance is not based on physical seat-time, but on the "time value" of student work as judged by a certificated teacher. Practically, the parent may need to maintain a learning log or ensure assignments are done each school day.

The charter teacher will often have forms for the parent to sign each meeting, verifying that the student did school work on each day (or a set number of days) in the period. The charter also keeps student work samples (for audit purposes) – usually one piece of work per subject for each learning period is collected and stored.

Academic records such as report cards or progress reports will be generated by the charter teacher based on the student's work and performance. If your child is in high school, the charter will track credits and issue a diploma if the student meets graduation requirements.

Immunization records must be submitted upon enrollment, but note that students in a 100% home-based charter program (no classroom time) are currently exempt from vaccine requirements per state law (similar to PSA students). The charter will still ask for proof of immunization or exemption to have on file.

All in all, the parent's focus can remain on instruction, while the charter program takes care of official paperwork like cumulative files and state reports. Just be prepared to diligently document and submit your child's work and to communicate regularly with the assigned teacher.

The independent study public school option comes with the most oversight of all the homeschooling methods, but also a lot of support. By law, the charter school must monitor the student's educational progress and enforce the terms of the independent study agreement.

If a student is not meeting the agreed-upon requirements – for example, not turning in sufficient work or failing to participate in required live instructional sessions – the school can terminate the independent study arrangement and require the student to return to a traditional classroom program.

To prevent issues, charters have what's called a "tiered re-engagement" process: if a student misses assignments or falls behind, the school will initiate interventions such as meeting with the parent and student to revise the plan, providing additional support, or issuing a probationary period.

Parents can expect a regular meeting schedule (e.g. every 20 school days) with the supervising teacher to review progress. During these meetings, the teacher might adjust goals, offer new strategies, or require additional work if needed.

Apart from oversight, charters often provide resources: a budget for classes or materials, access to certified subject-specialist teachers or tutors, free online subscriptions, field trips, or even in-person enrichment classes at a resource center. Many charters organize park days, science fairs, or group learning opportunities for their independent study students.

This means families get a mix of accountability and community. It's important for parents choosing this route to be comfortable with maintaining communication and meeting requirements set by the school.

All instruction must remain non-religious (since public funds are involved), which some families consider a limitation if they wished to include faith-based instruction during school hours. However, families can always add religious teachings outside of the charter's curriculum time if desired.

In summary, the charter independent study path offers structured flexibility – you have freedom to schedule your days and personalize learning to an extent, but within a framework that the public school oversees. It works well for those who want home education with professional guidance and resources, and who are willing to handle the administrative checkpoints that come with public education.

The tutor must hold a current California teaching credential (a certificate or credential issued by the state to teach in K-12 schools) for the grade being taught. This could be a multiple-subject credential (for elementary grades) or a single-subject credential in appropriate subjects (for middle/high school), or other credentials covering K-12.

It's important to note that the parent can be the tutor if the parent has a valid California teaching credential. Many families do not have a credentialed parent, so they would need to hire someone – either a certified teacher, a retired teacher who kept their credential active, or hire a credentialed tutor service.

The law does not permit an uncertified parent to qualify under the tutor exemption; if the parent isn't credentialed, they must use one of the other options (PSA, PSP, or charter).

There is no specification in the law about the tutor having a certain degree beyond the credential, nor any requirement for a credentialed tutor to register with the state. Essentially, the credential itself is the qualification.

The tutor can be any private individual or even a hired teacher or governess; as long as they hold a California teaching credential (out-of-state teaching licenses would not directly satisfy this without California certification) and instruct the required hours in required subjects, the student is legally exempt from attending school.

It's wise for the tutor (or parent) to have documentation of the credential on hand in case the local school district inquires.

This tutor option is a bit different in that no affidavit or formal notice to the state is filed. You are not establishing a private school, so you not file the PSA. Also, you are not enrolling in any school.

The responsibility is on the parent to ensure the tutor instruction is happening in compliance with the law. There is no standard form to notify the school district of this arrangement, but if your child was previously in public school, you should withdraw them and perhaps inform the district that the child will be taught privately pursuant to EC §48224 (some families send a simple letter to the district attendance office stating this).

The school might request the tutor's name and credential number for their records. It's not required by law to pre-approve a tutor with the district, but cooperating can prevent misunderstandings.

Recordkeeping is not explicitly dictated in the tutor statute as it is for private schools, but it's prudent to keep a log or diary of instruction given – noting the days taught, hours, and subjects covered – to prove you have met the 3-hour/175-day requirement.

The tutor could also keep basic attendance records and any student work or progress reports. In the event a truancy officer or district attendance supervisor questions the child's education, the parent or tutor should be prepared to show:

1. Proof of the tutor's valid credential
2. Some evidence that instruction is occurring as required (for example, a written schedule or affidavit by the tutor)

Because no filing is required, this option is fairly private, but that also means the burden of proof is on the family if the education is ever challenged.

The curriculum under the tutor option can be quite flexible, with the main requirement being that the tutor covers the same general subjects as the public schools. Since the tutor is likely a professional educator or experienced teacher, they may design a curriculum tailored to the child.

There is no government-provided curriculum or materials in this option (unlike a charter where they might give you resources). The instruction must be in English (though you can certainly include bilingual instruction or other languages in addition to meeting this requirement).

The phrase "study and recitation" in the law harks back to older terminology, essentially meaning traditional instruction. The tutor can use textbooks, a homeschool curriculum, or even the local school's syllabus as a guideline – but again, no one will pre-approve it.

It's advisable that the chosen curriculum be comparable in scope to California's grade-level standards, so that if the child returns to school later, they will be at grade level.

The subjects should include reading/literature, writing, mathematics, social studies (history, civics, etc.), science, and other required areas for certain grades (like art, health, or physical education).

For high school, if using this option long-term, the tutor should ensure the student is meeting requirements for graduation (certain courses in English, math, etc.) if a diploma is a goal – though the law doesn't enforce that, it's for the student's benefit.

Essentially, the tutor option is a personalized one-on-one education, so it can be very effective if the tutor is skilled; the content is up to the tutor/parent as long as it's broadly compliant with state subject requirements.

There are no required tests under the tutor option, just as with the private school options. Since the child is not enrolled in public school, state testing is not mandatory.

The tutor may choose to administer tests or quizzes as part of teaching, but that is purely at their discretion. There is also no requirement to submit student grades or evaluations to any authority.

Parents might choose to have the child take a standardized test privately each year to gauge progress (totally optional). If the child will re-enter school later, keeping some records of what was learned or test results could help with smooth placement, but again, nothing is mandated.

The tutor is assumed to be providing adequate instruction; California law does not ask for periodic proof of learning beyond the general requirement of subjects and time spent.

As a precaution, some families keep a portfolio of the student's work under the tutor's instruction, in case they need to show that the education was legitimate (for example, if facing a custody case or a skeptical school official). But from a legal standpoint, no testing or reporting is required for the tutor homeschool option.

While not as formal as the PSA private school record rules, it's strongly recommended to maintain basic records when homeschooling via a tutor. The law's explicit requirement is the 3 hours per day for 175 days – so keeping an attendance log or calendar marking off at least 175 instructional days can demonstrate compliance.

You might also log the topics or chapters covered each day as evidence of the "branches of study" being taught. If you hire a tutor, you could ask them to keep session notes or provide you with periodic progress reports.

Also, keep a copy of the tutor's credential certificate or credential number lookup from the state's database to prove the qualification.

Immunization records: If you use only the tutor exemption (and have not established a private school), technically the child is not "enrolled" in a school, so immunization documentation might not be monitored. However, it's wise to ensure your child's immunizations are up to date or have a valid exemption, because if the child later enrolls in school (or if authorities inquire for some reason), you'll want to have those records. There is no mechanism to file immunization records in this scenario, but have them available.

In sum, maintain a folder of key documents:

• The tutor's credential proof
• Your instruction log
• Samples of work or a summary of curriculum used
• Any correspondence with the school (if you informed them of the tutoring)

These records are your safeguard in case you need to demonstrate that you satisfied California's homeschool laws through tutoring.

The credentialed tutor option has very little active oversight. There's no routine checking by the state or district as long as no one reports a problem. However, the law assumes the tutor (being credentialed) is providing education, so it doesn't put in a monitoring system.

The local school district does have the duty to enforce attendance laws, so if they become aware of a child not in school, they will ask how the child is being educated. At that point, you would inform them of the tutor arrangement.

They may request to verify the credential (for example, the district attendance officer might ask for the tutor's credential ID or a copy). They might also verify that the 175-day requirement is understood.

Once that is satisfied, the district will treat the child as exempt from compulsory education. The district cannot impose additional requirements beyond what the law states – for instance, they cannot demand curriculum approval or force the child to take tests, because the tutor route is a legal exemption just like private school enrollment.

There are no home visits or inspections provided for in law. As always, if there were concerns of educational neglect or a child not actually being taught, extreme cases could involve authorities (just as they would for any student not attending school), but with a credentialed teacher in charge, this is rarely an issue.

One nuance: Because the tutor option is not used as commonly, some school officials might not be as familiar with it. You should be prepared to politely explain the legal basis (Education Code 48224) if needed. Often showing them the text of the law (which states the conditions clearly) is sufficient.

In summary, the tutor method relies on the honor system and the professionalism of the teacher, with the law in place as a shield should any questions arise.

Each option has some basic requirements that must be met. For example, a PSA private school needs to operate full-time. If a family files a PSA but does not actually educate the child, it could be considered educational neglect. While there's flexibility in schedule, avoid the pitfall of doing too little.

In the tutor option, the 3 hours per 175 days is required by law. Consistently failing to provide instruction (or not being able to show you did) could invalidate your exemption. Make sure you're homeschooling for approximately the normal school year.

Additionally, private schools (PSA/PSP) are expected to teach the required branches of study. If a family were to entirely omit a core subject (say, never teaching math), they might not meet the definition of a school. No one may check daily, but in the unlikely event of a investigation, that could be a problem. To be safe, cover the basic subjects as the law expects.

While homeschoolers don't have to submit records regularly, inadequate recordkeeping can hurt you if an issue arises. For PSA homeschools, the law requires specific records (attendance, courses, faculty).

A pitfall is not keeping these or not keeping them up to date. If an attendance officer knocks on your door due to a misunderstanding, the easiest way to satisfy them is to show a valid PSA filing and your attendance register. If you haven't kept attendance, the encounter could become more complicated.

It's also important for transferring to other schools – if you decide to put your child back in public school or into a private school later, having transcripts or records of what was studied and the student's progress will make placement much smoother.

For charter homeschooling, not submitting required work or forms to the charter on time is a pitfall that can result in being disenrolled from the charter. For example, if you fail to turn in work by the deadlines, the charter is legally required to implement re-engagement steps and could end the independent study agreement. Stay on top of paperwork when in a charter to avoid truancy or withdrawal.

New homeschooling parents sometimes encounter misinformation. One pitfall is thinking that filing the PSA "enrolls" your child in some program or that you need an "approval letter" back from the state – you do not. The CDE does not send any approval; filing the PSA is simply an online submission that you certify yourself.

Another misconception is that homeschooling is illegal in California or that you need to be part of an "accredited" program – this is not true; homeschooling through the private school exemption is recognized by law. There was some confusion decades ago, but it's settled now.

Also, some people mistakenly try to use the PSP or charter option by enrolling in an out-of-state program that is not a California private school or charter. Be careful: enrolling in an online school that is not based in California does not exempt you from California's compulsory education law.

If you use an out-of-state or unaccredited program, you still need to file a PSA for your own private school (or be enrolled in a CA PSP/charter) to be legal. Always ensure your homeschooling falls under one of the four legal methods discussed; otherwise, your child could be considered truant.

Immunization law in California requires students in public and private schools to be vaccinated against certain diseases or have a medical exemption. However, students in a home-based private school or independent study with no classroom contact are exempt from these immunization requirements (SB 277, 2015) – meaning if you homeschool via PSA or an all-home charter, you do not have to vaccinate to meet school law (though it's recommended for health).

If you join a PSP that has group classes or a campus, or if your child attends any in-person activities at a charter resource center, you may be asked for proof of immunization. A pitfall is not being aware of these nuances: for instance, a family might think they never need shots and then sign up for a PSP enrichment class that triggers the requirement. It's best to keep personal copies of your child's immunization records regardless.

Also, health screenings: California requires new school entrants (Kindergarten or first grade) to have a health check-up and dental check-up form. If you start homeschooling from the beginning, you won't be submitting those to a school, but technically the requirement still exists. Many homeschoolers simply keep the proof in their records in case needed later.

Sometimes a legal pitfall is inadvertently being under the wrong umbrella. For example, a parent might assume they can claim the tutor exemption because they have a bachelor's degree or because they "feel qualified," but without a state teaching credential that exemption doesn't apply – the family must file a PSA or use a PSP/charter.

Another example: a family enrolls in a charter and then proceeds to use a religious curriculum at home, thinking it's allowed since they're at home. In reality, using sectarian curriculum with charter funds or as core instruction is not allowed and if discovered, the charter could remove the family for misuse of funds.

If a religious education is a priority, that family would be better off under a private PSA or PSP. So, align your method with your needs: choose PSA/PSP for maximal freedom (including religious content), or charter for support (sticking to secular materials).

While not required by law to notify your local school or district of a PSA, sometimes communication can preempt problems. If a truancy letter or inquiry comes (some districts periodically send letters if they think a school-age child is not enrolled), do not ignore it.

Respond with the minimal information necessary – e.g., a letter stating the child is enrolled in a private school (give the name of your school). Homeschool advocates can help with wording. Ignoring official letters can escalate to a truancy hearing unnecessarily.

As mentioned, the PSA is a statement, not a license. One pitfall is thinking that once you file, you have an official school that the state has vetted. The state does not vet private homeschools; it's on you to follow the law.

Conversely, some families worry "what if my PSA is rejected?" The CDE does not reject affidavits as long as they are filled out completely – they aren't in the business of approving or denying private schools unless something is egregiously wrong. If you encounter any issues in filing (like website problems), contact the CDE Private Schools office for help. Keep proof of filing (confirmation number and printout).

That said, don't misrepresent information on the PSA – it is filed under penalty of perjury. Always provide truthful information (for example, don't falsify the number of students or the existence of staff). Filing a false affidavit could have legal consequences, though this is rare and usually only an issue for those trying to claim a school exists when it doesn't.

By staying informed of these requirements and avoiding common pitfalls, families can homeschool in California with confidence. The key is to follow the legal procedure of your chosen option (file that PSA or sign that charter agreement), teach faithfully, and keep basic records.

California's homeschool environment is generally friendly and flexible, especially if you fulfill the technical requirements and keep communication channels open. With the support of the aforementioned organizations and a clear understanding of the law, parents can provide a successful home education while remaining fully compliant with California's education code.

Homeschooling, when done within these guidelines, is a respected and time-tested alternative in our state. Enjoy the journey of home education, and reach out for help when needed – the community and resources are there to ensure you meet all requirements and have a rewarding experience.