Homeschooling in Alabama

There are so many options for homeschooling these days, but with the various options, it can be difficult to know if you are following all the rules. In Alabama, there are 3 options in which you can legally homeschool.

Getting to know your state’s laws regarding homeschooling is the first step in becoming a homeschool parent.

This post is in no way offering you legal advice.  

Alabama’s Homeschool Options

In order to be in compliance with the law, you will need to choose one of Alabama’s homeschool options. In Alabama, you can homeschool with a church school, a private school, or with a private tutor. Each of these options comes with its own set of rules and regulations.

Take a look below for more information.

Homeschool with Church

Many churches have schools which offer instruction to children in grades K-12. They may offer onsite or home programs. However, the school will be operated as a ministry of a local church, a group of churches, or denomination that does not receive any federal funding.

With a homeschool church option, the home may be the location where the student receives instruction. As a parent, you may also establish a church school in the home, or the home may be an extension of the school.

To homeschool under this option, you must do the following:

• Enroll your child in a church school
• File a church school enrollment certificate with the superintendent of your local public school.
• Keep attendance and register of each school day.
• Comply with church school rules and regulations.

Homeschool with a Private School

A private school is a school that is not supported by a governmental entity or agency. If you plan to put your child in a private homeschool, your home may be the location where the child receives their instruction. In fact, a parent may establish their own private school in the home.

To homeschool under this option, you must do the following:

• Notify the local superintendent.
• Keep attendance and register.
• Have proof of immunizations.
• Teach some kind of physical education.
• Comply with the policies of the private school.

Homeschool with a Tutor

Unlike the other two options where a parent can teach a child, private tutors will need to be Alabama-certified teachers. This means that if you choose to get a tutor for your child’s education, it cannot be just anyone.

To homeschool under this option, you must do the following:

• Select a tutor with proper qualifications.
• Ensure your child is instructed in the required subjects and number of days.
• The tutor must submit a statement to the county or superintendent listing the subjects taught and tutoring schedule.
• Tutors must keep a register of work showing daily hours of instruction and attendance.

Homeschool Requirements

As with any school, homeschooling in Alabama does require specific subjects to be taught. Alabama also requires a specific number of days per year be used for academic education. Here are some of the requirements you will want to keep in mind if choosing to homeschool your child:

• Must teach at least 3 hours per day.
• Must teach 140 days each calendar year.
• Must teach core subjects such as English, Science, Math, and Social Studies.

If you need additional information, we recommend contacting the HSLDA. The HSLDA is a national advocacy organization which supports your right to educate your child at home.