Washington Homeschool State Laws

Please note that laws and regulations may have changed since this update, so it’s recommended you check with the Washington State Board of Education or a legal professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Here is a general overview:

• Declaration of Intent: In Washington, parents or guardians who wish to homeschool their children must file a declaration of intent to homeschool with the local school district superintendent or the district where they reside. This declaration must be filed annually and should include the names and ages of the children being homeschooled.
• Qualifications: There are no specific qualifications required for parents or guardians to homeschool their children in Washington. However, it is generally expected that the parent providing the instruction has a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Instruction Requirements: Homeschooling families in Washington are required to provide instruction in the following subjects: reading, writing, spelling, language, math, and science. The instruction must be “consistent with the child’s age and ability” and must occur for a minimum of 180 days per year.
• Assessments: Washington state law does not mandate standardized testing or assessments for homeschooled students. However, the local school district may request an annual assessment, such as a standardized test or a portfolio review, to evaluate the student’s academic progress. The results of these assessments are not submitted to the state but may be used to provide feedback to the parents.
• Special Education: Homeschooled students who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or receive special education services in public school may continue to receive these services while being homeschooled. The local school district is responsible for developing a plan to provide the necessary services.
• Records: Homeschooling parents in Washington are advised to maintain records of their instruction, including samples of student work, attendance records, and any correspondence with the local school district. These records can be helpful in case of any future inquiries or evaluations.

It’s important to note that this is a general summary, and there may be additional requirements or considerations depending on your specific situation or local school district. It’s always a good idea to consult the Washington State Board of Education or a homeschooling organization in your area to ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.

Updated October 2023