Arkansas Homeschool State Laws

Please note that laws and regulations may have changed since this update, so it’s always a good idea to consult the official state statutes and regulations or seek legal advice for the most up-to-date information. Here is a summary of homeschooling regulations in Arkansas:

  • Compulsory Education: In Arkansas, children between the ages of 5 and 17 are subject to compulsory education.
  • Homeschooling as a Private School: Arkansas law recognizes homeschooling as a form of private school education. Parents or legal guardians who choose to homeschool must establish a home-based private school.
  • Notice of Establishment: To homeschool in Arkansas, parents or legal guardians are required to submit a Notice of Establishment to the local superintendent of schools each year. This notice serves as a declaration that the parent or guardian is providing homeschool education and includes the names and ages of the children being homeschooled.
  • Curriculum and Instruction: Arkansas law does not prescribe a specific curriculum or require approval of instructional materials. Parents have the freedom to select and design their own curriculum.
  • Teacher Qualifications: Arkansas does not require parents or legal guardians to meet specific educational qualifications in order to homeschool their children.
  • Required Subjects: Homeschools in Arkansas must provide instruction in the basic subjects of math, language arts, social studies, and science. However, there are no specific guidelines regarding the depth or content of these subjects.
  • Testing and Evaluation: As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Arkansas did not require homeschool students to undergo standardized testing or formal evaluation. However, it is advisable to stay updated with the latest regulations in case any changes have been implemented.
  • Records and Reporting: Homeschooling families in Arkansas are not required to submit attendance records or progress reports to the state. However, it is good practice to maintain records of curriculum used, instructional hours, and student progress.
  • Access to Public School Services: Homeschool students in Arkansas may be eligible to participate in certain extracurricular activities, such as sports or music, at their local public schools. The specific policies regarding participation vary by school district, so it’s essential to contact the district for more information.

It’s important to reiterate that homeschooling laws can change, so it’s crucial to verify the current statutes and regulations through official sources such as the Arkansas Department of Education or consult with a legal professional familiar with homeschooling in the state.

Updated October 2023

Arkansas Homeschool State Law Resources

NOTE:   HomeSchoolFacts intends the Homeschool State Laws above information to be used for research purposes only. None of this information is intended as legal advice by HomeSchoolFacts.  

Please know that the summaries provided are intended for research purposes only and are not intended to be legal advice. REMEMBER: The most important thing you can do to prepare for homeschooling your child is to become familiar with your state’s homeschooling laws.

Kindly note that the information provided herein serves as a general overview of homeschooling laws in each state. The content is based on available information, which may not always be up to date. It is essential to acknowledge that laws can experience modifications over time. Therefore, it is crucial to refer to official sources or contact the State's Department of Education for the most recent and precise information regarding homeschooling regulations.

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