West Virginia Homeschool State Laws

Please note that laws and regulations may have changed since this update, so it’s important to consult the official West Virginia Department of Education or a legal professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding homeschooling regulations in the state. The following summary is based on information:

In West Virginia, homeschooling is regulated under the state’s compulsory attendance laws, which require children between the ages of 6 and 16 to receive an education. Here are the key points to consider for homeschooling in West Virginia:

  • Notification: Parents or guardians who wish to homeschool their children must submit a written notice to the local county school board superintendent before starting homeschooling. The notice should include the names and ages of the children being homeschooled, the location where instruction will take place, and the qualifications of the individual providing instruction (usually the parent).
  • Qualifications: West Virginia does not require homeschooling parents to meet specific educational requirements or hold teaching credentials.
  • Subjects and Curriculum: Homeschooling families in West Virginia are required to provide thorough instruction in English, mathematics, science, social studies, and health. However, the specific curriculum or materials used are not mandated by the state.
  • Assessment: Homeschooled students in West Virginia must undergo an assessment each year. This assessment can be in the form of standardized tests administered by the county school board or an alternative evaluation approved by the superintendent. Examples of alternative evaluations include portfolio reviews by certified teachers or participation in a national standardized test.
  • Attendance Records: Homeschooling parents are responsible for keeping attendance records for their children. These records should document the number of days or hours of instruction provided.
  • Special Education Services: West Virginia law requires county school boards to provide special education services to eligible homeschooled students. Parents should contact their local school district for more information on accessing these services.
  • Participation in Public School Activities: Homeschooled students in West Virginia have the right to participate in extracurricular activities offered by the public school in their attendance area. The specific policies regarding participation may vary by school district, so it’s advisable to check with the local school for eligibility and requirements.

Remember that homeschooling regulations may evolve over time, so it’s important to verify the current requirements and any recent updates with the West Virginia Department of Education or a legal professional before initiating homeschooling in the state.

Updated October 2023

West Virginia 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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