Homeschool Resources
Home School Resources
Utah State Board of Education Home School Website
Utah Code Section 53G-6-204 explains the rules for when a child does not have to go to public school. Here is what it means:
When a Child Can Be Excused from School
- Work or Trade School (Ages 16+): If a student is at least 16 years old and has finished 8th grade, they can be partially released from school to work or attend a trade program. They must still attend school or homeschool part-time.
- Full Release: A child can be completely excused from attending school if they:
- Have already graduated high school early.
- Have a medical or mental health condition (with a note from a doctor or physician assistant).
- Work a job that provides adequate learning opportunities.
- Are over 16 and the school determines they can no longer benefit from attendance due to major behavioral or attendance issues.
- Official Certificate: When an exemption is approved, the school board will issue an official certificate confirming the child is excused.
Homeschool Rules for Parents
- Parents Are in Charge: Parents who homeschool have complete control over picking textbook materials, setting the schedule and location, and grading their child's work.
- What Schools Cannot Require: Local school boards cannot force homeschool parents to keep attendance records, show teaching credentials, allow home inspections, or take state standardized tests.
- Getting District Help: Parents can ask the school board for a list of grade-level learning goals so they know what skills their child needs for college or future careers.
How to Sign Up for Homeschooling
- One-Time Notice: To start homeschooling, a parent only needs to submit one initial notification letter (or letter of intent) to their local school district.
- Already Submitted? Parents who submitted a homeschool notice or affidavit on or before May 7, 2025, do not need to file a new one.
- Confirmation: The school board must save the notice and send a Official Certificate within 30 days. Once filed, the school district is no longer responsible for the child's education or school services.
- Flexible Learning: Homeschool families can still choose to share resources or participate in testing or athletics with the district. These rules apply whether parents teach alone, join a homeschool group, or hire a tutor.
Sample Letter of Intent to Submit to the School Board
