What is the Intent To Homeschool Florida form?
The Intent To Homeschool Florida form is a written notice that parents or guardians must submit to establish and maintain a home education program for their child or children. This form is required by Florida law under Section 1002.41(a) of the Florida Statutes. It includes essential information about the student and the parent or guardian, ensuring compliance with state regulations regarding home education.
What information is required on the form?
The form requires several pieces of information, including the child's name, birthdate, grade, race, last school attended, and optional social security number. Additionally, it asks for the parent or guardian's name, mailing address, street address (if different), phone numbers, and an optional email address. This information helps maintain accurate records for the Florida Department of Education.
Is providing the child's social security number mandatory?
No, providing the child's social security number is optional. The form allows parents or guardians to include it if they choose, but it is not a requirement for submitting the Intent To Homeschool form.
What should I do if my child has never attended school?
If your child has never attended school, you can still submit the Intent To Homeschool form. You will need to provide the required information, such as the child's name and birthdate, but you can indicate that they have not attended any school previously. This is a common situation for families starting home education for the first time.
What happens after I submit the form?
Once you submit the Intent To Homeschool form to the designated school district, your home education program is officially recognized. It is important to keep a copy of the submitted form for your records. The school district may provide additional guidelines or requirements for maintaining your home education program, so it is advisable to stay informed about any follow-up actions needed.
Do I need to submit this form every year?
Will my child receive a high school diploma through this program?
No, home education programs in Florida, including those registered with Lake County Schools and Florida Virtual School, do not award high school diplomas. Parents or guardians are responsible for ensuring that their child meets the necessary educational requirements and may choose to pursue alternative options for high school graduation, such as obtaining a GED or enrolling in a private school that offers diplomas.