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Homeschooling in Florida offers families the flexibility to tailor education to their children's needs. To begin this journey, parents must complete the Intent To Homeschool Florida form, which serves as a formal notification to the local school district of their decision to establish a home education program. This form requires essential details such as the child's name, birthdate, grade, and optional information like Social Security number and race, which the Florida Department of Education collects for statistical purposes. Parents or guardians must also provide their contact information, including mailing address and phone numbers. Importantly, the form includes a declaration affirming that the parent or guardian understands relevant state statutes and district policies regarding home education. Additionally, it clarifies that neither Lake County Schools Home Education nor Florida Virtual School grants high school diplomas. Completing this form accurately and submitting it to the designated local office is a crucial first step in a successful homeschooling experience.

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HOME EDUCATION

In compliance with Section 1002.41 (a), Florida Statute, this serves as the written notice of intent to establish and maintain a home education program for my child(ren). Please provide the following information required by law and/or necessary to maintain your records. Information on sex and race is being requested by the Florida Department of Education for statistical use only.

CHILD’S NAME (Please Print)

BIRTHDATE

GRADE

RACE/

LAST SCHOOL ATTENDED

SSN (Optional)

GENDER

 

 

 

 

 

Parent/Guardian Name: (Please Print)

Mailing Address:

 

 

Number, Street, or P.O. Box

 

City/State

Zip Code

Street Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

(If Different)

 

Number, Street, or P.O. Box

 

City/State

Zip Code

Home Phone:

(

)

Work Phone:

(

)

 

Cell Phone:

(

)

E-mail Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Optional)

 

 

 

I have read and fully understand the provision of Sections 1002.41, Florida Statutes and Lake County School District policies pertaining to compliance and enforcement of Home Education. The information contained herein is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge and belief.

I understand that neither Lake County Schools Home Education nor Florida Virtual School award high school diplomas._____________

 

 

PLEASE INITIAL HERE

Signature of Parent/Guardian

Date

Date your program will begin

Send to: Jan Tobias

Additional Comments (if needed)

 

Student Services

 

 

512 S. Palm Avenue

 

 

Howey-in-the Hills, FL 34737

 

 

PHONE#: (352) 742-6920

 

 

FAX#: (352) 742-6921

 

 

 

 

Revised: July 2010

Form Specifications

Fact Name Details
Governing Law This form is governed by Section 1002.41 of the Florida Statutes.
Purpose The form serves as a written notice of intent to establish a home education program.
Child Information Parents must provide the child's name, birthdate, grade, race, last school attended, SSN (optional), and gender.
Parent/Guardian Information The form requires the name, mailing address, street address (if different), and contact numbers of the parent or guardian.
Email Address Providing an email address is optional for the parent or guardian.
Understanding of Policies Parents must confirm they understand the provisions of Section 1002.41 and Lake County School District policies.
High School Diplomas Neither Lake County Schools Home Education nor Florida Virtual School awards high school diplomas.
Submission Details The completed form should be sent to Jan Tobias at the specified address in Howey-in-the-Hills, FL.

Intent To Homeschool Florida: Usage Guidelines

Once you've gathered all the necessary information, you're ready to fill out the Intent To Homeschool Florida form. This form is an important step in establishing your home education program. Make sure to provide accurate details to avoid any issues later.

  1. Child's Information:
    • Print the child's full name.
    • Enter the child's birthdate.
    • Specify the grade level the child will be in.
    • Indicate the child's race (optional).
    • List the last school attended by the child.
    • Provide the child's Social Security Number (optional).
    • Mark the child's gender.
  2. Parent/Guardian Information:
    • Print the name of the parent or guardian.
    • Fill in the mailing address, including number, street, city, state, and zip code.
    • If the street address is different, provide that information as well.
    • Enter home, work, and cell phone numbers.
    • Optionally, provide an email address.
  3. Understanding and Agreement:
    • Read the statement about understanding the provisions of the Florida Statutes and school district policies.
    • Initial the designated space to confirm understanding.
    • Sign the form as the parent or guardian.
    • Write the date of signing.
    • Indicate the date your home education program will begin.
  4. Additional Information:
    • If you have any comments, write them in the additional comments section.
    • Send the completed form to Jan Tobias at the address provided.

After filling out the form, double-check all your entries for accuracy. Once confirmed, submit it to the designated address. This will help ensure a smooth start to your homeschooling journey.

Your Questions, Answered

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.

Common mistakes

  1. Failing to provide accurate information about the child's name, birthdate, or grade. Each detail must be correct to ensure proper record-keeping.

  2. Omitting the parent or guardian's name. This section is crucial for identifying who is responsible for the home education program.

  3. Not including a mailing address. This information is necessary for communication and record purposes.

  4. Forgetting to sign and date the form. A signature is essential to validate the intent to homeschool.

  5. Leaving out the start date of the program. This date is important for tracking the beginning of the home education process.

  6. Providing incomplete contact information. Ensure that home, work, and cell phone numbers are included for effective communication.

  7. Neglecting to read the provisions of Sections 1002.41 and related policies. Understanding these regulations is vital for compliance.

Documents used along the form

When you decide to homeschool in Florida, submitting the Intent to Homeschool form is just the beginning. Along with this form, there are several other documents that you may need to prepare or submit. Each of these plays a crucial role in ensuring that your homeschooling journey is compliant with state regulations and that your child receives a quality education. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents in conjunction with the Intent to Homeschool Florida form.

  • Educational Plan: This document outlines the curriculum and educational goals for your child’s homeschooling year. It should detail subjects to be taught, instructional methods, and any resources you plan to use.
  • Portfolio of Student Work: A collection of your child’s work and assessments throughout the year. This may include tests, essays, projects, and other assignments that demonstrate their progress and learning.
  • Progress Evaluation Reports: These reports are typically conducted annually and assess your child's academic progress. They can be prepared by a certified teacher or through standardized testing.
  • Notification of Termination: If you decide to discontinue homeschooling, this form notifies the school district of your intent to terminate the home education program. It is essential for keeping your records accurate.
  • Withdrawal Form from Public School: If your child was previously enrolled in a public school, this form is necessary to officially withdraw them from the school system before beginning homeschooling.
  • Attendance Records: Keeping track of your child’s attendance is important. This document should outline the days your child was engaged in educational activities, as required by Florida law.
  • Course Descriptions: If you are using specific curricula, providing descriptions of each course can help clarify the educational content and objectives for your child’s learning.
  • Health and Immunization Records: While not always required, maintaining these records can be important for future schooling options or if your child needs to enroll in a public school later.

Being well-prepared with these documents can significantly ease the homeschooling process. Each form serves a specific purpose and helps ensure that your educational program meets state requirements while providing a solid foundation for your child's learning. Stay organized and keep these documents updated to facilitate a smooth homeschooling experience.

Similar forms

The Intent To Homeschool Florida form serves as a critical document for families wishing to establish a home education program. Its structure and purpose share similarities with several other important educational documents. Here’s a look at ten such documents:

  • Application for Charter School: Like the Intent to Homeschool form, this application requires parents to provide detailed information about their child and the educational approach they plan to take. Both documents are essential for compliance with state education laws.
  • Private School Enrollment Form: This form, similar in its need for student information and parental consent, is used when enrolling a child in a private educational institution. Both documents ensure that parents are aware of the educational framework their child will be part of.
  • Student Registration Form: Used by public schools, this form collects information about the student, including demographics and previous schooling. It mirrors the Intent to Homeschool in its goal of gathering necessary data for educational records.
  • Notice of Intent to Withdraw: Parents must submit this document when removing a child from public school to homeschool. It shares the same intent of informing educational authorities about a change in a child’s educational status.
  • Educational Plan Form: This document outlines the curriculum and educational goals for a child being homeschooled. Like the Intent to Homeschool, it is crucial for ensuring compliance with state regulations.
  • Annual Assessment Form: This form is used to report a student's progress in a homeschooling program. It relates to the Intent to Homeschool as both documents emphasize accountability in education.
  • Scholarship Application: When applying for educational scholarships, parents provide detailed information about their child’s academic performance and background. This resembles the Intent to Homeschool in its focus on the student’s educational journey.
  • IEP (Individualized Education Program): For students with special needs, this document outlines specific educational goals and services. It parallels the Intent to Homeschool by ensuring that educational needs are formally recognized and addressed.
  • Transfer Request Form: This is submitted when a student moves from one school to another. Similar to the Intent to Homeschool, it notifies educational authorities of a change in the student’s educational setting.
  • Extracurricular Activity Participation Form: This form is required for homeschooled students wishing to join school sports or clubs. It shares the same purpose of ensuring that homeschooled children have opportunities for social and educational engagement.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in the educational landscape, ensuring that students receive the necessary support and oversight, whether they are being homeschooled or enrolled in traditional educational settings.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Intent To Homeschool Florida form, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are seven things you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do read the form carefully before starting to fill it out.
  • Do provide accurate information for each section, including your child’s name and birthdate.
  • Do include your contact information, ensuring it is up-to-date.
  • Do initial where indicated to confirm your understanding of the requirements.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; incomplete forms may delay processing.
  • Don't provide false information; honesty is crucial for compliance.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.

Following these guidelines will help ensure that your Intent To Homeschool form is completed correctly and submitted without issues. Your commitment to providing a home education is commendable, and attention to detail will support your efforts.

Misconceptions

When considering homeschooling in Florida, there are several misconceptions surrounding the Intent To Homeschool form. Understanding these can help parents navigate the process more smoothly. Here are four common misconceptions:

  • Misconception 1: The form is overly complicated.
  • Many parents believe that the Intent To Homeschool form is filled with complex legal language and requirements. In reality, the form is straightforward and designed to gather essential information about the child and the parent. It primarily serves as a notice to the school district, ensuring compliance with state laws.

  • Misconception 2: Submitting the form guarantees a high school diploma.
  • Some families think that by submitting the Intent To Homeschool form, their child will automatically receive a high school diploma. However, it’s important to note that neither Lake County Schools Home Education nor Florida Virtual School awards diplomas. Parents must take additional steps to ensure their child meets graduation requirements.

  • Misconception 3: The information requested is invasive.
  • Parents often feel that the details requested, such as race and gender, are intrusive. However, this information is collected solely for statistical purposes by the Florida Department of Education. It does not affect the approval of the homeschooling program.

  • Misconception 4: The form must be submitted in person.
  • There’s a belief that the Intent To Homeschool form must be delivered in person to the school district. In fact, parents can submit the form via mail, fax, or possibly even email, depending on the district's policies. This flexibility helps accommodate various schedules and situations.

Key takeaways

Filling out the Intent To Homeschool Florida form is a crucial step for parents looking to establish a home education program. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Understand the Legal Requirement: This form serves as a written notice required by Florida law under Section 1002.41.
  • Provide Accurate Information: Ensure that all information, including your child's name, birthdate, and grade, is filled out accurately.
  • Optional Information: While the Social Security Number (SSN) and email address are optional, providing them can help with communication and record-keeping.
  • Know the Purpose of Demographics: The request for your child's race and sex is for statistical purposes only, as mandated by the Florida Department of Education.
  • Initial Acknowledgment: Make sure to initial the section confirming that you understand the provisions of the relevant Florida statutes and local school district policies.
  • Signature and Date: Don’t forget to sign and date the form, along with noting when your home education program will begin.
  • Send to the Right Place: Submit the completed form to the designated contact, ensuring it reaches the Student Services at the specified address.

By following these guidelines, parents can navigate the process of establishing a home education program with greater confidence and clarity.