Please note, this is not intended as legal advice. This is for informational purposes only and should you choose to Homeschool in Arkansas then you need to double check the Arkansas Department of Education website for current regulations.
Arkansas has a low level of regulation when it comes to homeschooling.
Arkansas requires homeschoolers to follow certain steps to begin homeschooling.
1. Annually notify the local public school superintendent that you are homeschooling.
Notification consists of annually filing a written notice of intent. Notice must be filed by August 15. It is not necessary to use any particular form, or any form at all, but it’s a very good idea to use a form from a trusted source to avoid inadvertently leaving out some of the information that is required. The Arkansas Department of Education has a form available on their website.
The notice must include:
- The name, date of birth, gender and grade level of the children;
- The name and address of the school each child last attended, if any;
- The mailing address of the homeschool;
- A telephone number;
- A statement that the parents agree that they are responsible for the child’s education while the homeschool program is continuing;
- A statement of plans to participate in public school interscholastic activities (optional);
- A statement of plans to seek a GED (optional);
- The name and signature of the person providing the homeschool program.
It is important for a parent to keep documentation showing that the notice was submitted.
If you decide to begin homeschooling after the start of the year and your child is enrolled in public school, you must file the notice 5 days prior to withdrawing your child from public school.
If you move into the state or a new school district during the school year, you must file in the new district within 30 days after establishing residency there.
Fellow homeschoolers in your state are best equipped to help you navigate these regulations. Here are a few secular homeschool groups in Arkansas to connect with.
Arkansas Secular Homeschool Groups
Arkansas Secular Homeschooler’s Network
“This group is dedicated to bringing together secular homeschool families in Arkansas. From sharing resources and discussing secular curriculum, to developing co-op classes and planning social meetups, we aim to be inclusive of and accessible to all who wish to join.”
Little Rock Homeschool Playgroup
“This is an inclusive, nonsectarian, homeschooling group in the greater Little Rock area. All local homeschoolers are welcome!”
Secular Homeschoolers & Unschoolers of Central Arkansas
Secular homeschool group in Arkansas for field trips, movie dates, library activities. “A laid back group for open minded folks getting their kids together for good times.”
