Please note, this is not intended as legal advice. This is for informational purposes only and should you choose to Homeschool in South Carolina then you need to double check the South Carolina Department of Education website for current regulations.
South Carolina has three options when it comes to homeschool:
- Option 1: Homeschooling through the school district
- Option 2: Homeschooling through the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools
- Option 3: Homeschooling through a SC Accountability Association
All three options must adhere to these guidelines:
- Parents or guardians must handle the majority of the guidance for the curriculum instruction
- Parents or guardians must have a minimum of a GED as educational credentials
- Core curriculum should include math, science, history and reading (in 1st-6th grade) or literature (for grades 7-12) and writing (grades 1-6) or composition (grades 7-12)
- Homeschool instruction should occur at least 180 days of the year
Families that choose Option 1 must:
Families choosing to homeschool through option one agree to have their local school district approve their choice of curriculum as well as their methods of evaluation.
- Obtain approval from their local school district regarding their choice of curriculum and methods of evaluation.
- Eligible first graders must take a test to determine their readiness for first grade instruction
- Yearly standardized testing is required of all students, and failure to meet minimum standards can result in additional instructional requirements
- Homeschool record keeping must include a portfolio of subjects and activities covered throughout the year, samples of academic work, and a record of evaluations of the student’s progress.
Families that choose Option 2 must:
- Enroll with the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS)
- SCAIHS is a faith-based organization that oversees accountability of and keeps records for all homeschoolers who enroll with it.
- Membership costs for this option can range from $350-$450 per child, plus additional application and other fees.
- SCAIHS requires annual testing for children in grades 3-11 and also expects parents to keep attendance records and progress reports for each student.
- In return, membership in the organization provides families with permanent records for each student, including transcripts for high schoolers and a diploma upon graduation.
- Services for students with special needs are available as well.
Families that choose Option 3:
In lieu of operating under Option One (homeschooling through the school district) or Option Two (homeschooling through SCAIHS), South Carolina homeschool options include a third one: homeschooling under an accountability association.
South Carolina has approximately 40 homeschool accountability associations. Every association will have at least minor differences, so it’s important to research your options and choose the one that best fits your family’s needs and goals for homeschooling. The South Carolina Department of Education provides a list of 3rd option homeschool associations to help you get started on your research.
The best way to stay on top of changes in homeschool regulations is to connect with other local homeschoolers in South Carolina.
South Carolina Secular Homeschool Groups
Hometown Homeschool Association of South Carolina (HHASC)
“Hometown Homeschool Association of South Carolina (HHASC) is a secular, internet based option 3 homeschool association for South Carolina residents. We accept enrollment applications year-round.”
N.I.C.H.E. The Network of Inclusive Coastal Home Educators
“This is a Myrtle Beach to Pawley’s Island Home Schooling Support Group.N.I.C.H.E. is a diverse support group of home educating families tolerant of all members’ differences, be they religious, educational or political in nature. Thus we are inclusive and welcoming to all who desire to educate their own children in an atmosphere of mutual respect, tolerance and fun.”
This group is “located in Irmo, S.C., is a leading homeschool support group committed to quality high-level secular education and to developing a dedicated inclusive homeschool community.”
Secular Unschoolers of South Carolina
“This is an online discussion/support group for unschoolers in South Carolina. We have no religious affiliation, and all are welcome. We can share ideas, resources, and support to help one another in our unschool journeys.”
South Carolina Secular Homeschoolers
“Just a place to share secular homeschool resources and activities and to meet other secular homeschoolers in the area. Our mission to create a safe space to offer support and community to homeschoolers who do not educate from a religious point of view.”
