Guide to Homeschooling in Delaware

Resources

Delaware Homeschool Laws and Requirements

The Delaware Department of Education’s (DDOE) Nonpublic School support section provides detailed information about how to legally homeschool children in Delaware and all necessary guidelines for parents.

RECORD KEEPING

Delaware does not require parents to keep records of the students’ homeschool education. However, it is always a good idea to maintain thorough records of each student’s academics, including their attendance, progress reports, and course materials. Power Homeschool’s parent portal makes recordkeeping easy. You can access all reports, download samples of coursework, and print transcripts all through an easy-to-use app. Keep these items on file will likely be needed for the student’s next steps after high school, whether they are applying to college or seeking employment.

HOMESCHOOL STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENTS IN DELAWARE

Homeschoolers in Delaware are not required to participate in standardized assessments. Some parents, however, use these test results to measure how their students are doing compared to other children in traditional schools. They can also be used to track progress and find potential gaps in the child’s knowledge. The Delaware System of Student Assessment is made up of a number of tests that students take throughout their education. In addition to the DeSSA, homeschoolers can also take the ACT or SAT, which is required if they plan to go to college after high school.

HOMESCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS IN DELAWARE

Delaware does set graduation requirements or issue diplomas for homeschool students. Rather, homeschoolers are responsible for outlining their expectations and issuing the high school diploma. We recommend establishing graduation requirements that align with your student’s plans after graduation. Contacting a college, university, trade school, or employer will ensure that your student is meeting their homeschool eligibility requirements throughout their high school education.

Resources

Homeschool Support & Groups in Delaware

Homeschool can be daunting to tackle alone. Luckily, there are plenty of tools, resources, and groups available to homeschoolers in Delaware that enhance the homeschooler process for both parents and students.

Homeschool support groups offer plenty of resources and experiences for both parents and students. Some support groups operate mainly online while others meet in person regularly. Many group offer social activities for students and various family events and field trips throughout the year. There are many different homeschool support groups in Delaware, but a few examples include:

• • • Homeschool Delaware
    • Family Learning Academy
    • FAMILIESnews

Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!

With history museums, science centers, zoos, and more, there is no shortage of field trips in Delaware. The following are only a few of the many field trip options available to homeschoolers in Delaware:

• • • New Castle Historical Society in New Castle: Made up of three museums, the New Castle Historical Society shares the history of the humble laborers that once resided here. The society’s collections include textiles, furniture, ceramics, photographs, and documents.
    • Delaware Children’s Museum in Wilmington: Young students can learn about a variety of topics through hands-on activities and interactive exhibits like the S.T.E.M. Room and The Power of Me exhibit. Special events, memberships, and field trips are also available to all visitors.
    • Brandywine Zoo in Wilmington: Explore animals from natural habitats around the world, including pandas, lions, pythons, and more! Homeschoolers can learn about conservation through camps, family programs, and special events.
    • Delaware State Capitol and Legislative Hall in Dover: Homeschoolers can discover the history, government, and culture of the state of Delaware. The capitol building also offers guided tours throughout the week.
    • Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge in Smyma: With the goal of protecting one of the largest remaining tidal salt marshes, this field trip is a great way for students to learn about nature, habitats, and wildlife species.
    • Air Mobility Command Museum in Dover: This museum houses over 30 aircraft as well as various U.S. war exhibits. Special events, summer camp, and simulators are available for students to learn about air transport, cargo haulers, bombers, and more.
    • Biggs Museum of American Art in Dover: Visitors are sure to be inspired by this art museum full of paintings, sculptures, and numerous other art forms by renowned American artists. Students can participate in group tours, education programs, and special events.
    • DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum in Fenwick Island: This unique museum aims to preserve maritime heritage throughout ever-changing exhibits and newly recovered artifacts.
    • Nanticoke Indian Museum in Millsboro: As the only Native American museum in Delaware, visitors can tour exhibits of artifacts that have been passed down from generations. Displays include arrowheads, pottery, tools, canoes, and so much more, making this a perfect field trip to learn about the indigenous tribe of Delaware.