Resources

Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Pennsylvania

The Home School Legal Defense Association and Pennsylvania Department of Education both provide detailed information about the requirements for those considering home education. We also encourage families to reach out to homeschool associations in Pennsylvania for further information about legally homeschooling in the state.

RECORD KEEPING

Pennsylvania state laws require parents to keep detailed records. An attendance log, samples of course work, standardized test results, and annual evaluations are all important items to keep on file for each student within the homeschool.

Power Homeschool online parent portal makes it easy to keep meticulous records. Our online program tracks attendance, grades, student performance, and more, which parents can access through our easy-to-use app.

Each homeschool student in Pennsylvania must be evaluated by a qualified personel annually to make sure they are receiving an adequate education. Qualified evaluators include clinical or school psychologists, certified teachers with two years of experience, non-public school teachers or administrators with two years of experience, and other qualified individuals who are approved by the superintendent.

HOMESCHOOL STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENTS IN PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania regulations require homeschool students to participate in nationally normed standardized tests in third, fifth, and eighth grade. The standardized assessments must evaluate reading, language arts, and mathematics skills.

HOMESCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS IN PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania is one of the few states that allow homeschoolers to earn state-recognized diplomas. The graduation requirements are similar to those of their public school peers. Homeschoolers must submit an affidavit for the 12^th grade year, complete the state-mandated graduation requirements, complete an annual evaluation for the 12^th grade school year, and use the Pennsylvania Department of Education standardized diploma.

Resources

Homeschool Support & Groups in Pennsylvania

Homeschool can be very daunting for first-time home educators. Luckily, homeschoolers in Pennsylvania have access to various support networks that provide resources, advice, and events.

In addition to associations, homeschool support groups and cooperatives offer additional support and guidance. Homeschool support groups either meet in person or operate online through Facebook or other forums, providing more informal advice and allowing families to meet other homeschoolers in the area. Homeschool cooperatives or co-ops are more academic-focused and provide homeschoolers the opportunity to learn in a group setting. Homeschool co-ops can be general, focus on a particular subject, or structure lessons around religious beliefs.

There are many homeschool co-ops in Pennsylvania, so you are sure to find one that suits your family’s needs. Most homeschool groups and cooperatives have Facebook pages, so a simple search will help you find the ones in your area.

Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!

• Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh: Explore dinosaur fossils, minerals and gems, Native American artifacts and much more at one of the best natural history museums in the country. Homeschool classes are available for students of all ages to explore the natural world.
• Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh: Learn about one of the most well-known artists in American history and participate in hands-on educational programs that put Andy Warhol’s methods into practice.
• Punxsutawney Weather Discovery Center in Punxsutawney: This center is dedicated to weather science and includes exhibits about weather forecasting technology, lightning, and weather emergency readiness. Educational programs and special events are also available to visitors.
• The Franklin Institute Science Museum in Philadelphia: Named after one of America’s first inventors, Benjamin Franklin, this museum is a perfect field trip for young scientists to learn about technology, visit the observatory, and experience a flight simulator.
• National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia: Explore and celebrate the history and culture of the Jewish community in America through various exhibits, programs, and educational opportunities. This museum is sure to inspire people of all backgrounds and heritages.
• Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia: Students can tour the building where the Declaration of Independence was signed and see the Liberty Bell firsthand. The Independence National Historical Park the perfect field trip to enhance any Revolutionary War unit.
• Museum of Indian Culture in Allentown: With guided tours and educational programs, students gain a new perspective of American Indian culture throughout the western hemisphere at the Museum of Indian Culture.
• Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg: Homeschoolers can learn about the deadliest battle of the Civil War and tour the battlefield where it happened. A variety of special events are available, and Homeschool Days are held throughout the year.
• The State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg: Learn about the state’s rich history and culture with exhibits dedicated to Native Americans, Pennsylvania Icons, transportation, and much more.
• Valley Forge National Historical Park in King of Prussia: This park commemorates the sacrifices of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Ranger programs, tours, and historical tales are among the many activities available to visitors.