Alabama home school

Guide to Homeschooling in

Pennsylvania

Whether you are new to homeschooling or are a seasoned homeschooler moving to Pennsylvania, there are some important things you should know to help you throughout your homeschool journey. Power Homeschool’s Guide to Homeschooling in Pennsylvania offers homeschoolers resources about the laws and regulations, standardized testing, support groups, and more!

Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Pennsylvania

Each state has different rules regarding a parent’s ability to homeschool their children and all the laws that they must follow.

Read More >

Homeschool Associations and Support Groups in Pennsylvania

Some of the best resources to help homeschool families be successful are homeschool associations, support groups, and co-ops.  

Read More >

How to Start Homeschooling in Pennsylvania

If you have decided that homeschool is a good fit for your family, you are probably wondering how to get started with the whole process.  

Read More >

Field Trips Available to Homeschoolers in Pennsylvania

The flexibility to go on more field trips is one of the many perks of homeschooling.  

Find out what Pennsylvania has to offer!

Read More >

Resources

Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Pennsylvania

Homeschool laws are regulated by state governments, and Pennsylvania is considered one of the most regulated states when it comes to homeschooling. Parents must consider compulsory age requirements, parent qualifications, legal paperwork, and annual evaluations.

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.

Detailed-Reports-for-Parents

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.

Exam

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.

Exam

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 12th grade year, complete the state-mandated graduation requirements, complete an annual evaluation for the 12th 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.

The Christian Homeschool Association of Pennsylvania (CHAP) is a statewide homeschool association that provides resources and information to help families throughout their homeschooling journey. The organization also provides a monthly eNewsletter, magazine, annual convention, and much more!

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!

How to Start Homeschooling in Pennsylvania

With the number of resources and support groups available in Pennsylvania, it is no wonder so many families are transitioning to home education every year. If you are considering homeschool for the first, you are probably wondering how to get started implementing an at-home education. The first step is always to do as much research as you can about the laws and regulations in the state to ensure you abide by all the rules.

In Pennsylvania, there is certain legal paperwork that you will need to fill out before you get started. You will also need to create a homeschool curriculum or select a program. Power Homeschool is an online curriculum that also provides various resources to parents and students to help them throughout their education. Learn more about how you can jump-start your homeschool journey with Power Homeschool!

Resources

Homeschool Field Trips in Pennsylvania

One of the many benefits of homeschooling is flexibility. Since homeschoolers are not confined to traditional classroom schedules, they can implement schedules that they prefer and make more time for more experiential learning. Field trips can enhance any homeschool curriculum, unit, or lesson.

    Since Pennsylvania is one of the 13 original colonies of the United States, it is rich with history, culture, and learning opportunities. The following are just a few examples of the field trips available to Pennsylvania homeschoolers:

     

    • 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.

    We hope this provides homeschool parents and students with resources and information to get started with homeschooling in Pennsylvania. If you have any questions about Power Homeschool’s online curriculum, contact us today!

     

    Disclaimer: The information provided on this web page is for general information purposes only. The information provided does not constitute legal advice and may not contain the most up-to-date information.

    Other Articles You May Be Interested In:

    5 Ways Homeschooling Can Help Children with Disabilities to Excel

    5 Ways Homeschooling Can Help Children with Disabilities to Excel

    Children with disabilities might have a hard time in traditional schools. Even with regulations in place to help these children, schools might fail to adequately meet the needs of each individual student; and that doesn’t even take into account social problems that...

    5 Reasons Why Homeschooling is Better for Some Children

    5 Reasons Why Homeschooling is Better for Some Children

    Homeschooling is becoming a popular alternative to traditional schooling. For some families, homeschooling is by far the best way for children to get an education. If you are on the fence about homeschooling your children, we know that the decision can weigh heavily...

    Why Homeschooling Is on The Rise

    Why Homeschooling Is on The Rise

    Since the 1980s, there has been a significant increase in families transitioning from traditional public or private schools to homeschooling. You may be wondering the reason for this trend, but the answer is simple – it works! Homeschooling has changed drastically...