Guide to Homeschooling in South Carolina

Resources

Homeschool Laws and Requirements In South Carolina

RECORD KEEPING

While not all states require detailed record-keeping, it is always a good idea to keep records of attendance, assignments, grades, progress reports, and anything else that could be useful should laws change, you decide to move to a new state, or you decide to enroll your children in a public or private school.

Power Homeschool offers an online parent portal that allows parents to easily download any documents that they may need to prove that they are following laws in whichever state they live.

SOUTH CAROLINA STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENTS

In South Carolina, homeschool students will need to take state tests determined by their grade level. These tests must be administered by a certified school district employee. Your child can take these tests with other students from a public school, or you can make special arrangements to have your child take the test at their place of instruction. Parents are required to pay any fees associated with these tests and the administrator.

SOUTH CAROLINA HOMESCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Parents who homeschool their children in South Carolina should begin to explore their student’s next step earlier than children do in public schools. Look into specific colleges, technical schools, and potential employers and what their requirements are for student admission or eligibility.

Since homeschools set their own graduation requirements, you can tailor your child’s education to their unique needs and desires for their post-graduation life. Diplomas are issued by the homeschool, so parents are free to provide a diploma for their student once they have reached the graduation requirements.

Resources

Homeschool Support & Groups in South Carolina

The level of support for homeschooling families has dramatically increased in recent years. The resources and support groups in South Carolina can make getting started a lot easier for many families.

South Carolina is home to numerous homeschool associations, co-ops, and support groups.

Homeschool accountability groups are common in South Carolina because some families choose to homeschool their children under these organizations. With around 40 different homeschool accountability groups in the state, there is bound to be one that your family jives well with. These groups often have membership fees and require families to fill out applications.

In addition to homeschool accountability groups, the state is also home to a number of support groups and co-ops. These groups can help families with homeschooling support, legal advice, resources, and other information. Here are a few options:

• Greenville Homeschoolers Directory
• Homeschool Hangouts Columbia, South Carolina
• Homeschooling in York County
• Homeschooling in Aiken
• Homeschoolers of Pickens County
• Lancaster Area Homeschoolers
• Legacy Christian Home Schools
• Lowcountry Homeschoolers
• Myrtle Beach Homeschooler
• South Carolina Homeschooling Connection
• Upstate SC Homeschool Connect

Usually created by parents, these networks allow parents to share information, advice, and resources. Homeschool support groups may offer regular activities for parents and students, such as field trips, book clubs, and other special events.

Co-ops are typically more focused on academics; they may offer weekly learning opportunities. In co-ops, parents often alternate teaching either general subjects or have a more specific focus like STEM or fine arts.

Both types of groups can help you educate your child based on their age and interests. Family values often come into play as well. While many groups are secular, others are based on religious beliefs.

Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!

Here are a few of the field trip options you might wish to participate in with your student in South Carolina.

NORTHERN SOUTH CAROLINA

• Roper Mountain Science Center in Greenville: Taking a field trip to the Roper Mountain Science Center allows students to learn about animals, planets, and more.
• North Myrtle Beach Historical Museum in North Myrtle Beach: The North Myrtle Beach Historical Museum features art and historical pieces from the area. You can even become a member of the museum for free admission to the museum and a discounted rate for ticketed events.
• Alligator Adventure in North Myrtle Beach: Known as the “Reptile Capital of the World,” Alligator Adventure is home to some of the fiercest reptiles in the world. In addition to reptiles, there are mammals, amphibians, and birds at this park.
• Ninety Six National Historic Site in Ninety Six: Visit an old Revolutionary War site at Ninety Six National Historic Site. Entrance to the park is free, and the park is open from Wednesday to Sunday each week.
• Cowpens National Battlefield in Chesnee: The Cowpens National Battlefield is regarded as the location of the only successful double envelopment in the American Revolution. This is the place where Daniel Morgan overtook the British army. Take a guided walk through the battlefield and see the Historic Green River Road.

COASTAL SOUTH CAROLINA

• Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston: Take your students on a tour through the Gibbes Museum of Art where they can see works from the eighteenth century through the present day. There are even classes available and an activity-filled area that is free to the public.
• Powder Magazine in Charleston: The Powder Magazine is the oldest government building in the state. Completed in 1713, the building was used as an arsenal for 45 years. The building was also used during the American Revolution. Now, it is a museum where you can explore military history in Charleston.
• South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston: The South Carolina Aquarium offers daily programs and tours. At the aquarium, you can watch feedings and learn about the animals at the aquarium.
• Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach: At Ripley’s Aquarium, you can interact with stingrays and view all kinds of sea creatures, including various species of jellyfish, turtles, eels, and sharks.

CENTRAL SOUTH CAROLINA

• EdVenture Columbia in Columbia: The interactive exhibits at EdVenture Columbia are designed to spark imagination and excite children of all ages. Many of the exhibits at EdVenture are geared around STEM fields. The seasonal exhibits change frequently, meaning that each trip you can experience something completely new.
• Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia: Explore various animal exhibits and zipline through the zoo at the Riverbanks Zoo. There is also a botanical garden and ropes course.
• Hitchcock Woods in Aiken: The 2100-acre longleaf pine forest is home to trails that hikers, runners, and equestrians use. The woods are also home to the Aiken Horse Show in each April and the Festival of the Woods each September.