Want to homeschool in Louisiana? The Pelican State requires yearly approval. Apply through BESE (Board of Elementary and Secondary Education). Once approved, you have flexibility. No testing required.
Overall, Louisiana is a moderate state for homeschooling. The paperwork is manageable. In fact, thousands of families here teach their kids at home successfully.
This guide covers everything you need to know. Let’s walk through the steps together.
Why Homeschool in Louisiana?
Louisiana has a strong homeschool community. The laws are moderate. You need approval but have real freedom. Here’s why families love it:
- No testing required – Skip standardized tests if you prefer
- Curriculum freedom – Choose any materials you want
- No hour requirements – Set your own schedule
- No teaching credentials – Any parent can teach
- No home visits – The state stays out of your home
- Strong community – Active co-ops across the state
- College access – Dual enrollment available statewide
In contrast, states like New York or Pennsylvania require more testing and oversight. However, in Louisiana you apply once and renew yearly. That’s it.
Louisiana Homeschool Laws at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal with BESE approval |
| Application Deadline | By September 1 |
| Renewal Window | August 1 to October 1 |
| Required Subjects | Core subjects (see below) |
| Testing | Not required |
| Compulsory Ages | 7 to 18 years old |
Step-by-Step: Starting Your Louisiana Homeschool
Getting started is simple. First, just follow these steps below.
Step 1: Submit Your Application
First, find the application on the Louisiana Department of Education website. Then, complete all fields. Submit before September 1. Remember, earlier is better.
Your application should include:
- Your child’s name and age
- Your contact information
- Statement about providing quality education
- Subjects you plan to teach
Fortunately, the form is straightforward. Typically, it takes about 20 minutes to complete online.
Step 2: Receive Approval
Next, wait for confirmation from the Department. This usually takes a few weeks. Meanwhile, keep your documentation safe. You’ll need it for your records.
Step 3: Withdraw from Public School
If your child attends public school, notify them immediately. Write a letter stating you’re withdrawing. Then, show your approval documentation. Importantly, do this after getting approved.
Step 4: Choose Your Curriculum
Now, pick materials that fit your family’s goals. Importantly, the state doesn’t require specific curriculum. Therefore, teach what you want. Simply use what works.
Popular options include:
- Boxed curriculum (all subjects in one package)
- Mix and match from different publishers
- Free online resources
- Library books and local materials
- Online programs and video courses
Start simple. After all, you can always add more later.
Step 5: Create Your Schedule
Make a schedule that works for you. No required hours. No required days. You decide how to structure your year.
For example, some families follow a traditional schedule. Meanwhile, others school year-round with breaks. Ultimately, find what fits your family’s rhythm.
Step 6: Connect with Local Groups
Finally, join homeschool groups for support and fun. Many co-ops offer group classes, field trips, and sports. As a result, your kids will make friends. Additionally, you’ll get advice from experienced parents.
Required Subjects for Louisiana Homeschool
Louisiana requires instruction in core subjects. Your program should include:
- English language arts – Reading, writing, and spelling
- Mathematics – Basic skills through advanced math
- Science – How the world works
- Social studies – History, geography, civics
- Health and PE – Keeping kids active and healthy
Additionally, add art, music, or languages based on your child’s interests. Basically, the state cares about subjects, not how you teach them. Therefore, you choose all materials and methods.
Planning for college? First, check what schools require. Most expect four years of English and math. Furthermore, they want science and social studies. Therefore, plan your high school courses around these needs.
Not college-bound? Instead, focus on practical skills. Trade schools value hands-on experience. Consequently, the flexibility here lets you prepare kids for any path.
Louisiana Annual Renewal Process
Renew your approval every year. The window is August 1 to October 1. Don’t miss this deadline!
Acceptable evidence for renewal includes:
- Work samples from your child
- Curriculum documentation
- Activity logs showing what you did
- Progress notes on learning achievements
- Test scores (if you tested, but not required)
Therefore, keep records throughout the year. Renewal is easier when you document as you go. For instance, a simple binder works great. Just update it monthly.
What Louisiana Does NOT Require
Here is good news! You don’t need:
- Specific curriculum approval
- Public school schedules
- Standardized testing
- Specific hour requirements
- Teaching credentials or degrees
- Home inspections or visits
You have real flexibility. Apply, renew, and teach your way.
Louisiana Homeschool Record Keeping
The law requires evidence for renewal. However, keeping good records helps you too. Essentially, good records track progress. They also make renewal easier.
Records to consider keeping:
- Attendance log showing days of instruction
- Curriculum list for each year
- Work samples from each subject
- Field trips and activities
- Reading logs and books completed
- Progress notes on learning
Moreover, digital records work great. Take photos of projects. Then, create folders on your computer. Also, backup everything to the cloud. Digital records take less space and are easy to share.
Specifically, organize by subject and year. Label files clearly. Save samples from every subject. Then, include dated work to show progress over time. For example, many families use apps like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Finally, keep records for at least two years after graduation. Colleges sometimes request additional documentation. Similarly, you may need transcripts for scholarships or employment verification.
Louisiana Homeschool Options
You have several ways to structure your homeschool. Each offers different benefits.
BESE-Approved Home Study
Most families use this path. Simply apply for approval. Then, teach at home. Renew annually. As a result, you get maximum flexibility. You choose everything.
Approved Non-Public School
Alternatively, some private schools allow home-based instruction. They provide oversight. Moreover, they handle state requirements. As a result, less paperwork for you.
Umbrella Programs
Additionally, some organizations offer administrative support. They help with applications. Furthermore, they assist with record keeping. They also manage renewals. However, fees vary by program.
Homeschool Co-ops
Co-ops let families share teaching. Parents take turns leading classes. Kids learn together and make friends.
Co-ops in Louisiana offer:
- Science labs with equipment
- Writing and language classes
- Art and music instruction
- Sports and PE programs
- Foreign language instruction
Of course, co-ops cost money. Fees range from $50 to several hundred per semester. However, the benefits are worth it for many families.
Louisiana High School and Graduation
You set your own graduation rules. You create your own diploma. The state doesn’t issue homeschool diplomas.
Creating Transcripts
For college applications, you need a transcript. Include:
- Course titles and descriptions
- Credits earned (1 credit per full-year course)
- Grades or pass/fail marks
- Cumulative GPA
- Graduation date
College Admission
Louisiana colleges welcome homeschoolers. LSU, Tulane, UNO, and others accept homeschool graduates. Most want:
- ACT or SAT scores
- High school transcript
- Course descriptions
- Letters of recommendation
Therefore, contact admissions early. Ask what they need from homeschooled students. Fortunately, many colleges have homeschool liaisons who guide families through the process. Ideally, start this conversation by junior year.
Importantly, Louisiana TOPS scholarships apply to homeschoolers. Simply meet the requirements. Then, your student can qualify for state aid. The program covers tuition costs. Therefore, research eligibility early. Start planning in ninth grade.
Dual Enrollment
High school students can take college classes. This saves money and gives a head start. Louisiana colleges welcome homeschoolers.
Popular dual enrollment options:
- Louisiana State University – Baton Rouge area
- University of New Orleans – New Orleans metro
- Louisiana Tech University – Ruston area
- Bossier Parish Community College – Northwest Louisiana
- Delgado Community College – New Orleans area
Generally, students usually start at age 16. Call admissions to learn their requirements. Interestingly, some accept younger students with high test scores.
Benefits of dual enrollment:
- Earn college credits while in high school
- Get used to college before going full-time
- Save thousands on tuition costs
- Strengthen college applications
- Access labs and equipment homeschools lack
Louisiana Homeschool Resources
State Organizations
- HSLDA Louisiana Page – Legal requirements and support
- Louisiana Department of Education – Official applications and info
Regional Support Groups
Fortunately, active homeschool groups exist across the state. They offer co-ops, field trips, and social events.
- New Orleans Metro – Multiple large organizations
- Baton Rouge Area – Capital region networks
- Lafayette/Acadiana – South Louisiana groups
- Shreveport/Bossier – Northwest Louisiana
- Lake Charles Area – Southwest Louisiana
Additionally, search Facebook for local groups. Most areas have at least one. Moreover, experienced parents love helping newcomers.
Louisiana Homeschool Special Situations
Students with Special Needs
Notably, homeschooling works great for kids with special needs. You control the pace. You choose the methods. Furthermore, you adjust based on what works.
Benefits for special needs families:
- Go as fast or slow as your child needs
- Use materials made for different learning styles
- Hire private therapists and tutors
- Set goals that fit your child
Additionally, some public school services may apply. Ask about Child Find for evaluations. Also, contact your local district about available therapies.
Military Families
New to Louisiana? First, submit your application quickly. While waiting for approval, keep your previous state documentation. Then, show continuity of education. Typically, the transition is smooth.
Working Parents
Surprisingly, many families homeschool with working parents. Flexible scheduling helps. Online curricula can work independently. Additionally, co-op participation fills gaps. Yes, it takes planning. However, many families make it work.
For instance, consider evening and weekend lessons. Grandparents can help during the day. Similarly, older siblings can assist younger ones. Some parents split teaching duties. Ultimately, find a routine that fits your schedule.
Louisiana Homeschool FAQ
What if I miss the renewal deadline?
The window is August 1 to October 1. If you miss it, contact the Department right away. Arrange late renewal. Don’t let your approval lapse.
Do I need approval before withdrawing?
Yes. Get your approval first. Then withdraw from public school. This prevents any truancy issues.
Is standardized testing required?
No. Louisiana doesn’t require testing. Some families test anyway. It’s your choice entirely.
Can homeschoolers play school sports?
This varies by district. Some allow participation. Contact your local school to ask about their policies.
Do I need a teaching degree?
No. Louisiana has no qualification requirements. Any parent can homeschool their children.
Start Your Louisiana Homeschool Journey Today
Ready to start? Here’s your action plan:
- Submit your BESE application online
- Wait for approval confirmation
- Withdraw from public school (if needed)
- Pick a curriculum that fits your family
- Set up your learning space
- Join a local homeschool group
- Start teaching!
Admittedly, Louisiana’s approval process takes some paperwork. However, it’s manageable. Once approved, you have freedom. You’ve got this!
Furthermore, the homeschool community here is welcoming. Connect with other families for support. Also, join co-ops for social opportunities. Your kids will thrive with your dedicated teaching.
Thousands of Louisiana families homeschool successfully. You can too. Start simple. Then, learn as you go. Adjust what doesn’t work. Above all, trust yourself and your instincts. You know your child better than anyone else does.
Related State Guides
Curious about nearby states? Check out our guides:
- How to Homeschool in Texas – Maximum freedom state
- How to Homeschool in Mississippi – Simple certificate process
- How to Homeschool in Arkansas – Low-regulation approach
- How to Homeschool in Alabama – Church school option
Each state has different rules. Compare them to find the best fit for your family. Moving between states? Research requirements before you go.
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