Want to learn how to homeschool in Nevada? Great choice! The Silver State makes it remarkably simple. Just file one notice each year. Then pick your own curriculum. Best of all, no testing is required. As a result, Nevada gives you real freedom to teach your way.
This guide covers everything you need to start homeschooling in Nevada. Specifically, you’ll learn the filing steps, required subjects, and where to find help.
Nevada Homeschool Laws at a Glance
Fortunately, Nevada’s rules are simple and respect your freedom. In fact, the state trusts parents to teach their kids well.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal with notice required |
| Notification | Required annually before starting instruction |
| Subjects Required | Math, language, science, social studies, plus more by grade |
| Testing/Assessment | Not required |
| Record Keeping | Required (educational records) |
| Compulsory Age | 7-18 years old |
Step-by-Step: How to Start Homeschooling in Nevada
Getting started is easy. Simply follow these steps and you’ll be teaching in no time.
Step 1: File Your Notice of Intent
First, send a written notice to your school district. Do this before you start teaching. Then file it again each year.
Specifically, your notice should include:
- Your child’s name, age, and address
- Your name as the parent or guardian
- A statement that you will teach your child
Nevada has no standard form. Therefore, write your own letter or use a template. Many homeschool groups have free templates online. Additionally, keep a copy for your records. Send it by certified mail if you want proof of delivery.
Step 2: Pick Your Curriculum
Next, choose materials that cover the required subjects. You have total freedom in what you use. In other words, Nevada doesn’t tell you which books to buy.
Think about your child’s learning style. For example, some kids love workbooks. Others learn better with videos or hands-on projects. Try different things until you find what works.
Popular options include:
- Boxed programs – Abeka, Sonlight, or BJU Press give you everything in one package
- Online schools – Time4Learning or Khan Academy for screen-based learning
- Library books – Free resources add up fast
- Unit studies – Cover many subjects through one topic
- Charlotte Mason – Living books and nature study
- Classical – Grammar, logic, and rhetoric stages
You can mix and match. For instance, use one program for math and another for reading. Similarly, change things mid-year if something isn’t working. After all, Nevada gives you that freedom.
Step 3: Keep Good Records
Nevada asks you to keep educational records. Importantly, this is for your benefit too. Good records show your child’s progress over time.
What to save:
- Copy of your annual notice
- List of curriculum you use
- Samples of your child’s work
- Attendance log or daily notes
- Books read and field trips taken
Keep records for several years. They help with college applications. Furthermore, they also matter if your child ever returns to public school. Store them in a binder or folder where you can find them fast.
Step 4: Join the Community
Finally, find other homeschool families near you. Nevada has active groups from Las Vegas to Reno. Other families offer tips, support, and friendship.
Groups often run:
- Co-op classes where parents share teaching
- Field trips to local museums and parks
- Sports teams and PE groups
- Park days and social events
Facebook is great for finding local groups. Simply search for your city plus “homeschool.” As a result, you’ll find friends fast.
Required Subjects in Nevada
Nevada law lists subjects you must teach. Notably, more get added as your child grows older.
All Grade Levels
- Math – Numbers, computation, problem-solving
- Language Arts – Reading, writing, spelling
- Science – Physical, life, and earth science
- Social Studies – History, geography, civics
Added by Grade
- Grade 2 and up: Health
- Grade 7 and up: Computer skills
You decide how to teach these subjects. For example, use textbooks. Alternatively, watch videos, do projects, or visit museums. Ultimately, the method is up to you.
Testing in Nevada
Great news: Nevada doesn’t require tests. Instead, you decide how to check your child’s progress.
However, some families test anyway. It helps spot gaps in learning. Popular tests include:
- Iowa Assessment
- Stanford Achievement Test
- CAT test
For high school, think about the SAT or ACT. Colleges want to see these scores. Therefore, start prep in 10th or 11th grade. Many test prep programs work well for homeschoolers. As a bonus, you can study at your own pace.
Homeschool Options in Nevada
Option 1: Teach on Your Own
Most Nevada families homeschool solo. Simply file your notice, pick your curriculum, and teach at home. You have full control.
This works great if you want flexibility. You set the schedule. You choose the pace. Moreover, you pick every book and resource.
Option 2: Join a Co-op
Alternatively, co-ops bring families together. Parents take turns teaching. As a result, kids learn in groups for some subjects.
Las Vegas and Reno have many co-ops. They offer science labs, art, foreign languages, and more. This way, your child stays homeschooled but gets group learning too.
Option 3: Use Online Programs
Online schools offer structure. Some are full programs. Others offer single courses. Use them for hard subjects or to save time.
Many families mix online and home teaching. This way, your child gets variety. Meanwhile, you get a break from teaching everything.
Option 4: Join an Umbrella School
Some private schools support homeschoolers. Essentially, they handle paperwork and records. You still teach at home. Consequently, this option works if you want less admin work.
Field Trips in Nevada
Nevada is full of learning spots. In fact, you can turn field trips into school days!
Here are great places to visit:
- Discovery Children’s Museum – Hands-on science in Las Vegas
- Nevada State Museum – History in Carson City
- Hoover Dam – Engineering and history combined
- Great Basin National Park – Nature and geology
- Lake Tahoe – Science and outdoor fun
- Ghost towns – Mining history comes alive
Many museums offer homeschool days. Additionally, groups get discounts. Check their websites for special programs.
Nevada Homeschool Resources
State Groups
- HSLDA Nevada – Legal help and support
- Nevada Department of Education – Official state info
- Nevada Homeschool Network – Statewide support and resources
Regional Groups
Find help in your area:
- Las Vegas and Henderson – Many large groups and co-ops
- Reno-Sparks – Active northern Nevada community
- Carson City – Local homeschool groups
- Rural Nevada – Online networks connect families across miles
Libraries
Nevada libraries welcome homeschoolers. In fact, many run special programs. The Las Vegas-Clark County Library has great resources. Ask your librarian what’s available. Ultimately, free resources add up fast!
Special Situations
Leaving Public School
Taking your child out of public school? First, tell the school you’re starting homeschool. Then file your notice with the district. After that, you can start teaching right away.
Get copies of your child’s records before you leave. Ask for grades, test scores, and any special reports. These help you plan where to begin.
Don’t feel rushed. Take a week to settle in. Let your child adjust. In fact, many families start with light days at first. Then they build up to a full schedule.
High School and Graduation
You give your teen their diploma. Similarly, you set the graduation rules. Next, create a transcript that lists all courses and grades.
For college-bound students:
- Keep detailed course descriptions
- Track activities and volunteer work
- Take the SAT or ACT
- Build a strong transcript from 9th grade on
Colleges accept homeschool graduates. They see self-motivated students who can work on their own. In fact, many Nevada homeschoolers get into great schools. Your teen can too.
Special Needs
You can homeschool kids with special needs in Nevada. You won’t get public school services. However, you can hire private therapists and tutors.
Many parents find their kids thrive at home. You control the pace. You pick the methods. No one rushes your child. As a result, the one-on-one attention makes a big difference.
Look for curriculum made for different learning styles. For instance, some programs work well for dyslexia, ADHD, or autism. Remember, you know your child best.
Driver’s Education
Nevada homeschoolers can get driver’s ed through private schools. Alternatively, parents can also teach driving in Nevada. Check with the DMV for current rules. Many driving schools offer flexible schedules for homeschoolers.
Military Families
Moving to Nevada for military duty? Nellis Air Force Base and others bring many families here. Fortunately, starting your homeschool is easy. Just file your notice with the district.
Military families love homeschooling because it stays the same when you move. Keep good records of everything. After all, your next base may have different rules.
Dual Enrollment
Nevada teens can take college classes while homeschooling. Community colleges welcome homeschool students.
Options include:
- College of Southern Nevada
- Truckee Meadows Community College
- Western Nevada College
Your teen earns college credit early. This saves money later. Additionally, it challenges advanced learners.
Working Parents
Can you homeschool and work? Yes! Many Nevada families do both. Of course, it takes planning, but it works.
Tips for working parents:
- Teach mornings or evenings
- Use online programs kids can do solo
- Share teaching with family members
- Join a co-op for group days
- Hire a tutor for some subjects
- Work from home when possible
Many working parents use a mix of methods. For example, older kids can work more on their own. On the other hand, younger kids need more hands-on time. Find what fits your family’s schedule.
Homeschooling is flexible. That’s exactly why it works for so many families.
Tips for New Nevada Homeschoolers
Starting out? Here are tips that help:
- Start slow – Don’t buy everything at once. Try a few things first.
- Be flexible – What works for one child may not work for another.
- Take breaks – Go outside. Take field trips. Learning happens everywhere.
- Trust yourself – You know your child. You can do this.
- Connect with others – Join a local group for support and friendship.
The first year is the hardest. Give yourself grace. However, things get easier with time. By year two, you’ll feel like a pro.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I file my notice of intent?
File before you start teaching. Then do it again each school year. There’s no set deadline. Most families file at the start of each year.
Does Nevada require testing?
No. Nevada doesn’t require any tests. You may test if you want to. However, the state doesn’t make you.
Can my child play public school sports?
Maybe! Nevada law allows homeschoolers to join some school activities. Ask your local district what they offer.
Do I need a teaching degree?
No. You don’t need any degree or certificate. Any parent can homeschool in Nevada.
How do I get a high school diploma?
You create the diploma yourself. Make a transcript showing courses and grades. Colleges and employers accept parent-issued diplomas.
Start Your Nevada Homeschool Journey Today
Nevada makes homeschooling simple. Just file one notice each year. Then pick your own curriculum. Finally, keep basic records. That’s it.
The Silver State offers real freedom. You choose what to teach. You choose how to teach it. Moreover, you set the schedule that works for your family.
From the desert around Las Vegas to the mountains near Reno, Nevada families are thriving. Join thousands of parents already homeschooling in the Silver State.
Ready to start? Write your notice of intent. Then file it with your district. Your homeschool journey begins with one simple step.
Comparing states? Check our guides for Texas, Florida, and California.
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