Home education programs (also known as homeschooling) are programs where the education of the student is directed by the parent or guardian or such person having legal custody of the child or children. 

All children from the age of six (6) through the age of eighteen (18) must comply with compulsory school attendance requirements. To meet these requirements, parents must ensure that their child between the ages of 6 and 18 is attending or participating in one of the following: a public elementary, middle, or high school; a public charter or cyber-charter school; a private licensed academic or private religious school; home tutoring by a certified teacher; or an approved program of homeschooling. Children may be excused from compulsory attendance for documented medical or other compelling reasons as outlined in district attendance policy and procedures.

Getting Started:

A home education program is commenced by the submission of a notarized affidavit to Dr. Amanda Benolken, Director of Education, at Email Amanda Benolken, in the student’s district of residence, by the home education supervisor (parent, guardian or person having legal custody of the child). Access further information in our informational packet:

The affidavit covers the school year (July 1 – June 30) and must be submitted to the district no later than August 1 of each school year a child is homeschooled. The exception is the first year a student is homeschooled; that year the home education program may begin at any time, as soon as an affidavit and supporting documentation is submitted.

During the school year, the supervisor maintains a portfolio of records and materials, demonstrating that an appropriate education is occurring.

A written evaluation of the home education program must be submitted by the home education supervisor to Dr. Amanda Benolken, Director of Education, at Email Amanda Benolken in the student’s district of residence no later than June 30 for the closing school year.

The evaluation by a qualified home education evaluator is to be based on an interview of the student and a review of the portfolio; it must state whether an appropriate education has occurred for the student for the closing school year.

Additional information can be found at the PA Department of Education, Home Education and Private Tutoring Website