Homeschooling in NC (Washington: how much, schools, activities)

[ArcticPhoenix]

My wife and I are in the process of deciding where we want to settle down, and I know that NC is a relatively nice state, all things considered. That said, I'd really like to know how difficult homeschooling is in the state and, more importantly, how nosy the government is in NC.

My wife homeschools our children (for academic reasons, not religious), and she wants to do this at least until our children are in high scool. What is the age for compulsory education in NC (in Washington State, it's 8), what do you have to do to homeschool, and how much of an expense is it?

Any info is MUCH appreciated!

[Carolina Rambler]

NC is one of the easiest states for homeschool families.

Requirements:

Ages 7-16 must attend.

Must file with the state that you intend to homeschool.

Instructor must have HS diploma or GED.

Must attend 180 days a year (No required amt. of time per day)

Must maintain attendance and immunization records for each student.

Must administer a nationally standardized test each year.

There are no curriculum requirements.

[ArcticPhoenix]

What else do they require to see other than attendance and immunization records? Anything?

[Carolina Rambler]

Actually, they require that you keep them on hand, but very rarely ask to see them.

A home visit is POSSIBLE, but if they do wish to visit, they schedule an appointment first.

Most of the time they simply send a letter saying they are visiting by mail and ask if you have all your records on file.

You check 'Yes', mail it in, and you're done.

We homeschool, and I know several families who homeschooled all the way through graduation & never had a visit.

You need to keep the standardized tests on file as well.

There are local places that give the tests, or you can mail order the tests and send it in for grading. It's not very expensive.

[luckofthedraw]

There are a couple of Yahoo groups for homeschoolers in the Piedmont/Triad area. You will find lots of support, and an unbelievable amount of activities. Try Yahoo groups: triadhomeschoolers and piedmonthomeschoolers. Good luck with your move!

[Happihousewife]

TY for this information. I am new to hs and need all the advice I can get!