Withdrawing Your Child from Public School in Texas: A Guide

If your child is currently enrolled in a public school in Texas, you need to officially notify the school of your decision to withdraw them for homeschooling. This is done by sending a letter to the school district’s superintendent or the school administration. In this letter, state your intent to homeschool and include your child’s name, birthdate, and the effective date of withdrawal/date you will begin homeschooling. While schools might ask for additional information about your homeschooling plans or curriculum, you are not legally required to provide these details. For guidance on drafting your withdrawal letter, check out this example: Sample Withdrawal Letter for Homeschooling.

If your child has never been enrolled in a public school, there is no need to inform anyone. You can simply begin homeschooling without any formal withdrawal process.

Commonly Asked Questions About Withdrawing Students for Homeschooling in Texas

1. Do I need approval from the school to homeschool my child?
No, you do not need permission or approval from the school to homeschool in Texas. Once you notify the school of your decision, you are free to start homeschooling.

2. Will I need to submit my homeschooling curriculum to the school or district?
No, Texas law does not require you to submit your curriculum or lesson plans to the school or any state authority. You are only required to use a legitimate curriculum that includes reading, spelling, grammar, math, and good citizenship.

3. What happens if the school asks for a meeting or additional paperwork?
You are not obligated to attend a meeting or provide extra information beyond your withdrawal letter. A simple notification is sufficient to comply with the law. If you choose to mail the letter of intent, it is prudent to send it certified mail.

4. Can my child return to public school later if needed?
Yes, children can re-enroll in public school at any time. The school may assess your child’s grade level and place them accordingly. It’s a good idea to maintain records of your homeschooling activities to simplify this process.

5. Is there a specific deadline for withdrawing my child?
No, you can withdraw your child at any time during the school year. Notify the school as soon as you decide to transition to homeschooling.

6. Can I homeschool mid-year?
Absolutely. Many families begin homeschooling mid-year for various reasons. Once you notify the school, you can start homeschooling immediately.

7. Will I face truancy issues if I withdraw my child?
No, as long as you properly notify the school of your intent to homeschool, your child will not be considered truant. If the school raises concerns, you can clarify that your child is now being homeschooled under Texas law.

Resources for a Smooth Transition

Navigating the withdrawal process can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. For additional support, resources, or answers to unique questions, consider reaching out to organizations like the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) or local homeschool groups like ours. These groups can guide you through the process and ensure your transition to homeschooling is seamless.

Homeschooling Under Texas Law: Rules and Requirements

Texas is one of the most homeschool-friendly states, with minimal requirements for families. Homeschools are considered private schools under Texas law, which gives you the freedom to educate your child in a way that best suits their needs. To comply with state law, here’s what you need to know:

1. Teach the Required Subjects: Texas law requires homeschooling parents to include these five core subjects in their curriculum:
   • • Reading
     • Spelling
     • Grammar
     • Mathematics
     • Good Citizenship (e.g., civics, history, or character education)
2. Use a Legitimate Curriculum: While there’s no state-approved curriculum, the law requires that your homeschooling program be “bona fide,” meaning it must be a real educational effort. You can use textbooks, workbooks, online programs, or other resources that suit your family.
3. No Reporting or Testing: Texas does not require homeschooling families to submit notice of intent, file reports, or take standardized tests. You are not required to report progress to the state or local authorities.
4. Attendance Requirements: Homeschools in Texas are not bound by specific attendance laws. You determine your own schedule, including the number of days or hours spent on instruction.

Commonly Asked Questions About Homeschooling in Texas

1. Do I need to register my homeschool with the state?
No, Texas does not require you to register or notify any state or local authority when you begin homeschooling.

2. What is “Good Citizenship,” and how do I teach it?
Good Citizenship refers to teaching civic responsibility, ethics, or government. This can be done through history lessons, discussions on current events, community involvement, or character-building activities.

3. Are there specific records I need to keep?
While Texas law doesn’t require recordkeeping, it’s a good idea to maintain records of your child’s progress, including completed assignments, test results, and attendance logs. These can be helpful if your child returns to public school or applies to college.

4. Do I need to have teaching credentials to homeschool?
No, you do not need a teaching degree or certification to homeschool in Texas. Parents are fully qualified to teach their children under state law.

5. Can I use an online program or curriculum for homeschooling?
Yes, you can use any legitimate resources, including online programs, as part of your curriculum. However, note that online public schools are not considered homeschooling under Texas law.

6. Is there a minimum number of hours or days I need to teach?
No, there are no specific time requirements for homeschooling in Texas. You can set your own schedule based on what works best for your family.

7. What happens if someone questions my homeschooling efforts?
If questioned by school officials or other authorities, you can explain that your homeschool is a private school under Texas law. Having a written curriculum plan and examples of your child’s work can help address concerns, but you are not required to provide them.

8. Can my child still participate in extracurricular activities or dual credit programs?
Yes, homeschooled students in Texas can participate in extracurricular activities like sports, music, and academic competitions through homeschool leagues or local organizations. Many also take dual credit college courses.

The University Interscholastic League (UIL) is one such organization. Under the “HB 547 – Homeschool Participation” policy, Texas ISDs have the option to allow homeschooled students to participate in UIL activities, enabling them to join sports and other academic programs offered by the district. However, students are only permitted to participate in the ISD to which they are assigned. Despite numerous efforts to initiate a discussion, it is evident that Manor ISD has chosen not to participate in UIL. As our homeschool community continues to grow, we hope to advocate for a change in this decision in the future.

9. Are there standardized tests or evaluations my child must take?
No, Texas does not require homeschooled students to take standardized tests. However, some families opt for voluntary testing to track progress or meet college entrance requirements.

10. What if I move to Texas from another state?
If you’re relocating to Texas, you can immediately begin homeschooling under Texas law. If you have properly withdrawn your child from their previous school, you don’t need to notify any authorities.

Additional Resources

For more information about Texas homeschool laws and support:

• Visit the Texas Homeschool Coalition (THSC) for legal and practical resources.
• Explore HSLDA’s Texas Guide for comprehensive legal advice.
• Join local homeschool groups or co-ops to connect with other homeschooling families and share experiences.

By understanding these rules and leveraging available resources, you can ensure your homeschooling experience in Texas is both compliant and enriching for your child!

Deschooling: The First Step in Your Homeschooling Journey

Deschooling is an essential phase when transitioning from traditional schooling to homeschooling. It provides an opportunity for children and parents to break free from conventional educational routines and rediscover a love for learning. Deschooling refers to the adjustment period for families leaving traditional schooling to embrace homeschooling. This phase allows children to deprogram from the structure and expectations of formal education and reignite their natural curiosity and motivation. For parents, it’s a chance to understand their child’s unique learning style and build a customized approach to education.

Why Is Deschooling Important?

Deschooling is beneficial for both children and parents as it allows:

• For Children: It rekindles their love for learning, reduces stress, and encourages self-directed education.
• For Parents: It fosters deeper relationships, helps identify children’s learning preferences, and provides the flexibility to design a more personalized educational plan.

Commonly Asked Questions About Deschooling

1. What activities should we focus on during deschooling?
   Focus on activities that encourage exploration and joy, such as unstructured play, outdoor adventures, creative projects, and reading for fun.

2. How do I know if my child is ready to start structured homeschooling?
   When your child shows renewed curiosity, interest in learning, and emotional readiness, they may be ready for more structure.

3. What should parents avoid during deschooling?
   Avoid imposing strict academic goals or rigid schedules. Let the child guide the pace and direction of their learning during this period.

4. Do older children need to deschool too?
   Yes, older children often benefit from deschooling to process their previous experiences and adapt to a new, more flexible approach to learning.

Choosing the Right Homeschool Curriculum

Selecting a homeschool curriculum is one of the most important decisions families make when beginning their homeschooling journey. With countless options available, it’s essential to find one that aligns with your educational goals, your child’s learning style, and your family’s values.

What to Consider When Choosing a Curriculum

1. Learning Style of Your Child
   Observe whether your child thrives with visual, auditory, hands-on, or a combination of learning styles. A curriculum tailored to their strengths will foster engagement and understanding.

2. Teaching Style of the Parent
   Assess your comfort level with different teaching methods. Some parents prefer structured programs with detailed lesson plans, while others excel with flexible, open-ended approaches.

3. Family Values and Goals
   Consider whether the curriculum aligns with your family’s worldview or educational priorities, such as faith-based learning or a focus on STEM subjects.

4. Budget and Resources
   Homeschooling can be affordable, but it’s important to balance quality with cost. Look into free or low-cost materials available through libraries, online resources, and co-ops.

5. Your Child’s Interests
   Choosing a curriculum that incorporates your child’s interests can make learning more enjoyable and meaningful.

Commonly Asked Questions About Homeschool Curriculum

1. Do I need to purchase a full curriculum package?
   Not necessarily. Many families opt to mix and match resources for different subjects to better suit their child’s needs.

2. How do I know if a curriculum is working for my child?
   Monitor your child’s engagement and progress. If they are consistently struggling or disinterested, it may be time to adjust your approach.

3. Can I switch curriculums mid-year?
   Absolutely. One of the advantages of homeschooling is the flexibility to adapt when something isn’t working.

4. Will I get it right the first time?
   Probably not, and that’s ok. You haven’t failed your child, and  you don’t suck as a homeschool parent. You’re figuring out the best solution for your family. Reach out to the co-op for any questions you have, and see if anyone has experience with certain curricula you’re interested in trying (or better yet, getting rid of so you can try it for a discount or free!)

Additional Resources

• Texas Home Educators – Offers resources for curriculum reviews and support tailored to Texas homeschoolers.
• Texas Homeschool Coalition – A trusted source for curriculum options and advice specific to Texas families.
• Homeschool Curriculum Reviews – Detailed reviews of popular homeschool curriculums.

Exploring Homeschool Educational Approaches

Choosing the right homeschool educational approach is key to creating a learning environment that fits your child’s needs and your teaching style. Below is an overview of the nine primary homeschooling methods, their strengths across elementary, middle, and high school levels, what is expected from the teacher, book resources for further learning, and examples of what a typical homeschool day could look like for each method (you’ll tailor every single one of these to fit your household’s schedule / needs / ability, so don’t feel ‘locked’ into any of these example schedules).

1. Traditional School-at-Home

This method replicates the structure of traditional school settings with textbooks, worksheets, and a fixed schedule.

Strengths:

• Elementary: Provides a consistent structure to build foundational skills.

• Middle School: Supports the transition to more challenging concepts with familiar routines.

• High School: Offers clear grading and transcripts, helpful for college preparation.

Teacher’s Role:

• Act as a formal instructor, following structured lesson plans and grading work.

• Ensure adherence to a consistent daily schedule and curriculum pacing.

• Provide regular testing and assessments.

Book Resources:

• “Homeschooling for Success: How Parents Can Create a Superior Education for Their Child” by Rebecca Kochenderfer and Elizabeth Kanna

• “The Well-Trained Mind: A Guide to Classical Education at Home” by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise

Sample Day:

• Morning:

  • 8:30 AM: Math (workbook and online practice)

  • 9:30 AM: Language Arts (grammar worksheet, spelling quiz, and reading comprehension)

  • 10:30 AM: Science (textbook reading and lab activity)

  • 11:30 AM: Break

• Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM: Social Studies (read history chapter, answer discussion questions)

  • 1:30 PM: Art (guided painting project)

  • 2:30 PM: Homework review and free time

2. Classical Education

Rooted in the trivium (grammar, logic, and rhetoric stages), classical education emphasizes rigorous academics, critical thinking, and the study of great works.

Strengths:

• Elementary (Grammar Stage): Focuses on memorization and foundational knowledge.

• Middle School (Logic Stage): Develops reasoning and analytical skills through logic and debate.

• High School (Rhetoric Stage): Encourages articulate expression and mastery of advanced topics.

Teacher’s Role:

• Guide students in memorization techniques and critical thinking exercises.

• Lead discussions and Socratic dialogues to develop logic and reasoning.

• Emphasize classical literature, philosophy, and history.

Book Resources:

• “The Core: Teaching Your Child the Foundations of Classical Education” by Leigh A. Bortins

• “Teaching the Trivium: Christian Homeschooling in a Classical Style” by Harvey and Laurie Bluedorn

Sample Day:

• Morning:

  • 8:30 AM: Latin (vocabulary and translation practice)

  • 9:30 AM: History (read primary sources and discuss key events)

  • 10:30 AM: Math (concept instruction and problem-solving)

  • 11:30 AM: Break

• Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM: Literature (read a classic book and discuss themes)

  • 1:30 PM: Writing (practice persuasive essays or rhetorical techniques)

  • 2:30 PM: Logic (work on logic puzzles or practice argumentation)

3. Charlotte Mason Method

This method uses living books, narration, nature studies, and short lessons to inspire a love of learning.

Strengths:

• Elementary: Introduces a wide variety of engaging subjects, including art and nature studies.

• Middle School: Builds independent thinking and analytical skills through narration.

• High School: Cultivates writing and reasoning skills, preparing students for thoughtful discussion and analysis.

Teacher’s Role:

• Provide access to high-quality living books and facilitate narration.

• Integrate nature walks and artistic activities into the curriculum.

• Maintain a gentle, encouraging approach to learning.

Book Resources:

• “For the Children’s Sake: Foundations of Education for Home and School” by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay

• “A Charlotte Mason Education: A Homeschooling How-To Manual” by Catherine Levison

Sample Day:

• Morning:

  • 8:30 AM: Scripture or poetry reading and reflection

  • 9:00 AM: Nature walk (observe and sketch in nature journal)

  • 10:00 AM: Living books (read aloud from a history book or biography)

  • 10:30 AM: Narration (student retells what they learned)

  • 11:00 AM: Break

• Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM: Math (short, focused lesson with manipulatives)

  • 1:00 PM: Handicrafts (knitting, woodworking, or other skills)

  • 2:00 PM: Music or art appreciation (study a composer or artist)

4. Unit Studies

This approach combines multiple subjects into themed units, making learning interdisciplinary and immersive.

Strengths:

• Elementary: Makes learning engaging by connecting various subjects through a central theme.

• Middle School: Encourages collaboration and independent research within themed projects.

• High School: Allows in-depth exploration of specialized topics.

Teacher’s Role:

• Design or select thematic units that integrate core subjects.

• Facilitate hands-on projects and guide discussions.

• Tailor units to the interests and needs of the student.

Book Resources:

• “Unit Studies Made Easy” by Valerie Bendt

• “Designing Your Own Classical Curriculum” by Laura Berquist

Sample Day:

• Morning:

  • 8:30 AM: Introduce the unit topic (e.g., Space Exploration)

  • 9:00 AM: Science (study planets, watch a NASA video)

  • 10:00 AM: Math (calculate distances between planets)

  • 11:00 AM: Break

• Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM: Language Arts (write a report on an astronaut or space mission)

  • 1:30 PM: Art (create a model of the solar system)

  • 2:30 PM: Group discussion or presentation on what was learned

5. Unschooling

Unschooling emphasizes child-led learning, where interests and curiosity drive education, without formal curriculum or schedules.

Strengths:

• Elementary: Allows children to explore their natural curiosity in a stress-free environment.

• Middle School: Encourages deeper exploration of personal interests, building intrinsic motivation.

• High School: Prepares students for self-directed learning, fostering entrepreneurial and career-oriented skills.

Teacher’s Role:

• Act as a facilitator rather than an instructor, providing resources and support for the child’s interests.

• Observe and encourage exploration, without imposing structured lessons.

• Be patient and flexible, allowing the child to take the lead.

Book Resources:

• “The Unschooling Handbook: How to Use the Whole World as Your Child’s Classroom” by Mary Griffith

• “Free to Learn” by Peter Gray

Sample Day:

• Morning:

  • 9:00 AM: Baking (learn fractions and measurements through cooking)

  • 10:30 AM: Outdoor exploration (observe insects, discuss ecosystems)

  • 11:30 AM: Free play or student-led project

• Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM: Library visit to research a topic of interest (e.g., dinosaurs, robotics)

  • 2:00 PM: Art (create a comic or painting based on their research)

  • 3:00 PM: Build something (e.g., LEGO structures or DIY projects)

6. Eclectic Homeschooling

This flexible method combines various approaches to fit the family’s unique needs.

Strengths:

• Elementary: Offers freedom to experiment with different methods and materials.

• Middle School: Balances structure and creativity to support developmental changes.

• High School: Customizes education for specific goals, such as college or career preparation.

Teacher’s Role:

• Continuously evaluate and adapt the approach to suit the child’s needs.

• Draw from multiple resources and methods to create a tailored curriculum.

• Act as both a planner and a guide, blending structure with flexibility.

Book Resources:

• “The Relaxed Homeschool: A Practical Guide to Learning at Home with Joy” by Christine Owens

• “Homeschooling 101: A Guide to Getting Started” by Erica Arndt

Sample Day:

• Morning:

  • 8:30 AM: Math (traditional curriculum)

  • 9:30 AM: Nature study (Charlotte Mason-style nature walk)

  • 10:30 AM: Reading (classical literature book)

  • 11:30 AM: Break / Tea Time

• Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM: Science (hands-on unit study about volcanoes)

  • 1:30 PM: Art (Waldorf-inspired watercolor painting)

  • 2:30 PM: Free time or project-based learning

7. Online/Virtual Learning

Students learn through online platforms, virtual classrooms, or self-paced digital resources.

Strengths:

• Elementary: Introduces engaging and interactive content.

• Middle School: Offers structured learning with more autonomy.

• High School: Provides access to advanced courses and college-prep resources.

Teacher’s Role:

• Oversee the child’s progress and ensure they stay on track.

• Provide support with technology and supplement online resources when needed.

• Act as a liaison between the student and the online program.

Book Resources:

• “Digital Learning for All, Now: A School Leader’s Guide for 1:1 on a Budget” by Jonathan P. Costa Sr.

• “Blended: Using Disruptive Innovation to Improve Schools” by Michael B. Horn and Heather Staker

Sample Day:

• Morning:

  • 8:30 AM: Log into online math class (live instruction and assignments)

  • 9:30 AM: Complete science lab through a virtual platform

  • 10:30 AM: Break

  • 11:00 AM: Watch pre-recorded history lecture and take notes

• Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM: Language Arts (join online discussion or complete writing assignment)

  • 1:30 PM: Elective (foreign language or coding via online courses)

  • 2:30 PM: Submit assignments and review progress

8. Montessori Method

Montessori focuses on self-directed learning, hands-on activities, and fostering independence with specialized materials.

Strengths:

• Elementary: Ideal for tactile learners, fostering independence and a joy for discovery.

• Middle School: Encourages collaboration and practical skill development.

• High School: Supports independent projects tailored to students’ interests.

Teacher’s Role:

• Prepare a hands-on, stimulating environment with Montessori materials.

• Observe and guide students without interrupting their self-directed learning.

• Adapt to each child’s pace and interests.

Book Resources:

• “Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius” by Angeline Stoll Lillard

• “Teaching Montessori in the Home: The Preschool Years” by Elizabeth G. Hainstock

Sample Day:

• Morning:

  • 8:30 AM: Practical life activity (e.g., baking, cleaning, organizing)

  • 9:30 AM: Math (hands-on work with Montessori manipulatives)

  • 10:30 AM: Language (grammar activity using Montessori materials)

  • 11:30 AM: Break

• Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM: Science or geography (experiment or hands-on map work)

  • 1:30 PM: Art or music (student-directed creative activity)

  • 2:30 PM: Quiet reading or journaling

9. Waldorf Education

This holistic approach emphasizes creativity, imagination, and delayed academics through arts, storytelling, and practical skills.

Strengths:

• Elementary: Builds creativity and hands-on learning through arts and storytelling.

• Middle School: Balances academics with artistic and practical skill development.

• High School: Focuses on independent projects and creative expression.

Teacher’s Role:

• Create a rhythm-based schedule that integrates arts, crafts, and academics.

• Foster a warm and imaginative learning environment.

• Guide students in both academic and creative pursuits.

Book Resources:

• “Understanding Waldorf Education: Teaching from the Inside Out” by Jack Petrash

• “You Are Your Child’s First Teacher” by Rahima Baldwin Dancy

Sample Day:

• Morning:

  • 8:30 AM: Morning circle (songs, poems, storytelling)

  • 9:00 AM: Main lesson (block learning focused on a subject, e.g., geometry or mythology)

  • 10:30 AM: Break

• Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM: Handcrafts (knitting, woodcarving, or painting)

  • 1:30 PM: Music (learn an instrument or practice singing)

  • 2:30 PM: Nature exploration or gardening

Finding Your Homeschool Community

Homeschooling offers families the freedom to design an education that fits their needs, but it can sometimes feel isolating. This is where a homeschool community becomes invaluable. A strong community provides opportunities for families to connect, learn, and grow together, creating a network of support and shared experiences. Let’s explore the benefits of joining a homeschool community and how it can enhance your homeschooling journey.

Benefits of Homeschooling in a Community

Support and Connection

Homeschooling can be overwhelming at times, and being part of a community offers a lifeline of support. Parents can share resources, ideas, and encouragement, learning from others who understand the unique challenges of homeschooling. Children benefit from forming friendships, working collaboratively, and feeling a sense of belonging within a group.

Multi-Age Interaction

In homeschool communities, children of all ages interact naturally. Older students often mentor younger ones, fostering leadership and empathy. Younger children gain confidence by learning alongside older peers. This multi-age interaction encourages cooperation and builds communication skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Play and Discovery

Play is a vital component of learning. Homeschool communities provide opportunities for children to engage in unstructured play, collaborative projects, and hands-on activities. Through play, children develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and resilience, which are essential for lifelong success.

Broader Perspectives

Being part of a diverse homeschool community exposes families to different educational philosophies and cultural backgrounds. This exchange of ideas enriches everyone’s learning experience, helping families grow and adapt in their own homeschooling practices.

Active Citizenship

Communities often organize field trips, volunteer projects, and local events that connect homeschoolers with their broader community. These activities help children understand their role as active citizens and foster a sense of responsibility and pride in contributing to their local area.

Why Mosaic Mustangs?

As homeschoolers in Manor, Texas, Mosaic Mustangs stands as a welcoming space for families to connect and grow. While this article isn’t about promoting one group, Mosaic Mustangs serves as an example of how a homeschool community can support and enrich its members. We embrace families from all educational philosophies and backgrounds, creating a vibrant “mosaic” of learners. Our focus on play, discovery, and collaboration reflects our belief in the lifelong benefits of learning together.

We are also proud of our roots in Manor, symbolized by the mustang—a free-spirited, resilient creature that reflects the nature of homeschooling itself. Our community fosters leadership opportunities, group learning, and a sense of belonging for families looking for connection and support.

Making the Most of Homeschool Communities

If you gravitate toward a specific educational philosophy, such as Classical Conversations or Charlotte Mason, you can often find groups dedicated to those methods. Many homeschoolers, however, choose to participate in multiple communities to benefit from a variety of perspectives and opportunities.

Finding a balance between specialized groups and general homeschool communities allows families to tailor their experience to their unique needs. Whether through structured activities, casual meet-ups, or cooperative learning, there’s a place for everyone in the homeschooling world.

Homeschooling doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. By joining a community, families gain access to shared resources, collaborative learning, and meaningful connections. Whether through a local co-op, specialized group, or larger homeschooling network, these communities provide the support and enrichment that make homeschooling more rewarding for both parents and children.