Get Intent To Homeschool Florida Form

The Intent To Homeschool Florida form serves as a formal notification to the state of Florida that a parent or guardian intends to establish and maintain a home education program for their child or children. This document is essential for compliance with Florida Statute Section 1002.41, ensuring that families meet legal requirements while embarking on their homeschooling journey. To begin the process, fill out the form by clicking the button below.

Structure

In Florida, parents who choose to educate their children at home must complete the Intent To Homeschool form, a crucial step in establishing a home education program. This form serves as a written notice to the local school district, confirming the parent's intention to provide an educational experience outside of traditional schooling. It requires essential information, including the child's name, birthdate, grade, and the last school attended. Additionally, parents must provide their contact details, such as mailing address and phone numbers, ensuring that the school district can maintain accurate records. The form also requests demographic information regarding the child's race and gender, which is collected solely for statistical purposes by the Florida Department of Education. Parents must affirm their understanding of the relevant statutes and policies, acknowledging that the local school district does not issue high school diplomas for home-educated students. Completing this form is not just a legal requirement; it is an important step in ensuring that home education is recognized and supported within the state. Proper submission of the Intent To Homeschool form lays the groundwork for a successful and compliant home education journey.

Intent To Homeschool Florida Preview

HOME EDUCATION

In compliance with Section 1002.41 (a), Florida Statute, this serves as the written notice of intent to establish and maintain a home education program for my child(ren). Please provide the following information required by law and/or necessary to maintain your records. Information on sex and race is being requested by the Florida Department of Education for statistical use only.

CHILD’S NAME (Please Print)	BIRTHDATE	GRADE	RACE/	LAST SCHOOL ATTENDED	SSN (Optional)
			GENDER

Parent/Guardian Name: (Please Print)

Mailing Address:

		Number, Street, or P.O. Box		City/State		Zip Code
Street Address:
(If Different)		Number, Street, or P.O. Box		City/State		Zip Code
Home Phone:	(	)	Work Phone:	(	)
Cell Phone:	(	)	E-mail Address:
			(Optional)

I have read and fully understand the provision of Sections 1002.41, Florida Statutes and Lake County School District policies pertaining to compliance and enforcement of Home Education. The information contained herein is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge and belief.

I understand that neither Lake County Schools Home Education nor Florida Virtual School award high school diplomas._____________

		PLEASE INITIAL HERE
Signature of Parent/Guardian	Date	Date your program will begin
Send to: Jan Tobias	Additional Comments (if needed)
Student Services
512 S. Palm Avenue
Howey-in-the Hills, FL 34737
PHONE#: (352) 742-6920
FAX#: (352) 742-6921
		Revised: July 2010

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Document Data

Fact Name	Description
Governing Law	The Intent to Homeschool form is governed by Section 1002.41 of the Florida Statutes.
Purpose	This form serves as a written notice of intent to establish and maintain a home education program for children.
Information Required	Parents must provide specific information about their child, including name, birthdate, grade, race, and last school attended.
Optional Information	Social Security Number (SSN) and email address are optional for parents to provide.
Parental Acknowledgment	Parents must acknowledge their understanding of the relevant Florida Statutes and local school district policies.
Signature Requirement	A signature from the parent or guardian is required to validate the form.
Submission Address	The completed form must be sent to Jan Tobias at the Student Services office in Howey-in-the-Hills, FL.
Contact Information	Contact details, including phone and fax numbers, are provided for further inquiries.
Revisions	The form was last revised in July 2010, indicating that it may be subject to updates.
Diploma Information	It is important to note that neither Lake County Schools Home Education nor Florida Virtual School award high school diplomas.

How to Use Intent To Homeschool Florida

Filling out the Intent to Homeschool form in Florida is an important step in establishing your home education program. After submitting the form, you will receive guidance and support from your local school district. This ensures that you are on the right path to providing a quality education for your child.

Gather Required Information: Collect all necessary details, including your child’s name, birthdate, grade, race, last school attended, and optional Social Security Number and gender.
Parent/Guardian Information: Write your name as the parent or guardian. Include your mailing address, street address (if different), and phone numbers (home, work, and cell). You may also provide an optional email address.
Read the Statement: Carefully read the statement regarding your understanding of Florida Statutes and Lake County School District policies. This ensures you are aware of the regulations governing home education.
Initial the Statement: After reading the statement, initial where indicated to confirm your understanding and agreement.
Sign and Date: Provide your signature and the date on which you are submitting the form. Also, indicate the date your home education program will begin.
Additional Comments: If you have any comments or notes, write them in the space provided.
Submit the Form: Send the completed form to Jan Tobias at the Student Services address provided: 512 S. Palm Avenue, Howey-in-the-Hills, FL 34737. You can also reach them by phone at (352) 742-6920 or by fax at (352) 742-6921.

Key Facts about Intent To Homeschool Florida

What is the Intent To Homeschool Florida form?

The Intent To Homeschool Florida form is a legal document that parents or guardians must submit to notify their local school district of their intention to establish a home education program for their child or children. This form is in accordance with Florida Statute Section 1002.41(a), which outlines the requirements for home education in the state. By completing this form, parents officially communicate their decision to educate their children at home rather than in a traditional school setting.

What information do I need to provide on the form?

When filling out the Intent To Homeschool Florida form, you will need to provide several key pieces of information. This includes your child’s name, birthdate, grade, race, and the last school they attended. Additionally, you will need to include your name as the parent or guardian, your mailing address, and contact information, such as phone numbers and an optional email address. While some information, like the Social Security Number, is optional, it is important to ensure that all other details are accurate and complete to avoid any issues with your application.

Do I need to provide my child’s Social Security Number?

No, providing your child’s Social Security Number on the Intent To Homeschool Florida form is optional. However, including it may help the school district maintain accurate records. If you choose not to include it, you can still submit the form without any issues. The essential requirement is to ensure that all other information is filled out correctly and thoroughly.

What happens after I submit the form?

Once you submit the Intent To Homeschool Florida form to your local school district, they will process your application. You should keep a copy of the submitted form for your records. The district may contact you for any additional information or clarification if needed. It’s also important to remember that submitting this form does not automatically grant a high school diploma; both Lake County Schools Home Education and Florida Virtual School do not award diplomas.

When should I submit the Intent To Homeschool Florida form?

You should submit the Intent To Homeschool Florida form as soon as you decide to begin homeschooling your child. Florida law requires that you notify your local school district of your intent to homeschool at least 30 days before starting your home education program. This ensures that you comply with state regulations and allows the district to update their records accordingly. If you plan to start your program on a specific date, make sure to submit the form ahead of that date to avoid any complications.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Intent To Homeschool Florida form can be a straightforward process, but there are common mistakes that can lead to complications. One frequent error is not providing complete information about the child. Parents often forget to include essential details such as the child's full name, birthdate, or grade level. Each piece of information is crucial for the school district to maintain accurate records. Missing even one detail can delay the approval of the homeschooling program.

Another common mistake is neglecting to sign and date the form. This may seem minor, but without a signature, the form is not considered valid. Parents sometimes assume that typing their name is sufficient. However, the law requires a handwritten signature to confirm that the parent or guardian understands the responsibilities of homeschooling. This oversight can result in the form being returned or rejected.

Many individuals also fail to read the instructions carefully. The form includes specific sections that require attention, such as the optional information about the child’s social security number and the mailing address. Parents might skip these sections or fill them out incorrectly, leading to confusion. Taking the time to read through the entire form can help avoid these pitfalls.

Lastly, some parents do not keep a copy of the completed form for their records. It is essential to retain a copy for future reference. This can be useful in case any questions arise about the homeschooling program. Keeping a record ensures that parents have proof of their intent to homeschool, which can be important for compliance with local regulations.

Documents used along the form

When families decide to homeschool their children in Florida, several important documents accompany the Intent To Homeschool Florida form. These documents help ensure compliance with state regulations and support the educational journey. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that parents may need to consider.

Annual Evaluation Form: This document outlines the progress of the homeschooled child and is typically submitted at the end of the school year. It can include standardized test results or a portfolio review, providing a snapshot of the student's academic growth.
Educational Plan: An educational plan details the curriculum and learning objectives for the year. This plan should align with the child's educational goals and can be adjusted as needed throughout the year.
Notification of Termination: If a family decides to discontinue their homeschooling program, this form notifies the school district of the termination. It is essential to formally document this change to avoid any misunderstandings.
Curriculum Documentation: While not always required, keeping records of the curriculum used can be beneficial. This documentation helps track what subjects have been covered and can assist during evaluations.
Health and Immunization Records: Although homeschooling families are not always required to submit these records, maintaining them can be crucial for enrollment in activities or if the child transitions back to public school.
Attendance Records: Keeping a log of school days and hours spent on educational activities can be helpful. This record may be requested during evaluations or if any questions arise regarding the homeschooling program.

By preparing these documents alongside the Intent To Homeschool Florida form, families can create a comprehensive and organized approach to their homeschooling journey. This preparation not only meets legal requirements but also enhances the overall educational experience for the child.

Similar forms

Notice of Intent to Operate a Private School: Similar to the Intent to Homeschool form, this document notifies the state of a family's intention to operate a private educational institution. Both require basic information about the child and the educational program, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Application for Educational Choice: This application allows families to apply for educational options such as scholarships or school choice programs. Like the Intent to Homeschool, it gathers information about the child and the educational environment, aiming to provide educational opportunities tailored to individual needs.
Withdrawal Form from Public School: When a child is withdrawn from a public school to begin homeschooling, this form is often required. It serves a similar purpose as the Intent to Homeschool, documenting the transition from a public education system to a home education program.
Annual Evaluation Report: At the end of the school year, families must submit an evaluation report to demonstrate educational progress. This document shares a similar goal with the Intent to Homeschool by ensuring that educational standards are met and maintained throughout the homeschooling process.
Curriculum Plan Submission: Some states require families to submit a curriculum plan outlining the subjects and materials to be used in homeschooling. This document parallels the Intent to Homeschool in that it formalizes the family's educational intentions and helps maintain accountability in the home education program.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Intent To Homeschool Florida form, it’s essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:

Do provide accurate information about your child, including their name, birthdate, and grade.
Do include your contact information, such as your mailing address and phone numbers, to facilitate communication.
Do read the provisions of Sections 1002.41, Florida Statutes, to understand your responsibilities as a homeschooling parent.
Do sign and date the form to confirm that the information is true to the best of your knowledge.

Don't leave any required fields blank, as this may delay the processing of your application.
Don't provide false information, as this can lead to legal complications.
Don't forget to check for any updates or changes to the form or requirements before submission.
Don't hesitate to reach out to the school district if you have questions or need clarification on any part of the form.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Intent To Homeschool Florida form is essential for parents considering home education. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Below is a list of common misunderstandings along with clarifications.

Misconception 1: Completing the form guarantees approval for homeschooling.

Submitting the Intent To Homeschool form does not automatically mean that your homeschooling program is approved. It serves as a notification to the school district that you intend to homeschool your child.

Misconception 2: The form requires sensitive information.

While the form requests information such as the child's name and birthdate, providing the Social Security Number (SSN) is optional. Parents can choose to omit this information without affecting their intent to homeschool.

Misconception 3: Homeschooling is only for certain types of students.

Homeschooling is available to all students, regardless of their learning needs or backgrounds. The Intent To Homeschool form does not discriminate based on race, gender, or previous school performance.

Misconception 4: There are no regulations once the form is submitted.

After submitting the form, parents must still comply with Florida's homeschooling laws, including maintaining educational records and submitting annual evaluations. The form is just the first step in a longer process.

Misconception 5: The school district provides all necessary resources.

While the school district may offer some support, parents are primarily responsible for creating and implementing their child's educational program. This includes selecting curriculum and educational materials.

Misconception 6: Homeschoolers cannot participate in school district activities.

Many school districts allow homeschooled students to participate in extracurricular activities, such as sports and clubs. However, parents should check with their local district for specific policies and requirements.

Key takeaways

When filling out the Intent To Homeschool Florida form, keep the following key points in mind:

Legal Requirement: This form serves as a written notice of intent to establish a home education program, as mandated by Florida Statute Section 1002.41.
Child Information: Provide accurate details for your child, including name, birthdate, grade, race, last school attended, and optional Social Security Number.
Parent/Guardian Details: Clearly print your name and mailing address. Include both home and work phone numbers for contact purposes.
Email Address: An email address is optional but can facilitate communication with the school district.
Understanding of Regulations: Acknowledge that you have read and understood the relevant Florida Statutes and local school district policies regarding home education.
Truthfulness: Ensure that all information provided is accurate and true to the best of your knowledge.
High School Diplomas: Be aware that neither Lake County Schools Home Education nor Florida Virtual School provides high school diplomas.
Submission: Send the completed form to the designated address, ensuring it reaches the appropriate office for processing.

Completing this form accurately is crucial for establishing your home education program. Take your time to ensure all details are correct before submission.