Will My Child’s IEP Follow Them into Homeschooling?
The short answer is no—Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) as used in public schools do not carry over into homeschooling. However, this is because homeschooling itself functions as a fully individualized educational experience. The homeschooling lifestyle allows you to naturally tailor learning to your child’s unique needs, whether they are neurotypical, gifted, or have special needs.
IEPs are designed to help students navigate and succeed within a traditional school setting. When you homeschool, the need for a formalized plan like an IEP often disappears because you’re already creating a learning environment uniquely suited to your child. You can, of course, use the recommendations from your child’s previous IEP to guide your homeschooling approach, but you’ll likely find much of it irrelevant to a non-classroom setting.
Maintaining an IEP in Homeschooling for Special Circumstances
If your child is transitioning to high school or considering dual enrollment in a local school or college, it may be helpful to craft a homeschool version of an IEP. This ensures that any outside educators or institutions understand your child’s accommodations and needs.
Here are the key steps to creating a homeschool-specific IEP for older students transitioning to higher education:
Gather Documentation
Obtain medical or professional evaluations confirming diagnoses. These documents establish a formal record of your child’s needs.
Collect reports from therapists or other private providers (e.g., occupational, physical, or speech therapists).
Outline Strengths and Challenges
List areas where your child excels and where they need support. This can help educators or service providers understand their profile.
Set Transition Goals
Define your child’s postsecondary aspirations, such as college, vocational training, or independent living.
Develop goals to build skills in academics, time management, communication, and self-advocacy.
Accommodations and Modifications
Include strategies such as assistive technology, extended time on tests, or alternative methods of instruction.
Specify any supports needed, such as note-takers, quiet testing environments, or tutoring.
Use a SMART Framework
Write goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example: “By December 2025, [student name] will identify six colleges with suitable programs, visit two campuses, and apply to three schools with accommodations for their needs.”
Incorporate Transition Services
Explore local resources for job training, internships, or independent living skills programs.
Connect with college disability services early to ensure accommodations are in place.
Update Regularly
Revisit and revise the plan annually or as your child’s needs evolve.
If you’d like further resources for creating a detailed IEP for homeschooling or transition planning, visit helpful guides like those on Wrightslaw or parent-friendly platforms focused on special education like SPED Homeschool.
Leveraging Private Resources for Additional Support
Homeschooling families often have more freedom to access private services quickly and comprehensively. Therapists specializing in autism, speech, occupational, or physical therapy can provide targeted help that complements your homeschooling efforts. Services such as social skills groups or life-skills training can also be beneficial.
For parents navigating this process, it’s important to remember that you are fully capable of managing your child’s education. By focusing on their strengths, needs, and long-term goals, you’re setting them up for success in ways that often surpass traditional school systems.
Know Your Rights When Withdrawing Your Child From School
If your child’s school provides forms requiring you to acknowledge that you are forfeiting your student’s rights to special needs support services upon withdrawal, take the time to review these documents carefully. Ensure you are comfortable with the language and fully understand the implications of signing them.
If you have any questions or concerns about the wording or what signing the document entails, reach out to the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) for assistance. Their team can help clarify your rights and provide guidance to ensure you make an informed decision.