How to Withdraw Your Child from Public School

Making the decision to withdraw your child from public school to start homeschooling can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Trust me, as a homeschool educator and director of 5 Arrow Homeschool Academy, I’ve helped parents through the process, and I know the mix of emotions that come with it. Whether you’re driven by a need for more flexibility, a desire to tailor learning to your child’s needs, or just a longing for more family time, starting this journey is a big step. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you withdraw your student from compulsory schooling (public school) and start homeschooling with confidence!

Step 1: Understand Your State’s Homeschooling Laws For Withdrawing

Before you do anything else, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with your state’s homeschooling laws. Each state has its own requirements, ranging from minimal oversight to more detailed regulations. You can find this information on your state’s Department of Education website or through local homeschool organizations.

Key things to check for:

– Withdrawal Requirements: Make sure you understand any forms or processes needed to formally withdraw your child from public school.

– Notice of Intent: Some states require you to submit a letter of intent to homeschool, stating your plan to educate your child at home.

– Record Keeping: Find out if your state mandates keeping certain records like attendance, lesson plans, or portfolios.

– Assessment Requirements: Check if your state requires standardized testing or annual evaluations for homeschool students.

Step 2: Notify the School in Writing Before the Withdraw

Once you’re clear on your state’s laws, you’ll need to notify your child’s current school of your decision to withdraw. This is typically done with a formal letter, which can be as simple as:

If you need a professional template, I provide one in our shop. All you must do is fill in the blanks and deliver. You can learn more in my article “How To File a Letter of Intent to Homeschool.”

Make sure to keep a copy of the letter for your records and, if possible, get confirmation that the school has received it. Some parents prefer to send the letter via certified mail or deliver it in person to ensure it doesn’t get lost in the shuffle. Be sure to read the article for specific details!

Step 3: Plan for the Transition After Withdrawl

The transition from public school to homeschooling can take some adjustment—for both you and your child. Remember, this is a big change, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. Here’s what you can do to make the shift smoother:

Start with Deschooling: If your child has been in public school for a while, consider taking a deschooling period. This is a time to let go of the structure of traditional school and allow your child to rediscover their natural love for learning. During this phase, focus on fun, low-pressure activities like reading together, exploring nature, or engaging in creative projects.

Talk It Through: Make sure your child understands why they’re transitioning to homeschooling and what to expect. Let them voice any feelings or concerns they have so that they feel part of the process.

Step 4: Choose Your Homeschooling Approach

Homeschooling comes in many shapes and sizes. You don’t need to jump into a full-blown curriculum on day one. Instead, take some time to explore different educational philosophies to find one that resonates with your family’s values and goals. Here are a few popular approaches (found on our Homeschool 101 page):

• Traditional/School-at-Home: Closely resembles public school with structured lesson plans and curriculum.
• Unschooling: A child-led approach that emphasizes learning through life experiences and interests.
• Charlotte Mason: Focuses on living books, narration, nature studies, and a well-rounded, gentle approach.
• Classical Education: Centers around the trivium (grammar, logic, and rhetoric) and emphasizes a structured and rigorous academic path.
• Unit Studies: Integrates various subjects around a common theme, making learning feel cohesive and fun (a personal favorite in our house!).

 Step 5: Gather Your Curriculum and Supplies

Once you have an idea of what type of homeschooling approach you’d like to take, start gathering the necessary materials. You don’t need to buy everything at once; start with the basics and build as you go. We have a whole page dedicated to helping you choose full curriculum options here. Your choses can include:

– Pre-packaged Curriculum: Companies that provide all-in-one curriculums with lesson plans and materials. This can be pretty pricey and usually deters parents down the line.

– DIY Approach: Mixing and matching different resources to tailor lessons to your child’s needs.

– Online Resources: Websites and educational platforms offering free or affordable worksheets, videos, and interactive lessons.

Don’t forget to include fun learning aids like manipulatives, craft supplies, and games that can make lessons more engaging! Check out our shop to download FREE homeschool resources, like schedules, math and science printables and more! You can also find articles on how to create your own homeschool curriculum here.

Step 6: Set Up Your Learning Space

Creating a designated learning space can help your child transition from public school to homeschooling. Whether it’s a full-fledged classroom setup (I have went this route before, learn more about that here) or just a cozy corner of your living room, having a dedicated area for schoolwork helps establish a routine.

Tips for Setting Up Your Space:

– Organize Supplies: Keep books, pencils, and art supplies neatly stored and accessible.

– Make It Comfortable: Add cozy chairs, pillows, or rugs to make learning inviting.

– Incorporate Visuals: Hang maps, educational posters, or art that sparks curiosity and interest.

Step 7: Find Your Homeschool Community

Homeschooling doesn’t mean doing it alone. One of the best ways to enrich your homeschool experience is to join local or online homeschool groups. These communities provide support, share resources, and often organize field trips, classes, and co-op learning opportunities.

Step 8: Trust the Process

Homeschooling is a journey, not a race. You’ll have great days and tough days—both are normal. Give yourself grace, trust your instincts, and remember why you chose to homeschool in the first place. The flexibility, freedom, and unique learning opportunities make it all worthwhile.

You Can Do This!

Withdrawing your child from public school to homeschool can feel intimidating, but with some planning and patience, it becomes an empowering step toward a more personalized and authentic education for your kids. Follow these steps, find your rhythm, and soon enough, you’ll see your child thrive in this new, nurturing learning environment, you got this, really!

And remember, whether you’re deep into a unit study about the ocean, snuggled up with a read-aloud, or just enjoying an afternoon of hands-on science experiments, you’re creating memories and learning experiences that will last a lifetime. Happy homeschooling!

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