Homeschool Requirements in Kentucky

Notify Your Local School Board Annually

Kentucky requires that you notify your local school board in writing within 10 days of the start of the school term (or by a date specified by your district). This annual notification lets the district know your family is homeschooling and establishes your homeschool's legal status.

• Write a letter to your school district superintendent or school board
• Include your child's name, age, and home address
• Provide your homeschool name (if you have one)
• Include the start date of your homeschool program
• Submit the letter within 10 days of starting
• Keep a copy for your records

Teach Required Subjects in English

Kentucky requires instruction in reading, writing, spelling, grammar, history, mathematics, science, and civics. All instruction must be provided in the English language. You have complete freedom in choosing curriculum and teaching methods.

• Reading includes comprehension, fluency, and literary analysis
• Writing includes composition, grammar, and communication skills
• Spelling and grammar are explicit requirements
• History and civics include government, geography, and cultural understanding
• Mathematics covers grade-appropriate math skills
• Science includes life science, earth science, and physical science

Meet Instructional Hour Requirements

Kentucky requires a minimum of 1,062 instructional hours per school year, with a school term that cannot be shorter than the public school term in your district. Typically, this means approximately 185 instructional days.

• Minimum: 1,062 instructional hours per year
• Or: A term equivalent to your local public school district's calendar
• Contact hours are actual instruction time, not homework or independent study
• You can distribute hours throughout the year as you choose

No Mandated Testing or Curriculum Approval

Kentucky does not require standardized testing, curriculum approval, formal evaluations, or submission of progress reports. You have exceptional freedom in how you teach and assess your child.

• No standardized testing requirement
• No curriculum approval needed
• No progress reports to submit to the state
• No specific teaching qualifications required

Design Your Curriculum

With minimal state requirements, you have tremendous freedom to create an education that fits your child. Choose from traditional textbooks, online programs, classical education, unschooling, or any combination.

• Select curriculum aligned with your family's educational philosophy
• Use textbooks, online programs, hands-on materials, or all three
• Incorporate field trips, tutoring, and community learning
• Adjust pacing and content based on your child's needs

Keep Scholarship Records and Portfolio

Maintain portfolio records and progress documentation showing your child's learning in all subjects. These records demonstrate educational activity and are helpful if anyone questions your homeschool's legitimacy.

• Keep samples of work in each subject area
• Maintain a progress report showing growth and achievement
• Document books read, skills developed, and learning milestones
• Save attendance records showing instructional days
• Organize materials for easy review if needed

Renew Your Notification Annually

Each school year, submit a new notification letter within 10 days of starting your homeschool. This is a simple renewal—you just confirm you're continuing.