Hours / Days
No requirement
State Code
MS
Subjects
0 required
Filing Requirements
Certificate of Enrollment
By September 15File with your county school attendance officer. Simple one-page form.
How to Comply with Mississippi's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in Mississippi
Legal Classification
Home School (Certificate of Enrollment)
Compulsory Education Ages
6-17
Steps to Get Started
File Certificate of Enrollment Annually
Mississippi requires that you file a Certificate of Enrollment with your local school attendance officer each school year by September 15. This document notifies the school district that your child is receiving home instruction.
- Obtain the Certificate of Enrollment form from your local School Attendance Officer (SAO)
- Or download the form from the Mississippi Department of Education website
- Complete the form with your child's information
- Include your child's name, age, address, birth date
- Provide parent/guardian name and contact information
- Describe your educational program briefly
- Sign the form in blue ink
- Submit to your local School Attendance Officer by September 15
- Keep a copy for your records
Filing by September 15 ensures you're in compliance from the start of the school year.
If Mid-Year Enrollment: File Within 15 Days
If your child is transitioning from public school to homeschooling during the school year, file your Certificate of Enrollment with the attendance officer within 15 calendar days of the first day of the school year.
- Determine your local school's first day of the school year
- Complete the Certificate of Enrollment form
- Submit within 15 days of that first day
- This prevents any truancy issues during the transition
No Specific Subject or Curriculum Requirements
Mississippi does not mandate specific subjects, curriculum, or teaching qualifications. You have complete freedom to design your child's education in whatever way best fits your family.
- No mandated subjects requirement
- No curriculum approval needed
- No specific teacher qualifications required
- No instruction time or hours requirement
- Complete autonomy in educational program design
Mississippi's minimal requirements make it very homeschool-friendly and flexible.
No Testing or Assessment Required
Mississippi does not require standardized testing, formal evaluations, progress reports, or any assessment submissions. You assess your child's progress as you see fit.
- No mandated standardized testing
- No progress reports to submit
- No portfolio reviews required
- Complete freedom in assessment methods
Some families voluntarily test to track progress, while others rely on observation and work samples.
Design Your Educational Program
With minimal state requirements, you have exceptional freedom to create an education that truly fits your child. Choose curriculum, subjects, and teaching methods that align with your family's values.
- Select traditional, classical, unschooling, or eclectic approaches
- Choose any curriculum materials or create your own
- Set your own schedule and pacing
- Incorporate field trips, tutoring, and enrichment activities
- Fully customize to your child's learning style and interests
Keep Records for Your Own Benefit
While Mississippi doesn't require records to be filed, maintaining records helps you stay organized and document your child's progress.
- Keep a learning log of subjects and activities
- Save work samples and completed assignments
- Document field trips and enrichment activities
- Track your child's growth and achievements
- Maintain records for your own reference and planning
Renew Your Certificate Annually
Each school year, file a new Certificate of Enrollment by September 15. This is a simple renewal confirming that your child continues to receive home instruction.
- Obtain a new Certificate of Enrollment form
- Complete with updated information if anything changed
- Submit to your local School Attendance Officer by September 15
- Keep a copy for your records
Set a calendar reminder for mid-September to ensure you file on time each year.
Withdrawing from School
If your child was in public school, file your Certificate of Enrollment and begin homeschooling. No formal public school withdrawal is required beyond the certificate. If you later return to public school, contact the school's enrollment office.
Public School Access
Mississippi homeschoolers may participate in some public school sports and activities depending on school district policy. Contact your school district's athletic director to inquire about opportunities.
Special Education
Mississippi allows families with students with special needs to homeschool. If your child has been identified for special education services, coordinate with your school district about available services.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Keep a learning journal or activity log of instruction provided
- Create a portfolio with work samples from various subjects
- Save any assessment results if you choose to test
- Document field trips, educational activities, and enrichment experiences
- Maintain records for your own organization and progress tracking
Assessment Requirements
No testing required.
Record Keeping
No record-keeping required by law.
Key Facts About Mississippi
Minimal state requirements
Certificate just needs child names and 'simple description' of education type
No mandated subjects, curriculum, or testing
Very hands-off state
Ages 6-17
“Every family's homeschool journey in Mississippi is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What goes on the Certificate of Enrollment?
The certificate needs your child's name and a simple description of your homeschool type (e.g., 'home education'). Nothing complex is required.
Are there subject or curriculum requirements?
No. Mississippi does not mandate any specific subjects or curriculum. You have complete freedom.
Does Mississippi require testing?
No. Mississippi does not require any standardized testing or formal assessments.
What records do I need to keep?
No specific record-keeping is required by Mississippi law. You may keep personal records if you choose.
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