Homeschool Requirements in West Virginia

Choose Your West Virginia Homeschooling Path

Select one of the three options. Option 1 works directly with your school superintendent, Option 2 provides organizational structure through a group, and Option 3 uses religious school exemption. Each has different requirements.

Option 1: Notify Superintendent 2 Weeks Before Starting

If pursuing home instruction directly, notify your county superintendent in writing at least 2 weeks before beginning. Submit a plan of home instruction for review and approval.

• Contact the superintendent's office for notification procedures and forms
• Provide notice at least 14 days before your intended start date
• Include your child's information and proposed curriculum plan
• Submit a home instruction plan showing subjects, materials, and teaching approach
• Request written approval or confirmation of receipt

Option 1: Meet Assessment Requirements

Home instruction students must take standardized assessments in grades 3, 5, 8, and 11. Results demonstrate progress and help you track learning.

• Grades 3, 5, 8, 11: Annual standardized testing required
• Choose an approved standardized test (SAT, ACT, Iowa Test of Basic Skills, etc.)
• Administer testing in spring of the school year
• Keep test results on file (not submitted to state)
• Use results to assess progress and identify learning needs

Option 2: Join an Approved Homeschool Group

If pursuing Option 2, join a homeschool group or co-op that is approved by your county. The group handles many requirements and provides community and structure.

• Research approved homeschool groups in your county
• Contact the group and inquire about membership
• Follow the group's recordkeeping and assessment requirements
• Participate in group activities and community
• The group typically handles district communication

Option 3: Religious School Exemption

If using a religious school exemption, enroll your child in a recognized church school, school operated by a religious order, or other approved religious school. Different rules apply.

Design Your Curriculum (Options 1 & 2)

West Virginia does not mandate specific subjects for Options 1 and 2. Design an education covering core academic areas that align with your family's philosophy.

• Include language arts, mathematics, science, social studies as foundations
• Add subjects based on your child's interests and goals
• Choose traditional, classical, or other educational approaches
• Integrate subjects or teach separately as you prefer

Maintain Records (Options 1 & 2)

Keep records documenting your child's attendance, instruction provided, assessment results, and progress. These records stay at home and document that education is occurring.

• Track attendance showing regular instructional days
• Document subjects covered and learning activities
• Keep assessment results from annual testing
• Maintain work samples and completed assignments
• Save curriculum materials and receipts