Beginning your homeschool journey feels exciting and uncertain.
At Exodus Christian Academy we understand how you feel because we have been right where you are.
Knowing your rights as a parent is an important part in feeling confident about your journey.
Tennesee law requires students to complete 180 days of attendance and 6.5 hrs of instructional time per school day when enrolled with a Category IV Church-related, “umbrella” school.
TN law does not specify any required subjects, nor does it define what instructional activities must be completed within the 6.5 hrs. So, families have flexibility and freedom to learn through a variety of activities such as activities as field trips, sports, work, travel, research, grocery shopping, cooking, and many other learning activities.
(TCA 49-50-801(c) TCA 0520-07-02-.05(h)
Tennessee Homeschool Law does not require parents to follow specific curriculum guidelines or participate in testing when enrolled with an “umbrella” school.
Parents have the freedom and maintain the responsibility to choose curriculum that meet the needs and goals of their children.
It is ultimately the parent’s responsibility to ensure that records are kept and maintained. However, ECA recommends that parents also submit their Educational Plan and final grades for each student on an annual basis. Submission is for the purpose of documenting their educational program and accomplishments. The submission of records also allows ECA to provide accurate transcripts for future educational opportunities.
Students who are home schooled are entitled to the same special education services as children who are placed in private schools by their parent or legal guardian. Students with disabilities who are placed by their parents or legal guardians in a private school or home school are not entitled to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) through an individualized education program (IEP). The school district is responsible for providing equitable services to home school students who are determined eligible as a child with a disability. This is accomplished through a “services plan” and is generally a type of related service, such as speech therapy, as determined by the school district where the student is registered to home school. Parents and legal guardians should contact their local school district for complete information.
The Journey Through Homeschool Podcast is a weekly podcast to give you practical insight, encouragement, and advice to help you naviaged the day-to-day life of homeschooling. The podcast is published every Wednesday and can be found on your favorite podcast app.
Our blog is filled with practical resources, information, and encouragement to help you navigate your homeschool journey successfully. From how to homeschool for free to teaching specific subjects you will find the help you need to walk your journey.
We know it can be overwhelming to navigate curriculum choices, high school credits, college entrance and more because we have been there too.
If you are feeling overwhelmed ECA offers both in-person and virtual advisement. Just call our office at (931) 349-8673 or email us at office@exoduschristianacademy.com to make an appointment.
ECA has curated local events and community opportunities for families throughout the school year that include;
Check out our Calendar of Events for all the information.
