Advice for Military Homeschool Families

Being a military family means frequently moving around the country or even overseas. As parents know, moving can disrupt a child's education, especially when changing states. Each state has slightly different laws and standards. For military families, homeschooling rises from the pack as a viable alternative to public education. There are issues to be considered before setting out to educate your own children.

State by State Regulations

Military families must follow the regulations set by the state they are stationed in, even if they claim a different state of residence on tax forms. It is recommended for overseas military families to ask the local military community commander about any requirements that must met to comply with the homeschooling regulations of the host nation, state, commonwealth, or territory. This is outlined in a DoDEA memorandum originally issued on March 27, 2000, and later updated on November 6, 2002. However, parents have full control over their child's curriculum; the Department of Defense and individual commanders cannot dictate what is taught to homeschooled children or what type of homeschooling method the parents use.

Homeschooling Support Groups

As with any homeschooling family, it is recommended that you look for homeschooling support groups in your area. The parents and students within these groups can offer emotional support to you and your family. While there is no official military homeschool group, there may be other military homeschool families who belong to a civilian group in your area. These families can help you understand the local regulations you need to comply with to be recognized as a legitimate educational provider for your child.