Blank Homeschool Letter of Intent Template for Washington State

When parents decide to homeschool their children in Washington, they must submit a Homeschool Letter of Intent. However, this form is often accompanied by several other documents that can help streamline the process and ensure compliance with state regulations. Below is a list of forms and documents that are commonly used alongside the Homeschool Letter of Intent.

• Declaration of Intent to Homeschool: This document serves as a formal notification to the school district of the parent's intention to homeschool their child. It includes basic information about the student and the educational plan.
• Curriculum Plan: A detailed outline of the educational materials and subjects that will be taught throughout the year. This plan helps parents organize their teaching strategy and can be useful for record-keeping.
• Assessment Records: Documentation of the student's progress, including standardized test scores or portfolio evaluations. These records can demonstrate educational progress and are sometimes required by the school district.
• Attendance Records: A log that tracks the days and hours of instruction. Keeping accurate attendance records is important for compliance and can help parents stay organized.
• Student Learning Plan: A personalized plan that outlines specific educational goals and objectives for the student. This plan can guide the educational process and ensure that learning is targeted and effective.
• Health and Safety Records: Documentation related to the child's health, including any vaccinations or medical records. While not always required, maintaining these records can be beneficial for the child's overall well-being.
• Extracurricular Activity Participation Forms: If the student wishes to engage in sports or other activities within the local school district, this form may be needed to request participation.
• High School Transcripts: For students entering high school, maintaining a transcript that records courses taken and grades earned is essential for future educational opportunities.
• Withdrawal Notice: If the child was previously enrolled in a public or private school, this document formally notifies the school of the child's withdrawal to homeschool.

Each of these documents plays a crucial role in the homeschooling journey. While the Homeschool Letter of Intent is the starting point, these additional forms help parents stay organized, compliant, and focused on providing a quality education for their children. Understanding and preparing these documents can facilitate a smoother transition into homeschooling.

Understanding the Washington Homeschool Letter of Intent form can be challenging due to various misconceptions. Here are nine common misunderstandings:

• Misconception 1: The form is only for families with children who are already enrolled in public school.

This is incorrect. The Letter of Intent can be submitted by any family wishing to homeschool, regardless of their child's previous school status.

• Misconception 2: You must submit the form at the beginning of the school year.

While many families do submit it at the start of the year, you can submit the form at any time. There is no strict deadline.

• Misconception 3: The form requires extensive documentation of your educational plan.

The Letter of Intent is straightforward. It primarily requires basic information about the child and the parent, not a detailed curriculum outline.

• Misconception 4: Submitting the form guarantees approval from the school district.

In Washington, submitting the form does not require approval. You simply need to notify the district of your intent to homeschool.

• Misconception 5: You must use a specific format for the Letter of Intent.

There is no mandated format. As long as the required information is included, you can create your own version of the letter.

• Misconception 6: The form must be notarized.

Notarization is not a requirement. You only need to sign the form, affirming your intent to homeschool.

• Misconception 7: Homeschooling families must follow the same curriculum as public schools.

This is false. Homeschooling allows families to choose their own curriculum, tailored to their child's needs and interests.

• Misconception 8: You cannot change your mind after submitting the form.

Families can change their educational plans at any time. If you decide to return to public school, you can do so without penalty.

• Misconception 9: The Letter of Intent is the only requirement for homeschooling in Washington.

While it is a key step, families must also comply with other state regulations, such as annual assessments and maintaining educational records.

Filling out the Washington Homeschool Letter of Intent form can seem daunting, but following some simple guidelines can make the process smoother. Here’s a list of things to do and avoid when completing this form.

• Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
• Do provide accurate information about the student.
• Do include the date when submitting the form.
• Do ensure the form is signed by a parent or guardian.
• Do keep a copy of the submitted form for your records.

• Don’t leave any required fields blank.
• Don’t submit the form late; be mindful of deadlines.
• Don’t use incorrect or outdated contact information.
• Don’t forget to check for spelling errors before submission.