Attorney-Verified Homeschool Letter of Intent Document for Washington State

1. Incomplete Information: Failing to provide all required details can lead to delays. Ensure that every section is filled out completely.

2. Incorrect Names: Using incorrect spellings for names, whether for the parent or child, can cause confusion. Double-check for accuracy.

3. Missing Signatures: Forgetting to sign the form is a common mistake. All necessary signatures must be present for the form to be valid.

4. Improper Submission Method: Not following the correct submission guidelines can result in the form not being received. Be sure to send it via the appropriate channel.

5. Failure to Update: If there are changes in your homeschooling plans, neglecting to update the form can lead to complications. Always keep your information current.

6. Ignoring Deadlines: Missing the submission deadline can have serious consequences. Mark your calendar to ensure timely submission.

7. Not Keeping Copies: Failing to keep a copy of the submitted form can be problematic. Always retain a copy for your records.

8. Overlooking Local Requirements: Each school district may have specific requirements. Familiarize yourself with local regulations to avoid issues.

1. What is the Washington Homeschool Letter of Intent?

   The Washington Homeschool Letter of Intent is a formal document that parents or guardians must submit to the local school district to notify them of their decision to homeschool their children. This letter serves as an official declaration that the parents are taking responsibility for their child's education outside of the traditional school system.

2. When should I submit the Letter of Intent?

   The Letter of Intent should be submitted by September 15th of each school year. If you are starting to homeschool mid-year, you should submit the letter as soon as you decide to withdraw your child from public school. Timely submission ensures compliance with state regulations and allows the district to update their records accordingly.

3. What information is required in the Letter of Intent?

   The Letter of Intent must include several key pieces of information:

   • Your name and address
   • Your child's name and age
   • The date you intend to begin homeschooling
   • A statement indicating that you are providing home-based instruction

   Providing accurate and complete information helps avoid any potential misunderstandings with the school district.

4. Is there a specific format I need to follow for the Letter of Intent?

   While there is no mandated format for the Letter of Intent, it is recommended to keep it simple and straightforward. A brief letter that includes all required information is sufficient. Some families choose to use templates available online, but personalizing the letter can make it feel more genuine.

5. What happens after I submit the Letter of Intent?

   Once the Letter of Intent is submitted, the school district will acknowledge receipt of your letter. They may not require any further action from you unless they have specific questions or concerns. It’s important to keep a copy of the letter for your records. Additionally, you should be prepared to maintain educational records for your child, as you may need to demonstrate progress in their education at the end of the school year.

Misconceptions about the Washington Homeschool Letter of Intent form can lead to confusion for families considering homeschooling. Here are ten common misunderstandings, clarified for better understanding.

1. Homeschooling is illegal without filing the form. Many believe that failing to file the Letter of Intent makes homeschooling unlawful. In reality, the form is a notification, not a legal requirement to start homeschooling.
2. Filing the form means you must follow a specific curriculum. Some think that submitting the Letter of Intent locks them into a particular curriculum. However, families have the freedom to choose any educational approach that suits their child's needs.
3. The form must be filed every year. There is a misconception that the Letter of Intent needs to be submitted annually. In fact, once filed, it remains valid until the child reaches the age of 18 or the family decides to stop homeschooling.
4. All children must be included on the form. Some parents worry they must list every child in the household. The form only requires information about the child or children who will be homeschooled.
5. Filing the form guarantees state funding. Many believe that submitting the Letter of Intent entitles them to state funding for homeschooling. This is not the case; Washington does not provide funding for homeschool families.
6. Parents must have teaching credentials. A common myth is that parents need formal teaching credentials to homeschool. In Washington, there are no such requirements; parents can teach their children without any specific qualifications.
7. The form needs to be notarized. Some think that the Letter of Intent requires notarization. This is incorrect; the form simply needs to be signed by the parent or guardian.
8. There is a strict deadline for filing the form. Many assume there is a specific deadline for submitting the Letter of Intent. In reality, parents can file it at any time, as long as it is done before the child begins homeschooling.
9. Homeschooling is only for certain types of students. Some people believe homeschooling is only suitable for gifted or struggling students. In truth, it can benefit any child, regardless of their academic abilities.
10. The form is complicated and difficult to complete. A common belief is that the Letter of Intent is overly complex. In fact, the form is straightforward and can be completed quickly with basic information.

Understanding these misconceptions can help families navigate the homeschooling process more effectively. Clear information empowers parents to make informed decisions about their children's education.