1. Is homeschooling allowed at Yokosuka Naval base? Yes. Please see COMFLTACTINS 1755.8 school attendance policy for command sponsored school age Department of Defense dependents.
2. Is homeschooling allowed at other military installations? Yes. However, please consult each base’s instruction and or family services/legal on school attendance and proper procedures of notification.
3. Do I need certification or any qualifications to teach? No. However, laws vary from state to state. Here in Yokosuka there are no requirements. It is advised to be involved in some type of support group. From time to time the DoDDS school and the IDEA program offer in-service training. Consult the schools for more information.
4. Do I need to register my children to homeschool? No, unless your child is enrolled in a satellite/umbrella or correspondence school. If your child is not attending the DoDDS school, however, you will need to notify your commanding officer (preferably in writing for record-keeping purposes) of your intent to homeschool .
5. Does my curricula need to be approved? No. You can utilize any methods, materials resources etc. If you are enrolled in satellite/umbrella or correspondence schools you may be advised to use certain materials.
6. Do I submit lesson plans? You do not need to submit lesson plans for approval in Yokosuka UNLESS you are enrolled in IDEA or some other type of satellite/umbrella or correspondence program. Consult the policy of the program you are enrolled in for details.
7. What records to I need to keep? It is highly advisable that you maintain some type of records. Portfolios are an excellent method of evaluation and assessment. Keep all standardized test scores. Some states will require attendance, physicals and shot records.
8. Can students with special needs be homeschooled? Yes. A large number of students with special needs are being homeschooled nation-wide. There are resources and on-line support groups that can help.
9. Should I test my children? It is highly recommended that you test your homeschooled children. Testing can be done through the DoDDS or on your own. However, there are education and certification requirements for those proctoring the tests. See TESTING for more information.
10. Can I transfer homeschool units? Transferring homeschool units to a traditional school is possible if you have been enrolled in a satellite, umbrella or correspondence school. Some schools will consider your records (portfolios, tests, etc) and place the student in the appropriate grades. HOWEVER, THIS MAY NOT BE THE CASE FOR HIGH SCHOOL. Consult the high schools for their policies on transferring credits. Most public high schools recognize transferable units from accredited institutions and programs. Your homeschool child may be required to retake a class if your homeschooling program is not with an accredited institution or organization.
11. How difficult is it to homeschool? Homeschooling is a commitment. You, the parent, are the teacher; hence, you will have to adjust your schedule. Time is a significant factor. There may be personality clashes, something you will have to work out with your student/child. You must establish discipline within your homeschool as well as be disciplined. Remember, teaching is only one aspect homeschooling.
12. What about socialization? Based on our experience we find homeschoolers are more involved in community, church and private activities. The concern is more for the parent for burnout since usually the parents themselves are involved in the same activities as their homeschoolers as leaders, coaches, teachers, etc. At Yokosuka Naval Base, there are many things to involve your children for socialization. Please see SOCIALIZATION for ideas and links. KPHS also has field trips and coops running throughout the year. You may want to consult your IDEA contact for any coop or field trip information as well.
13. My children are enrolled in DoDDS school. What is the withdrawal process? Inform the school that you will be homeschooling. It is advised that you do this in writing for record-keeping purposes. If you plan to utilize any DoDDS services you should continue your child’s enrollment (ie. Special Ed, library, classes, etc.) Otherwise, it is the sponsor’s responsibility to properly disenroll their dependent child.
14. Am I eligible for DoDDS services even if I homeschool? Yes, that is if the dependent child is command sponsored. However, the student may need to be registered with the school Please check with the school as to specific services and classes your child can participate in.
15. Can my homeschooled student participate in extracurricular activities? Homeschooled students have participated in the DoDDS school extracurricular activities. However, please consult the school to find out any requirements for participation.
16. Are there homeschool teachers on base? Homeschooling is exactly what it is: schooling at home. Normally one or both parents take on this task. Some parents may hire private tutors for various lessons like music, art, languages and some core classes. However, the main responsibility of educating lies with the parent.