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Educational Services of Miami

Florida Statute 1002.41 - explained

Florida home education law, in plain English.

Florida defines home education as "sequentially progressive instruction of a student directed by his or her parent or guardian." Here's what that means in practice.

Summary

  1. 1Compulsory school age: the school year your child turns 6 by Feb 1, until age 16 or graduation.
  2. 2Send a Letter of Intent to the county school board within 30 days of starting.
  3. 3Keep samples of your student's work for two years.
  4. 4Keep a reading log.
  5. 5Conduct an Annual Evaluation for each student.
  6. 6Submit a Letter of Termination within 30 days of completing the program.

Five evaluation methods (you choose one each year)

  1. Method 1

    Certified teacher reviews the portfolio and discusses progress with the student.

  2. Method 2

    Student takes any nationally-normed standardized achievement test, administered by a certified teacher.

  3. Method 3

    Student takes a state assessment used by the district, administered by a certified teacher.

  4. Method 4

    Student is evaluated by a licensed psychologist.

  5. Method 5

    Any other valid measurement tool mutually agreed upon by the parent and superintendent.

Authoritative resources

Last reviewed for accuracy on May 22, 2026. This page summarizes Florida statute - it isn't legal advice.