No. Homeschooling is parent-led education. Teachers from NYC public schools do not provide instruction and homeschooled students do not have access to general education instruction or instructional materials.
Medically Necessary Instruction is for students in grades 3K to12 who cannot attend school for medical reasons and is provided by NYC Public Schools. Visit the Medically Necessary Instruction page to get additional information about the application process and eligibility.
At what age can I register my child in homeschooling?
Children must be in school or homeschooled from age 6 until the school year they turn 17. Special needs students may continue until age 21. Five-year-olds can be homeschooled, but formal reporting requirements only apply if you request special education services.
Can I use a tutor to provide instruction?
Yes. Parents may engage the services of a tutor to provide instruction for all or a portion of the home instruction program.
Can a group of parents provide home instruction collectively by engaging the services of a tutor to provide group instruction to their children?
Yes, with limitations. Parents may arrange for their children to receive group instruction from a tutor for specific subjects within a homeschool program. However, where group instruction by a tutor constitutes the majority of the instructional program, it may be considered to operate as a religious or independent school rather than a home school program.
How is a homeschool student promoted to the next grade?
In homeschooling, there is no formal promotion or acceleration policy. Generally, students are placed in the grade level that aligns with their chronological age. As the parent or guardian, you have the flexibility to provide instruction at the grade level you believe best meets your child's needs. However, if a student transfers to homeschooling with a "hold over" or "promotion in doubt" status from their previous school, that decision remains in effect and cannot be changed by choosing homeschooling.
If your child returns to public school, the principal will determine the appropriate grade level placement and assess any credits that may be granted.
Can homeschooled students including D75 receive special education services?
Yes, If your child is homeschooled and needs special education services, you must request those services in writing directly to your local Committee on Special Education (CSE). This letter must be sent by June 1 for the next school year. Visit the Committees on Special Education page to find your local CSE.
This letter is in addition to the Letter of Intent (LOI) that homeschooling families must submit each year to the Office of Homeschooling.
Please note that to receive special education services, homeschooled families must also provide the CSE with a copy of the Letter of Compliance (LOC), which is issued by the Office of Homeschooling after your Letter of Intent and your child's Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP) are reviewed. The LOC confirms that your homeschool program is in compliance with NYSED Part 100.10 regulations.
How can I request an OMNY Card for my child?
Families may request an OMNY card after submitting both the Letter of Intent and the Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP). The link to the form will be included in the Letter of Compliance once the IHIP has been reviewed and found in compliance with Part 100.10. To remain eligible for the OMNY card, families must also submit quarterly reports and the annual assessment as outlined in the IHIP.
Please note: OMNY cards are for educational purposes only, such as travel to museums, libraries, or other instructional activities. Eligibility will be reviewed upon submission, and approved cards will be mailed to the address provided on the Letter of Intent. All requests are subject to review and OMNY card availability.
Must my child be immunized to homeschool?
No, unless you are asking for access to participate in any activity or event at the school such as testing.
Can I discharge my student from the New York City school system to an accredited online-only school?
No, however online programs can be used for your homeschooling plan (IHIP).
What if I moved or no longer home school my children?
Email letterofintent@schools.nyc.gov to notify the Central Office of Homeschooling.
What if I want to enroll my children in public school in New York City?
Please note that upon return to school, the principal determines the grade level, and any credits granted.