It’s the time of year when many Florida families begin to think about the annual homeschooling evaluation process. Here is a list of the most commonly-asked questions about this important legal requirement:

What is the annual evaluation?

Florida law requires that homeschoolers turn in an evaluation for each student every year. The purpose of the evaluation is to demonstrate that academic progress has been made and that the student is ready to progress to the next level of instruction.

Who must submit an evaluation?

Homeschoolers who use the home education program option (1002.01) must submit an annual evaluation for each child in the home education program.

Must students in private schools (umbrella schools) also be evaluated?

No. Only students under “county supervision”, that is, in a home education program need an annual evaluation.

When is the evaluation due?

The annual evaluation is due every year on or before the anniversary date of the commencement of the home education program. This is the date shown on the original “Letter of Intent”. The evaluation may be turned in early, but should never be late.

I have several children, all with different dates of commencement. Can I have them all evaluated at the same time?

The short answer is, yes. However, because the annual evaluation will determine if student progress has been made from year to year, it is best to perform the annual evaluation toward the end of a student’s year, rather than too early.

How is the evaluation performed?

There are several different options. These include: (1) an evaluation by a Florida-certified teacher; (2) the results of a nationally-normed assessment test given by a certified teacher; (3) the results of a statewide student assessment used by the school district (e.g., FCAT);, (4) an evaluation by a licensed psychologist; or (5) any other method that is mutually agreed-upon by the parent and the school district.

Which methods do most homeschoolers choose?

Options (1) and (2) are the most popular evaluation methods used. Some families also choose option (3).

How long will an evaluation take?

A teacher evaluation could take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending upon the teacher, the size of the student portfolio and the number of things discussed. Tests, whether taken at the school district or at home, can take several hours or be spread over several days, depending upon the test that is used.

How can I find a certified teacher?

Contact your local homeschooling group or a homeschooling contact in your community. Ask friends who they recommend. For option 1 evaluations, be sure that the teacher is Florida-certified and holds an active (not expired) certificate.

How much does an evaluation cost?

Costs vary depending upon the services and the evaluator’s fee schedule. Expect to pay anywhere from approximately $15.00 per child up to $50 per child evaluated, even more if testing is involved.  Discounts are usually offered for multiple children in the same family.

Where can I find standardized tests to use for evaluations?

To use district testing, contact the school district early in the school year for a list of tests and dates that your student may participate in. For private testing services, contact a certified teacher for a list of tests and dates that these may be taken. Parents may also administer some types of tests at home themselves. To find information about tests that can be given by parents, visit Seton Testing Services, Family Learning Organization, or any other homeschool testing service available on-line.

Once completed, where do I send the evaluation?

When using a Florida-certified teacher evaluation, you will receive from the teacher an official document indicating that the child has made adequate yearly progress.  Keep a photocopy for yourself, then send this official document to the Superintendent of Schools in your district.

If using private testing, it is not necessary to send the test results to the Superintendent.  Instead, either the parent or a Florida-certified teacher should write a letter indicating that testing has occurred and has demonstrated adequate yearly progress.  That letter will be sent to the Superintendent of Schools in lieu of the test results.  

Always retain copies of everything you send for your own homeschooling files.

What will the Superintendent’s office do with my evaluation?

The district school superintendent is charged with reviewing and accepting the evaluation and will place it in the child's file at the district office. If, for any reason, the evaluation does not demonstrate that academic progress has been made, the superintendent may notify the parent in writing, giving the parent 1 year to provide remedial instruction.