Homeschool Checklist for Fort Lauderdale 🎉

1. Let's Get Started!

   • Notify Broward County: Send an email to home.education@browardschools.com within 30 days of starting your homeschool journey. You can download the Notice of Intent form from Broward Home Education Office website. Fill out the form with your information and your child's details. This lets Broward County know you're homeschooling.

2. Pick Your Learning Adventure

   • Choose Your Curriculum: Decide what subjects and topics your child will learn. Look for homeschooling curricula that fit your child's learning style and your teaching style. Broward Virtual School (bved.net) offers online courses that you can incorporate into your curriculum if needed.

3. Show Off Your Work!

   • Create Your Portfolio: Get a folder or a special box to store your child's work samples, reading lists, and project materials. Label each section clearly:

     • Work Samples: Keep a few samples from each subject your child studies, such as math worksheets, essays, or drawings.

     • Reading Lists: Write down the titles and authors of books your child reads. You can also include summaries or thoughts about each book.

     • Special Projects: Document any hands-on projects, field trips, or experiments with photos, notes, and any reports your child writes about them.

4. Time for Your Annual Review

   • Annual Evaluation: Plan how you'll evaluate your child's progress each year. Options include:

     • Testing: Some families use standardized tests to measure their child's knowledge in subjects like math, reading, and science.

     • Narrative Evaluation: Write a summary of what your child has learned throughout the year, highlighting their strengths and areas where they've grown.

     • Portfolio Review: Choose a certified teacher or homeschool evaluator to review your child's portfolio and provide feedback. Make sure to schedule this review before your evaluation deadline.

5. Say Bye to Your Old School

   • Complete the Withdrawal Process: If your child was enrolled in a public, private, or charter school before homeschooling, you'll need to officially withdraw them. Contact the school's administration or guidance counselor to find out their specific withdrawal procedure.

6. Extra Fun Stuff

   • Join Free Activities: Homeschoolers in Broward County can participate in sports, clubs, and special classes. To join, email home.education@browardschools.com to learn how to get involved. They'll guide you through the process and help you find activities your child will enjoy.

   • Sign up for Activities: Check out Modulo’s guide for what’s happening in Fort Lauderdale

7. Stay Healthy

   • Get Your Shots: Ensure your child's vaccinations are up-to-date if they plan to participate in any activities or classes at Broward County public schools. Check with your healthcare provider or the school district for the latest requirements.

8. When You're Done

   • Notify Broward County: If you decide to stop homeschooling, let Broward County know within 30 days. Submit a Notice of Termination to home.education@browardschools.com and include a final annual evaluation of your child's progress. This completes your homeschooling journey on a positive note.

9. Thinking About College?

   • Scholarship Opportunities: If your child completes the last two years of high school homeschooling according to Broward County's guidelines, they may be eligible for scholarships like Bright Futures. Although homeschoolers don't receive a standard diploma, they can earn a special certificate or take the GED exam for further educational opportunities.