A student addition notification is a compliance document that homeschool families submit to notify their school district when adding a new student to an existing homeschool, such as when a younger sibling reaches compulsory age or a child is withdrawn from public school mid-year.
What is a Student Addition Notification?
A student addition notification is the formal documentation required when adding a child to an established homeschool program. This commonly occurs when a younger sibling reaches compulsory school age, when a child is withdrawn from public or private school to be homeschooled mid-year, or when a family moves to a new school district with children already being homeschooled. The notification updates official records to include the new student and is distinct from an initial Notice of Intent, which establishes the homeschool in the first place. Requirements vary significantly by state, with some requiring immediate notification while others simply include new students in annual filings.
Key Takeaways
- Required when adding children to an existing homeschool (not for initial setup)
- Twenty-five states require annual notification that naturally includes new students
- Fourteen states require one-time notice with amendments for additions
- Eleven states have no notification requirement at all
- Deadlines range from 5 to 14 days depending on state and circumstance
When Notification Is Required
The most common triggers for student addition notification include a child reaching compulsory school age (typically between ages 5 and 8 depending on state), withdrawing a child from public or private school to begin homeschooling, adopting or gaining guardianship of a school-age child, and moving to a new school district with currently homeschooled children. In states with annual notification requirements, families simply include the new student on their next annual filing. In one-time notification states, an amendment or supplemental filing updates the original notice of intent.
State-Specific Deadlines
Information Typically Required
Student addition notifications generally require the child's full legal name, age or date of birth, and grade level. Parent or guardian information includes name, home address, telephone number, and signature. Some states ask for the name of the homeschool (if applicable), subjects to be taught, or curriculum outlines. Pennsylvania requires immunization records and criminal background certification. Most notifications can be submitted on district forms or as free-form letters containing the required information. Always use certified mail with return receipt requested to document compliance.
Consequences of Not Filing
Failure to properly notify when adding a student can result in truancy classification since the child is not enrolled in any recognized educational program. Depending on state law, parents may face misdemeanor charges, fines, or in extreme cases, school attendance review board hearings. Some states may question the legal status of the entire homeschool if violations are found. While enforcement varies widely, maintaining proper documentation protects families from unnecessary complications. When in doubt, file the notification and keep copies of everything.
The Bottom Line
Student addition notifications are straightforward compliance requirements that keep your homeschool documentation current. In most cases, you're simply updating records rather than seeking approval. States with annual filing requirements make this easiest since new students are included naturally in your yearly paperwork. For mid-year additions, act promptly within your state's deadline. Keep copies of all notifications and any acknowledgment letters, use certified mail for documentation, and consider joining your state homeschool organization for updated forms and guidance specific to your jurisdiction.
