A withdrawal notice is a formal letter notifying your child's current school that you are removing them from enrollment to begin homeschooling, preventing truancy concerns and officially ending their enrollment.
What is a Withdrawal Notice?
A withdrawal notice is a written document that formally notifies a school you are removing your child from enrollment. When transitioning to homeschooling, this letter serves two critical purposes: it officially ends your child's enrollment so they are no longer counted on the school's roster, and it prevents truancy investigations. If a child is listed on a school roll and stops showing up without explanation, the school is legally required to report them as truant. A withdrawal notice eliminates this concern by creating clear documentation of your educational decision.
Key Takeaways
- Prevents truancy concerns by officially ending school enrollment
- Required in many states, recommended in all states even when not legally mandated
- Different from a Letter of Intent, which notifies the district you're homeschooling
- Should be delivered in writing with proof of delivery (certified mail or email confirmation)
- Keep copies for your homeschool records
What to Include in Your Letter
Keep your withdrawal notice straightforward and professional. Include your child's full legal name, date of birth, and current grade level. State the effective date of withdrawal clearly. Request your child's cumulative records under FERPA, including transcripts, immunization records, attendance records, and any IEP or 504 documents. You do not need to explain your reasons for homeschooling or ask for permission—this is a notification, not a request. A few sentences is all you need.
State Requirements Vary Significantly
Requirements range from no notice needed (Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Illinois) to requiring both a withdrawal notice and a separate Letter of Intent (California). Some states like Missouri only require written notification for children ages 5-7. Florida requires filing notice within 30 days of starting homeschool. Before withdrawing, check your specific state's homeschool laws. Organizations like HSLDA maintain current state-by-state requirements.
Withdrawal Notice vs. Letter of Intent
Delivery and Documentation
Even if your state allows verbal notification, submit in writing. Use certified mail with return receipt, priority mail with signature confirmation, or email with read receipt. This creates documentation that protects you if questions arise later. Keep a copy in your homeschool files along with any confirmation you receive. Some schools may ask you to complete their own withdrawal form—do so, but also submit your own letter and request a copy of their completed form for your records.
The Bottom Line
A withdrawal notice is your clean break from the traditional school system. Even in states where it's not legally required, taking ten minutes to write and send this letter protects your family from truancy concerns and creates documentation of your educational choice. Submit it in writing, keep copies, and consider it the first official step in your homeschool journey. If you're unsure about your state's specific requirements, consult your state's homeschool organization or HSLDA before sending.
