Homeschool Requirements in Texas
Texas does not require a formal letter of intent to homeschool. Here's what you do need to get started.
Good news — Texas does not require a formal letter of intent.
Under Texas Education Code Section 25.086, Texas does not require families to notify the state or their local school district before they begin homeschooling.
What Texas Does Require
If your child is currently enrolled in school, send this withdrawal letter to the school principal.
School Withdrawal Letter
If your child is currently enrolled in a school, a withdrawal letter is a courtesy worth sending. It is not legally required, but it makes for a clean transition.
Your Information
Parent, Child & Program
Texas Requirements
Only needed if your child is currently enrolled in a school.
The date you plan to begin homeschooling.
Recipient
If your child is currently enrolled in school, send this withdrawal letter to the school principal.
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The letter as you've filled it in, ready to print and sign.
What Your Letter Will Include
Based on Texas Education Code Section 25.086, your letter will include:
- Parent/guardian name and contact information
- Child's name and date of birth
- Statement of intent to homeschool
- Reference to Texas Education Code Section 25.086
- Current School Name (Only needed if your child is currently enrolled in a school.)
- Withdrawal Date (The date you plan to begin homeschooling.)
Relevant Legal Language
Under Texas Education Code Section 25.086(a)(1), a child is exempt from compulsory attendance if the child attends a private or parochial school that includes in its course a study of good citizenship. The Texas Supreme Court ruled in Leeper v. Arlington ISD (1994) that home schools are private schools for purposes of the compulsory attendance law.
Disclaimer: This letter is generated for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change — verify current requirements with your local school district or consult a qualified attorney before submitting.