If you are homeschooling a child with special needs, you need to follow your state’s homeschool regulations. There are no additional requirements for homeschooling children with special needs.
Home education students are eligible for testing and evaluation services at diagnostic and resource centers, in accordance with Florida Statutes § 1006.03. See Florida Statutes § 1002.41(9).
However, once an evaluation is done and the child has been identified as having a disability, state law does not obligate the local school district to provide services. If the child is enrolled full time the district will be obligated to provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE) to the child. Additionally, the school district may decide to enroll the child as a part-time student for services provide in the public school. This would allow the school district to obtain state funding through the Florida Education Funding Program (FEEP).
Florida also has a private school provision. If homeschoolers are operating under private schools, they are eligible to receive special services. However, services available to private school students may be less than what is provided to a public school student. Under both state and federal law a private school student is not entitled to all of the rights of a public school student when it comes to special education services. For more information see the Florida Department of Education FAQs.
Note: As you decide what kind of special needs services and therapy best meet your child’s needs, we want you to know that HSLDA Compassion Curriculum Grants are available to help with diagnostic services, therapy, curriculum, or other educational materials.
Please note: The information on this page has been reviewed by an attorney, but it should not be taken as legal advice specific to your individual situation.