How to Homeschool in South Carolina

Welcome to Tri-City Homeschool Co-op's comprehensive guide on homeschooling in South Carolina! Here, we will walk you through the laws, resources, and opportunities available for homeschooling families in our beautiful state.

Understanding South Carolina’s

Homeschooling Laws

Homeschooling in South Carolina requires adherence to specific state laws. These laws ensure that homeschooling provides adequate education and structure for children. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:

Option 1: Homeschooling through the School District

This option requires parents to get approval from the local school district. You must also teach the required subjects, maintain records, and participate in annual evaluations. Our homeschool co-op works well within your homeschooling journey.

Option 2: Homeschooling through an Association

Join a homeschooling association with at least 50 member families. The association will provide guidance, record-keeping, and support to help you meet state requirements. Our homeschool co-op is NOT an association, but works well within your homeschooling journey.

Option 3: Homeschooling through the South Carolina Independent School

This option allows parents to homeschool under the umbrella of an independent school. You must meet the school’s requirements and follow their guidelines. Our homeschool co-op is NOT an umbrella school, but works well within your homeschooling journey.

For more detailed information, visit the South Carolina Department of Education website.

Homeschooling Resources in South Carolina

South Carolina offers a wealth of resources to homeschooling families, ensuring that both parents and children have access to educational materials, support, and enrichment activities.

  • Field Trips: Explore nature parks, museums, and historical sites. Popular destinations include the South Carolina State Museum, Riverbanks Zoo, and the Charleston Tea Garden.
  • Support Groups: Join local homeschooling groups for social interaction and collaborative learning opportunities.
  • Libraries: Utilize public libraries for access to books, educational programs, and resources.
  • Online Resources: Take advantage of online curricula, educational games, and virtual field trips.
  1. Field Trips:

    • Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: A premier zoo featuring a wide variety of animals and botanical gardens. Riverbanks Zoo
    • South Carolina State Museum: Offers exhibits on art, history, natural history, and science and technology. SC State Museum
    • EdVenture Children's Museum: Engaging and educational exhibits for children of all ages. EdVenture
    • Brookgreen Gardens: A national historic landmark offering tours, nature trails, and a zoo. Brookgreen Gardens
    • Hobcaw Barony: A research reserve with educational tours focused on the environment and history. Hobcaw Barony
  2. Museums:

  3. Yearly Educational Offerings:

    • SC Homeschool Convention: An annual event featuring workshops, speakers, and resources for homeschool families. Great Homeschool Conventions - SC
    • Historic Brattonsville Homeschool Days: Provides hands-on history lessons and activities. Historic Brattonsville
    • SC Maritime Museum: Offers programs and exhibits about the maritime history of South Carolina. SC Maritime Museum
    • Horry County Museum: Provides exhibits and educational programs on the local history and culture. Horry County Museum
  4. Nature and Science:

    • Congaree National Park: Offers educational programs and a variety of outdoor activities. Congaree National Park
    • Roper Mountain Science Center: Provides science education programs and public events. Roper Mountain Science Center
    • Huntington Beach State Park: Offers educational programs on wildlife and coastal ecosystems. Huntington Beach State Park
    • Sandy Island: Accessible by boat, offers unique environmental education opportunities. Sandy Island
  5. Educational Programs and Workshops:

    • SC Aquarium Homeschool Programs: Specialized programs focusing on marine biology and environmental science. SC Aquarium
    • BMW Zentrum: Offers tours and educational programs about automotive engineering and manufacturing. BMW Zentrum
  6. Performing Arts:

    • Peace Center for the Performing Arts: Offers student matinees and educational workshops. Peace Center
    • South Carolina Children's Theatre: Provides drama classes and performances tailored for children. SC Children's Theatre
    • Coastal Carolina University Theatre: Offers performances and educational workshops. CCU Theatre
    • Georgetown School of Arts and Sciences: Provides art and music classes for homeschoolers. Georgetown School of Arts and Sciences
  7. Historical Sites:

    • Fort Sumter National Monument: Learn about Civil War history with educational tours and programs. Fort Sumter
    • Kings Mountain National Military Park: Offers programs and tours about Revolutionary War history. Kings Mountain
    • Kaminski House Museum: Offers tours and educational programs about the colonial and antebellum history of the region. Kaminski House
    • Hopsewee Plantation: Historic tours of a preserved rice plantation with educational insights. Hopsewee Plantation
  8. Community and Support Groups:

    • South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS): Provides resources, support, and legal information for homeschoolers. SCAIHS
    • Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA): Offers legal support and resources for homeschooling families. HSLDA
    • Low Country Homeschool Association: Provides support, resources, and community events for homeschool families. Low Country Homeschool Association
    • Pee Dee Christian Home Educators Association (PDCHEA): Offers support and resources for Christian homeschoolers in the Pee Dee region. PDCHEA

 

These activities and resources provide a well-rounded educational experience for homeschoolers in South Carolina, offering opportunities for hands-on learning, socialization, and community involvement.

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