A relatively new phenomenon is the unschooling, homeschooling, or self-directed learning center. [15] Some are created for (and often by) existing homeschoolers or unschoolers, while others, like "North Star: Self-Directed Learning for Teens" [16] in Amherst, Massachusetts, often attract people who aren't currently unschoolers (and may never have heard of unschooling), but are interested in using a new form of education.
http://www.northstarteens.org/
2007-03-28 04:15:26 · 9 answers · asked by skywifi 2 in Education & Reference ➔ Home Schooling
It's interesting that they would tell you unschooling is illegal, when their website says differently.
According to the Florida laws they have posted on their website (and I went back to make sure I wasn't remembering incorrectly)
there are no attendance, nor subject requirements, nor qualifications in Florida.
you are, however required to give notice to the superintendent of your intent to homeschool, but this is not required annually, keep a log/portfolio of records and materials (log of texts, samples of work) and submit to annual testing or evaluation by state approved officials.
Whether all of that is enforced and whether you have to turn your records in for a look over every year, I do not know.
but this in no way says that unschooling is illegal in Florida.
Maybe you misunderstood what someone was saying, or maybe you were not willing to submit to these guidelines?
2007-03-28 08:01:02 · answer #1 · answered by Terri 6 · 6⤊ 0⤋
To declare as an unschooler is probably illegal but if you are a registered homeschooler and you meet all the criteria as far as proof of work for evals, then how they get there shouldn't be an issue. HOWEVER, if FL is a state that requires use of certain curriculum, testing, etc you must meet those requirements however you choose to teach the materials. Check with local homeschooling groups for information on unschooling families and possible umbrella groups....they'll know the ins and outs of what needs to be done and may be able to make your evals go a bit smoother.
2007-03-28 09:11:05 · answer #2 · answered by Annie 6 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states. Of course, each state has its own requirements. You must follow your state's (actual) requirements- do not get this info from your local public school. It is not uncommon for them to misinform homeschoolers to think they have to give up more information than they actually do. As long as you can unschool and still provide the necessaries for your state, it is perfectly legal.
2007-03-31 01:13:44 · answer #3 · answered by cilsavon 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've heard that unschoolers are turning to an umbrella-type school designed specifically fir them to be able to unschool. Do a search for Florida unschoolers and you'll probably find it.
2007-03-28 04:26:27 · answer #4 · answered by glurpy 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I would think so. We're in FL and know unchoolers. As for it being legal, the HSLDA would know that. I would register as a homeschooler, then do my own thing. As long as you either A)Get your annual eval B) take a certified test by a cert. teacher or C) Get a psych exam, you're fine. They don't need to know what curriculum you use or even WHAT you learned. As long as you've 'made progress according to you age level.' Good luck!
2007-03-28 05:07:08 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 5⤊ 0⤋
HSLDA will tell you that it's not legal because in order for them to defend you you have to use a recognizable curriculum.
It is legal.... you just have to keep better records.
Find out your homeschooling requirements for FL meet those and then move on.
2007-03-29 05:25:13 · answer #6 · answered by ArmyWifey 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If the HSLDA told you that it's not legal, I would take their word for it. They are the leading authority on Homeschooling and Unschooling. Listen to them. They work with the law.
2007-03-28 04:49:32 · answer #7 · answered by Justin B 4 · 1⤊ 8⤋
It's good that you are asking these questions about what to do with the State of Florida's children. You are responsible for taking care of the State's children, but you have to do it according to the owner's instructions. Be careful!
Good luck!
2007-03-28 06:11:25 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 9⤋
slda knows their crap so listen to them. btw, unschooling is a aste of time.
2007-03-28 07:01:34 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 13⤋