Homeschool vs public school in South Carolina

Homeschooling is legal in South Carolina, but families must choose one of the state's three recognized homeschool options and follow that option's rules.

Moderate. Families can choose curriculum, but each lawful option must at least cover the required subjects, and Option 1 carries the most oversight.

Recordkeeping depends on the option. Option 1 requires a plan book or diary of subjects and activities, a portfolio of student work, a record of academic progress assessments, and semiannual progress reports with attendance and individualized assessments. Option 3 requires educational records that include similar materials. Even when not clearly required in the same way under Option 2, families should keep attendance, work samples, course records, and high school transcripts.

It depends on the option. Option 1 requires participation in the annual statewide testing program and the Basic Skills Assessment Program. The available sources do not identify a general statewide testing requirement for Options 2 and 3.

Yes. South Carolina law generally allows eligible homeschool students to participate in interscholastic activities in their resident district if statutory conditions are met, including residence, notice to the superintendent before the season, and satisfaction of district eligibility standards other than attendance-based rules. The student must also have been homeschooled in compliance with South Carolina law for a full academic year before participating. The available HSLDA guidance says there are no extra homeschool requirements specifically for children with special needs. South Carolina reportedly treats homeschooled students with disabilities similarly to students with disabilities placed in private schools by their parents. Yes. Option 2 uses SCAIHS, and Option 3 uses a qualifying homeschool association with at least 50 members.