Frequently asked questions

Last checked 2026-09-17

Do I have to join a charter school to homeschool in California?

No, though many South Bay families choose to, for the curriculum funds and credentialed-teacher support it includes. Most families choose one of three routes: enrolling in a public charter's independent study program, filing their own private school affidavit, or joining a private school satellite program. (CDE: Schooling at Home)

Is school compulsory before age six in California?

No, school isn't compulsory until age six (Education Code Section 48200), so families starting before kindergarten age have more time to decide on a pathway. (CA Education Code Section 48200)

Does this site rank or recommend specific schools?

No. This site publishes sourced facts and red flags side by side, plus questions to ask every school; never tiers, rankings, or "avoid this one" verdicts.

How is this site funded, and does anyone pay for placement?

No program pays for placement, ever, in directory order or wording. Directory listings are alphabetical by default, with filters.

What does "unconfirmed" mean on a listing?

It means we could not verify that fact ourselves on a primary source as of the date shown, and we would rather say so than guess or repeat a number from a directory site that might be wrong. See how we research for the full labeling standard.

Most of this site talks about kindergarten. What about homeschooling a teenager?

The legal pathways and directory apply at any age, but the day-to-day worries are different for a teen: transcripts, credits, GPA, letters of recommendation, and dual enrollment. See homeschooling a teen under Start here for a plain walkthrough of each.