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Committee clarifies homeschool registration, documentation and deadline for submission
Summary
The committee reviewed proposed revisions to the district’s homeschooling policy to accept unsworn declarations (in lieu of notarized affidavits), to require immunization/health documentation and to set a June 30 deadline for submission of prior-year evaluator materials.
Springfield Township SD administrators presented proposed revisions to the homeschooling policy (Policy 137) on Sept. 29 that would bring district practice into alignment with Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements.
Dr. Johnson said the district has seen increased interest in home education since COVID-19 and is proposing three principal changes: accept an unsworn declaration (rather than requiring notarized affidavits), require submission of immunization and required physical/dental documentation or documented waivers/exemptions, and set a firm deadline of June 30 for submitting prior-year documentation and evaluator approval.
Board members asked clarifying questions about the legal effect of an "unsworn declaration." Dr. Johnson explained that an unsworn declaration is the same content as a notarized affidavit but is not notarized; the signer certifies under penalty of perjury that the statements are true. Administrators said the district’s nurse reviews registrations and that the change will standardize documentation practice; they estimated about 30–35 home-educated students routinely register each year and said submission aligns with the grade-specific screening schedule (typically kindergarten, third, seventh and eleventh grades for certain screenings).
Student reps asked whether homeschooled children could receive immunizations through the high school; administrators said routine immunizations would be obtained from family physicians, county health providers or pharmacies and the district would help families connect to providers if needed.
Board members present indicated support for proceeding with the draft policy updates.
