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Central Falls board holds first reading of revised homeschooling policy; removes some state-exceeding requirements
Summary
District staff presented a first reading of a revised homeschooling policy that adds purpose, definitions and implementation guidelines while removing language counsel said exceeded Rhode Island requirements (for example, mandatory standardized testing and teacher-approved annual curricula). The policy will return for a second reading.
The Central Falls School District Board of Trustees received a first reading Nov. 4 of a revised homeschooling policy designed to align local practice with Rhode Island law and address reported equity concerns.
District staff said the update was based on a comprehensive review of other districts, advice from counsel, and Rhode Island General Laws guidance. Revisions presented included:
- Additions: a stated purpose and definitions, clarified implementation guidelines that cover the application process, hours and days of instruction, curricular subjects, recordkeeping and access to extracurriculars. - Revisions: removal of gender-specific language; reorganized structure to distinguish policy from implementation guidance. - Removals: language counsel identified as going "above and beyond" state law, including a requirement for a parent to submit a yearly curriculum for teacher approval and a requirement that homeschooled students participate in standardized testing.
During questions trustees asked whether homeschooled students who later are identified as eligible for an IEP or 504 plan would receive services; staff said parents or guardians must schedule a meeting with the district special education team to determine supports and that the district would add clarifying language to address students who are not yet identified when they begin homeschooling.
Trustees also asked whether homeschooled students who take standardized tests affect district accountability numbers; staff said homeschooled students who take tests are not counted in district accountability results and that homeschooled students are not automatically counted as district graduates unless the district issues a diploma.
The policy also clarifies that homeschooled students may participate in district extracurricular activities if they meet the requirements of policy 9.12 and any interscholastic-league eligibility rules, and that parents are responsible for transportation when required.
This was a first reading; trustees were invited to provide edits prior to a second reading at a subsequent meeting.
Speakers
- Janelle (presenter) — policy lead (first reference 01:51:11) - Board members (questions): Carol Pagan and others (first referenced 01:53:29)
Authorities
- statute: references to Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) homeschool guidance and Rhode Island General Laws as the legal baseline for local policy.
Provenance
- topicintro: excerpt at 01:50:23 "This slide summarizes the changes that Liz and I made to the homeschooling policy" (transcript excerpt). - topfinish: excerpt at 02:00:23 "Any other questions? So this is a first reading. We will come back with a second reading." (transcript excerpt).
Searchable_tags:["homeschool_policy","special_education","RIDE","Central Falls"],
