Alabama's Two Homeschool Pathways
Option 1 — Church School
- Enroll your child in a "church school" — broadly defined in AL law
- Church schools do not need to be affiliated with a religious institution
- Many secular homeschool umbrella organizations operate as "church schools" in AL
- No state testing required
- Attendance records kept by the church school
Option 2 — Private Tutor
- Parent or guardian qualifies as a "private tutor"
- Must hold a valid Alabama teaching certificate OR
- File an annual exemption notice with the school district
- 180 days of instruction required
- No state testing required
Recommended Subjects
While Alabama doesn't mandate a specific subject list for church school option students, comprehensive coverage of these areas ensures a strong education:
- Language arts (reading, writing, grammar, literature)
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social studies
- Health
Legal disclaimer: This page provides general information about Alabama homeschool law for educational purposes only. Laws change and there is significant nuance to the "church school" definition. Always verify current requirements with your umbrella organization and consult a legal professional for your specific situation.
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