How to Start Homeschooling in North Dakota: Step-by-Step Beginner Guide

Starting homeschooling feels overwhelming until you break it into steps. This guide walks you through everything: from deciding to homeschool, through legal requirements, to your first day of instruction.

Key Takeaways

• Begin planning 2–3 months before your start date
• Verify parent qualifications (diploma/GED required)
• Choose curriculum and structure for your homeschool
• File Statement of Intent 14 days before starting
• Submit withdrawal letter if leaving public school
• Track attendance and instruction hours (minimum 175 days, 4+ hours daily)

Timeline: Build in Buffer Time

6 months before (e.g., January for August start):

• Decide you’re homeschooling
• Explore curriculum options
• Join a local homeschool group or co-op
• Meet other homeschooling families

4 months before (e.g., April for August start):

• Choose your curriculum and materials
• Order or download resources
• Plan your schedule and daily structure
• Estimate costs (curriculum, supplies, classes)

2 months before (e.g., June for August start):

• Contact your county superintendent for Statement of Intent form
• Gather immunization records
• Finalize your subject plan
• If withdrawing from public school, review that process

1 month before (e.g., July for August start):

• Complete Statement of Intent form
• Send withdrawal letter to school (if applicable)
• Prepare your home learning space
• Test your curriculum with sample lessons

14 days before (e.g., August 1 for August 15 start):

• File Statement of Intent with county superintendent
• Confirm filing receipt
• Set up attendance tracking system

Start date:

• Begin instruction
• Start documenting attendance and work
• Settle into your rhythm

Step 1: Verify Parent Qualifications

Before anything else, confirm you meet North Dakota’s requirement.

Required: High school diploma or GED

What to do:

• If you have a diploma: Gather a copy (original or certified copy from your high school)
• If you have a GED: Obtain your certificate copy from the GED Testing Service
• If you have neither: Choose between obtaining a GED (3–6 months) or using monitored homeschooling (free, district-assigned teacher monitors instruction)

Action: Email your county superintendent with your status: “I hold a [diploma/GED/neither, pursuing GED/planning monitored option].”

Step 2: Choose Your Educational Approach

Decide how you want to structure your homeschool. North Dakota allows complete flexibility.

Common approaches:

Classical/Trivium Model

• Emphasis on logic, rhetoric, and critical thinking
• Traditional subjects with classical literature
• Example: Memoria Press, Well-Trained Mind

Charlotte Mason Method

• Short, engaging lessons
• “Living books” (narrative-based learning)
• Emphasis on habit and character
• Example: Ambleside Online, Brave Writer

Unschooling/Child-Led

• Child interests drive learning
• Parent guides; child explores
• Flexible timeline and subjects
• Resources: Sandra Dodd, John Holt Institute

Online/Virtual Curriculum

• Pre-packaged courses; instructor-led
• Structured schedule
• Example: Time4Learning, Homeschool+, Khan Academy

Eclectic/Mix-and-Match

• Combine resources from multiple sources
• Customize to your child’s needs
• Most flexible option

No single approach is required. Choose what fits your child and family. Many families hybrid different methods for different subjects.

Step 3: Select Curriculum & Materials

Once you’ve chosen your approach, select curriculum for the five required subjects:

• English (reading and language arts)
• Mathematics
• Social studies (including ND and U.S. history, geography, civics)
• Science
• Physical education

Where to find curriculum:

• Homeschool convention displays
• Online: Well-Trained Mind, Homeschool.com, Rainbow Resource
• NDHSA resources and recommendations
• Co-op recommendations
• Used market: Facebook groups, eBay, local curriculum exchanges

Budget estimate: $300–$800/year for basic curriculum; more if adding classes or enrichment

Action: Order or download materials 1–2 months before you start. Review and prepare lessons ahead of time.

Step 4: Plan Your Schedule & Structure

Design your typical week and year.

Daily structure options:

• Traditional schedule: 9 a.m.–1 p.m., four hours straight
• Split schedule: Morning core subjects, afternoon enrichment
• Flexible schedule: Spread instruction across the day; track hours loosely
• Intensive weeks: Heavy subjects some weeks, lighter others

Annual calendar:

• Start date (typically August 15–September 1)
• School months (roughly September–May, 35 weeks)
• Holidays (mark these to ensure 175 instructional days)
• Testing dates (if planning standardized testing)
• Family vacations or breaks

Track these decisions: Use a simple Google Calendar or printable calendar to visualize your year.

Sample schedule:
“`
Monday–Friday:
8:00–8:30 a.m.: Read-aloud (family)
8:30–9:30 a.m.: Math (child-focused)
9:30–10:30 a.m.: English (child-focused)
10:30–11:30 a.m.: Science/Social Studies (rotating)
11:30–12:00 p.m.: Free reading or project time
1:00–2:00 p.m.: Art, music, PE (once or twice weekly)
“`

This structure is flexible. You adjust as you discover what works for your family.

Step 5: Gather Immunization Records

You must include immunization records in your Statement of Intent.

Vaccines required:

• DPT (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis)
• Polio
• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
• Hepatitis B

Where to get records:

• Previous healthcare provider (pediatrician, family doctor)
• Previous public school (if child attended)
• Current doctor (can provide updated records)

If records are lost:

• Request from healthcare provider
• If records can’t be located, you can get new immunizations
• Or file exemption (medical, religious, or philosophical)

Action: Request records now. Don’t wait until it’s filing time.

Step 6: Decide on Public School Withdrawal

If your child currently attends public school, you must withdraw formally.

Process:

1. Prepare a withdrawal letter addressed to the school principal
2. Include your child’s name, current grade, and effective date
3. Request return of all student records (immunizations, transcripts, test scores)
4. Send via hand delivery (get receipt) or certified mail
5. Keep a copy for your records

Timing: Send the letter on or before your homeschool start date.

Action: Write and send the withdrawal letter simultaneously with filing your Statement of Intent.

Step 7: Contact Your County Superintendent

This is your official relationship for homeschooling compliance.

What to do:

• Google “North Dakota county superintendent [your county]”
• Call or email to request the Statement of Intent form
• Ask about filing procedures, preferred method, and any local requirements
• Introduce yourself and your plan briefly

Example email:
“`
Subject: Statement of Intent to Homeschool – Request for Form and Information

Dear Superintendent [Name],

I am planning to homeschool my child, [name], beginning [date].
I would like to request the Statement of Intent form and information
about the filing process. Please let me know your preferred filing method
and any additional documentation you require.

Thank you,
[Your name]
[Contact info]
“`

Action: Make this contact 1–2 months before filing. Don’t wait until the last minute.

Step 8: Prepare Your Statement of Intent

Gather required information and complete the official form.

You’ll need:

• Child’s full name, date of birth, address
• Your name, diploma/GED proof (or documentation of monitored plan)
• Immunization records (copy of vaccination proof or exemption documentation)
• List of subjects to teach (English, math, social studies, science, PE at minimum)
• List of extracurricular activities (or “none”)

Action: Complete this form carefully. All information should be accurate. Double-check for typos.

Step 9: File Your Statement of Intent

This is the legal step that officially registers your homeschool.

Deadline: 14 calendar days before your start date (firm deadline; no extensions)

Where: County superintendent’s office (not school district)

How: Hand deliver (get receipt), certified mail, or email (if accepted by your county)

What to include:

• Completed Statement of Intent form
• Copy of diploma/GED (or note about monitored plan)
• Immunization records
• Your signature and date

Action: File at least 5–7 days early to account for mail delays or office hours.

Step 10: Prepare Your Learning Space

Set up a dedicated area in your home for instruction.

Essential setup:

• Desk and chair (comfortable for extended work)
• Bookshelf for curriculum and reference materials
• Whiteboard or paper for notes
• Quiet, low-distraction environment
• Storage for supplies and materials

Optional but helpful:

• Computer (for online resources, typing)
• Printer (for worksheets and materials)
• Manipulatives or science supplies (based on curriculum)
• Library card (free resource access)

Action: Don’t wait for a perfect space. A simple desk and organized materials are enough. Upgrade as you learn what you need.

Step 11: Begin Instruction

Once filed, you’re legal to begin.

First day:

• Introduce your child to the curriculum
• Explain the daily schedule
• Establish routines (when you start, how long, where)
• Keep the first week light; focus on rhythm and habit

First week:

• Review curriculum pacing and expectations
• Adjust schedule if needed
• Note what works and what doesn’t
• Don’t assume your plan is perfect; flexibility is your advantage

Ongoing:

• Track attendance loosely (check-off calendar is fine)
• Document progress informally
• Adjust curriculum or schedule as needed
• Connect with other homeschooling families for support

Step 12: Join a Community (Optional but Recommended)

North Dakota has active homeschool communities that provide support, resources, and accountability.

NDHSA (North Dakota Homeschool Association)

• Statewide organization, Christian emphasis
• Annual convention at Alerus Center (Grand Forks)
• Local chapters, resources, discounts
• Website: ndhsa.org

Local co-ops and groups:

• Greater Grand Forks HSA (60+ families)
• County-level groups
• Faith-based and secular options

Benefits:

• Curriculum advice and resources
• Field trip opportunities
• Enrichment classes
• Social connections for children
• Testing coordination

Action: Attend a homeschool convention or co-op meeting early in your first year. Connection prevents isolation.

Year One: What to Expect

Months 1–2 (September–October):

• Settling into rhythm
• Adjusting curriculum
• Building routine

Months 3–6 (November–February):

• Steady pace
• Growing confidence
• Holiday breaks

Months 7–9 (March–May):

• Wrapping up curriculum
• Year-end projects
• Planning next year

Common challenges:

• Pacing issues (too fast or too slow)
• Curriculum mismatches (need to switch)
• Motivation dips (normal; adjust activity or expectations)
• Isolation (join a group)

Wins you’ll see:

• Child’s interests deepening
• Personalized learning working
• Stronger parent-child relationship
• Flexibility adapting to your family

Year One: Testing & Assessment (Grades 4, 6, 8, 10)

If your child is in a testing grade, plan for standardized testing in spring.

• Register for test early (fall/winter)
• Choose SAT, ITBS, or comparable test
• Take test in spring (March–May is typical)
• Report results to superintendent
• Adjust instruction based on results if needed

Legal Checklist: Before You Start

• [ ] Parent has diploma/GED (or monitored plan in place)
• [ ] Statement of Intent filed with county superintendent
• [ ] Withdrawal letter sent to public school (if applicable)
• [ ] Immunization records gathered
• [ ] Curriculum selected
• [ ] Schedule planned
• [ ] Learning space prepared
• [ ] Attendance tracking system ready
• [ ] Community connection made (optional but recommended)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Missing the filing deadline – Plan early; file 14 days before start
2. Incomplete immunization documentation – Gather these months early
3. Unrealistic curriculum scope – Choose what you can actually teach; simplify if needed
4. No tracking system – A simple calendar is enough; don’t overthink it
5. Ignoring socialization – Join a co-op, sports, or group; it matters
6. Comparing to public school timelines – Your homeschool is different; adjust expectations
7. Skipping the superintendent conversation – Knowing them prevents stress later

Summary

Starting homeschool in North Dakota is manageable if you follow the process: verify qualifications, choose your approach, select curriculum, file intent 14 days before starting, withdraw from public school if needed, and begin instruction. The first year is an experiment. You’ll refine your rhythm, adjust curriculum, and find your family’s homeschooling groove.

Start now. Don’t wait for perfect circumstances or complete preparation. Your child is ready to learn. You’re ready to guide that learning. The logistics are straightforward. Take them one step at a time.

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More homeschooling resources: Homeschooling by State (All 50 States) | Complete North Dakota Homeschooling Guide