Act 169 sets the rules for homeschooling in Pennsylvania. The requirements are specific, but they are not impossible. Here is a clear map of what to do and when.
Submit a notarized affidavit to your school district superintendent by August 1 of each year, or before you begin homeschooling.
Include the major educational objectives for the year. The district reviews them, but they do not approve your curriculum.
Provide 180 days of instruction in the required subjects. You choose the schedule and pace.
Every year must include instruction in these areas.
Use this timeline as your default rhythm. Adjust for your family's start date.
Choose curriculum, draft objectives, and note your district's affidavit deadline.
File your notarized affidavit, objectives, and immunization or exemption records.
Provide instruction in required subjects and keep an attendance and lesson log.
Administer a nationally normed standardized test in reading/language arts and mathematics.
Gather work samples, schedule the evaluator, and prepare the final report.
Send the evaluator's report to the superintendent by the deadline.
By June 30, every homeschool student must receive an evaluation from a qualified person. The evaluation must show "appropriate education" happened during the year.
Laws change, and every district handles details differently. This guide is a planning aid, not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with the Pennsylvania Department of Education and your local district.