How to Get Started with Homeschooling in California: A Parent's Guide
More and more families in California are choosing homeschooling as a way to give their children a personalized, flexible, and family-centered education. Homeschooling allows you to design learning around your child’s needs, interests, and pace — but if you’re just getting started, understanding the legal steps can feel overwhelming.
The good news? California gives families several clear options to homeschool legally. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you start your journey.
Option 1: File a Private School Affidavit (PSA)
One of the most common options is to establish your own private school at home. To do this, you:
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File a Private School Affidavit with the California Department of Education (between October 1 and 15 each year).
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Keep attendance and basic school records.
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Teach required subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, and health.
👉 This option gives parents the most independence and control, but also the most responsibility.
Option 2: Join a Private School Satellite Program (PSP)
A PSP is an existing private school that supports homeschooling families. With this option:
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The PSP files paperwork with the state on your behalf.
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You get access to support, record-keeping, and sometimes classes or curriculum.
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You still do the teaching at home, but with extra structure and resources.
Option 3: Enroll in a Homeschool-Friendly Charter School
Many families in our community choose to enroll in a public charter school that supports independent study and homeschooling. With this option:
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Your child is officially enrolled in the charter school.
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A credentialed teacher helps you create a personalized learning plan.
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Families receive funding that can be used for curriculum, materials, or enrichment programs.
Some of the homeschool-friendly charters in our area include:
Step 4: Connect with Community & Enrichment Programs
No matter which option you choose, homeschooling works best when children have opportunities for hands-on learning, socialization, and enrichment experiences. This helps balance at-home academics with creativity and community connection.
Many families also choose to partner with Roseville Community School for academic and enrichment opportunities. We are an approved vendor with several local homeschool charter schools, which means families enrolled in those charters can use their instructional funds to participate in our programs.
We offer a variety of programs designed to support homeschooling families. Our full-time program runs four days a week and includes core academics in language, math, social studies, and science, all taught through a progressive, project-based approach. Students also take part in enrichment classes such as workshop, art, musical theater, and Explorations & Expressions for kindergarteners.
In addition, our enrichment programs give students opportunities to dive deeper into hands-on learning—from cooking (where food meets science) to gardening, music, and other creative experiences—helping every child grow as a confident, curious learner.
➡️ Learn more about our admissions and enrollment process.Enrollment
Final Thoughts
Getting started with homeschooling in California is easier than it may seem once you know the options. Whether you decide to file a PSA, join a PSP, or enroll in a charter school, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. Supportive communities, enrichment programs, and schools like RCS can help your child grow, learn, and thrive.
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