Homeschooling in Arkansas Post-Pandemic: Trends and Helpful Tips for 2025
Tips for Arkansas homeschooling Homeschooling in Arkansas has changed a lot since the pandemic, and many of us are seeing new trends in 2025. More…
Tips for Arkansas homeschooling
Homeschooling in Arkansas has changed a lot since the pandemic, and many of us are seeing new trends in 2025. More families with young children are choosing to homeschool, and the support options for parents keep growing. Today, homeschooling remains a strong choice for Arkansas families who want flexibility and a more personalized learning experience.
We know it can be exciting but also a little overwhelming to find the best resources and methods. Understanding the latest trends and tips can help all of us make smarter choices for our kids’ education. If you’re looking for up-to-date information and new ideas for homeschooling in Arkansas, you’re in the right place.
The State of Homeschooling in Arkansas in 2025
Homeschooling in Arkansas has changed a lot since the COVID-19 pandemic. We see more families choosing home schools, and new trends are shaping how we approach education.
Enrollment Growth and Post-Pandemic Shifts
In the years since the pandemic, homeschooling in Arkansas has grown. According to data, about 6.89% of K-12 students in Arkansas were homeschooled in the 2022-23 school year. This is higher than before the pandemic, when there were fewer than 22,000 home-schooled students in 2019.
By 2025, the number of homeschooling families remains steady or growing slowly. The COVID-19 pandemic made many of us rethink education. Some families continue to feel that homeschooling offers flexibility and safety.
While some families have returned to public or private schools, a strong community of home educators is here to stay. Technology and support resources have made it easier for us to homeschool in Arkansas.
Comparison With Traditional Public and Private Schools
Homeschooling is still less common than attending traditional public or private schools in Arkansas. Over 90% of students in the state attend public or private schools. But the percentage of home-schooled students is higher now than it was a few years ago.
| School Type | Approx. % of Students (2022-23) |
|---|---|
| Public Schools | 85% |
| Private Schools | 8% |
| Homeschools | 7% |
While most students are in public schools, homeschools now serve thousands of families and are an important part of our education system. Homeschoolers may have different schedules, curriculums, and learning methods. But we all share a focus on helping our children succeed.
Families can choose what works best for them, whether it’s public, private, or home education.
Key Demographics of Homeschooling Families
Homeschooling in Arkansas attracts families from many backgrounds. Parents choose home schools for lots of reasons—including religious beliefs, special academic needs, and concerns that grew during the pandemic.
Key groups among homeschooling families:
- Families living in both cities and rural areas.
- Parents who want a faith-based or custom education.
- Children needing more flexible schedules because of sports or health.
- Families looking for a smaller or safer learning environment.
We see diversity in race, income, and education level among home-schooled students. More parents are also working while teaching their children at home, especially since remote work has grown.
Homeschooling in Arkansas continues to evolve, shaped by our community needs and experiences.
Legal Requirements and Compliance in Arkansas
Homeschooling in Arkansas follows clear rules set by state law. We need to understand what the law requires and make sure we complete the right paperwork, meet deadlines, and follow assessment guidelines.
Understanding State Homeschooling Laws
In Arkansas, state law says children ages 5 to 17 must be enrolled in school, which includes homeschooling as an option. Parents do not need to be certified teachers or have a high school diploma to homeschool their children. The law requires us, as custodial parents or guardians, to take responsibility for our kids’ home education—noncustodial adults cannot homeschool them for us.
Each year, we must follow updated state rules. These laws are aimed at making sure education happens in a safe environment and help protect against abuse. State officials want to confirm homeschool families meet basic educational standards, but they do not control our curriculum choices.
Application and Notification Processes
Before we can begin homeschooling, Arkansas law requires us to fill out the Notice of Intent (NOI) to Home School form every year. This application must be completed and turned in to our local school district’s office. We need to include details such as the names and birthdates of each child being homeschooled.
We should submit the NOI by August 15 each year, or at least 14 days before withdrawing our child from public school. Keeping track of this paperwork helps avoid any legal problems. If our contact information changes or if we move to another district, we must update our application so authorities have correct records.
Testing and Assessment Policies
Arkansas does not require annual standardized test scores or test results for homeschooled students. This allows us flexibility in choosing how to track our children’s progress. However, it’s a good idea to keep a portfolio of our children’s work and keep informal test results to monitor their learning.
If we re-enroll our children in public school, the district may review our records or ask for test scores to determine grade placement. Staying organized helps make transitions smoother if we need to return to the school system or if officials request an update for compliance checking.
Trends Influencing Homeschooling Choices
Many Arkansas families are exploring new ways to educate their children after the pandemic. Programs and support options have grown, giving us more flexibility and new ways to pay for educational needs.
Growth in School Choice Programs
More of us are turning to school choice programs in Arkansas. These programs let families pick which learning path fits best, such as public, private, or homeschooling.
School choice makes switching between options easier. It helps us shape education to fit each child’s needs, interests, and strengths. With options like EdChoice and local Arkansas initiatives, we find it simpler to tailor schooling.
One benefit is increased student engagement by letting families choose. School choice also spurs traditional schools to improve, so everyone wins. Now, families who once felt tied to one school type have more freedom to explore what works.
Rise of Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and Financial Support
Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) are becoming a bigger part of homeschooling decisions. These accounts provide public funding that families can use for approved educational costs, including curriculum, tutors, or special programs.
This shift is especially helpful for low-income families. With ESAs, we have more access to tools and resources that once felt out of reach. It helps level the playing field, making homeschooling an option for more families.
The extra support from ESAs and similar funds means we aren’t limited by cost when personalizing our children’s education. These changes open up more learning choices and paths for every Arkansas family, not just a few.
Academic Approaches and Curriculum Planning
As we get started with homeschooling, we want to make sure our kids get a solid education in the basics and have the right tools to succeed. Focusing on strong academic planning will help us reach these goals.
Core Subjects: Math, Science, and Reading
We should always make math, science, and reading the foundation of our homeschool lessons. Math builds problem-solving skills and helps with everyday tasks like budgeting and measuring. For reading, we can use chapter books, news articles, and hands-on projects to help our children grow as confident readers.
When it comes to science, exploring topics from life cycles to weather lets us encourage curiosity. Simple experiments or nature walks can make science come alive.
Most Arkansas families follow state standards to track progress. We can build learning routines by using worksheets, discussion, and technology, such as math games and interactive science apps. Making time every day for these core subjects ensures steady improvement.
Selecting Curriculum and Resources
Choosing the right curriculum can be a big decision. There are many options, such as boxed sets, digital platforms, or even community-based programs. Some families prefer faith-based lessons, while others look for secular curriculum.
It helps to read reviews and ask other homeschooling families about their favorite materials. We can try free resources from the library or websites to see what fits before buying.
Many Arkansas homeschoolers use local support groups for advice or swap books and learning supplies. Below is a quick list of places to find resources:
- Public libraries
- Online curriculum providers
- Local homeschool co-ops
- Arkansas Department of Education (for state standards)
We should also look for services that support learning, like tutoring or special workshops for science and reading. This way, our children get a well-rounded education that fits their needs.
Access to Extracurricular Activities and Socialization
Social connections and outside activities are important for homeschooled students in Arkansas. We have several ways to help our children build friendships, try new hobbies, and learn important social skills.
Collaboration With Local Schools and Communities
In Arkansas, many public schools and charter schools welcome homeschoolers to join extracurricular programs. Some allow us to participate in art, band, or even science labs, depending on school policies. This helps our students experience teamwork and try activities that might need special equipment or teachers.
Local community centers also hold classes, sports, and clubs open to all families, including homeschoolers. We can sign up for 4-H, scouts, art workshops, and group lessons at local libraries or recreation centers. These settings provide a way for our kids to meet peers from different backgrounds.
We can also find programs through the University of Arkansas and other colleges. Many colleges offer camps, classes, or events for younger students, and some allow high school homeschoolers to join dual-enrollment programs. These connections help us add even more variety to our children’s education.
Clubs, Sports, and Academic Competitions
Lots of homeschoolers in Arkansas take part in clubs, sports, and academic competitions. We can join local sports leagues—including soccer and basketball—that do not require public school enrollment. These teams are a good way for our children to stay active and learn about teamwork.
Academic competitions, such as spelling bees, robotics tournaments, and math contests, are open to homeschool students. Many groups form their own homeschool teams or join regional competitions offered by public schools or groups like the University of Arkansas.
Homeschool co-ops also help us find or start clubs for drama, chess, coding, or science. We share resources and ideas with other families so our kids get diverse opportunities for growth. Here is a sample of what is often available:
| Activity Type | Example Opportunities |
|---|---|
| Sports | Local leagues, YMCA, rec centers |
| Clubs | 4-H, scouts, art, STEM, chess |
| Academic Events | Spelling bee, math olympiad, debate |
| Community Service | Food drives, park cleanups, scouts |
These activities help us round out our children’s education and develop important life skills.
Technology and Online Learning Tools
In 2025, homeschooling in Arkansas is shaped by digital resources and online tools. With more families turning to technology, it is important to balance learning opportunities and healthy habits.
Digital Resources for Homeschoolers
We have access to a wide range of digital resources that make learning from home much easier. Websites like Khan Academy, ABCmouse, and Outschool offer lessons and activities for different grade levels and subjects.
Many families use Google Classroom to organize assignments and track progress. There are also interactive apps such as Duolingo for language learning, Prodigy for math, and Scratch for coding basics.
For children who like working with others, some services—like Zoom or Microsoft Teams—allow live online group classes and tutoring. We can also download textbooks and worksheets or join virtual field trips to museums and historical sites.
A simple table can help us see a few options:
| Resource | Subject Areas | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Khan Academy | Math, Science | Self-paced learning |
| Outschool | All subjects | Live group classes |
| Duolingo | Languages | Interactive lessons |
| Scratch | Computer Science | Coding for beginners |
| ABCmouse | Early Learning | Young children |
Managing Screen Time and Productivity
As technology becomes a bigger part of homeschooling, we have to be careful with how much time our kids spend on screens. It’s best if we set clear limits, like using timers for lessons or planning regular screen breaks.
We can help children stay productive by creating a daily schedule that mixes online and offline activities. This might mean time for reading physical books, exercising, or doing crafts.
Some parents use parental control apps, such as Family Link or Net Nanny, to help track online time and block distractions. Using checklists and planners—either on paper or apps like Trello—also helps us and our kids stay on task.
Finally, talking with our children about using devices responsibly teaches good habits for the future. By working together, we can use technology in ways that support, not replace, a balanced learning experience.
Evaluating Academic Progress
Tracking our children’s learning helps us see what is working. Using both tests and daily records can show us where our homeschool stands and where we might need to adjust.
Standardized Tests and Performance Tracking
Many parents in Arkansas choose to use standardized tests to see how their child’s work compares with state or national averages. While not always required, these tests—like the Iowa Test or Stanford Achievement Test—give us a snapshot of our student’s progress in key areas such as reading, math, and science.
We can use the test scores to notice growth over time or spot trouble early. Scheduling these tests once a year or every other year works for most families. If our child is struggling in a subject, test results can help us target lessons or try new teaching tools. Some parents use practice tests at home to help their children get comfortable with the format. Keeping a simple chart or spreadsheet makes it easy to follow results from year to year.
Documenting Educational Outcomes
Along with test results, documenting our child’s daily and yearly learning is important. We can keep a homeschooling portfolio with work samples, completed projects, and reading lists. This helps show growth that tests might miss, like creativity and critical thinking.
Most of us use a simple tracking system, such as a checklist, journal, or binder. Some families keep digital files for easy organization. At the end of the year, reviewing these materials lets us see subjects mastered and those to revisit. Having good records is helpful not only for our own planning but also if the state asks for progress proof or if we return to public or private school.
Preparing for Higher Education and Beyond
It’s important to help our home-schooled students get ready for life after high school. This includes knowing how to apply to colleges and understanding the steps to make a smooth transition.
Homeschooler College Admissions
Many colleges and universities, including the University of Arkansas, welcome home-schooled students and view them as strong applicants. We need to keep good records of our students’ coursework, grades, and activities. Making a detailed transcript is very important, as schools like to see clear proof of what has been learned.
Standardized test scores like the ACT or SAT are also important for admissions. We should check each college’s requirements early, as some may ask for extra information, such as course descriptions or letters of recommendation. It helps to visit college websites and talk to admissions staff for specific homeschool guidelines.
Tips for Strong Applications:
- Keep detailed transcripts
- Document extracurriculars and volunteer work
- Prepare for and take required standardized tests
- Request letters of recommendation from tutors or community leaders
- Contact admissions offices with questions
When we are organized, our students are more likely to feel confident about applying.
Transitioning to Postsecondary Education
Moving from homeschooling to college or other programs can be a big change. Students will likely face new schedules, learning environments, and increased independence. To prepare, we can encourage our students to develop time management and study skills before they finish high school.
Some of us enroll students in dual-enrollment classes at community colleges, including those offered in Arkansas, to get a feel for college-level work. This can make the jump to full-time college smoother. Learning how to communicate with professors and manage assignments on their own is also important.
We should talk with our students about adjusting to group projects, deadlines, and meeting new people. Setting small goals, joining campus tours, and attending orientation events can all help make the transition easier.
Comparing Homeschooling Trends Across States
Homeschooling looks different depending on where we live in the United States. Each state sets its own rules, and their trends can show us what works well and what challenges families might face.
Lessons From North Carolina and Other States
North Carolina has seen a steady rise in homeschool participation, especially since the pandemic. Families there say flexible teaching, more personalized learning, and local support groups make a big difference. North Carolina’s reporting system is more organized than in some states. This may help more families feel comfortable joining the homeschool community.
Other states, like Texas and Florida, have also experienced growth in homeschooling. Laws are different from state to state. In Texas, rules are fairly relaxed, while New York has strict reporting requirements. Looking at their experiences helps us choose the approaches and support systems that fit our own needs in Arkansas.
| State | Regulation Level | Homeschooled % (2024 est) |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | Moderate | ~8% |
| Texas | Low | ~7% |
| New York | High | ~5% |
National Perspectives on Homeschooling
Across the country, more families are choosing to homeschool than ever before. By early 2024, about 3.7 million kids were learning at home. This is close to 7% of all K-12 students in the U.S.
Some reasons people have switched to homeschooling include concerns about school safety, better family schedules, and wanting a tailored education. The pandemic gave more parents a chance to try homeschooling, and many have continued even after schools reopened.
Although Arkansas had about half the homeschool rate of private school enrollment in 2020, nationwide trends show interest is still growing. As we look at other states, we can see new learning models, more community resources, and a wider acceptance of different educational paths.
Future Outlook and Emerging Challenges
Homeschooling in Arkansas has changed a lot since the pandemic. We are seeing both new opportunities and some challenges that families need to be ready for.
Predictions for Arkansas Homeschooling
We expect the number of homeschooling families in Arkansas to stay high in 2025. Since 2020, more than 10% of families have tried homeschooling, and many have chosen to stick with it.
More home school support services, such as tutoring and online classes, are now available than ever before. Families can join local co-ops, use digital curriculum, and attend state events. We also see more Arkansas parents working together to create shared study groups.
Technology is helping us connect, but it can also make learning feel less personal. Finding the right balance between screen time and in-person activities is an ongoing need.
Some families worry about access to sports or music in the public school system after homeschooling. Schools are offering more ways to join activities, but rules might be different in each district, making it important for us to ask questions early.
Anticipated Policy Changes
Arkansas has had legal homeschooling since 1987, but laws, paperwork, and guidelines can still change. There are talks about updating policies and reporting rules, especially around student testing and progress reports.
Some lawmakers want more oversight on homeschooling to ensure students are learning at grade level. This may mean more frequent assessments or required progress checks. We may need to keep better records of lessons and attendance.
Public schools could offer more part-time programs or allow homeschooled students to join certain classes. This would let us use public school services for things like science labs or sports facilities.
A summary of possible changes includes:
| Potential Change | What it Means for Us |
|---|---|
| More assessments | We might have to do more testing |
| New reporting requirements | Record-keeping could become stricter |
| Expanded access to services | More chances in sports or lab classes |
We can stay prepared by keeping up with local updates and talking to school officials about any new options or rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve noticed that more families are choosing homeschooling in Arkansas, and resources have grown quickly since 2020. New laws, groups, and curriculum options are shaping the way we educate at home.
What are the top-rated homeschooling curricula for Arkansan families in 2025?
We see a lot of Arkansan families using programs like Abeka, Time4Learning, and the Good and the Beautiful. These are popular because they’re easy to follow and line up with Arkansas education standards.
Many of us also like Oak Meadow for its hands-on approach and flexibility. Some families blend online classes with physical workbooks for a custom fit.
How has homeschooling support and resources evolved in Arkansas since the pandemic?
After the pandemic, we found a big increase in local co-ops, support groups, and online resources. More libraries now offer free classes and homeschool meet-ups.
The state and local organizations provide updated guides and regular info sessions for new homeschooling parents. We have easier access to tutors and extracurricular activities too.
What’s the current number of students being homeschooled in Arkansas?
Since 2020, the number of homeschooled students in Arkansas has grown a lot. After a 39% jump in 2020, state reports show that thousands of students now learn at home each year.
We estimate about 8-10% of Arkansas students are homeschooled in 2025, which is much higher than before the pandemic.
Can you explain the changes in the Arkansas Learns Act that affect homeschoolers?
The Arkansas Learns Act made it easier for us to access public school resources. Now, homeschoolers can join some public school sports teams and use certain school services.
There are also clearer rules about how we report attendance and academic progress. The act gives families more choices about how to meet state standards.
What are the benefits of homeschooling in Arkansas compared to traditional schooling in 2025?
We enjoy a flexible schedule and can spend more time on subjects that interest our children. It allows us to tailor lessons to each child’s learning style.
Homeschooling lets us learn at our own pace and include activities outside of textbooks, like nature walks or field trips. There is less time spent on busywork and more focus on learning.
How can parents in Arkansas connect with local homeschooling communities and groups?
We connect through online platforms like Facebook, local library boards, and regional homeschool networks. Many towns have regular group meetings or field trips we can join.
There are also state-run websites and forums that share information about co-ops, events, and support for homeschool families. This makes it easy for new and experienced families to find support and friends.
