Mississippi Homeschooling Laws and Resources

Homeschooling in Mississippi Overview 

Certificate of Enrollment: Yes

1 Option for Homeschooling: Home Instruction Program

Subject or Curriculum Requirements: No

Attendance Age Requirements: 6-17

Record-Keeping Requirements: No

Assessments or Evaluations Required: No

Proof of Immunization Required: No

How to Start Homeschooling in Mississippi

First, you’ll need to contact the school district to withdraw your child from school if they’re enrolled in public school. You’ll then need to complete the Mississippi Home School Certificate of Enrollment form.

Mississippi homeschool families are responsible for educating their children, but there aren’t curriculum or subject requirements. The law states that children can be educated in a “legitimate home instruction program,” but no particular program is mandated. It only says that “a legitimate home instruction program shall … not [be] operated or instituted to avoid or circumvent the compulsory attendance law.”

Mississippi Homeschool Certificate of Enrollment 

Families must complete the Mississippi Home School Certificate of Enrollment form every year for each child they homeschool. It requires basic information like student name, age, address, parent or guardian name and contact information, and a simple description of the educational program being used in home instruction.

How do families file the Mississippi Home School Certificate of Enrollment form?

Contact the Mississippi Department of Education Office of Compulsory School Attendance for a copy of the form, or download and print it here. Make a copy for yourself, then submit the original, which must be signed in blue ink, to your local School Attendance Officer (SAO). Submit this form for every child you homeschool no later than September 15th every year or as soon as possible if you begin homeschooling after this date.

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Qualifications to Homeschool in Mississippi

Mississippi does not have teacher requirements for home educators. Parents may teach their children, have them taught by others, participate in private in-person or online classes, or use any other educational approach they choose.

Mandatory School Age in Mississippi

Children in Mississippi must start school for the academic year when they turn 6 and before September 1st. They must attend school until they turn 17.

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Mississippi Homeschool Attendance Requirements  

Mississippi homeschool laws do not dictate any required number of instruction days or hours per day. 

Families aren’t required to keep records of any kind, including attendance, academic records, portfolios, evaluations, or assessments. However, creating your own record-keeping system for your children can be helpful if they need transcripts for their post-homeschool plans or if you decide to enroll your child in public school.

Required Immunizations for Homeschoolers in Mississippi

Mississippi law requires all public and private school students to receive certain immunizations and offers only medical exemptions. However, the law does not address any required immunizations for homeschoolers, so they are not required to be immunized. Learn more about Mississippi School Immunizations here.

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Resources for Homeschool Families in Mississippi

Most homeschooling families take advantage of various resources to enhance their education, promote socialization, and facilitate home-based learning. These valuable connections typically occur in homeschool groups, cooperatives, or larger associations.

Homeschool Groups and Co-ops in Mississippi

Many homeschoolers get support through homeschool associations, groups, or co-ops. The Mississippi Home Educators Association is a statewide organization that offers educational resources, events, and activities with local groups. Visit their homepage to learn more, and see their local group directory to find homeschoolers near you.

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Public School Access for Homeschoolers in Mississippi 

Mississippi law doesn’t guarantee the right for homeschool students to take classes or participate in activities at public schools. Individual districts may make those determinations on their own. If you’re interested, work directly with your local district to discuss opportunities.

Sports Opportunities for Homeschoolers in Mississippi

Because Mississippi doesn’t guarantee the right for homeschoolers to participate in public school activities, policies vary by local district. Contact yours to find out what opportunities they offer.

Fortunately, homeschoolers don’t have to depend on public schools for sports because many communities offer youth sports programs. Many homeschool groups and co-ops have also created homeschool sports leagues and classes. Talk with your local groups to see what’s available, or try some of these community sports options:

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Mississippi Homeschool Field Trips 

Homeschool families can plan field trips whenever and wherever they like! Mississippi homeschool field trips include places like the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center in Gulfport, the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum in Jackson, Jackson Zoo, and the Old Courthouse Museum in Vicksburg.

Many attractions offer group discounts and special programs, so consider teaming up with other local homeschoolers when planning your field trips. 

TIP: Talk to your local co-op or homeschool group to find out what field trips they already have planned and if you and your students can join in.

Special Education Homeschoolers

Families homeschooling students with special needs in Mississippi will receive little, if any, help from local school districts for special education services.

This is because homeschoolers in Mississippi are considered nonpublic school students and are not classified as private school students. As nonpublic school students, the local school districts are under no obligation to share any federal or state funding earmarked for special education services with homeschooled students.

While there is little support available, homeschool families have the benefit of little oversight of their curriculum and activities. An annual certificate of enrollment is required, but there are no requirements for getting a special education program approved.

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Mississippi Homeschool FAQ

Is Mississippi a homeschool-friendly state?

Mississippi is friendly to homeschooling families. Other than requiring a basic certificate of enrollment each year, the state doesn’t specify any subjects, curriculum requirements, teacher requirements, or attendance or record-keeping policies. Homeschool families are free to make the choices that are right for them.

However, Mississippi homeschool students may not be able to take classes or participate in sports at their public schools. Plus, families are responsible for all homeschooling costs. Overall, though, families will find Mississippi to be a very accommodating state for homeschoolers.

Do Mississippi homeschoolers receive diplomas or transcripts?

The state of Mississippi does not provide any diplomas or transcripts. Home educators may provide their own diplomas and use their educational records to create transcripts. Students can also earn diplomas through homeschool programs, online curriculum programs, and other education providers.

What does it cost to homeschool in Mississippi?

Since Mississippi does not provide any materials for homeschoolers, families must cover those costs on their own. Homeschool costs can include curriculum programs, online or in-person classes, textbooks, school supplies, and more. 

TIP: As you plan your homeschool journey, be sure to investigate the potential costs involved.

Is unschooling legal in Mississippi?

Yes, unschooling is legal in all fifty states, including Mississippi. 

How do I enroll my child in public school after homeschooling in Mississippi? 

If you decide to enroll your child in public school after homeschooling, talk with your local district to learn their policies. They may or may not accept any credits you have conferred on your child and could require testing or other evaluations before determining grade and course placement.

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