Mississippi Homeschool Information

1. Compulsory Attendance Age:

• Children must attend school (public, private, or homeschool) from age 6 to 17.

2. Notification Requirement:

• You must file a Certificate of Enrollment for each child you are homeschooling.

• This form must be submitted every year by September 15 to the School Attendance Officer in your county.

• The certificate includes basic info: child’s name, address, and a description of the homeschool program.

3. Qualifications:

• No specific qualifications are required to homeschool in Mississippi. Parents do not need to be certified teachers or meet educational requirements.

4. Curriculum Requirements:

• Mississippi law does not mandate a specific curriculum, but you must describe the “education program” you’re using when filing the Certificate of Enrollment.

• There are no subject, hour, or testing requirements imposed by the state.

5. Testing & Assessments:

• Standardized testing is not required.

• There is no state evaluation or portfolio submission process.

6. Recordkeeping:

• The state does not require you to keep records, but it’s a good idea to maintain:

  • Attendance records

  • Samples of work

  • Progress reports or grades

  • Any standardized test results (if you choose to administer them)

7. Re-enrollment in Public School:

• If your child returns to public school, the local school district may evaluate the student to determine grade placement.

📝 Helpful Tips for New Homeschoolers

• Consider joining a local or state homeschooling group for support and resources (e.g., Mississippi Home Educators Association (MHEA)).

• Choose a curriculum that matches your child’s learning style and your educational goals.

• Even though it’s not required, keeping organized records can be helpful for college admissions, future school enrollment, or potential legal defense.