Wise
A parent who received an unexpected home visit by district officials was surprised to learn the office did not have her homeschool documentation on record. The parent was not contacted prior to the home visit. Having learned 14 other families may have a similar experience, the parent contacted HEAV for guidance.
HEAV reached out to the superintendent immediately and, upon speaking with an attendance officer, learned that homeschooling, religious exemption, and truancy were being managed by a new group of individuals who were in the process of learning about the laws. HEAV provided guidance and resources and explained that, because of the many variables present for families that home educate, home visits should not be pursued until less intrusive methods of resolution have been exhausted (a phone call, email, and/or letter). The attendance officer advised HEAV that he would consult with the team to ensure home visits are not the first means of contact.
What You Should Know:
- For the sake of safety, a person is not required to invite a social worker or school truancy officer into their home without a warrant.
- The law does not require districts to provide a letter acknowledging receipt of a notice of intent or evidence of progress.
- It is best practice for parents to save a copy of their notice of intent and evidence of progress, along with proof of the office’s receipt, to document compliance with the law.
- Should a district representative contact you, will be able to provide your proof of compliance, as noted above.
- References: Homeschool Law, Statutory Duties of Attendance Officers, HEAV Blog: Virginia’s Chronic Absenteeism Affects Homeschoolers
HEAV is always available should you ever have questions or need assistance. Please contact us anytime at 804-278-9200 or via our contact form.
Patricia Beahr
HEAV Assistant Director of Government Affairs
Read more about school district incidents here.
