Homeschooling in Nebraska means running a private school at home. You have to follow some rules, but you also have a lot of freedom in how to teach your kids.
Nebraska is home to approximately 8,000 homeschooled students, making it one of the active homeschooling communities in the nation (NCES estimates, 2023). As of 2024, 12 states have enacted universal or near-universal Education Savings Account (ESA) programs, with Arizona's program alone serving over 75,000 students — making state-funded homeschooling more accessible than ever (EdChoice, 2024).
Nebraska's exempt school system
Nebraska doesn't have specific homeschooling laws. Instead, homeschools are seen as private schools that choose not to get accredited. This is known as being an exempt school under Rule 13.
Why 'exempt'? It means these schools don’t need state approval but still provide education. You’re basically starting a private school at home for your kids.
When you file, you’ll choose if your reason for homeschooling is religious or not. Both reasons are valid. This matters mainly for vaccination rules. Nonreligious schools need to follow vaccine requirements, while religious schools can use religious exemptions.
This system began after 1980s legal battles where families sought educational freedom. The state decided to treat homeschools like exempt private schools, balancing parental rights with the need for educated citizens.
Annual filings you need
In Nebraska, you need to file two forms every year by July 15. Both forms can be found on the Nebraska Department of Education website. You can send them online or by mail.
Form A: Statement of Election and Assurances - This says you’re starting an exempt school. It includes:
- Your contact info
- Your kids’ names
- Your reason for homeschooling
- Assurance that you’ll teach required subjects
- Assurance that you’re qualified to teach
Form B: Authorized Parent Representative Form - This names a parent representative for the school, including:
- School name and location
- Dates of operation
- Contact info for the representative
If it’s your first year homeschooling, also send a certified copy of your child’s birth certificate or another proof of identity. Remember, the July 15 deadline is for ongoing schools. If you start mid-year, file right away.
Required subjects for homeschooling
In Nebraska, exempt schools must teach five subjects. You decide how to cover them:
- Language arts (reading, writing, speaking, listening)
- Math
- Science
- Social studies (history, geography, civics, economics)
- Health
What’s not required? Physical education, arts, or foreign languages aren’t mandatory, but many families include them. You have the freedom to choose your curriculum and teaching methods.
For high school, there are no specific requirements, but keep future college goals in mind. Most colleges expect solid coursework in core subjects and sometimes foreign languages. You’ll confirm on Form A that you teach these subjects, but no one checks your curriculum.
Immunization rules
Immunization rules for exempt schools in Nebraska depend on your reason for homeschooling.
Nonreligious schools must follow state vaccination rules. Your kids need the required shots unless you get a medical exemption. This involves a doctor’s note.
Religious schools are recognized if you have beliefs against vaccinations. If you state a religious reason, you can use religious exemptions.
The distinction is mainly for immunizations; educational rules are the same. Pick the reason that fits your situation. Medical exemptions are available if a doctor says it’s necessary.
Keeping records
Nebraska doesn’t require specific record-keeping beyond the annual forms, but it’s smart to keep good records. Here’s what to hold onto:
- Copies of Forms A and B each year
- Birth certificate copies you submitted
- Curriculum descriptions
- Samples of your kids’ work
- Grades or evaluations
- Attendance records, even if approximate
Why is this important? You’ll need transcripts for high school, college applications, and if you move. Some scholarships might ask for records too.
Also, if your child is 6, Nebraska allows an exemption from compulsory attendance with an affidavit filed locally. This gives you flexibility on when to start formal schooling.
New funding options
Nebraska has introduced the Opportunity Scholarships Act, which offers Education Scholarship Account (ESA) funding for homeschoolers. This is a big change since the state didn’t provide financial support before.
Program basics:
- Provides scholarship funds for education expenses
- Homeschoolers can apply
- Covers curriculum, materials, tutoring, and other approved expenses
- Apply through the Nebraska Department of Education
Eligibility considerations:
- There might be income limits
- Prior public school enrollment could matter
- Be sure to check the current rules for specifics.
This means some families can get help with homeschooling costs. The educational requirements stay the same—you still run an exempt school under Rule 13—but now there’s funding support.
High school and graduation
In Nebraska, parents decide on graduation requirements and give out diplomas. The state doesn’t set high school course rules or tests for homeschoolers.
When applying to college, create transcripts that include course titles, grades, and credits. Nebraska colleges accept transcripts from exempt schools.
The University of Nebraska system is friendly to homeschoolers. They typically want transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, and standard application materials. Some programs might ask for more info.
Plus, a recent policy change now allows homeschool graduates to qualify for in-state tuition just like other Nebraska residents.
Nebraska community colleges also offer dual enrollment, so your high schooler can earn college credit while homeschooling. This shows they’re ready for college and can save money later.
Sports and extracurricular activities
Nebraska doesn’t have laws ensuring homeschoolers can join public school sports or activities. It’s up to each district.
Most districts don’t let homeschoolers participate, but some may allow it on a case-by-case basis, especially for activities not available elsewhere.
There are alternatives though! Nebraska’s homeschool community has created athletic leagues, academic competitions, and social events. Look for regional and statewide groups coordinating these activities.
Plus, organizations like the YMCA, private sports leagues, community theater, and church groups are welcoming to homeschoolers. Many families find great extracurricular options without needing public school access.
Special situations
If you start homeschooling mid-year, file your forms right when you begin. The July 15 deadline is for ongoing programs. New exempt schools file when they start.
For 6-year-olds, Nebraska allows filing an affidavit to exempt them from compulsory attendance for that year. This gives parents flexibility on when to start school.
If you’re moving to Nebraska, file Forms A and B with the Nebraska Department of Education. You don’t need documents from your old state since you’re starting a new exempt school here.
When moving from Nebraska, check the new state’s requirements before relocating. Keep thorough records to meet documentation needs.
If students return to public school, they’ll be placed based on age and school assessments. Good exempt school records help with proper grade placement.
For special needs, some services may be offered through local school districts. Contact the district’s special education office for options. The new ESA program might also cover therapies for eligible students.
Wrap-up
Nebraska’s exempt school system gives you the freedom to educate your kids with some guidelines. File two forms each year by July 15, teach five required subjects, and confirm your qualifications—that’s the basic legal structure.
The Opportunity Scholarships Act now offers eligible families ESA funding to help with homeschooling costs. This makes Nebraska an increasingly appealing choice for home education.
To get started, grab Forms A and B from the Nebraska Department of Education. Fill them out carefully, gather your child’s birth certificate for the first year, and submit by July 15 or as soon as you start mid-year. After that, you can shape your children’s education however you wish.
