Homeschooling is a growing choice among Wisconsin families who are looking for a more personalized, flexible educational experience for their children. Whether you’re already homeschooling or just exploring your options, understanding the basics is key. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about homeschooling in Wisconsin—from legal requirements and schooling options to financial support and tips on making it work for families of all shapes and sizes. It’s a lot, we know, but Dailies has you covered!
Wisconsin has a supportive legal framework for homeschooling. Under Wisconsin law, homeschooling falls under the state’s compulsory attendance requirements, meaning parents have certain obligations to fulfill, to homeschool legally. The most important of these is submitting an annual enrollment form, known as the PI-1206 Homeschool Enrollment Report.
The PI-1206 form is a simple online report that you must file with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) every year. This form serves as proof that you’re officially homeschooling. Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing it:
Wisconsin requires that homeschooling families provide 875 hours of instruction per year, but parents have the freedom to determine what this looks like. There are no mandated subjects, though it’s recommended to cover core areas like reading, math, science, social studies, and language arts. Parents are free to customize the curriculum, use different resources, and structure lessons based on their children’s unique needs.
Let’s break it down a bit.
52 week schedule: 17 hours a week/3.4 hours a day
26 week schedule(like traditional schools): 33.6 hours a week/6.7 hours a day
However, this is all completely customizable! You get to figure out a schedule that works best for you and your family.
Homeschooling can be as flexible or as structured as you make it, and Wisconsin families have several options:
In traditional homeschooling, parents design and implement a unique curriculum that suits their child’s interests and learning style. Families can choose from a range of materials—textbooks, online programs, experiential learning, and more. This approach offers complete flexibility, allowing you to tailor the education to each child.
Wisconsin has a variety of virtual charter schools, like the Wisconsin Virtual Academy, which is a publicly funded option for families wanting a more structured online environment. Dailies offers options from tutoring, enrichment, pods or a full homeschool program. Virtual schools provide a curriculum, teacher support, and assessments, all while allowing students to study from home. Families who prefer more guidance but want to maintain flexibility may find virtual schooling an ideal middle ground.
Some Wisconsin families opt for hybrid schooling, which blends homeschooling with part-time enrollment in public or private schools. This model offers access to additional resources, extracurricular activities, and specialized subjects (like music, foreign languages, or sports) while still allowing a home-based core education.
Homeschooling co-ops and learning pods are community-based options that involve group learning and shared teaching responsibilities among parents or hired tutors. Co-ops usually meet weekly or biweekly and can include group activities, field trips, or specialized classes. Learning pods, often smaller in size, allow families to share costs and responsibilities, making it easier to homeschool multiple children.
While Wisconsin does not provide direct financial assistance for homeschooling, some charter virtual schools offer materials or technology at no cost to families who enroll. This option can provide a structured curriculum with minimal expense, though families lose some curriculum flexibility.
Wisconsin offers a state tax deduction for homeschooling families that can help offset some expenses. The deduction includes qualified educational expenses like textbooks, instructional materials, supplies, and technology purchased for homeschooling. Be sure to save receipts for eligible purchases, as these can reduce your state tax liability.
Many resources can support your homeschooling journey at a low cost. Local libraries are excellent for free materials, and public museums often have discounted family days or homeschool programs. Online platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, and even YouTube offer free or low-cost classes across various subjects. You can also join curriculum exchanges or buy used materials from online marketplaces, further reducing costs.
Homeschooling a family with children of different ages can feel like juggling—but it’s possible! Creating a flexible schedule is essential. Consider structuring the day to have group lessons in the morning, focusing on topics that all children can enjoy, such as history, art, or science projects. Then, set aside time for each child to work on independent activities based on their skill level. Older children can often work on their own, freeing up time for younger ones who need more guidance.
A multi-age curriculum is a valuable tool for homeschooling larger families. Subjects like science, history, and social studies can be taught across age ranges, with adjustments for difficulty level. This approach can make lessons more engaging for everyone and allow siblings to learn from each other.
Encouraging your older children to be self-directed learners helps them develop independence and gives you more time to work with younger kids. Look for online courses, self-guided workbooks, or digital tools tailored to independent learning. Many high-quality resources are available online, especially in math, science, and language arts, that enable older kids to study more independently.
Homeschooling offers a unique opportunity to learn through real-life activities. Everyday tasks like cooking, gardening, budgeting, or even planning a trip can turn into engaging learning moments for the entire family. Working on group projects, taking field trips, or planning family game nights can make learning memorable and meaningful.
Building a support network is invaluable for homeschool families. Wisconsin has a thriving homeschooling community, both online and in person. Connecting with other families through local homeschooling groups or online communities can provide inspiration, advice, and opportunities for group activities, making the homeschooling journey less isolating and more collaborative.
It’s easy for parents to feel stretched thin when taking on the dual role of educator and caregiver. Consider creating a realistic schedule that includes time for self-care. There are options like Dailies, that continue to propel your child’s learning forward while you get a break. Some families alternate teaching days between parents or share responsibilities with other homeschool families, taking turns leading group lessons. Finding time for yourself is essential to avoid burnout and maintain the energy to teach effectively.
For families with children who have special needs or who are gifted, homeschooling can be a customized solution that meets their unique learning profiles. Wisconsin offers resources like educational therapy services, adaptive learning tools, and enrichment programs. Research local resources and programs to support any specialized learning requirements.
While Wisconsin doesn’t require standardized testing or formal assessments, tracking your children’s progress can help you feel confident in their learning journey. You can keep a portfolio of completed work, write down weekly or monthly learning goals, and create milestones that align with your child’s development. These practices not only showcase progress but also provide a sense of accomplishment for both parents and children.
Homeschooling in Wisconsin is a flexible and empowering choice for families who want to take an active role in their children’s education. The state’s straightforward regulations, variety of schooling options, and a strong network of support make it an appealing option for parents. With the right resources, a clear plan, and a supportive community, homeschooling can be an enriching experience that brings families closer and provides an education tailored to each child’s needs.
If you’re considering homeschooling, take your time exploring all the options, finding resources, and connecting with others who have experience in the journey. Remember, homeschooling is not just about academics—it’s about creating a lifelong love of learning and a supportive environment where children can thrive. Not sure where to start? Sign up for a free class with Dailies today! Happy homeschooling!
Written by
Jillian Burger Read all posts by this author