Independent home school
You register directly with your local district and run the school yourself.
- Notice of intent to your district
- Keep attendance & records
- State testing in grades 5, 7 & 9
Resources · know the law
Homeschooling in Tennessee, explained plainly.
Whether you're just starting or switching paths, here's the plain-English version of how it works in our state.
Not legal advice. This is a general overview to help you get oriented. Requirements change — always verify the specifics with the Tennessee Department of Education and your local school district before you register. Final legal copy to be reviewed by counsel.
Choose your path
Your three legal options
Umbrella / church-related
You enroll under a registered organization that oversees your records.
- Org handles record-keeping
- Each org sets its own rules
- Popular for high-school transcripts
Accredited online school
A full accredited program manages curriculum and grading for you.
- Curriculum & grading included
- Official transcripts & diploma
- Least record-keeping for you
The basics
At a glance
Attendance
Roughly 4-6 hours a day, 180 days a year is the common benchmark.
Curriculum
Choose the curriculum that best fits you and your family. If you need help deciding, reach out to us below!
Records
Keep attendance, a list of subjects and proof of progress. Umbrella schools often store these for you.
Testing
Independent home schoolers typically test in grades 5, 7 and 9.
Common questions
Frequently asked
Do I have to use a specific curriculum?
No. Tennessee doesn't mandate a curriculum for independent home schoolers — you choose what fits your family. Our classes complement whatever you use at home.
Can my child still play sports or go to socials?
Yes — through our athletics program and campus socials. Many families build their whole extracurricular life here.
How do we get started with TNHS?
Register for a household portal, choose the events/field trips/classes you want to take participate in and join our community!
Do you serve high schoolers?
Absolutely — classes run grades Pre-K through Dual Enrollment College Courses. We have Beta Clubs, TPUSA and other fun clubs just for high schoolers!
Reading
From the blog
GEtting startedHow do I get started with Homeschooling?
Feeling overwhelmed? Don't know where to start? Take a deep breath and read this article!
encouragementAdvice from a Veteran Homeschooling MomAre you needing some encouragement? Click here!
Tennessee Homeschoolers-- Creating Community, not CompetitionLearn how we are making strides to create community within the homeschool world.
Check out our community partners!
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Have a question we didn't cover?
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