What is the Pennsylvania Home Education Network Affidavit Form?

Definition & Meaning

The Pennsylvania Home Education Network affidavit form is a legally required document that parents must submit to their local school district to initiate and continue homeschooling their children. This affidavit serves as a formal declaration of the parent's intent to provide a comprehensive educational program that meets the standards set by Pennsylvania law. It includes essential information such as the names and ages of the children being homeschooled, the educational objectives for the year, and confirmation of compliance with state requirements, including health and immunization records.

Key Elements of the Affidavit

Understanding the key components of the Pennsylvania Home Education Network affidavit form is crucial for effective completion. The affidavit typically includes:

• Supervisor & Student Information: This section requires the names, ages, and addresses of both the parent and the children involved in the homeschooling program.
• Educational Objectives: Parents must outline their educational goals for each subject area, demonstrating a clear plan for the academic year.
• Legal Compliance: A statement affirming that the parent will adhere to all Pennsylvania homeschooling laws, including maintaining health records and immunizations.
• Criminal Background Certification: The affidavit requires parents to certify that they and other adults in the household have not been convicted of certain crimes that would disqualify them from supervising a homeschool program.

How to Fill Out the Affidavit

Filling out the Pennsylvania Home Education Network affidavit form requires careful attention to detail. Here are the steps to ensure accurate completion:

• Gather Required Information: Collect all necessary details about the children, including full names, ages, and any relevant health documentation.
• Outline Educational Objectives: Clearly define the educational goals for each subject, ensuring they align with state standards.
• Review Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with Pennsylvania's homeschooling laws to ensure compliance.
• Complete the Affidavit: Fill out the form accurately, ensuring all sections are completed and legible.
• Notarization: Have the affidavit notarized to validate the document before submission.

Filing Deadlines / Important Dates

Timely submission of the Pennsylvania Home Education Network affidavit form is essential. The key deadlines include:

• Initial Filing: Parents must submit the affidavit before starting their homeschooling program for the first time.
• Annual Renewal: For subsequent years, the affidavit must be filed by August 1st to ensure continued compliance and eligibility for homeschooling.

Who Typically Uses the Affidavit

The Pennsylvania Home Education Network affidavit form is primarily utilized by parents who choose to homeschool their children. This includes:

• First-Time Homeschoolers: Families starting their homeschooling journey must file the affidavit to comply with state laws.
• Returning Homeschool Families: Parents who have previously homeschooled must renew their affidavit annually to maintain their homeschooling status.
• Educational Supervisors: Individuals overseeing the homeschooling process must also be included in the affidavit for accountability and compliance.

Legal Use of the Affidavit

The affidavit serves as a legal document that affirms a parent's commitment to providing an education that meets Pennsylvania's educational standards. It is essential for:

• Official Notification: The affidavit acts as formal notice to the local school district about the family's intent to homeschool.
• Compliance Verification: It provides evidence that the family is adhering to state laws regarding homeschooling, which can be crucial in the event of inquiries or audits.

Examples of Using the Affidavit

Practical scenarios can illustrate the importance of the Pennsylvania Home Education Network affidavit form:

• New Homeschooling Family: A family with children aged seven and nine submits their first affidavit, detailing their educational goals in reading, math, and science.
• Annual Renewal: A family who has homeschooled for three years files their affidavit by August 1st, ensuring they continue to meet state requirements.

How to Obtain the Affidavit

Obtaining the Pennsylvania Home Education Network affidavit form is straightforward. Parents can:

• Download Online: The affidavit is available as a printable PDF from the Pennsylvania Home Education Network website.
• Request from Local School District: Parents may also obtain a copy directly from their local school district's office.