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Homeschooling in California
what is a PSP?
PSP stands for Private School Satellite Program.
Enrolling in a PSP is one of the four legal options for K-12 home education in California.
A PSP is sometimes called an umbrella program because your student is "under the umbrella" or covering of the private school.
Parents with students enrolled in a PSP do not file the Private School Affidavit or PSA with the State of California.
Enrolling in a PSP is one of the four legal options for K-12 home education in California.
A PSP is sometimes called an umbrella program because your student is "under the umbrella" or covering of the private school.
Parents with students enrolled in a PSP do not file the Private School Affidavit or PSA with the State of California.
IS Branson Academy a PSP?
Yes.
Branson Academy is an administrative PSP (Private School Satellite Program) providing an "umbrella covering" for homeschooling families in California and other states which recognize our PSP.
Branson Academy is an administrative PSP (Private School Satellite Program) providing an "umbrella covering" for homeschooling families in California and other states which recognize our PSP.
WHAT ARE THE LEGAL OPTIONS FOR HOMESCHOOLING IN CALIFORNIA?
There are four legal options for homeschooling in California:
- Enroll in a public school Independent Study Program or charter school
- File an R-4 annually and maintain all records for your own private school
- Hire a credentialed tutor
- Enroll in a private school satellite program (PSP).
what if I don't live in california?
Depending on your state's homeschool laws, you may enroll in Branson Academy and enjoy the benefits of our program.
For state-specific requirements visit HSLDA.
We enroll English speaking international students where it is legal to do so.
We do not enroll families living in the State of Washington due to their homeschool laws.
Other states have excellent homeschool freedom laws, and do not require the legal covering we provide.
Many parents have maintained student enrollment in Branson Academy even after moving out of state because of the excellent administrative support, high school credits tracking, transcripts, and diplomas we offer.
For state-specific requirements visit HSLDA.
We enroll English speaking international students where it is legal to do so.
We do not enroll families living in the State of Washington due to their homeschool laws.
Other states have excellent homeschool freedom laws, and do not require the legal covering we provide.
Many parents have maintained student enrollment in Branson Academy even after moving out of state because of the excellent administrative support, high school credits tracking, transcripts, and diplomas we offer.
Classes and Curriculum
does branson academy sell curriculum or textbooks?
No.
We are exclusively an administrative support program. We provide a legal covering for your homeschool in California, school transfers, report cards and transcripts, high school credits tracking, diplomas, and ongoing parent support to help you homeschool successfully.
Think of us as the admissions and records office for your home school!
We are exclusively an administrative support program. We provide a legal covering for your homeschool in California, school transfers, report cards and transcripts, high school credits tracking, diplomas, and ongoing parent support to help you homeschool successfully.
Think of us as the admissions and records office for your home school!
Does branson academy offer online classes?
No.
We focus exclusively on providing the best administrative support possible to home school families.
Again, think of us as the admissions and records office for your home school!
We focus exclusively on providing the best administrative support possible to home school families.
Again, think of us as the admissions and records office for your home school!
why don't you provide any curriculum?
A one-size curriculum does not fit the learning styles and needs of every student.
We enroll students in Grades K-12 throughout all of California with varying levels of abilities.
There are hundreds of fantastic home school suppliers and we provide an extensive list of resources and planning materials and can work with you to help you custom design an educational program for your child.
We enroll students in Grades K-12 throughout all of California with varying levels of abilities.
There are hundreds of fantastic home school suppliers and we provide an extensive list of resources and planning materials and can work with you to help you custom design an educational program for your child.
Kindergarten and Immunizations
Should I enroll my child in Kindergarten?
It's up to you!
Mandatory Kindergarten legislation for California, AB 713, was stopped in the Senate Appropriations Committee in September 2015. This is an on-going battle for California. Each year legislation is introduced and, for now, has been opposed.
For state-specific requirements visit HSLDA.
Mandatory Kindergarten legislation for California, AB 713, was stopped in the Senate Appropriations Committee in September 2015. This is an on-going battle for California. Each year legislation is introduced and, for now, has been opposed.
For state-specific requirements visit HSLDA.
Does my child need shots?
For any classroom based instruction - yes.
Under Senate Bill 277, since January 1, 2016 personal belief exemptions are no longer permitted in California.
However, an amendment to the bill exempts students of home-based instruction and students enrolled in a private school satellite program such as ours who do not receive classroom-based instruction.
Under Senate Bill 277, since January 1, 2016 personal belief exemptions are no longer permitted in California.
However, an amendment to the bill exempts students of home-based instruction and students enrolled in a private school satellite program such as ours who do not receive classroom-based instruction.
High School
Will my student receive a high school diploma?
Students who successfully complete the Basic Program which meets California State Education Code 51220 – 51228 requirements for high school graduation receive a high school diploma.
Graduates receive an official transcript and diploma from Branson Academy based upon verified student performance. (See High School Programs for more info.)
Graduates receive an official transcript and diploma from Branson Academy based upon verified student performance. (See High School Programs for more info.)
What are the graduation requirements?
Branson Academy has three diploma programs for high school.
The Basic Program meets California Education Code 51220 – 51228 requirements for high school graduation.
The Advanced Program is patterned after the admissions guidelines for most colleges and universities.
We also offer a path to Early Graduation.
Please visit our High School Program page for more info. See our High School Credits QuickChart here.
The Basic Program meets California Education Code 51220 – 51228 requirements for high school graduation.
The Advanced Program is patterned after the admissions guidelines for most colleges and universities.
We also offer a path to Early Graduation.
Please visit our High School Program page for more info. See our High School Credits QuickChart here.
CAN MY STUDENT GRADUATE EARLY?
YES!
The Accelerated Program is a path to early graduation.
A student who demonstrates proficiency in the required courses of study by completing the Basic Program or passing the CHSPE (with proof of testing) may graduate as early as sixteen.
The Accelerated Program is a path to early graduation.
A student who demonstrates proficiency in the required courses of study by completing the Basic Program or passing the CHSPE (with proof of testing) may graduate as early as sixteen.
What is high school credits tracking?
We track your student's high school credits to assist you and your student in meeting graduation requirements.
A Credits Summary is provided at the bottom of each quarterly transcript.
A Credits Summary is provided at the bottom of each quarterly transcript.
What is Dual Enrollment?
Dual Enrollment means a student is enrolled in a community college course(s) during high school.
Choose a community college and check out their admission process for high school students. Email us with Course Names and Number. After verifying current grades we will issue a Dual Enrollment form for your student.
A student should have a 3.0 GPA prior to dual enrollment
Choose a community college and check out their admission process for high school students. Email us with Course Names and Number. After verifying current grades we will issue a Dual Enrollment form for your student.
A student should have a 3.0 GPA prior to dual enrollment
What is on a high school transcript?
Our transcripts are official documents used when transferring to another school or for college admissions.
Graduates of Branson Academy have been accepted by community colleges, universities, and the U.S. military.
We provide standardized high school transcripts. These includes courses, grades, GPA, a credits summary, space for additional activities and achievements, and SAT/ACT test scores.
Reports and Grades
Why Do I have to submit reports?
Proof of instruction is required by California law, whether you are enrolled in a PSP like ours, a public charter school, or you file an R-4. The attendance, progress report, and portfolio samples submitted each quarter substantiate proof of instruction.
What IF I forget a report?
Due dates are posted on the Parents page.
Parents are emailed a reminder before the due date.
If a report isn't submitted by the due date, we send a gentle reminder!
Reports are mandatory for continued enrollment.
Parents are emailed a reminder before the due date.
If a report isn't submitted by the due date, we send a gentle reminder!
Reports are mandatory for continued enrollment.
what reports are required?
There are only two types of reports:
The Annual Study Plan
The Quarterly Progress and Attendance Report.
Within 30 days of enrollment and at the beginning of each academic year parents submit an Annual Study Plan. This is a flexible outline of basic courses for the year.
Every three months parents submit a Quarterly Report which includes grades and attendance, along with two work samples per core subject.
Both reporting forms are filled in online through our website.
Learn more about Reports and Forms here.
The Annual Study Plan
The Quarterly Progress and Attendance Report.
Within 30 days of enrollment and at the beginning of each academic year parents submit an Annual Study Plan. This is a flexible outline of basic courses for the year.
Every three months parents submit a Quarterly Report which includes grades and attendance, along with two work samples per core subject.
Both reporting forms are filled in online through our website.
Learn more about Reports and Forms here.
do i turn in grades?
Yes.
Grades are submitted on the quarterly progress report.
Grades K-6 use: E = Excellent, S = Satisfactory, NI = Needs Improvement.
Grades 7-12 use: Letter grades. GPA is auto calculated on the transcript.
Parents may use tests and quizzes, project based grading, or other outcome evaluations, such as discussions and practical application of skills. We provide score trackers and other resources to assist with evaluations, and many online courses include auto-grading.
Grades are submitted on the quarterly progress report.
Grades K-6 use: E = Excellent, S = Satisfactory, NI = Needs Improvement.
Grades 7-12 use: Letter grades. GPA is auto calculated on the transcript.
Parents may use tests and quizzes, project based grading, or other outcome evaluations, such as discussions and practical application of skills. We provide score trackers and other resources to assist with evaluations, and many online courses include auto-grading.
what are work samples?
Work samples substantiate grades given.
We require two work samples per core subject each quarter.
They may include copies of written work or tests, photos of projects, mp3 files, book lists, videos of athletic/music practice or events, screen shots of online coursework, and so on.
We require two work samples per core subject each quarter.
They may include copies of written work or tests, photos of projects, mp3 files, book lists, videos of athletic/music practice or events, screen shots of online coursework, and so on.
How often do I submit reports?
Reports are required only four times a year (once a quarter).
The Annual Study Plan is submitted at the beginning of a new academic year.
The Quarterly Progress Report and work samples are submitted every three months.
The Annual Study Plan is submitted at the beginning of a new academic year.
The Quarterly Progress Report and work samples are submitted every three months.
Who Sees the Reports and Grades?
The Program Director evaluates all progress reports and work samples.
are reports mandatory?
Yes.
unschooling and special needs
what about unschooling or non-traditional homeschooling?
We are inclusive of all types of learning.
Our program supports self-directed learners, unschooling, special needs learning, Montessori-style, Charlotte Mason, semi-structured learning, classical education, and students in competitive sports or arts programs.
Our program supports self-directed learners, unschooling, special needs learning, Montessori-style, Charlotte Mason, semi-structured learning, classical education, and students in competitive sports or arts programs.
What kind of reports do unschoolers submit?
All parents submit the same reports. Learn more about Reports and Forms here.
For self-directed learners or unschoolers, projections for learning and outcomes are modeled differently.
Unschoolers and parents of special needs students create a flexible outline of studies and facilitate learning according to student driven interests and learning capacities.
With this model parents track accomplishments through the quarter, and evaluate achievements on the progress report.
For self-directed learners or unschoolers, projections for learning and outcomes are modeled differently.
Unschoolers and parents of special needs students create a flexible outline of studies and facilitate learning according to student driven interests and learning capacities.
With this model parents track accomplishments through the quarter, and evaluate achievements on the progress report.
Do I need an IEP if my child is below grade level?
No.
The Annual Study Plan IS an Individualized Ed Plan!
When you partner with our program you are empowered to meet the needs of your child and facilitate learning at the student's own pace.
Former IEP contracts end when a student is withdrawn or transferred from that school.
The Annual Study Plan IS an Individualized Ed Plan!
When you partner with our program you are empowered to meet the needs of your child and facilitate learning at the student's own pace.
Former IEP contracts end when a student is withdrawn or transferred from that school.
Teaching Your Child
What type of curriculum should I use?
The best curriculum is one that A) meets the needs of the student and B) is easy for the parent to implement.
First figure out HOW your child learns. Then narrow your curriculum choices based on your child's learning style.
Will your child benefit from a heavy literature based curriculum or a hands on unit studies? From a rigorously structured classical approach? Or short lessons, nature study, and living books?
No one-size curriculum fits everyone. Find what works for you!
We provide lots of resources to help! Begin here with How Do I Choose a Curriculum?
First figure out HOW your child learns. Then narrow your curriculum choices based on your child's learning style.
Will your child benefit from a heavy literature based curriculum or a hands on unit studies? From a rigorously structured classical approach? Or short lessons, nature study, and living books?
No one-size curriculum fits everyone. Find what works for you!
We provide lots of resources to help! Begin here with How Do I Choose a Curriculum?
what homeschool style is best?
You homeschool philosophy and world-view will influence the curriculum you choose.
Whether you subscribe to the Charlotte Mason philosophy, Classical Homeschooling, Traditional, Unschooling, Unit Study Approach, or a myriad of other ideologies, the benefit to a specific homeschool style will be that A) it meets the needs of your student and B) fits with the core values and ideals of your family.
Consider your vision for homeschooling. You may find it helpful to create a mission statement or educational philosophy that reflects the goals and values of your family.
Recommended reading: Educational Philosophies Defined. (2010) by Jamie Martin of Simple Homeschool
Whether you subscribe to the Charlotte Mason philosophy, Classical Homeschooling, Traditional, Unschooling, Unit Study Approach, or a myriad of other ideologies, the benefit to a specific homeschool style will be that A) it meets the needs of your student and B) fits with the core values and ideals of your family.
Consider your vision for homeschooling. You may find it helpful to create a mission statement or educational philosophy that reflects the goals and values of your family.
Recommended reading: Educational Philosophies Defined. (2010) by Jamie Martin of Simple Homeschool
how do I teach my child?
The perfect place to begin is right where you are!
Successful home school parents are committed and involved in the education of their child.
Over two million parents in the U.S. are effectively teaching their children at home. More are discovering the value of home education for their family due to the recent changes in distance learning. You can, too.
A child does not have to sit at a desk to "do school!"
You can incorporate a variety of methods and materials. Most children benefit from multi-sensory approaches. Let your child explore with hands on unit studies, or using math and language manipulatives to supplement the text.
Read out loud to your child.
Let your child draw and create maps and timelines, build projects, get messy with kitchen science experiments, garden, and listen to audio-books or podcasts while doing crafts or during quiet time.
Incorporate educational board games or card games to reinforce concepts and keep learning fun.
Some families find they need structure to stay on track.
Others thrive in a loose, spontaneous environment.
Decide what will help you have a happy and productive home that encourages exploration and discovery.
By researching and exploring teaching methods and learning styles, you can create an engaging, individualized learning environment that meets the needs of your child.
Remember, there is no right way to home school. Find what works for you.
Be flexible with yourself and your child. Give yourself permission to learn and grow together.
We'll be right here to help.
Successful home school parents are committed and involved in the education of their child.
Over two million parents in the U.S. are effectively teaching their children at home. More are discovering the value of home education for their family due to the recent changes in distance learning. You can, too.
A child does not have to sit at a desk to "do school!"
You can incorporate a variety of methods and materials. Most children benefit from multi-sensory approaches. Let your child explore with hands on unit studies, or using math and language manipulatives to supplement the text.
Read out loud to your child.
Let your child draw and create maps and timelines, build projects, get messy with kitchen science experiments, garden, and listen to audio-books or podcasts while doing crafts or during quiet time.
Incorporate educational board games or card games to reinforce concepts and keep learning fun.
Some families find they need structure to stay on track.
Others thrive in a loose, spontaneous environment.
Decide what will help you have a happy and productive home that encourages exploration and discovery.
By researching and exploring teaching methods and learning styles, you can create an engaging, individualized learning environment that meets the needs of your child.
Remember, there is no right way to home school. Find what works for you.
Be flexible with yourself and your child. Give yourself permission to learn and grow together.
We'll be right here to help.
where Do I find Resources to help me?
We've got it covered!
In our Parents Resources you'll find all this and more!
Our RESOURCES and FACEBOOK page have additional links to articles and blogs to help you.
In our Parents Resources you'll find all this and more!
- Ways to discover how your child learns
- Pro-Tips for teaching your child
- Subject specific resources (K-12)
- Resources for Special Needs
- SAT and ACT testing
- Preparing for college
- Planners and Grade Tracking forms
Our RESOURCES and FACEBOOK page have additional links to articles and blogs to help you.
Registration, Accreditation, and Legal Insurance
What is the difference between registration and enrollment?
Enrollment is a two step process. Learn more here.
A parent/guardian completes both a registration application and an enrollment form.
During the process, parents set up a secure payment option using FACTS Management.
When the enrollment form is submitted, your student is officially enrolled.
A parent/guardian completes both a registration application and an enrollment form.
During the process, parents set up a secure payment option using FACTS Management.
When the enrollment form is submitted, your student is officially enrolled.
What happens after my student is enrolled?
Your student is covered through our PSP for the academic year.
You receive a GETTING STARTED email with instructions and resources for how to homeschool successfully.
You receive access to all our resources on the website and report cards and transcripts on the Family Portal.
Fill out an annual study plan and submit within thirty days of enrollment.
Homeschool Your Way!
We're here to help!
You receive a GETTING STARTED email with instructions and resources for how to homeschool successfully.
You receive access to all our resources on the website and report cards and transcripts on the Family Portal.
Fill out an annual study plan and submit within thirty days of enrollment.
Homeschool Your Way!
We're here to help!
IS branson academy accredited?
No.
Our PSP is not a campus based school and does not provide in-person instruction. Our PSP model is outside the criteria for accrediting agencies of private schools.
When is Accreditation Necessary?
Accreditation is most important when a student is transferring from one university to another.
It is also necessary for enrollment in a private school which has an accrediting policy to accept students only from schools which are accredited, and is based on the requirements of their accrediting agency.
A personal homeschool is not accredited. Likewise, public schools are not accredited.
Federal law protects homeschooled high school graduates from discrimination in employment, military service, and college admissions based on their transcripts. Our students have matriculated to both the UC and CSU system, other private colleges and universities (such as BYU, Idaho State, W. Jessup University, Cornell College) and the U.S. military.
Learn more about accreditation from the HomeschoolMom blog.
Our PSP is not a campus based school and does not provide in-person instruction. Our PSP model is outside the criteria for accrediting agencies of private schools.
When is Accreditation Necessary?
Accreditation is most important when a student is transferring from one university to another.
It is also necessary for enrollment in a private school which has an accrediting policy to accept students only from schools which are accredited, and is based on the requirements of their accrediting agency.
A personal homeschool is not accredited. Likewise, public schools are not accredited.
Federal law protects homeschooled high school graduates from discrimination in employment, military service, and college admissions based on their transcripts. Our students have matriculated to both the UC and CSU system, other private colleges and universities (such as BYU, Idaho State, W. Jessup University, Cornell College) and the U.S. military.
Learn more about accreditation from the HomeschoolMom blog.
Do you recommend HOMESCHOOL insurance?
Yes. However, homeschool insurance is not mandatory for enrollment.
We strongly recommend joining a homeschool legal defense organization (such as HSLDA) if membership is within your budget.
It is a modest investment for peace of mind, and supports the greater homeschool community and the freedoms we have sought for the past forty years.
We strongly recommend joining a homeschool legal defense organization (such as HSLDA) if membership is within your budget.
It is a modest investment for peace of mind, and supports the greater homeschool community and the freedoms we have sought for the past forty years.