Homeschool Evaluations
What does Virginia law say about evidence of progress?
"Summary of § 22.1-254.1(C) of the Virginia Code states that “The parent who elects to provide home instruction shall provide the division superintendent by August 1 following the school year in which the child has received home instruction with either
(i) evidence that the child has attained a composite score in or above the fourth stanine (23rd percentile) on ANY nationally normed standardized achievement test or
(ii) an evaluation or assessment which the division superintendent determines indicates that the child is achieving an adequate level of educational growth and progress.”
Who needs to complete Evidence of Progress?
How do I show evidence of my child's progress?
All children over the age of 6 and under the age of 18 as of 9/30 of the current school year. Evidence of progress can be determined by an approved standardized test or an evaluation/letter from a homeschool evaluator.
Families and evaluator's have their own preferred methods to show progress. I evaluate progress through the a portfolio of student work.
For a portfolio, you can include examples of student work throughout the year. I recommend at least 6 pieces that represent your child's work from the beginning, middle, and end of the year in all subject areas reports on your NOI (Notice of Intent). English and Math are the only areas required by VA Law.
Some examples of evidence:
-
Work samples
-
Read logs
-
Projects (pictures, videos, presentations, experiments)
-
Assessment results
-
Essays
-
Workbooks
-
Reports from online programs or courses
-
Curriculum lists
-
Field trip list
-
Classes, clubs, and co-ops experiences
How long does an evaluation take?
Individual evaluations are 30 minutes per child.
Family style evaluations last up to an hour and can accommodate 3-4 children.
Meetings take place over Zoom.
What can I expect during the meeting?
I will discuss the samples with you and your child. I will ask questions about your homeschool experience and what you think went well and your goals for the next year. During this time, I will take notes to assist with writing my letter after our session together.
The intention of our time together, is to share and celebrate your child's successes!
What happens after the meeting?
You will receive a PDF signed letter to submit to your district as proof of progress. In will include my contact information for the district.
*Helpful Tip: Keep proof of your submitted letter via certified mail or the email timestamp.
What is the cost?
Evaluations are $60 for the first child and $35 for each additional child.
For families with 3-4 children, the cost is $120. An hour long session will be scheduled. This will allow for each child to show their own progress without repetition especially if children are completing the same or similar work or activities.
What happens after I book our evaluation?
When is Evidence of Progress due and who do I send it to?
I will reach out to confirm our time together and send you a link for you to upload your evidence of progress documents. Prior to our meeting, I will review these documents and let you know if more documentation is needed.
Evidence of Progress us due by August 1st.
You can send your letter to your district's superintendent.
Here is a list of Virginia's Superintendents.