On an email list, some list-members discussed the idea of keeping 'practice records' before actual homeschooling begins. I mentioned how this could be construed as 'setting precedent' by over-complying with whatever law is in place: the greater the amount of 'evidence' that is provided, the greater the amount of 'evidence' is expected.
Does Homeschooling Have To Be Political?, Jan/Feb 2004, Home Education Magazine
... [I]f a homeschooler gives a school official more information than is required by statute (because he or she wants to impress the official or gain the official's approval or for whatever reason), this precedent will increase pressure on other homeschoolers to do the same.
The email list discussion was general, but this morning, I read an email about advice that the keeping of 'practice records' could be evidence used against parents in legal proceedings.
In the Interest of J.B., Missouri Court of Appeals Eastern District
Parents' first point alleges that the trial court erred in applying the compulsory attendance law to a six-year-old. Specifically, Parents contend that because Child was not seven on July 1, 1998,(FN2) they were not required to comply with the homeschool record-keeping and instructional requirements.
...
Parents failed to administer the required hours of instruction or to keep proper records of Child's work and progress. We find that although Child was only six on July 1, 1998, he was subject to the compulsory attendance law because, having turned seven on August 10, 1998, he was a seven year-old throughout the 1998-1999 school term that began on September 1st. We also note that Parents treated Child as one who was required to attend school. They provided regular instruction, and as of September 1, 1998, kept a logbook of the number of hours and topics of instruction as required by the homeschool statute. Therefore, the trial court did not err in applying the compulsory attendance law to Child. Point denied. [emphasis added]
The point to consider is, if your child is not of compulsory school attendance age, do not 'officially homeschool' him or her. You may live the homeschooling life, you may go to park days, you may take your child on field trips, but do not 'officially homeschool.'
The same precedent of treating children as if they are required to attend school is described within the laws of many states concerning compulsory attendance. If a child is enrolled once, then the obligation of school attendance is incurred. Once you step into the 'official' arena, you acknowledge your responsibility in adhering to the law.
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