Thinking about homeschooling in Alaska? You’re in good company. Families here love the flexibility to learn at home—whether that means reading by the woodstove on a snowy morning or taking a science hike during a glorious summer evening. Alaska offers generous freedom for independent homeschoolers, and it also has robust public correspondence programs that provide support and funding in exchange for following program rules.
Whichever path you choose, you can absolutely do this—and we’re here to help.
How do I start homeschooling in Alaska?
Choose your legal pathway (pick one):
Independent Homeschool (AS 14.30.010(b)(12)): No state filing, no mandated subjects, hours, or testing. Maximum flexibility.
Public Correspondence Program: Enroll with a district-run program. You’ll work with a certificated teacher to create an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) and complete at least 50% of coursework in state-defined core subjects. Districts administer statewide tests; Alaska law recognizes a parent’s right to opt out of testing.
Private School Option: Establish or enroll in a private school. Expect affidavits, records, a school calendar, and periodic assessments per law.
Certified Tutor Option: Instruction is provided by an Alaska certificated teacher.
If your child is currently in public school, submit a simple withdrawal to the school office so attendance records are clear.
Map out your year: Decide on goals, rhythm, and curriculum. If you choose correspondence, draft your ILP with the supervising teacher early.
Gather materials and get started: Keep things simple at first; build a routine and add resources as you go.
Friendly tip: If you plan to use correspondence funding, start enrollment early so your ILP and purchases are approved before you begin.
Alaska homeschooling laws
Compulsory Education Ages
In Alaska, children ages 7–16 are generally subject to compulsory education; however, an exception applies if a 6-year-old is enrolled in first grade at a public school, in which case compulsory attendance continues unless the child was enrolled for fewer than 60 days.
Notification Requirements
Independent Homeschool: It is not required to notify the state or district of your intent to homeschool.
Public Correspondence: Enrollment is required with the district program; you’ll set up an ILP with a certificated teacher.
Private School: You must file required affidavits and keep school records.
Certified Tutor: Instruction must be provided by an Alaska certificated teacher.
Attendance and Instruction Requirements
Independent Homeschool: The state does not mandate days, hours, or teacher qualifications.
Public Correspondence: You should follow your ILP and any program timelines. The district oversees progress and administers statewide tests. You may choose to participate or opt out of statewide testing.
Private School: You should maintain a school calendar and provide regular instruction. It is important to keep records as required by law.
Certified Tutor: Instruction is provided by a certificated teacher. You should follow any applicable district/state expectations for the tutoring arrangement.
Required Subjects
Independent Homeschool: There is no state‑mandated subject list.
Public Correspondence: At least 50% of coursework must be in core academic subjects (as defined by the state) and aligned to the ILP.
Private School: Provide a general course of study in the core areas consistent with private school requirements.
Recordkeeping
Independent Homeschool: No specific records are required, though keeping simple logs, book lists, and work samples is helpful.
Public Correspondence: Expect ILP documentation, periodic work samples, grades/progress checks, and purchase approvals/audits for public funds.
Private School: Maintain attendance, student records, and other school documentation as required.
Standardized Testing
Independent Homeschool: No testing required by the state.
Public Correspondence: Districts administer Alaska statewide assessments; parents retain a statutory right to opt out.
Private School: Periodic testing is required by law.
How much does Alaska pay for homeschooling?
Alaska does not pay families to independently homeschool. However, if you enroll in a public correspondence program (which is public schooling at home), students receive annual allotments of public funds that can cover approved educational expenses. Spending rules apply, purchases are audited, and at least 50% of coursework must be in state‑defined core subjects under your ILP.
What do I need to homeschool my child in Alaska?
There’s no state‑mandated curriculum for independent homeschoolers, so you can tailor learning to your child. We recommend mastery‑based, multisensory programs that match your student’s needs—fit the curriculum to your child, not the other way around. For reading, spelling, and math, families love our programs: All About Reading, All About Spelling, and All About Math.
If you enroll in a correspondence program, your curriculum choices must align with your ILP, with at least 50% in core academics to remain compliant with state rules and program funding.
Tips for a successful homeschooling experience
Create a cozy, dedicated learning space and a predictable daily rhythm—short, consistent lessons win the day.
Join local Alaska homeschool communities and co‑ops for field trips, park days, and encouragement. See the Resources below for statewide contacts and directories.
Keep it simple at first. Build momentum with the basics—reading, spelling, and math—then layer in projects and electives.
Embrace Alaska’s seasons: winter is perfect for skill‑building; summer invites hands‑on science and outdoor learning.
If you’re new to homeschooling or want tips from veteran homeschoolers, check out these free resources:
Whether you choose the wide‑open flexibility of independent homeschooling or the structured support of a correspondence program, Alaska gives your family room to thrive. Start small, stay consistent, and keep lessons joyful. You know your child best—and you’ve got this!
FAQ
Does Alaska have education savings accounts (ESAs)?
Alaska does not have a statewide ESA for independent homeschoolers. Funding available through public correspondence programs is public school funding with program rules, not an ESA.
Do parents need qualifications to homeschool in Alaska?
No special qualifications are required for independent homeschooling. The tutor option requires instruction by an Alaska certificated teacher.
Can I homeschool someone else’s child in Alaska?
It depends on the pathway. A certificated teacher can instruct under the tutor option, and a private school may enroll students. If you’re caring for a child who is not yours, be sure you have the legal authority for educational decisions and choose the pathway that fits.
What are the best homeschooling curriculum options in Alaska?
There are many excellent curricula. We recommend mastery‑based, multisensory programs tailored to your student. For the essentials, explore All About Reading, All About Spelling, and All About Math. Always fit the curriculum to your child, not your child to the curriculum.
All About Learning Press cannot offer legal advice. We recommend that parents educate themselves on local and state regulations from government websites or by contacting a local homeschool advocacy group. All information is correct as of March 2026.
