Homeschooling is when parents or guardians teach their children at home instead of sending them to a public, charter, or private school. Parents or guardians are responsible for their child’s education, including instruction, what subjects to teach (based on the child's age and ability), curriculum, choosing materials, and the daily/weekly/yearly schedule.
Teachers from Buffalo Public Schools do not provide instruction to homeschooled students and home schooling is not virtual through BPS. Home schooled do not receive resources like computers, textbooks, or access to most school-based programs, including sports and extracurricular activities. Homeschooling is independent, parent-directed, and parent-funded.
There are many factors to consider when deciding to home school your child. The BPS Home School website contains important information regarding the home school enrollment process and other required procedures and parental obligations. Please read all the pages of the website carefully and be sure to complete all the required paperwork, as it is essential that both you and the district maintain and submit timely records.
Important: Students who are homeschooled through high school cannot be awarded a Regents or Local Diploma from New York State. If a high school student returns to a Buffalo Public School after being home schooled for any of grades 9 - 12, the school principal determines which home school credits may or may not be awarded towards a diploma.
The procedures outlined on the website are utilized as the standard for reviewing Individualized Home Instruction Plans (IHIPs) and determining substantial equivalence of instruction as required by the NYSED Commissioner’s Regulation 100.10. More information can be found in the NYSED Part 100.10 Q&A.
Quick Links:
Electronic Submission Link - Email bpshomeschooling@buffaloschools.org
IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT ALL FORMS BE SUBMITTED VIA EMAIL or online form in order to process paperwork and confirm receipt in a timely fashion.
Home School Survey - Share your suggestions and comments.
New 24-25 Quarterly Report form - Updated for the 24/25 school year.