Homeschool Rules & Assessments Under Review
The State Board of Education (SBE) is updating outdated homeschool assessment guidance. Some tests on their current list haven’t been available since 2002. Parents can choose any standardized test or opt for a certified teacher evaluation. While OSPI helps determine test appropriateness, it doesn’t maintain the list. The Washington Homeschool Organization remains a valuable resource for current testing options.
Graduation Requirements Review Process
Private schools are only required to meet credit and subject area requirements, not the state’s learning standards. The Future Ready Task Force is analyzing the current graduation requirements and will propose changes this fall. Formal policy development will begin in 2026. Student input is gathered through “fishbowls” and youth organizations, supported by Ed Northwest’s focus group work. The Future Ready Initiative lacks state funding and is partially supported by private funds.
Addressing Online School Models
SBE is exploring approval for online schools and hybrid models. Differentiating between individual online courses and full online programs is challenging. SBE is considering leveraging accreditation, which is already standard in higher education, to help set criteria and reduce state administrative burden.
Private School Approval Update
Thirty private schools have not yet submitted their state approval applications this year, though more than 200 have been reviewed. Notably, 30 new school applications were submitted this year, up from the usual 20. Historically, only five or six new schools stay open beyond the first year. The newly created ‘status tracker’ appears effective at helping school personnel follow the process.
OSPI Weapons Report Timeline
OSPI is reviewing the reporting portal constraints, as only one program window can be active at a time. Adjustments to the timeline are under consideration.
