Homeschooling a Child with an IEP in Alabama
This is general guidance based on Alabama law. For your specific IEP, consult a special education advocate.
Having an IEP doesn't mean you can't homeschool in Alabama. You absolutely can. Here's what you need to know about services, rights, and the withdrawal process.
What happens to your child's services
When you withdraw your child from public school to homeschool in Alabama, IEP services end. Your district must still evaluate your child if you suspect a disability (Child Find), but ongoing therapy and special education services will generally need to come from private providers. The new ACES ESA program may help offset costs.
IEP services end upon withdrawal. Church schools not classified as private schools under Alabama law, creating ambiguity about IDEA equitable participation eligibility.
Primary source: IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
How to access services while homeschooling
Child Find
Districts must identify and evaluate children suspected of having disabilities
How to request: Call toll-free 1-800-543-3098
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(3); 34 CFR 300.111
Dual enrollment
No statutory right for church school students
Equitable services
Church schools may not qualify under IDEA proportionate share
Therapy access
- Speech therapy:
- Through district if eligible under equitable services; otherwise private
- Occupational therapy:
- Through district if eligible; otherwise private
- Behavioral therapy:
- Private providers; Alabama ESA (ACES) may help offset costs
Alabama's Exceptional Children program applies to public schools only. ACES ESA may help offset costs starting 2025-2026.
Before you withdraw
We recommend these steps for any family withdrawing a child with an IEP:
- 1
Request complete copies of all IEP documents, evaluations, and progress reports before you withdraw.
- 2
Consider requesting an IEP meeting to discuss the transition. This is optional but can provide valuable information.
- 3
File your homeschool notification with the state as required (our wizard will generate this for you).
- 4
Arrange any private therapies or services your child needs before withdrawal takes effect.
If you want to re-enroll
Homeschooling is not a one-way door. Your child can re-enroll in public school at any time.
Re-enrollment processes vary by state and district. Contact your local school to ask what evaluation or documentation they require. Keep copies of all IEP records. They will help the district determine placement and next steps.
Keep copies of all IEP documents, evaluations, and progress reports. You'll need these if you re-enroll.
Who to call
You don't have to navigate this alone. These organizations help families with special education questions.
COPAA
copaa.org · Find a special education attorney near you
Wrightslaw
wrightslaw.com · Special education law encyclopedia
Education savings available
Alabama offers CHOOSE Act Education Savings Account. ESA or scholarship programs may help fund private therapies and educational services. Learn about ESA programs
Common questions
Can I homeschool a child with an IEP in Alabama?
What happens to my child's IEP when I start homeschooling in Alabama?
Related guides
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Start the Alabama wizardRequirements sourced from Ala. Code 16-28-1; Ala. Code 16-28-7. Verified against primary legal sources. Last verified: March 2026