Homeschooling a Child with an IEP in Arkansas
This is general guidance based on Arkansas law. For your specific IEP, consult a special education advocate.
Having an IEP doesn't mean you can't homeschool in Arkansas. You absolutely can. Here's what you need to know about services, rights, and the withdrawal process.
What happens to your child's services
Your child's IEP ends when you withdraw to homeschool, but Arkansas provides several options: request a Child Find evaluation through your district, ask about proportionate share services, and consider the new Education Freedom Account program which can fund private therapies and services for students with disabilities.
IEP services generally cease upon withdrawal. Homeschooled students treated as privately schooled students for IDEA purposes.
Primary source: IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
How to access services while homeschooling
Dual enrollment
Homeschooled students may be eligible for special ed services through district
Child Find
Districts must evaluate within 7 days of referral scheduling
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(3); 34 CFR 300.111
Equitable services
Proportionate share services to parentally placed students including homeschoolers
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
Therapy access
- Speech therapy:
- May be available through district proportionate share; also through EFA program
- Occupational therapy:
- May be available through proportionate share; also through EFA
- Behavioral therapy:
- Primarily private providers; EFA may cover accredited practitioner services
Arkansas EFA program starting 2025-2026 allows 90% of per-pupil funding, covering services from accredited practitioners.
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
Arkansas offers Arkansas LEARNS Act ESA. 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 Arkansas?
What happens to my child's IEP when I start homeschooling in Arkansas?
Related guides
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Start the Arkansas wizardRequirements sourced from A.C.A. 6-15-501 through 6-15-507. Verified against primary legal sources. Last verified: March 2026