Homeschooling a Child with an IEP in Kentucky
This is general guidance based on Kentucky law. For your specific IEP, consult a special education advocate.
Having an IEP doesn't mean you can't homeschool in Kentucky. You absolutely can. Here's what you need to know about services, rights, and the withdrawal process.
What happens to your child's services
Kentucky treats homeschools as private schools, which may give your child access to some special education services through proportionate share funding. However, you cannot dual enroll solely for special education. Complete the 'declaration of participation' form your district sends each spring if you want services.
Homeschool families operate a private school under Kentucky law. Some special education services may be available since homeschoolers are technically private school students.
Primary source: IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
How to access services while homeschooling
Child Find
Includes complete evaluation, IEP, and referral
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(3); 34 CFR 300.111
Equitable services
Homeschools are technically private schools; complete 'declaration of participation' form
How to request: Complete 'declaration of participation' form from local district
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
Dual enrollment
May NOT dual enroll for special ed services
Therapy access
- Speech therapy:
- May be available through district proportionate share
- Occupational therapy:
- May be available through proportionate share
- Behavioral therapy:
- Limited; primarily private
Every homeschool family should receive a 'declaration of participation' form from their local district each spring.
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
Kentucky offers Kentucky Education Excellence Scholarship (KEES). 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 Kentucky?
What happens to my child's IEP when I start homeschooling in Kentucky?
Related guides
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Start the Kentucky wizardRequirements sourced from KRS 159.160. Verified against primary legal sources. Last verified: March 2026