Homeschooling a Child with an IEP in Michigan
This is general guidance based on Michigan law. For your specific IEP, consult a special education advocate.
Having an IEP doesn't mean you can't homeschool in Michigan. You absolutely can. Here's what you need to know about services, rights, and the withdrawal process.
What happens to your child's services
Michigan provides a Nonpublic School Service Plan (similar to an IEP) for homeschooled students with disabilities. State law entitles nonpublic school students to auxiliary services on an equal basis with public school students. Contact your local public school or Intermediate School District to request an evaluation and service plan.
Homeschooled students do not qualify for a full IEP but DO qualify for a Nonpublic School Service Plan. State law entitles nonpublic school students to access auxiliary services on an equal basis with public school students.
Primary source: IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
How to access services while homeschooling
Dual enrollment for services
Available through shared-time enrollment at local public school.
How to request: Contact your local public school to request shared-time enrollment and services.
MCL 380.1561(3)(f)
Child Find evaluation
Available through local public school or Intermediate School District (ISD).
How to request: Submit a written request to your local public school or ISD.
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(3); 34 CFR 300.111
Equitable services (Nonpublic School Service Plan)
Nonpublic school students entitled to auxiliary services on an equal basis with public school students.
How to request: Contact your local public school or Intermediate School District to request an evaluation and service plan.
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
Therapy access
- Speech therapy:
- Available through Nonpublic School Service Plan and auxiliary services
- Occupational therapy:
- Available through Nonpublic School Service Plan and auxiliary services
- Behavioral therapy:
- Limited; may be available through service plan
Michigan distinguishes between full IEP (public school only) and Nonpublic School Service Plan.
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
Your state does not require filing a notification to homeschool. You can begin homeschooling once you withdraw.
- 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
Common questions
Can I homeschool a child with an IEP in Michigan?
What happens to my child's IEP when I start homeschooling in Michigan?
Related guides
Get your personalized compliance checklist
Our wizard generates a step-by-step plan for your family, including IEP-specific guidance for your chosen pathway.
Start the Michigan wizardRequirements sourced from MCL 380.1561(3)(f). Verified against primary legal sources. Last verified: March 2026