Homeschooling a Child with an IEP in Missouri
This is general guidance based on Missouri law. For your specific IEP, consult a special education advocate.
Having an IEP doesn't mean you can't homeschool in Missouri. 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, but Missouri districts must evaluate your child through Child Find and may provide limited services through a Services Plan. Speech therapy is the most commonly available service. The Missouri Empowerment Scholarship may help fund additional therapies.
Homeschooled students not entitled to a full IEP. Under IDEA, may be considered parentally placed private school children with access to a Services Plan.
Primary source: IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
How to access services while homeschooling
Child Find
District must locate and evaluate children suspected of having disabilities, including homeschooled children.
How to request: Contact your local school district's special education office to request an evaluation.
Section 167.031 RSMo
Equitable services
Districts may provide services through a Services Plan, generally speech therapy being the most commonly available.
How to request: Contact your local school district to inquire about a Services Plan.
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
Dual enrollment
Not a statutory right for special education services.
Therapy access
- Speech therapy:
- Most commonly provided equitable service through district
- Occupational therapy:
- May be available through district Services Plan
- Behavioral therapy:
- Limited; Missouri Empowerment Scholarship may help
Missouri Parents as Teachers (PAT) may provide early childhood services. Missouri Empowerment Scholarship available statewide for eligible families.
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
Education savings available
Missouri offers Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program. 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 Missouri?
What happens to my child's IEP when I start homeschooling in Missouri?
Related guides
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Start the Missouri wizardRequirements sourced from Mo. Rev. Stat. Section 167.031. Verified against primary legal sources. Last verified: March 2026