Homeschooling a Child with an IEP in Mississippi
This is general guidance based on Mississippi law. For your specific IEP, consult a special education advocate.
Having an IEP doesn't mean you can't homeschool in Mississippi. You absolutely can. Here's what you need to know about services, rights, and the withdrawal process.
What happens to your child's services
Mississippi's special needs ESA provides up to $8,007 (projected FY2026) for private therapies and services. Your child must have had an active IEP within the last three years to qualify. Be aware that participating waives your child's right to FAPE, and the program is currently set to expire in 2028.
Students who withdraw forfeit IEP and public school special education services. Proportionate share of federal IDEA funds must be spent on parentally placed students, but services may be limited.
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
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(3); 34 CFR 300.111
Equitable services
Proportionate share applies; districts treat homeschoolers as privately schooled students
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
Dual enrollment
Not a clear statutory right
Therapy access
- Speech therapy:
- Through district proportionate share or ESA funds from private providers
- Occupational therapy:
- Through ESA funds from private providers
- Behavioral therapy:
- Through ESA funds from private providers
Mississippi Special Needs ESA provides up to $8,007 (projected FY2026). Eligible for students with active IEP within last 3 years. IMPORTANT: Participating students have no entitlement to FAPE. Program set to repeal July 1, 2028 unless renewed.
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
Mississippi offers 2 education savings programs. 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 Mississippi?
What happens to my child's IEP when I start homeschooling in Mississippi?
Related guides
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Start the Mississippi wizardRequirements sourced from Miss. Code Ann. 37-13-91(3)(c). Verified against primary legal sources. Last verified: March 2026