Homeschooling a Child with an IEP in North Dakota
This is general guidance based on North Dakota law. For your specific IEP, consult a special education advocate.
Having an IEP doesn't mean you can't homeschool in North Dakota. You absolutely can. Here's what you need to know about services, rights, and the withdrawal process.
What happens to your child's services
North Dakota requires a formal services plan (not an IEP) for homeschooled children with disabilities per NDCC 15.1-23-13. You can work with your district to develop this plan or hire your own team. Your child can also enroll part-time in public school for services. Progress reports are required three times per year.
If a child has a disability requiring special education, the parent must file a services plan (not an IEP) with the school district superintendent per NDCC 15.1-23-13.
Primary source: IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
How to access services while homeschooling
Dual enrollment
Part-time enrollment at public school allows access to services under NDCC 15.1-23-19.
How to request: Contact local school district
NDCC 15.1-23-19
Child Find
Federal requirement for districts to identify and evaluate children with suspected disabilities.
How to request: Contact local school district
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(3); 34 CFR 300.111
Services plan
North Dakota requires a formal services plan (distinct from an IEP) for homeschooled children with disabilities per NDCC 15.1-23-13.
How to request: File services plan with school district superintendent
NDCC 15.1-23-13
Therapy access
- Speech therapy:
- Available through services plan; must use qualified persons
- Occupational therapy:
- Available through services plan; must use qualified persons
- Behavioral therapy:
- May be available through services plan
Unique requirement: progress reports on November 1, February 1, and May 1. Parents may choose own services plan team or work with district team.
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
Common questions
Can I homeschool a child with an IEP in North Dakota?
What happens to my child's IEP when I start homeschooling in North Dakota?
Related guides
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Start the North Dakota wizardRequirements sourced from NDCC Chapter 15.1-23 (Home Education). Verified against primary legal sources. Last verified: March 2026