Homeschooling a Child with an IEP in Rhode Island
This is general guidance based on Rhode Island law. For your specific IEP, consult a special education advocate.
Having an IEP doesn't mean you can't homeschool in Rhode Island. You absolutely can. Here's what you need to know about services, rights, and the withdrawal process.
What happens to your child's services
Rhode Island's special education obligations to homeschoolers are unclear and vary by district. When your homeschool program is approved, request that the IEP team meet to discuss services. Dual enrollment in public school is the most reliable path to services.
Conflicting information exists. Some sources say not eligible; others say districts must provide services similar to parentally placed private school students. When at-home instruction is approved, IEP team should meet to discuss services.
Primary source: IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144
How to access services while homeschooling
Dual enrollment
Can dually enroll for IEP services.
How to request: Contact local school committee
Child Find
Federal requirement for districts to identify and evaluate children with suspected disabilities.
How to request: Contact local school committee
IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(3); 34 CFR 300.111
Equitable services
Conflicting guidance on whether districts must provide FAPE-like services to homeschooled students.
Therapy access
- Speech therapy:
- May be available through district or IEP team decision; private insurance also covers out-patient speech
- Occupational therapy:
- May be available through district; private insurance covers out-patient OT
- Behavioral therapy:
- Primarily private providers or insurance
Varies significantly by school committee. Federal IDEA provisions may apply but applicability is complex in RI.
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 Rhode Island?
What happens to my child's IEP when I start homeschooling in Rhode Island?
Related guides
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Start the Rhode Island wizardRequirements sourced from R.I.G.L. Section 16-19-2. Verified against primary legal sources. Last verified: March 2026