Parents have the right to home educate their children with special needs.

The federal law, Child Find, requires all school districts, upon request of the family, to identify and evaluate any child from birth to age 22 in their area who may qualify for special education services. The request cannot be denied or limited only to those children enrolled in the local district schools and regardless of the severity of the disability. More information is available through Wrights Law. They have a particularly helpful article about diagnosing learning disabilities, and Response to Intervention..

Until the child is of compulsory attendance age, which is age six by September 30 of the current school year, the child is still eligible for special ed services through the district. The NH Department of Education and Department of Health and Human Services have resources for children prior to age 3, often called the Family-Centered Early Supports and Services (FCESS), and preschool resources for children aged 3 to 5.

Once the child reaches “school age” and is not enrolled in a public school, either through the local district or a charter, the district is not obligated to provide special education services because the family has declined a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).  Some districts may offer services to homeschooling families through RSA 189:49 but it is unusual.

Many families home educate children who have different learning needs. You are not alone. But also know that IEPs and 504 plans are not necessary to homeschool your child. As a homeschooler, you are free to make any accommodations and modifications you believe appropriate for your child and work with various spec ed professionals of your choosing.