Step-by-Step: Starting Your Independent Homeschool with a PSA in California

Are you considering fully independent homeschooling in California? One of the first items on your to-do list will be filing a Private School Affidavit (PSA). This crucial step establishes your home as a private school and ensures your child is exempt from public school attendance. Below, you’ll find an actionable roadmap that walks you through everything from withdrawing your child from public school to creating a schedule that works for your family. By the end, you’ll have a solid grasp on the process and be ready to begin your independent homeschool journey confidently.

This article is one of five from our California Homeschooling Series:

Getting Started: California Homeschooling Series

Are you thinking about homeschooling in California, or looking to refine your current approach? In this comprehensive series, we take a deep dive into the most important topics—from comparing independent homeschooling to public charter programs, to meeting legal requirements, budgeting, socialization, and more. Whether you’re brand new or

Think by RecessRecess

1. Understand the Purpose of the Private School Affidavit

The Private School Affidavit (PSA) is the legal mechanism that enables parents to operate a home-based private school for their children in California. Filing the PSA annually with the California Department of Education registers your homeschool as a private entity, thereby exempting your child from compulsory public school attendance.

• Important Note: Filing the PSA does not signify the state’s approval or endorsement of your curriculum. Rather, it simply lets the state know your school exists and that you’re taking responsibility for your child’s education
  File Your Private School Affidavit (PSA) with HSC.
• For the state’s own guidance, see Schooling at Home – CA Dept of Education.

2. Formally Withdraw Your Child from the Current School

Before you file the PSA, you should withdraw your child from any public or private school in which they’re currently enrolled. This step prevents any confusion about your child’s enrollment status.

• Notify in Writing: A simple withdrawal letter or email to the school office or principal is sufficient. You can mention that you are withdrawing your child to begin “home-based private education in compliance with California Education Code §48222.”
• Request Records: It’s a good idea to request copies of your child’s transcripts, report cards, or immunization records to keep in your personal files—especially useful if you later need to produce documentation or transition to another educational option.

3. File the Private School Affidavit (PSA)

Filing the PSA is usually done online at the California Department of Education’s website. The filing window is October 1–15 each year for existing schools, but if you’re starting mid-year, you can file whenever you begin homeschooling.

1. Go to the Online Portal: Access the Private School Affidavit Information page and follow the instructions.
2. Enter School Details: You’ll provide your “school” name, address, enrollment numbers (i.e., your child/children), and some basic assurances that you’ll keep required records.
3. Print a Copy: Always keep a printout (or digital copy) of the confirmation on file. This is your proof that you’ve registered as a private school, should any local authority or district inquire.

4. Set Up Required Records and Documentation

California’s law expects private schools (even if it’s just your family) to maintain certain records. Once you file your PSA, plan how you’ll keep these on hand:

You don’t submit these to the state; you just maintain them in your own files.

5. Choose and Organize Your Curriculum

One of the greatest benefits (and biggest tasks) of independent homeschooling is curriculum choice. You’re free to pick any educational materials you believe best fit your child’s needs.

• Research Multiple Approaches: Some families adopt a structured, textbook-based program, while others blend online courses with hands-on projects. You might also explore classical, Charlotte Mason, or unit study approaches.
• Utilize Community Resources: Don’t underestimate the power of local libraries, museums, and free educational websites like Khan Academy.
• Keep a Budget in Mind: Because you’re independent, you’ll cover all costs out of pocket. Scour used-book sites, look into digital downloads, and connect with local homeschool groups for used-curriculum sales.

6. Create a Homeschool Schedule that Works for You

As an independent homeschooler, you have flexibility to design a timetable that suits your family’s lifestyle. A few considerations:

• Set a Start Time: Not all kids thrive at 7 or 8 a.m. Some families begin lessons mid-morning. Others prefer a more traditional schedule.
• Rotate Subjects: If you have multiple children, teach group subjects like history or science together, then split up for skill-based subjects (math, reading).
• Include Breaks and Fun: Because you’re not tied to a public school bell schedule, you can schedule breaks, field trips, and hands-on projects whenever it makes sense.
• Document Progress: Keep notes or a planner to remind you where you left off and what’s next. This helps you stay consistent and provides a record of learning in case you need it.

7. Addressing Socialization and Extra Activities

One of the top questions homeschoolers get is: “What about socialization?” In reality, California’s homeschooling community is large and diverse. Here’s how to keep your child socially engaged:

• Join Co-ops and Groups: Cooperative learning groups, park days, and homeschool “meetups” help children make friends and explore group projects.
• Extracurriculars: From local sports leagues to music classes, homeschooling frees your schedule so you can find fun activities beyond a traditional school day.
• Field Trips: Homeschool groups often arrange discounted group outings to museums, science centers, zoos, and more—often during quieter, mid-week times.

8. Troubleshooting Common Concerns

• Feeling Overwhelmed? It’s normal at the start. Make a simple plan, start slowly, and connect with a local or online support group.
• Curriculum Not Working? Switch it up. Homeschooling lets you change pace or curriculum if something isn’t resonating.
• Record-Keeping Stress? Keep it basic. Just be consistent. A monthly folder of completed work and a simple attendance log can do wonders for your peace of mind.

9. Key Takeaways and Actionable Steps

1. Withdraw Officially: Notify your child’s current school in writing.
2. File Your PSA: Complete the online affidavit and save a copy for your records.
3. Maintain Required Documents: Attendance records, course lists, and immunization files.
4. Plan Curriculum & Budget: Decide how formal or eclectic you want to be.
5. Design Your Schedule: Routines matter—yet stay flexible to seize learning opportunities.
6. Stay Connected: Seek out co-ops, support groups, and local homeschool events.

When in doubt, refer to official sources like the California Department of Education’s “Schooling at Home” page or organizations such as Homeschool Association of California (HSC) and California Homeschool Network (CHN).

A Final Word

Starting your independent homeschool via the PSA route can feel like a big leap. But with a clear plan, reliable resources, and a supportive homeschool community, you’ll soon see the rewards of personalizing your child’s education. Embrace the journey—homeschooling is as unique and adaptable as your child’s learning style. Remember, you can always refine your methods, curriculum, and schedule as you go.

Disclaimer: This guide should be super helpful in getting you kicked off on your homeschooling journey, but it is for informational purposes only. Always verify information is up to date!