Homeschooling in Wisconsin: Guide to getting started

For families in Wisconsin, homeschooling can be a rewarding way to blend academic goals with personal values and everyday experiences. With control over curriculum, schedule, and learning approach, parents can shape a program that works best for their household. The state’s homeschool framework supports this independence while still setting clear requirements to keep learning on track.

In this guide, you’ll find an overview of Wisconsin’s homeschooling laws, what paperwork to file, the subjects you need to cover, and tips for finding community support. You’ll also discover how Outschool offers flexible, interactive classes that can bring fresh ideas and variety to your homeschool routine.

Homeschooling options in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s homeschool law recognizes one clear path: a home-based private educational program. In this setup, you, as the parent or guardian, run the program exclusively for your own children. It’s a straightforward framework that gives you both the responsibility and the freedom to create a learning plan that fits your child’s needs.

While the state sets expectations around reporting, instructional time, and subject coverage, you decide how those requirements come to life. You might choose a traditional curriculum, design your own, or mix in real-world learning experiences like field trips, projects, and community activities.

Requirements for homeschooling in Wisconsin

Homeschooling in Wisconsin comes with a few straightforward rules designed to keep learning on track while respecting a parent’s right to decide how education happens. The state outlines its expectations, but it’s up to you to decide how those fit into your daily routine. Once you know the basics, you have the freedom to shape lessons, schedules, and activities in a way that works best for your family.

Enrollment paperwork

The first step to officially start homeschooling in Wisconsin is to file the PI-1206 Homeschool Report  with the Department of Public Instruction. This form is filed annually and confirms that your program meets state requirements. You can submit it online at the start of your homeschool year, but no later than October 15. Once filed, keep a copy for your records as it’s your proof of compliance if the need ever comes up later.

Attendance and instruction

In Wisconsin, homeschool programs must provide at least 875 hours of instruction each school year. You have the flexibility to decide how those hours are spread out, whether you follow a traditional school calendar or design a schedule that works better for your family. You or a designated instructor can teach, and no formal teaching credentials are needed.

Curriculum guidelines

Wisconsin requires that homeschool programs follow a “sequentially progressive” curriculum in core areas like reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, and health. Beyond these core subjects, you’re free to add any topics or activities that interest your child, from art and music to hands-on skills and community projects.

Recordkeeping essentials

Wisconsin doesn’t require homeschoolers to submit records, but keeping them organized can make life much easier. Track your child’s instructional hours to show you’re meeting the 875-hour requirement, and save curriculum materials, work samples, and notes on progress. Hold on to every PI-1206 form you file, as these serve as your official proof of enrollment and compliance.

Testing and assessments

There’s no state requirement for homeschoolers in Wisconsin to participate in standardized testing. This gives you the freedom to decide how to check in on your child’s progress. Some parents rely on ongoing observations and project work, while others like the structure of occasional tests or assessments that they select themselves. Using voluntary testing can give you a clear picture of academic development and help guide future learning plans.

Homeschool with Outschool

When you’re building a homeschool program in Wisconsin, it helps to have resources that can adapt to your schedule and your child’s interests. Outschool can be that extra layer of variety and expertise, offering options you can weave right into your daily plans.

• Live, small-group classes in core subjects like math, language arts, science, and social studies
• Electives and enrichment courses covering art, coding, music, and more
• Specialized topics to match unique interests, from astronomy to creative writing
• Flexible scheduling so lessons can fit perfectly into your homeschool routine

With so many options to choose from, you can mix and match classes to create a program that keeps learning fresh and engaging year-round.

How to get started

Starting your homeschooling journey in Wisconsin is simple when you break it down into clear steps. Here's what you should keep in mind:

• File your PI-1206 form with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction by October 15th or within 30 days of starting your homeschool program.
• Plan for 875 hours of annual instruction across the six required subjects covered earlier in our requirements section: reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, and health.
• Choose your curriculum by blending traditional materials with innovative resources like Outschool's live online classes, creating a personalized approach that matches your child's learning style and interests.
• Set up a simple recordkeeping system to track instructional hours, curriculum used, and your child's progress throughout the year. This is entirely optional but recommended for peace of mind.
• Connect with Wisconsin's homeschool community for ongoing support, resources, and social opportunities. Many families also share recommendations for online programs that complement their curriculum.
• Start exploring supplemental resources early in your planning process, including Outschool's expert-led sessions that can enrich your core subjects and introduce specialized topics your child loves.

Find support through homeschool communities in Wisconsin

Wisconsin homeschool communities provide social interaction for both parents and children, creating friendships that extend beyond educational discussions into lasting relationships that enrich your homeschooling experience.

Statewide organizations

• Wisconsin Homeschooling Parents Association (WHPA): Protects homeschooling rights and provides accurate legal information, serving as a non-partisan advocate since 1984 to help families understand state requirements with confidence. They connect families from all backgrounds through regional meetups and educational workshops, celebrating the unique learning needs of every homeschooling household.
• Homeschooling in Wisconsin: Creates an inclusive online community where families share curriculum reviews, co-op opportunities, and practical advice across diverse homeschooling philosophies and approaches.
• Wisconsin Homeschool Support: A private group for current or soon-to-be Wisconsin homeschool families, offering accurate state law information and connections with other parents. Members can access resources, ask questions, and find community support tailored to homeschooling in Wisconsin.

Local groups and co-ops

• Madison Area Homeschoolers: Provides homeschooling support and organizes group events for parents seeking inclusive community connections in the greater Madison region.
• Milwaukee Homeschoolers: An inclusive in-person group for homeschooling families in the Milwaukee metro area, offering playdates, field trips, and cooperative activities that encourage friendships among kids and connections among parents. Members join to share learning experiences, explore together, and support one another in their homeschool journeys.
• Fox Valley Wisconsin Homeschoolers and Unschoolers: An inclusive group for homeschooling and unschooling families in Northeast Wisconsin, welcoming diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Members connect through social and educational meetups across the Fox Valley area, supporting each other and collaborating on learning experiences.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about homeschooling in Wisconsin

Many families have questions when considering homeschooling in Wisconsin. These common questions and answers will help clarify the legal requirements and practical steps for your homeschooling journey.

How do I file the PI-1206 form to start homeschooling in Wisconsin?

The PI-1206 form must be submitted by October 15 each year or within 30 days of starting homeschooling mid-year. You can file this form directly with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction online or by mail. No approval is required, meaning filing the form properly establishes your legal compliance.

Are there required subjects or hours for homeschoolers in Wisconsin?

You must provide at least 875 hours of instruction per academic year covering six core subjects: reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, and health. You have complete flexibility in how you schedule these hours throughout the year and can adapt the pace to match your child's learning style.

Is standardized testing required for homeschoolers in Wisconsin?

No, Wisconsin does not require standardized testing for homeschooled students. You can choose to use assessments for your own tracking purposes or to meet personal educational goals. Optional testing can be helpful if you're planning transitions to traditional schools or preparing for college applications.

What does homeschooling cost in Wisconsin?

Homeschooling costs vary widely based on your curriculum choices and activities. You'll cover expenses like educational materials, supplies, and any classes or programs you choose, but you have complete control over your budget. Many families find creative ways to reduce costs through library resources, free online materials, co-op sharing, and selecting affordable online class options that fit their needs.

Your Wisconsin homeschooling journey starts here

By now, you have a clear picture of how homeschooling works in Wisconsin and the steps needed to get started. The state’s guidelines give you structure without limiting your ability to teach in a way that suits your child’s personality, pace, and interests. As you find your rhythm, you’ll see how adaptable and personal your homeschool can become.

From connecting with local groups to adding creative learning opportunities, you have plenty of ways to keep your homeschool experience fresh. Outschool can add to that variety with engaging, flexible classes that fit your schedule and spark new interests. With the right balance of structure, resources, and inspiration, you can create a program that supports your child’s growth year after year.