How do I withdraw my child from school?

Bringing your child home from public school is your decision to make as a parent. The steps below are the practical path for doing it in line with current Arkansas law, so the transition goes smoothly for you and for your child.

Step 1: File your Notice of Intent

Withdrawing to homeschool begins with the same form that governs all homeschooling in Arkansas: the Notice of Intent to Home School (NOI). Filing it with your local school district is what establishes your homeschool. If you have not read through the requirements yet, start here: How do I homeschool in Arkansas? ›

Step 2: Notify your child's school in writing

Let your child's current school know in writing that you are withdrawing to homeschool. A short, dated letter to the principal or district office is enough. Keep a copy for your records.

Step 3: Know about the waiting period

If you file your NOI after the August 15 deadline in order to withdraw a currently-enrolled child, the district may impose a waiting period of five school days before releasing your child. The waiting period begins when you turn in your NOI, and your superintendent has the authority to waive it.

Step 4: Gather what you want to keep

You may request your child's academic records from the school for your own files. They can be helpful later for transcripts, placement, or dual enrollment, though Arkansas does not require you to keep them.

Give your family grace

The move home is a real transition, for you and for your children. It is normal to feel a little nervous. Take the early weeks at a gentler pace, lean on families who have walked this road before you, and remember why you started. You are not doing this alone.

This page is a practical overview, not legal advice. Requirements can change, so always confirm the current rules with the Arkansas Department of Education before you withdraw.