Choosing to homeschool is a big decision—and an empowering one. As a parent, you know your child best and can shape their education to fit their unique needs, values, and goals. With the right information and support, homeschooling in South Carolina is a manageable and rewarding journey.
Upcountry Homeschool Association (UHA) is a South Carolina Option 3 homeschool accountability association that has been built on the simple, foundational belief that the educational path does not look the same in order for every student to succeed. With this in mind, the article below seeks to simplify the basics of homeschooling in South Carolina, the variety of ways it can be accomplished to best suit your family, as well as highlighting what sets UHA apart from its contenders.
We hope this helps you feel confident in your ability to provide the best educational course for your student(s)!
Step 1: Understand Your Legal Options
South Carolina law allows families to homeschool through three options:
- Option 1: Homeschool under your local school district (with board approval)
- Option 2: Homeschool through the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS)
- Option 3: Homeschool through an approved accountability association with at least 50 members
Many families choose Option 3 because it offers flexibility while still meeting legal requirements through an association.
Step 2: Know the Option 3 Requirements
Option 3 homeschool associations operate under Section 59-65-47 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. This law outlines what is required but still allows parents freedom in how they teach.
At a minimum, you must:
- Hold a high school diploma or GED
- Teach at least 180 days per year
- Cover core subjects:
- Reading
- Writing
- Math
- Science
- Social Studies
- (Grades 7–12) Composition and Literature
Recordkeeping Requirements
Parents are responsible for maintaining:
- Attendance records (showing 180 instructional days)
- Lesson plans or a teaching journal
- A student portfolio (samples of work showing progress)
- Semiannual Progress Reports
These records work together:
- Attendance shows when you taught
- Lesson plans show what you taught
- Portfolios show what was completed
- Progress reports show growth and direction
Good news: standardized testing is not required for Option 3 homeschoolers in South Carolina.
Step 3: Understand the “Nuts and Bolts”
Homeschooling doesn’t have to be complicated.
- Planning your year: Divide your curriculum across 180 days to create a simple daily plan
- Lesson plans: Can be brief (“Math Lesson 15”) or detailed
- Portfolios: Keep selected samples—no need to save everything
- Curriculum: Must cover required subjects but can be customized
- Extras: Many families add electives like art, PE, or music
As students reach high school, parents should begin tracking credits and preparing transcripts.
Step 4: Choose the Right Support System
Upcountry Homeschool Association (UHA) is a South Carolina Option 3 homeschool accountability association founded in 2021 by Lori Wyatt, a homeschool veteran with over 25 years of experience.
UHA was built on a simple belief: there is no one-size-fits-all education. With firsthand experience homeschooling her own children through graduation, Lori created UHA to support families with guidance, flexibility, and encouragement.
What UHA Provides
Families who register with UHA receive:
- Help with withdrawal from traditional school
- Monthly newsletters and workshops
- Free recordkeeping forms
- Phone and email support
- High school transcripts
- Honor society opportunities
- Graduation ceremony and senior events
- Optional PSAT and standardized testing opportunities
- Discounted membership to the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)
While testing is optional, it can help students build confidence and prepare for future exams.
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Step 5: Register and Get Started
For the 2026–2027 school year, UHA registration opens:
- March 6, 2026 (Early Bird for current members)
- March 9, 2026 (General public)
After registering, families receive everything they need to begin, including required documentation and ongoing support.
Final Thoughts
Homeschooling in South Carolina is both flexible and achievable. By understanding the legal requirements and choosing the right support system, you can create a meaningful and effective education for your child.
More than anything, homeschooling gives you the opportunity to take an active role in shaping your child’s future—academically, personally, and beyond.
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