Homeschooling a Child with an IEP in Louisiana

This is general guidance based on Louisiana law. For your specific IEP, consult a special education advocate.

Having an IEP doesn't mean you can't homeschool in Louisiana. You absolutely can. Here's what you need to know about services, rights, and the withdrawal process.

What happens to your child's services

Louisiana home study students are generally not eligible for district special education services. The LA GATOR Scholarship can fund private therapies and services, but be aware that participating requires waiving your child's IDEA rights. Carefully weigh this tradeoff before applying.

Home study students generally NOT eligible for special education services from the district. Under private school pathway, some limited services may be available.

Primary source: IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(10)(A); 34 CFR 300.130-144

How to access services while homeschooling

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Child Find

Districts must identify and evaluate children suspected of having disabilities

IDEA — 20 USC 1412(a)(3); 34 CFR 300.111

Dual enrollment

Not available for home study students

Equitable services

No individual right for home study students

Therapy access

Speech therapy:: Through LA GATOR ESA from private providers
Occupational therapy:: Through LA GATOR ESA from private providers
Behavioral therapy:: Through LA GATOR ESA from private providers

LA GATOR (signed June 2024) provides ESA funds. IMPORTANT: Participating requires waiving IDEA rights.

Before you withdraw

We recommend these steps for any family withdrawing a child with an IEP:

1
Request complete copies of all IEP documents, evaluations, and progress reports before you withdraw.
2
Consider requesting an IEP meeting to discuss the transition. This is optional but can provide valuable information.
3
File your homeschool notification with the state as required (our wizard will generate this for you).
4
Arrange any private therapies or services your child needs before withdrawal takes effect.

If you want to re-enroll

Homeschooling is not a one-way door. Your child can re-enroll in public school at any time.

Re-enrollment processes vary by state and district. Contact your local school to ask what evaluation or documentation they require. Keep copies of all IEP records. They will help the district determine placement and next steps.

Keep copies of all IEP documents, evaluations, and progress reports. You'll need these if you re-enroll.

Who to call

You don't have to navigate this alone. These organizations help families with special education questions.

COPAA

copaa.org · Find a special education attorney near you

Wrightslaw

wrightslaw.com · Special education law encyclopedia

Education savings available

Louisiana offers 2 education savings programs. ESA or scholarship programs may help fund private therapies and educational services. Learn about ESA programs

Common questions

Can I homeschool a child with an IEP in Louisiana?

Yes. Parents in Louisiana have the right to withdraw their child from public school regardless of disability status. No IEP team can block your withdrawal. However, the IEP itself typically does not transfer to the home setting. Run our free wizard to see exactly what services are available in Louisiana.

What happens to my child's IEP when I start homeschooling in Louisiana?

In most cases, the IEP, which is a contract between your family and the school district, ends when you withdraw. However, federal Child Find obligations still apply, meaning the district must evaluate your child if requested. Some states offer additional protections. Use our wizard to see Louisiana's specific provisions.

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Requirements sourced from La. R.S. 17:236. Verified against primary legal sources. Last verified: March 2026