Jump Links
Starting the journey of homeschooling in Maricopa County requires navigating a specific form known as the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool. This important document signifies a parent's decision to educate their child at home, aligning with state regulations laid out in Arizona Revised Statutes. Essential details must be included, such as the child's name, date of birth, and address, as well as pertinent information about the parent or guardian. It's critical to note that submitting this affidavit is only appropriate if the child is not currently enrolled in a virtual charter school, public school-at-home program, or an Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) contract. A certified copy of the child’s birth certificate or acceptable proof of their birth must accompany the affidavit to meet legal requirements. Moreover, the signed document must be notarized and submitted to the County School Superintendent, with a copy kept for personal records. The privacy notice included in the form protects personal information, emphasizing the importance of confidentiality. Completing this process marks a significant step for parents dedicated to providing an individualized education for their children.
Affidavit Homeschool Maricopa County Example
AFFIDAVIT OF INTENT TO HOMESCHOOL
Send the notarized original document to your County School Superintendent. Keep a copy for your records.
A.R.S.
Please do not file an Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool for your child if he/she is enrolled in a virtual charter
STUDENT INFORMATION
Last Name: |
_______________________________ First Name: _______________________________ Middle Name: _____________________ |
|
Date of Birth: |
_________________________________ (Proof of birth is required according to A.R.S. |
|
Address: |
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ |
|
City: |
__________________________________________________________________, AZ |
Zip Code: __________________________ |
Phone: |
_________________________________________________ |
|
PARENT/GUARDIAN INFORMATION |
|
|
Last Name: |
__________________________________ First Name: ________________________________ Middle Name: ____________________ |
|
Last Name: |
__________________________________ First Name: ________________________________ Middle Name: ____________________ |
|
□My child is not yet eight years of age and I elect not to begin formal education at this time.
PROOF OF BIRTH
Please include a certified copy (not a photocopy) of your child’s birth certificate or other acceptable proof of birth as outlined in Arizona Revised Statutes
PRIVACY NOTICE
The undersigned expressly prohibits the release of any and all information contained in this form including directory information as defined in 20 U.S.C. §1232g (a)(5)(A), without prior written consent by the undersigned. See 20 U.S.C. §1232g (a)(5)(B) and ARS
Under penalty of law, I attest the information provided on this form is true to the best of my knowledge.
PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE ____________________________________________________________
Subscribed and sworn before me this __________ day of _______________________________, 20_________
NOTARY SEAL
by _________________________________________________ Commission expires: ___________________
NOTARY PUBLIC
Arizona Families for Home Education | www.afhe.org
File Breakdown
| Fact Name | Fact Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose of the Affidavit | The Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool serves as a formal declaration by parents to homeschool their child. |
| Submission Requirement | Send the notarized original document to your County School Superintendent for processing. |
| Legal Definition | A.R.S. §15-802 defines homeschooling as non-public school instruction primarily conducted by a parent or guardian. |
| Eligibility Limitations | An Affidavit should not be filed if the child is enrolled in a virtual charter school or has an Empowerment Scholarship Account. |
| Child’s Information Requirement | The form requests the child's full name, date of birth, and address to verify identity and residency. |
| Proof of Birth | A certified copy of the child’s birth certificate or acceptable proof of birth is mandated by A.R.S. §15-828. |
| Privacy Clause | The form includes a privacy notice, prohibiting the release of information without written consent from the undersigned. |
| Signature Requirement | The parent or guardian must sign the affidavit, attesting that the information is accurate to the best of their knowledge. |
| Notary Public Requirement | The affidavit must be notarized, ensuring its authenticity before submission. |
| Affiliation Disclosure | The form is affiliated with Arizona Families for Home Education, providing resources for homeschooling families. |
Guide to Using Affidavit Homeschool Maricopa County
Once you have gathered all necessary information and documents, you can proceed to fill out the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool for Maricopa County. This form must be finalized and submitted as a key step in starting your homeschool journey. Be sure to keep a copy for your records after it has been completed.
- Begin by downloading the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool form from the appropriate source.
- Fill in the Student Information section:
- Write the Last Name of your child.
- Write the First Name of your child.
- Write the Middle Name of your child.
- Provide the Date of Birth and ensure proof of birth is prepared.
- Fill in your child’s Address, including city, state, and ZIP code.
- Include a Phone Number where you can be reached.
- In the Parent/Guardian Information section, fill in your details:
- Write your Last Name.
- Write your First Name.
- Write your Middle Name.
- If applicable, list your spouse or co-guardian’s details similarly.
- If your child is not yet eight years old, check the box indicating that you elect not to begin formal education at this time.
- Prepare the Proof of Birth: Attach a certified copy of your child’s birth certificate or another accepted form of proof, as outlined in Arizona Revised Statutes §15-828. Remember, a photocopy will not suffice.
- Read through the Privacy Notice section carefully. Understand that you are prohibiting the release of any information found on the form without your prior written consent.
- In the designated area, print your name and sign the Parent/Guardian Signature line. Ensure that this is done in front of a notary public.
- Consult the notary public to finalize the document:
- They will complete the Notary Seal portion and indicate their commission expiration date.
- Once everything is signed, make a copy for your personal records.
- Submit the notarized original document to your County School Superintendent.
Get Answers on Affidavit Homeschool Maricopa County
What is the purpose of the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool in Maricopa County?
The Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool serves as a formal declaration to the County School Superintendent that a parent or guardian intends to educate their child at home. This document ensures that the educational choice is recognized legally and sets the framework for home education in accordance with Arizona laws.
Where should I send the completed Affidavit?
After completing the Affidavit, it must be notarized and sent to your County School Superintendent. This is a crucial step to ensure that the homeschooling is officially acknowledged. Additionally, it is important to keep a copy of the completed form for your personal records.
What information is required to fill out the form?
The Affidavit form requires several key details:
- Student's full name (last, first, middle)
- Date of birth
- Address, including city and zip code
- Parent/Guardian full name(s)
- Indication of whether the child is under eight years of age and if formal education is being delayed
Additionally, a certified copy of your child's birth certificate or other acceptable proof of birth is necessary as per Arizona law.
What proof of birth is accepted?
According to Arizona Revised Statutes §15-828, the Affidavit requires a certified copy of your child's birth certificate. This means that a photocopy is not acceptable. Ensure the documentation submitted is an official version to meet the requirements.
Are there any restrictions regarding enrollment in other educational programs?
Yes, parents should not file an Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool if their child is currently enrolled in a virtual charter school, a public-school-at-home program, or has an Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) contract with the State of Arizona. This is to prevent dual enrollment and ensure compliance with educational regulations.
How does the privacy notice protect my information?
The privacy notice included in the Affidavit explicitly prohibits the release of any information contained within it without prior written consent from the parent or guardian. This includes directory information as defined by federal and state laws, ensuring that personal data is safeguarded.
Common mistakes
When filling out the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool form for Maricopa County, many people make simple but impactful mistakes that can lead to delays or even rejection of their application. Understanding these common pitfalls can help ensure a smoother process.
One frequent error occurs in the student information section. Parents sometimes forget to fill in all the necessary fields, particularly the middle name or date of birth. Leaving any part of this section incomplete can raise red flags, resulting in a need for additional documentation later. It's crucial to double-check that every line under "Student Information" is filled out accurately before submission.
Another common issue arises when individuals neglect to provide the appropriate proof of birth. Arizona law requires a certified copy of the child's birth certificate or another acceptable form of proof. Submitting a photocopy instead of a certified document may cause serious delays. Make sure to include the correct documentation to meet this requirement without fail.
Many parents also overlook the privacy notice clause. This section is significant because it outlines how personal information will be handled. Failing to acknowledge this clause or misunderstanding its meaning can result in a lack of compliance with necessary regulations. It’s advisable to read this section carefully and ensure that it is acknowledged and understood.
Filling out the parent/guardian information can also prove tricky. Sometimes, parents may mistakenly enter the same names in both parent sections or completely omit one of the guardians. This can create confusion and lead to issues with legal recognition. Each parent or guardian's details should be distinct and clearly provided.
Another error involves not signing the form correctly. Some submitters might forget to sign it or sign it in the wrong spot. The signature is essential; without it, your affidavit lacks validity. Always verify that signatures are placed where indicated and are legible.
Lastly, some families may mistakenly file the affidavit when their child is enrolled in a virtual charter school or similar program. As noted in the guidelines, this is not permitted. Filing under these circumstances can lead to denial of the application. Always confirm your child’s educational status to ensure eligibility to homeschool in Arizona.
By being aware of these common mistakes, parents can significantly increase their chances of a successful application process when submitting the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool in Maricopa County.
Documents used along the form
When preparing to submit the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool in Maricopa County, it’s important to be aware of other forms and documents that may be required or useful in the homeschooling process. Below is a list detailing these documents.
- Proof of Birth: A certified copy of the child's birth certificate or other acceptable documentation to verify the child's age as specified in Arizona Revised Statutes.
- Homeschool Curriculum Plan: While not always mandatory, this plan outlines the educational subjects and materials you intend to use, showcasing your approach to homeschooling.
- Notification of Intent to Homeschool: This form may be required by some counties to notify local educational authorities of your plans to homeschool your child.
- Withdrawal Form: If your child is currently enrolled in a public or charter school, submit a withdrawal form to officially remove them from that school before starting homeschooling.
- Annual Assessment Report: This document may be required to show that your child has made academic progress through testing or portfolio reviews at the end of the school year.
- Emergency Contact Information: Maintain a document with emergency contact information for your child, especially if they participate in extracurricular activities.
- Homeschooling Support Group Membership: Joining a local support group can provide resources, community, and assistance in navigating homeschooling laws and best practices.
- Statement of Homeschool Philosophy: Though optional, this statement reflects your educational beliefs and the rationale behind choosing homeschooling for your child, sometimes beneficial for formal assessments.
- Record Keeping Forms: Use these forms to document attendance, assignments, and assessments throughout the year, which may be beneficial if ever requested for review.
Having these documents prepared can help ensure a smooth transition into homeschooling and compliance with legal requirements. Staying organized will make the homeschooling process more manageable and effective.
Similar forms
- Affidavit of Support: This document is used when one person promises financial support to another. Similar to the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool, it requires notarization and serves to affirm a commitment, whether it involves educational responsibilities or financial obligations.
- Power of Attorney: A Power of Attorney allows someone to make decisions on behalf of another person. In this way, it shares a commonality with the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool, as both documents signify a declaration of intent to take responsibility—whether that is regarding education or legal decisions—while often requiring notarization.
- Letter of Intent: A Letter of Intent is frequently used to express a person's intention to engage in a specific action. Like the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool, it articulates a clear intention and is often used in educational and legal contexts, providing a written record of intent.
- Declaration of Homestead: This document declares a homeowner's primary residence and protects it from creditors. It parallels the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool in that both documents provide important declarations, often requiring notarization and serving as formal statements of personal intent regarding significant life choices.
- Parental Consent Form: A Parental Consent Form gives permission for a specific action, typically related to a minor child. Much like the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool, this form emphasizes parental rights and responsibilities, often requiring signatures to confirm the parent or guardian's approval for the action in question.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Affidavit Homeschool Maricopa County form, there are specific guidelines to follow. Adhering to these can help ensure a smooth process.
- Do ensure you provide accurate information. Double-check names, dates, and addresses to avoid any discrepancies.
- Do include the required proof of birth. A certified copy of your child’s birth certificate is essential for the form to be valid.
- Do send the notarized original document. Make sure to send it to the appropriate County School Superintendent.
- Do keep a copy of the affidavit for your records. It is important to retain this document for future reference.
- Don't file the affidavit if your child is enrolled in a virtual charter school. Doing so may lead to complications that could delay your homeschooling process.
- Don't forget to read all instructions carefully. Overlooking details may lead to incomplete submissions and impact your homeschooling status.
Misconceptions
- Misconception 1: The affidavit is optional for all homeschool families.
- Misconception 2: You can file the affidavit anytime during the school year.
- Misconception 3: You do not need to provide proof of birth when filing.
- Misconception 4: Privacy concerns do not apply if the affidavit is filed.
- Misconception 5: It's unnecessary to keep a copy of the affidavit.
- Misconception 6: If enrolled in a virtual charter school, you still need to file an affidavit.
- Misconception 7: All notarization is the same; any notary can verify the affidavit.
- Misconception 8: There are no consequences for not filing on time.
- Misconception 9: You do not need to specify children's middle names.
- Misconception 10: You can submit a photocopy of the proof of birth.
The Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool is a requirement for those who choose to homeschool in Maricopa County. Filing it demonstrates your intent to provide a non-public education for your child.
While you have some flexibility in your timing, it's essential to file the affidavit before you begin homeschooling. This ensures compliance with state regulations.
Arizona law mandates that you include a certified copy of your child's birth certificate or another acceptable proof of birth with your affidavit.
The affidavit includes a privacy notice that protects your information. This means that information cannot be disclosed without your written consent.
Keeping a copy is vital for your records. It serves as proof of your intent to homeschool and can be important for future reference.
You should not file an affidavit if your child is enrolled in a virtual charter school or has an Empowerment Scholarship Account. Doing so could create confusion regarding your child's educational status.
The document must be notarized correctly to ensure it meets legal standards. A qualified notary public in Arizona should perform this service.
Failing to file the affidavit in a timely manner can lead to complications regarding your child's education status. It is essential to comply with the deadlines set by local laws.
Middle names are required on the affidavit. Providing complete and accurate information is important for identification purposes.
A certified copy of the birth certificate is required. Photocopies are not considered acceptable proof according to state law.
Key takeaways
When preparing the Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool for Maricopa County, consider the following key takeaways:
- Ensure the original document is notarized before submission to the County School Superintendent.
- Keep a copy of the completed affidavit for your personal records.
- Understand that a homeschool is defined by Arizona law as non-public instruction primarily provided by the parent or guardian.
- Do not file the affidavit if your child is enrolled in a virtual charter school or has an Empowerment Scholarship Account.
- Complete the Student Information section accurately, including full names, date of birth, and address.
- Include a certified copy of your child's birth certificate or other acceptable proof as required by state statutes.
- Familiarize yourself with privacy regulations; this form restricts information release without consent.
- Provide truthful information; legal penalties may apply for inaccuracies on the form.
- Sign the document in front of a notary public to validate the affidavit.